THE covert OF THE MOST ILLVstrious and most Magnificent JAMES, the first; KING Of Great-Britaine, France, and Ireland: etc.  
WITH DIVERS RULES, MOST PURE PRECEPTS, AND SELECTED DEFINITIONS lively delineated.  Principibus placuisse viris, non ultima laus est. 

To please the Best, best praise I do it judge;  
Let Grill be Grill: I pass not Envy's grudge.   
LONDON Printed by EDW: GRIFFIN, in Eliots-Court in the Little-old-Baily, near the Kings-head. 1619.   

TO THE RIGHT Honourable George, Marquis Buckingham, Viscount VILLIERS, Baron of Whaddon, Lord high Admiral of ENGLAND, justice in Eyre of all his Ma.tie Forests, Parks, and Chases beyond Trent, Master of the Horse to his Majesty; and one of the Gentlemen of his Ma.tie Bedchamber: Knight of the most noble order of the Garter, and one of his majesties most honourable 〈◊〉 Counsel of England, and Scotland.  
Right noble and most honoured Lord,  
AS an humble and most obsequious Stranger, having spent divers years in this flourishing Kingdom, and received many comfortable and worthy favours, from sundry honourable and eminent personages, in this renowned Court, whose rare  
〈…〉 and famous PRINCE, are divulged and dispersed over all the principallest regions of the Christian world: I could not but distaste the perverse petulancy of many Poets, which laid foe many odious aspersions upon Courts, as if no virtue had in them any residence, but that like dangerous shelves & rocks, they should be shunned and avoided, by all those that mean to square their lives and actions, by the rule of true virtue and piety: whereas rather their own insufficiency and weakness, making them incapable of high action and employment; and being altogether unable to resist the infinite objects of worldly temptations, they are enforced to retire themselves to a certain unprofitable contemplation, wherein they study to bark and snarl at the honourable labours and endeavours of others, being in themselves absolutely immeritorious, to discharge the noble functions and offices of such high places, & dignities. And because your most honoured Lordship doth truly exemplify, what I have undoubtedly by long experience observed, I have presumed to shelter this my brief and sincere treatise, under the wing of your Honourable protection. Whose rare and admired virtues having to the ancient Nobility of your blood, added the accumulation of many honours and great dignities, my unworthy humble self in 〈…〉 and glorious 〈◊〉 in all humble service and  
Your Lordship's most humbl● devo●●● and ●●●ection●●●, A. D. B.   

TO THE COURTIER OR KIND READER, HEALTH.  
COurteous Courtier, and gentle Reader, having here in a plain manner, and direct method described certain rules and precepts of a Courly and Political life; I must crave thy friendly censure and courteous connivance, in that I have not in this Treatise over curiously or nicely tied myself to the observation of logical rules and prescriptions. Let him who slights me, learn this one document, from me, That it is the condition of truly generous and indici●us men, not captiously to carp and catch at the shadow of words, but wisely to fasten on the substantial matter itself. Now as touching the matter I doubt not, but that I have so composed and compiled the same, as to give, if not plenary satisfaction, yet at least, sufficient content to the expectation of every indifferent Courtier, especially of the unexperienced and newly initiatd thereinto. I purpose not here to discourse of the infelicities or (as I may so term them) the Gay-greivances of a Courtier's life; Neither yet to write of the immunities and commodities of the contrary to this, a private life: This I suppose hath been done by others, as cunningly and skilfully as their wit could stretch unto: who indeed seem to have made this the full scope and end of their studies: namely, contumeliously to disparaged the renown of Princes; and ignominiously to inveigh against and calumniate the lives of Courtiers. To which Fellows (doubtless) if we should give credit. Courtier's would a great deal rather follow the Cart than Court, and more desire to live in base and ignoble shepherds cottages, than in or about their Princes noble Palaces. But fie upon the ridiculous speeches of such idle Idiots; Avaunt, such fond opinions of men so ignorant and merely besotted: Whose judgement if it were not most corrupt and uniustifiable, we might quickly for all civil government wholly dimolished, and the Courts of Kings disgracefully relinquished. This than we must both hold and know for a truth; which also is especially advertised and intimated in this little work, that there is no estate or condition of life whatsoever, but hath in it, the thorns of many miseries and shackles of incarcerating encumbrances. And if the credit of the most wise Philosopher may gain any credit with us, Nihil aliud in humanis rebus magnum, nisi animus magna despiciens. This his noble Sentence will declare unto us that there is nothing in the whole world, that may justly be termed Great, except the mind lightly regarding Great-things. Whither then thou be a Courtier, or a Countryman, 'tis neither this nor that condition of life, which can make thee happy: but the mind well form and informed by nature, and as it were watered with the divine dew and grace of GOD'S gracious Spirit.  
In brief (kind Courtier and friendly Reader) Quamcunque Spartam fuerimus nacti etc. Whatsoever estate or office we have obtained, from the great Steward, or rather the suprcame Prince of heaven, let us so carry ourselves therein, that to the utmost of our power, we may adorn and beautify the same. But if we will needs be carping and biting at, those things which appertain not to us; let us on God's name hate men's vices but not their persons: Let us not kick against that political regiment and ordination, whose original is from God himself. For, hereunto we are invited by the precepts and counsels of the gravest and most wise, especially of that Poet:  Parcere Personis, dicere de vicijs; 

That is,  
'Tis wisdom, wisely, in these sinful times  
men's Persons not to harm, but charm their crimes.   
But to conclude in a word, for I desire to be brief; I grant (indeed) that some Courtiers are too immoderately and ambitiously prone, to hunt after honour, preferment, rule and riches, and (which do as it were naturally grow out of them) to pleasure and voluptuousness; and that they do more highly estimate these external unconstant and slippery things, than is consonant, or convenient either to time, place or persons: Yet notwithstanding it is no consequence that for some particular ill addicted and vicious Courtiers, the Court and Courtiers in general who officiate good and necessary services to their Prince, should be utterly condemned, or that such infamous aspersions should be so generally cast upon them all.  
The opinion therefore, of Lucan we utterly dislike and re〈…〉 e as must absurd:  

Exeat Aulâ  
Qui volet esse pius; virtus & summa potestas  
Non coëunt, etc.   

Depart from Court, if thou wilt pious be  
Goodness and Greatness will not, there, agree.   
It is a flash, a gow-gaw, a mere fervolous trifle; unless we have respect only to those Monsters of men, Tiberius, Caligula, Claudius, Nero, julian the Apostata, Phocas, and such like firebrands of fury, and Patrons of impiety; Never casting our eyes upon, nor rightly recogitating the most noble and renowned actions of those truly pious and prudent Courtiers, the most profitable and comfortable organs and instruments both of Church and Commonwealth; in the number of whom I may first rank, the most pious Patriarch joseph, who at Court became the Prince and prime of all his Brethren, the Establisher of his people, yea the very Basis, and (under God) the Atlas of his Nation; to whom I add Moses, Abdias, David, Daniel and M●rdocai, who with great prudence and providence having, waded through and vanquished the various storms and i●●pardous casualties, of the turbulent sea (as I may so say) of the Court; have even therein most gloriously atcheiued the eminent and ever-permanent renown and excellency of virtue; wit, dignity and perfect piety, yea and have shown themselves the main props and pillars of the Church of God, and their Weal-public. And doubtless (judicious Reader) unless we wholly delight in ancient, foreign, and far-fetched examples, and do vilipend or reject new and domestic patterns hereof. May we not most apparently behold and perspicuously perceive a lively, real and royal pattern of majesty, grace, wisdom, learning, mercy, justice, pity, and piety, in that most renowned Courtier, our most sacred Sovereign King JAMES? Yes doubtless. And none, I dare confidently a vouch, except he be a perjured enemy to all truth and equity, will, or can if he would, deny this truth. Let Lucan then, in this respect, with all his lunatic Companions go shake their ears; who so unjustly judge, and untruly do teach, those things to be so reluctuously repugnant, which here we see are so harmoniously consonant. But be it as 'twill be, here's my determinate resolution and firm conclusion:  

Ire, redire, sequi Regum sublimia tecta▪  
Eximius status est—   

The noblest state of life under the sun  
Is, for my King, to live, to ride, to run.   
And this, to thee alone (ingenuous Courtier) do I hearty desire: Until thou shalt be translated from this transitory and momentany Court, into that celestial Palace eternally blessed and blissful, without all sighs and sorrows, toil and turmoil, even the mansions of the heavenly jerusalem. And this Christ jesus grant, who sits at the eternal ternall stern of his heavenly kingdom; under whose banner all Christians whether Kings or Subjects, Courtiers or Countrymen, do all fight, are all Conquerors, are all crowned.   

To Momus his own Murderer.  
HEalth also to thee Momus, who whiles thou bereaust thyself of the sweet fruit of Good both received and sought for; dost dilacerate, wound and deadly wound thine own heart, with the infectious fangs of Envy: And, which is far the worst, dost denudate and strip thyself bare of the sovereign grace of God: Thou I say, who thus dost pine and punish thyself in sense, in soul; take thou this one Distich from me, and, if thou canst farewell, farewell.  

Non legis, & carpis; quae nec capis, invide, carpis:  
Inuide, quae carpis, fac meliora, legam.   

That is,  
Read, Momus; rail not; try, ere thou taunt, mine:  
Commend, or, mine come mend; then, I'll read thine,   
Thine if thou be thine own. A. D. B.   

TO HIS WORTHY AND well-deserving friend Master A. D. B.  

MOst truly hast thou shown the difference great  
Betwixt a Country life and Courtly seat,  
That every calling subject is to Fate,  
As well the Private life as Public state,  
By vice or virtue, Both, to try and choose;  
Good, Bad; Best, Worst; as we them use, abuse:  
To teach all men, since, all men's states are such,  
Nor Court, nor Cart, to love, to loath, too much.   
I. V.   

ILLUSTRI ET GENEROSO D. D. GEORGIO BUCKINGHAMO viro familiâ & virtute nobili.  

INgenium, virtus, probitas, & forma decora,  
Seu placeat verae Nobilitatis honos.  
BUCKINGHAMUS adest, qui cuncta haec possidet vnu●,  
En, facies certis judicat ipsa notis.  
O nimium foelix, o fausta sort creatum,  
Cui tam constanter, sors magis aequa fluit?  
Hane DEUS omnipotens dedit & Natura, GEORGI,  
Firmavit magni mox tibi REGIS amor.  
Quem tua promeruit virtus & gratia 〈◊〉  
Opto tibi REX hunc continuare velit.   

The same in English.  
WIt, virtue, beauty, sincere honesty,  
True real badges of nobility.  
All met in One, to make a man of Fame  
All shining bright in noble BUCKLNGHAM:  
O happy, o thrice happy by blessed Fate,  
Whose stars, his honours, thus accumulate.  
GOD and the KING, yea Nature, all concur,  
To grace great George with honours golden-spurre.  
O, never may thy King, to love thee, cease,  
But thy rare parts, his hearts true love increase.   
A. D. B.   

THE Court of King JAMES.  
AFter that I had resolved, and with myself determined (Illustrious and thrice Noble MARQVESSE) to 
A preamble wherein is briefly discoursed the cause of this Treatise.  divulge and set forth unto public view, somewhat concerning the life of a Courtier; And having spent much most serious and incessant deliberation, and constant consideration, to whom I might exhibit and present, this offspring and tender Infant of mine, the fruit of my Labours; at last I most fortunately thought upon your Right Ho. Lordship, for which I most submisly crave your Lordship's pardon: and most humbly desire that you would vouchsafe to entertain so courteons a persuasion, and favourable an opinion of me: that I have not either with any impudence, much less Imprudence, attempted aught herein. Many of my nearest and dearest friends, assuring me that it would be worth the labour; persuaded yea constrained me, by 〈…〉 this most, humble Present. The 〈…〉 most Royal King, unto your Honour: In 〈…〉 you (right Noble Lord) for your exce 〈…〉 singular, both internal and external virtues and endowements, do most resplendently glister and shine, like a most precious jewel richly garnished in the purest Gold. Therefore it cannot, doubtless, be Impudency in me, thus to endeavour and desire, that these my labours, may have your Lordship's worthy approbation; whose daily endeavours are most industriously employed, in the negotiation of the profitable affairs of your King and his commonwealth. And to this end & purpose, and for this special cause, do I most prostrately proffer and present unto your Honour, this small volume 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 title of the Court of JAMES King of Great Britain. Neither yet do I doubt, but that this my labour herein, will receive a grateful acceptation from all those who not so much with their corporal, as their Mental eyes of Intelligence, do see and thoroughly see into the generosity of your lineage, the great and most grave wisdom, which doth inhabit in so green and young a Breast, your modesty, affability and great humanity. A fig for envious Critics, therefore, of most dejected and degenerous condition; who practise nothing so much, as basely and malignantly to censure men's persons, faults, and infirmities. But the judgement of the most judicious and just judges may give both 〈◊〉 and all good men full content; principally the great love and ●●●our of our most potent and prudent King, who back graciously elected and made choice of your Honour, as a man most excellent most accomplished: on whom (many others being neglected) he might confer, yea accumulate the favourable effects of his Princely benevolence, bounty, and benignity. This your Honours lovely lot and felicity, no doubt may bite to the quick, and even (as it were) boil the hearts of the malicious: but good and honest minded men, who are the lovers and embracers of your Honour's virtue and integrity, do contrariwise undoubtedly rejoice at, and heartily congratulate the same. Thus have I, (I hope) freed myself from suspect of Impudence. Now again if any accuse me of Imprudency, to avoid this imputation, I thus answer. That I undertook not this work by mine own authority, motion, or instigation, but as having been urgently solicited thereunto, by the vehement persuasions of some worthy personages, who themselves have observed divers Pamphlets, touching the Court to have been formerly published, which seemed rather to have been composed, in the disgrace of Princes, and derision of their followers, then sound or sincerely to instruct or show them, what is to be followed what to be avoided. I also (for mine own part) do assuredly know, that there are and have been, both in our own and in the memory of our forefathers, such men, who are as it were naturally borne, to pervert and deprave things, both well spoken and as well performed: whose custom and counsel I utterly detest, and in this treatise, do faithfully protest; that I have endeavoured what in me lay, to lay hold on the goulden-meane; for what soever I have judged commendable, I have accordingly commended, and what soever I have contrariwise thought to be culpable, I have likewise condemned. Which my impartial and indifferent dealing herein, I hope no good man, no honest hearted man will disallow; as for dishonest 〈…〉 follows, whether they praise or dis 〈…〉 herein, neither I, nor any wise man shall 〈…〉 ourselves hurt, or take it to the heart. Yet this 〈◊〉 confidently avouch, that if I had an intention to 〈◊〉 over all things, that have been promiscuously and confusedly, both said and written by many men against Courtiers; the Court would (I am persuaded) be most distasteful to many, to whom I know 'tis now most pleasant and delightful. But this my little volume (I hope) shall be profitable to many, grateful to the good, hateful to none but to the Impious and Envious. I do herein frequently admonish those Courtiers, who have a determination to hoyce up sail and to launch out, into the deep of this difficult and turbulent Sea; that wisely and 〈◊〉 they sail with a fortunate and favourable Gale of wind, lest by the sirenlike allurements, or rather the most violent & tempestuous storms of immoderate desires they be desperately driven upon Scylla or Charybdis, or be dashed against the wrath and indignation of their Prince, as against a dangerous death-threatning Rock. These admonitions have I (for this cause) thought most pertinent and necessary, because now a days, almost all things universally are full yea too-too-full, of brazen faced boldness and precipitate haire-braind, heedless, rashness. Doubtless young men, yea all subjects in general, when they shall understand and consider, the difficulties and dangers of preferments, and the burden of a Courtier's life, will, I am persuaded, less e●milate and hate either Courtiers or Magistrates; yea and these will hence learn better to rule, and those to obey. But enough of this. It now remains that I endeavour to purge and put away, one other note of Imprudence in me, to wit, that too like unto Phaethon.  

Nimis magna peto, et quae non viribus illis,  
Munera conveniunt etc.  
Ambitiously I take a Task in hand,  
Whose greatness with my weakness cannot stand.   
If any do sound such a note in mine ears, and think thereby, to deter me from my purposed progress; I wish him to take this for his answer, that I am not ignorant of mine own calling and condition of life, which is Private: neither again is that unknown to me, which is related by Cicero, of a certain Peripatetic Philosopher, whom Hannibal had in derision, calling him a Dotterel and a giddy-headed fellow, that he was not afraid to dispute a bout military discipline, in the presence of him so potent and politic a commander. Yet not withstanding, this seems not to me, a sufficiently important, or just cause, why I should in this regard acknowledge in myself, any imprudency or temerity.  
This I say in modesty and humility (that your Honour may hold me excused) for the equity and protection of my cause now in controversy; that I doubt whether Hannibal, as great and egregious a commander as he was, thus contemptuously disdaining this man of Greece, who notwithstanding that he never saw the face of his Enemy, nor ever was in a pitched field, yet delivering precepts of martial prowess) did not disdainfully cast his eyes upon, and that with just cause, though with barbarous arrogancy and haughtiness of mind; did not I say behold and cast his eyes upon those reasons & rules (what ere they were) of that so excellently learned Grecian: for 'tis scarcely probable or credible, but that by▪ the way he delivered somewhat, which might mislike and displease, so skilful and sound experienced a Captain and commander as he; since that (unless we will too much extenuate the credit of that old Proverb) which is, sometimes the blind may hit the marks. It was therefore snapish and impudent disdainfulness, yea beastlike and Inhuman Insolence in that Carthaginian, that, That which he (forsooth) would not approve or allow of▪ he must furiously b●ndy and forth with reject. But the issue and e●ent did evidently declare, that Hannibal was no 〈◊〉 superexcellent or invincible a Captain, as that it should seem undeniable, that he could be admonished of any oversight in any warlike affairs. Furthermore, they whose whole knowledge and experience of milita●● discipline, doth wholly consist, in custom, practice, and exercise, and are so opinionated, that the power of wit and experience▪ got and gathered by industrious diligence, from learned authors writing to that purpose, is not of any moment or validity; that one example of L▪ 〈◊〉 only, mentioned also (by Cicero) in that book of his, which goes under the name and title of Lucullus, may justly refel and repel, the opinions of such men. Indeed I do inge●●ously acknowledge and confess, th● the prince and principal furtherance to the performance of high Actions and notable exploits, is, that a ●an ●e (as it were naturally) addicted and adapted thereunto▪ But yet believe me literature or learning (if that of the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉) in a generous and Her●il●● Spirit, Vimpl 〈…〉 doth promote and much enlarge, that 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and policy, which is 〈◊〉 and genuine. In which respect, if unto natural promptness and pro 〈…〉 ty, learning and experience be associated; then indeed, may a man perfectly perform any noble, eminent, and excellent act or employment. But peremptorily to avouch or affirm, that men Famous for their excellent parts of virtue, learning, and intelligence, cannot be able sound, exquisitely, and considerately, to discuss or discourse of, even those things, whereof they never were personal Actors and Agents, is, doubtless the badge & cognizance, of an ignorant & illiterate man; yea of one who never knew the majesty and excellency, the light and delight of Science, and intelligence, which, Antiquity was wont to call the Muses; nor, a Limine Salutarunt (as it is in the old Adagy) did they ever stand at the threshold, to bid the Muse's Good-morrow. And Hesiod hath left this testimony in writing, that He himself got all his knowledge and experience in Navigation, from these Tutors and Teachers. But whither runs all this prolixity? Even hither (Right Ho.) this is the end thereof; that your Honour would vouchsafe to hold me excused, if peradventure (as hath been foresaid) I do not in its proper colours, portray and delineate to the life, that platform and similitude of the life, of a Courtier, which either your Lordship's nobleness may require, or those courtiers may expect, whom, in this point, much time & practic experience (the best Schoolmaster) may more firmly have informed in the rules and customs of the Court. But as for others, hap, what hap may, when the dice are to be cast, and my chance to be chosen, I had rather with some impeach to my name, writ and say something (according to my weak Talon) which might be truly acceptable to you right Honourable marquess; then unseasonably or uncivilly to be wanting in my bounden duty. Therefore this one thing 〈…〉 submissively and earnestly desire, that you● 〈◊〉 would be pleased courteously to respect 〈…〉 heart, most faithfully and affectionately ho 〈…〉ing and duly reverencing your venerable and noble virtue; and that in your accustomed courtesy, you would favourably accept and protect this my peculiar Dedication to your Lordship; of which your Honourable favour, I am most confidently persuaded, whose worthy and meritorious actions, not only towards your own Country and kingdom, are by the Trump of ●ame blazoned abroad; but even your Lordship's manifold favours and benificent courtesies towards strangers also, are every where extant, which blessed Britain with most due and deserved praises, doth publish and 〈…〉 lgate, and even we that are strangers, yea all neighbouring Nations both far & near do most worthily wonder at. Nor need I fear, lest what I have herein writ, should rather seem to savour of gnathonical flattery, then reverently to love and embrace your Honours noble virtues with true integrity: for, All that know your Lordship's Excellency, your so great gravity and Temperance, all (I say) which do nearly and thoroughly look into them, do know that I speak, but what is most sincerely true and faithful.  
Finally that I may omit nothing, which may conduce to the accumulation of your Lordship's worthy praises, the elegancy and graceful pleasancy of your Honour's Behaviour, is such and so singular: that not only these present times, but even succeeding posterity, will doubtless with a cheerful voice commemorate and immortalize the same. And, than this, what, Greater, Better, Trulier can be said? This is it which hath purchased and procured unto your Ho: the reputation, approbation, love, and singular supportation, of our most religious, gracious, potent, and most prudent King; whereby we may and that with very good reason, most duly and truly here take up that verse, as true as ancient.  Gratior est pulchro veniens è corpore virtus. 

Virtue is more lovely, much more acceptable,  
Proceeding from, a Bersonage amiable.   
But I stray to far, time calls upon me, now to set upon the Subject itself, before I proceed, to any other matters. First then let the Courtier or whosoever else, which hath determined with himself, to bestow and dedicate his endeavours, to the service of Princes, often deliberate, & think upon this one thing, that the Court 
The Court compared to a warfare.  in some sort, doth represent and resemble, love, or a warfare, and lovers we know, will diligently remove every rub, obstacle, or impediment, whereby they may content and please their beloved: Soldiers also do labour, and endeavour, with all care and diligence, and make this 
Courtiers to Soldiers.  the mark, whereat, they wholly level and aim, namely to follow their Captain or leader; and as much as in them lies, to do what he commandeth: so should an honest Courtier, adorned and endued, with wit and discretion, bend and incline, all his study and industrious endeavours, not only with diligence, to entertain his Kings, or Prince's commission and command; but promptly, speedily, and with all care and fidelity, to discharge the charge, which is committed unto him: And he which lays this foundation of a Courtier's life, shall doubtless 〈…〉; in the sight of his Sovereign. 〈…〉 〈…〉 soever▪ well nurtured, and generously co 〈…〉 man, will devote and consecrate himself 〈…〉 follow the Court, let him not presently imagine, or conceit with himself, that he is to lead a soft, delicate, easy, or calm kind of life; but now must he learn to bear patiently, the courts encumbrances: yea to digest and swallow down many leasings, much envy, grievous contumelies, and malicious detractions. Assuredly 'tis no fiction I tell thee, but let every Courtier, which doth aspire and desire, to attain unto that celestial and eternal court of Heaven, and which intendeth, both constantly, and sincerely, to say and to do, that which may be grateful to God, and the common weal; 〈…〉 address himself, to this point, to this resolution. For, that Courtier is in a great error, and very much mistaken, which hunts, and hopes, for nothing else in the Court, but honour, riches, pleasure, power, and authority, and long before he enters into the Court 〈…〉 not seriously, consider with himself, that even in these seeming sweet, and odoriferous roses of Courtly delights, full many thorns and thistles do privily grow up: for, if we do but judge and examine one thing by another, and let truth take place, we have both known and read of, in the memory of ancient and modern times, many noble and worthy men; yea such as have exceedingly well deserved, both, of their Prince and commonweal, who in Court have wasted & spent the most flourishing time of their youthful years, with great praise, and applause of their Prince, and all good people; who not with standing all this, have oftentimes, even for trivial or small causes, yea sometimes none at all, been most lamentably molested, and with envy and detraction, subtly circumvented: yea which is more and most miserable have been either woefully dejected, and clapped up into Prison, banished into bitter calamity, or even unto death itself, punished and condemned.  
Whereof, that we may not wander far for examples, call to remembrance (good Courtier) the memorable, and remarkable examples, of such like doleful and unfortunate misfortunes, in Papinian, Comineus, Moor, Bussonus, Consalnus, and innumerable more, whose name, and fame, as well for that they have most profitably spoken, and learnedly written, as for their many employments very honourably performed, is most excellent, eminent, and permanent. We have especially in the Courts of the Princes of Germany, very many demonstrative arguments, and pregnant documents hereof, both ancient and fresh in memory, which here I had rather wrap up in silence, then with tedious prolixity, too much wrong my courteous Readers patience. But yet I cannot by any means, omit, or let slip, that which at this present, for the newness, and late performance thereof, is fresh, and frequently objected to the eyes, ears, 
Ambitious & perfidious Barnevelt.  and apprehensions of all men, namely the Tragical Catastrophè of that great Advocate, Statesman, and stately Courtier of Holland, who was that Phaethon, who for many years together, was (as it were) the wagoner and Sterneman, yea the King and Keeper of all Holland. This was he, who with the bridle of his authority, and with a certain confidence, or rather foole-hardinsse, and presumptuous rashness, did rain & restrain, as in a charet, violently drawn, by force of most fierce horses, the various motions, and commotions, of the minds of all men. This was he who audaciously and adventurously, without due consideration, attempting many matters, by making as it were a confused Chaos of heaven and earth, by confounding and mingling sacred and profane things together, turning all things topsie turuey, with a most impious and pestiferous intention, would have wrought his commonwealths detriment and destruction, but (and that most justly) received his own utter decay, and worthy confusion. What needs many words? This was I say that Phaethon, who was the wagoner or Coachman of the current and swift gliding affairs of the Commonwealth of Germany. And I say not that he was for his Phaëtonicall insolence dashed out of his charet, and tumbled down headlong into the River Padus, by jupiters' furious and Sulpurious lightning: but being by the just judgement of God, and upright sentence of condemnation after judicial proceed, convicted and condemned, at the Hague in Holland, his high aspiring head was cast down to the ground, and his ambitiously consulting and insulting heart received its deserved final and fatal wound. And thus this politic Pilot, and Prince of Holland,  Magnis tandem excidit Ausis. 

Was tumbled headlong from his Chair of State,  
Who sought his Country thus to ruinated.   
I here let pass that other late and lively example, which happened also in this famous kingdom; together with that in France, of that most factious and filthy Italian, a man most deboist in his whole life and conversation. Whosoever sees not and considers not these, I hold him to be even purblind, and to have no smack or taste of wisdom or understanding in the least degree. Courtiers than may learn by these exemplified reasons, drawn out of these famous Kingdoms, as out of the most spacious and specious Theatre of the whole world, how alternate and variable the vicissitudes and alterations of things are in a Court, and if not always, yet for the most part that they which being puffed up with excessive covetousness and inordinate desire of having riches, and are violently carried away with the spirit of ambition, being utterly unmindful of those damages and dangers, which do begirt and hedge in Courtiers on every side; that they I say do but ride post and make haste unto some disastrous and sinister fate or destiny, and in the interim whiles they thus repugn the sweet sayings, sentences, and suffrages of the most wise and prudent,  Propositumque premunt, flagrantque Cupidine Currus. 

They quite destroy the End of their desire,  
And burn Hopes charet, with lusts furious fire.   
These and such like, which only 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 we briefly touch by the way, laying hold on the utmost tops as it were of these matters, may every Courtier reiterate and ruminate again and again in his mind, and unless he have a heart well fortified and confirmed, to endure many evils, inconveniences, and misfortunes, let him forsake the Court, and betake himself to a retired and private life, which also, though it may have its own difficulties, distress, and scarcity, yet if the reputation of most excellent and considerate men may have any credit or estimation with us, nothing, as they truly hold, is more happy, or more blessed then a private kind of life, moderated and decorated with the Golden mean and 
The praise of a private life.  mediocrity. He than whose portion or condition of life is neither too high erected, nor too low dejected, but indifferent between both; he certainly (if any thing in this wretched worldmay be termed a Summum bonum, a special and principal Good-thing) is the Heir, owner, and true possessor thereof. Very elegantly and eloquently hath Politian painted out, and expressed the tranquillity and sweet security of a Countrey-mans private life, whosoever therefore doth love to live the same, to wit, a free, calm, and quiet life, I wish him to read and diligently to observe these his verses following;  

O dulces Pastoris opes! O quanta beatam,  
Quam tenet hunc tranquilla Quies? ut pectore tote.  
Laetitiam, totaque fovet bona gaudia mente!  
Nempe edij, fraudumque expers, exemtus nani.  
Ambitione, vacansque metu, ipse liber & insons,  
Nativo cultu, & Gaza praedives agresti,  
Ipse sibi vivit, Nullo sub teste, suoque  
Pendet ab arbitrio, suusipses est censor, etalto,  
Calcat opes animo, ac sums deridet honores.   

Which thus may be Englished.  
O the rare riches of a Shepkeards' life!  
O how much blessed is he from storms of strife!  
O how he lives in peace and quietness!  
Free from annoy, full of all joyfulness;  
He fears no fate, no hate, nor foul deceit,  
Nor strives to be ambitious-vicious Great:  
He's guiltless, guilelesse, fearless; he's most free,  
His Corn and cattle, his rich Treasures be;  
T'himselfe he lives, under nonce over-fight,  
By none controlled, performs his own delight,  
With deep disdain, he kicks at gold and pelf,  
And scorning Honours, thus contents himself.   
Assuredly Politian thou dost most truly, and egregiously confirm, that which before thy time, learned and grave Seneca did also affirm in his Hippolytus, concerning a private life:  

Non alia magis est libera, & vitio carens,  
Ritusque melius vita quae priscos colat:  
Quam quae relict is moenibus, campos amat,  
Non illum avarae mentis inflammat furor.  
Quise dicavit montium insontem iugis:  
Non aurae populi; et vulgus infidum bonis,  
Non pestilens invidia, non fragilis favour:  
Non ille regno seruit, aut regno imminet.  
Vanosque honores, sequitur, aut fluxas opes,  
Spei metusque liber.   

That is;  
There is no life more free;  
More void of vice and blame,  
Or in their Rites the same,  
Which former Times did see:  
Then that which sweetly's led,  
In fields remote, and far  
From Towns and Holds of war.  
where's nought but fear and dread.  
The greedy hope of gain,  
Sets not his heart on fire,  
He harmless doth desire,  
On Mountains to remain.  
Mens fawning flatteries;  
Or Common-peoples' train,  
Which do good men disdain;  
He wholly doth despise.  
Envy pestiferous,  
Can have no place in him,  
No favour frail, though trine,  
Makes him ambitious.  
He serves not to a Crown;  
Nor's eminent in State,  
He seeks not vain renown,  
Frail riches he doth hate;  
And fears not Fortune's frown.   
Wherefore, that we may be at liberty, and void of all fear; let us have this in continual contemplation, and consideration, that the sorrows, difficulties, and distresses wherewith every Christian in this wretched life is environed, are manifold. Let us therefore with heedful hearts conjecture and cast in our minds, by what especial 
A remedy to avoid danger in the Court.  means we may subjugate and overcome them. Art thou then (kind Courtier) willing to receive a remedy against them? then let this be thy sweet and sovereign Antidote, that with grave Cato, you be of an honest and uncorrupted life and conversation; that with invincible Virtue, modest bashfulness, and innocent abstinence, thou strive to get the mastery, and to be good in deed, rather than seem so to be, whereby it will come to pass, that by how much the less thou shalt seek after honour and preferment, by so much the more thou wilt undoubtedly achieve the same. Now all this while, it is not unknown to me, that it is a general rumour and report, that there be not many good men to be found in the Court, and that according to the opinion of many, few men do bring good Arts and Sciences to a Camp or a Court; and therefore some no doubt may say, that I do but wash an Aethiopian-Blackmoore, in inviting and inciting Courtiers to such integrity of life: God forbidden, yet indeed, I confess, that it is extreme hard and difficult, for one particular man alone, at a delicious, sumptuous, and bountiful banquet, at which there is extraordinary great provision of meat and drink, to be sober and satiate, and yet some one of a more sage and temperate condition than the rest, may so moderately and discreetly govern himself, that he do not either in meat or drink exceed the bounds of modesty and competent satiety: Even so (kind Courtier) although in Court, thy virtue, integrity, and sincerity, may be disquieted, disheartened, yea, and that it may seem to live in exile or banishment; yet if thy mind be well form and conformed therein, it will assuredly cause, that amongst many fawning smooth-bootes, false hearted flatterers, and crooked perverse minds, thou shalt still be of a right and upright courage and condition; yea, and from this fountain thou shalt derive all those silver streams, and comfortable currents, whereby thy Calling, whether Courtly or otherwise, though formerly obnoxious to grievous and dangerous defects, shall yield back and repay unto thee gracious and prosperous effects. If hereupon thou firmly fasten thine Anchor, then fear no Ship wrack, but with unconquerable courage and animosity, Launch out into this turgent and turbulent Sea of the Court, and undoubtedly thou shalt vanquish and overcome the infinite swarm of amphibious and prodigious monsters of impiety, which may make incursions, and encounters upon thee. Therefore (generous Courtier) start not back at these evils, but step forward against them, with a bold Spirit, proceed I say, and put this counsel in practice, and let not the Philosophy of effeminate and fainthearted men distract or disturb thee from thy purpose, and determination, which of itself is most honest and laudable; reject and cast from thee unprofitable and improbable speeches, and hearken to God the fountain of infallible and invincible verity itself. Maledicta Terra in opere tuo: In sudore vultus tui vescer is pane tuo. Cursed is the ground for thy sake; in the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat thy bread. From whence we may infer and firmly believe, that every estate and condition of life whatsoever, hath in it the Thorns and Thistles of losses, crosses, 
That no estate is free from trouble.  and calamities; especial since this sentence denounced against man, even from the world's original, being registered and recorded in the Book of God itself, is most authentical, is most undeniable true and faithful, and is of every aswell private man as Courtier to be accordingly received and believed. Now whereas many men, of no mean rank and quality, do learnedly magnify, and with much wit dignify a solitary and private life, as was 
The dispraise of a mecre private life.  formerly intimated, they err exceedingly, and are in my judgement marvelously mistaken, which are of opinion, that a private life is in itself happy and blessed. For, if that be true, which the most eloquent Orator and excellent Philosopher hath left in writing, in the first Book of his Offices, according to the opinion of divine. Plato. Non nobis solum nati sumus, ortusque nostri partem parents, partem amici, partem patria sibi vendicant; that is, We are not borne only to ourselves, but our Parents, Country, and Friends, do challenge unto them a part in our being. Then no occasion questionless, whereby a man may deserve well of the Weal-public, can be wanting to any man so much as to them which lead a private, obscure, and solitary life, living unprofitably, to themselves alone; being nothing at all beneficial to the Commonwealth, whereinto, and whereunto they were borne and brought up.  
He therefore which is by propagation and education, generous, liberal, and freehearted, doth rightly understand and know that true glory, reputation, and renown consisteth in Virtue, which also is especially illustrated and made famous by worthy and meritorious actions, and employments in a Commonwealth. So that Sallust that excellent Writer, not without just cause, left us also this his testimonial in writing. Pulchrum est benefacere Rei-publicae. It is a very noble and worthy thing, to do good to the Commonweal. Furthermore, let every Courtier, and honest man whatsoever, consider thus much in his mind, that to deny to dedicate, and devote his best services to God, his King, and Country, is nothing else in deed, than as if he would wilfully expose himself to exile and banishment. That true and ancient Adagy, which we frequently use, doth verify and ratify this truth, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Every good is that which distributes, imparts, and Communicates itself to others. Again, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. A good man (as the saying is) is a universal good. For shame therefore, let us never praise, or approve that merely imaginary and erroneous opinion, that in those things, which are commonly and customarily contingent to Nature in general, any man should therein promise to himself, beyond all others, any particular or private felicity; unless he can persuade himself, that he is able (by a certain incredible and unheard of magnanimity of mind) to curb and correct all Fortunes and Misfortunes whatsoever. Wherefore, let us never suppose, that true Fame or Felicity, doth consist, in a private or retired life, which is both full of crafty fetches, and fainthearted fearfulness: No nor in the vainglorious brags, of bags of Gold and great possessions, but rather in the good and gracious constitution and condition of a man's mind.  
Whosoever then frequents and follows the Court, let him carefully, and very circumspectly, consider these things. Neither let him be led to believe those sottish and unsavoury fellows, by whose silly advise, or rather shallow devise, such a kind of absolutely blessed life, were to be desired and inquired after, in seeking whereof, a man should far sooner forsake the world, than find it in the world. Avaunt, all such absurd and witless fellows, of whom I wish all wise men would beware: and with the ingenious Poet, would sing unto them this their due Ditty;  Stulti dum vitant vitia, in contraria currunt. 

Fools voiding Vice, the contrary commit,  
Like ships that scaping Gulfs, on Rocks are split.   
But thou (kind Courtier) which either art already entered, or shortly intendest to enter and adventure thy fortunes in the Court, with a considerate and constant courage spurn at, and despise those partial speeches of the Common people, and wisely apprehend and entertain the words of the most wise: yea, even Philosophy and Wisdom itself: embrace this in thine arms, as the 
The Courtier must endeavour to get Wisdom as his best guide.  Founder and Fountain of all Virtue, and as the sovereign Salve against all corrupt concupiscence: for, this will conduct and instruct thee, in the true knowledge of that which is just and honest, teaching thee what is to be followed, and what is to be refused. Out of this pure wellspring of perfect wealth, thou shalt draw out such true knowledge, as shall cause thee perspicuously to perceive, that too much dignity, riches, and authority, being little better than the very Hangmen, and tormentors of men's minds, are of wise men to be contemned, and despised. This Instructrix and faithful Mistress, will demonstrate unto thee, what a multitude of men do fond admire and much wonder, what should be the cause, why they are so greatly and grievously day and night vexed and perplexed. Finally, He which is well fraught, and furnished with the wholesome precepts of Philosophy, shall in conclusion bring himself to the King of Kings, and Prince of all Princes, that is, he shall be reduced from the unlimited and illegitimate worship of the Creature, to the Creator himself; and sure, I think, that he which is thus prudent and provident, is not wise in the least degree; for, every Christian Courtier ought especially to take care, and make a Conscience hereof, namely, that he be so exercised in the Court of his Prince here, that hereafter he may without Shipwreck of Conscience, achieve and arrive, at the Haven of the Heavenly Court, and Kingdom of jesus Christ.  
Now then after the study of Wisdom, let not the 
Law, Languages, Eloquence.  Courtier by any means omit, or neglect the Study of Law, Languages, and Eloquence; and let him especially, bend his best endeavours, to attain unto the prompt, perfect, and most commendable Knowledge of Histories, 
History.  and Antiquities, to which, indeed I cannot sufficiently move and admonish him: For, this Knowledge is the Testis of the Times, the Light of Truth, the Life of Memory, the Mistress of Life, and the Messenger of Antiquity. Yea, this same Historical Knowledge (if we may believe Polybius) is a most sound and sure direction, instruction, and preparative, to all well managing of politic affairs, and is, indeed, a singular tutrixe, and faithful informer, how to abide and suffer patiently the inconstancies, and mutabilities, of brittle and fickle Fortune. If therefore (friendly Courtier) thou wouldst not continually, show thyself a child, and Non-proficient, in the Court of thy Prince, be not (I say) rude, but well read, and a skilful Antiquary in Histories and Chronicles.  
Thus the Courtier, being adorned and dignified, with these wholesome precepts, and also fortified with God's gracious aid and assistance, and being lawfully elected and incorporated, into the Society of Courtiers, let him thus proceed, and leave the issue and event to God, who doubtless will direct and protect, all his affairs so fortunately, and effectually, that he shall with prosperous success, wade over, and wisely wind himself out of all difficulties, and disturbances whatsoever. A rush, therefore, a straw for the witless words of unwise men.  

Aula domus feelerum, Nutrix est Aula malorum,  
Exeat ex Aulâ, qui cupit esse pius.   

The Court's the Stage, and Station of all ill,  
Let none come there, who hath a gracious will.   
'tis trash, trumpery, and mere foppery, for (as we have already specified) he which will in this sense be good and godly, must not only leave the Court, but even the whole world. For, if we love and believe, if we 
Nothing in this life is absolutely good.  will hear and bear the Truth; Is it possible I pray, that any thing can be absolutely clean and pure, in this unclean and obscene Scene of the world? No, no, but be thou (good Courtier) urgent and instant, even as it were, to strain and constrain Almighty God, by thy ardent and fervent prayers, in invocating his divine Goodness, and saying;  

Duc me, nec sine me, per me, Deus optime Duci,  
Me Deuce, nam, perco; Te Deuce, Fausta gero.   

Lord, not without me, by me, be my Guide,  
Thou Guide, all's well; I Guide, I deadly slide.   

Again.  
 vivas bene, vive Deo; Patriaeque & Amicis  
Vtilis: haud ulla est, vivere vita, sibi.   

Wouldst Live well, live to God, thy Country, Friends,  
That Life's no Life, when led to private Ends.   

And that.  
una est in dubiâ mihi re medicina Salutis,  
Cor patrium, os verax, omnipotensque manus.   

One thing I'm sure will Health procure,  
And with my Credit stand:  
A Country-loving heart; True Tongue;  
An all-assisting Hand.   
Finally, let this most memorable Verse also, like and delight every Courtier, and honest Christian.  In manibus Domini, Sorsque Salusque mea. 

In God's Almighty Hand of Providence,  
Lies all my Lot, Health, Wealth, Inheritance.   
What if the Courtier also, after this frail and transitory Court, seriously desiring and aspiring, unto the Celestial Court, should in pious fervency, break out into these holy and heavenly words. Benedictus Dominus Deus, miserator & Redemptor meus, in te solum confido, non erubescam: that is, Blessed be the Lord God my Consolation, and Salvation, my hope and help is in thee, therefore will I not be ashamed. Now than the Courtier, being thus sound and sincerely furnished and garnished, with the fear of God, and Precepts of Piety and Philosophy, needs no longer dread or be afraid, of any iniquity, impiety, or gross enormity, which like hideous Hydra's, or mortiferous Monsters, the Court may feed and foster; but with a hardy and hearty courage, to wit, a blotles and spotless Conscience, and innocency and integrity of life, and conversation, may boldly enter into the Palace of his Prince.  
But whosoever (not being as yet entered thereinto) doth honestly and discreetly desire to provide for, and to forecast his own well far and future felicity. Him I admonish, that he be inquisitive and careful, to seek out the Court of a most potent Prince or Monarch, rather 
To live in greatest Cou●●s.  than of an infirm, weak, and less puissant King or kingdom: and according to the counsel of the old Proverb, Ad faelicem se inflectat parietem. Let him lean and trust to a strong wall. Yea, and let the Courtier, no less wisely and willingly, search out, and desire to serve, a most prudent, than a most potent Prince, or Potentate: for, this is a Maxim as true as Truth itself, that the Offices and duty of Servants is evermore adorned and illustrated, by the honour and dignity of their Master: let him therefore be persuaded, that to live under a most wise and mighty Monarch, is not thraldom and servility, but freedom and liberty. Wherefore he which findeth such a Court, to wit, a good, a great, and a gracious Prince: a Prince, for his sound judgement and much experience, most Prudent, and for his great dignity and authority, Potent, and Puissant, I counsel and advise that Courtier, by all means to follow such a King, such a Court. And And let not any fleeting or flying tales so move thee, as to remove, separate, and alienate thee, from so good a Prince. If in the mean while, any sinister, distasteful, or adverse accident, oppose or oppugn thee, bear it patiently, harden thyself against it industriously and constantly, and doubtless Time will (in due time) demulceate, mollify, and mitigate those things, which formerly seemed most obdurate, difficult, and intricate. For, even as a Soldier in his kind of life, and a Mariner, or Seaman, well seasoned with skill for all seasons, perceiving dangers as imminent as evident, knows which of them, will prove most perilous, hurtful, and pernicious. Even so ought every Courtier, so soon as ever he hath cast and contrived, to lay the platform, and foundation of a Courtly life, to see and foresee, what in the Court is hopeful, what hurtful, what is profitable, what unprofitable; Yea, what is seasonable and befitting, and what is unseasonable and unbefitting: For, they are fools, and by no means to be endured, which will hope beyond and against hope, that is, being altogether anxious and uncertain, do depend upon an obscure, blind and hopeless hope. Let him then which is wise, beware of this, lest thus he lead, and mislead himself and others. And indeed, how is it possible for him, who with such vain hope, brings himself into a fools Paradise, to order and frame his counsels and affairs, to a direct and desired end and conclusion?  
Let the Courtier therefore, with all convenient expedition, endeavour and desire to know, whither he be to settle his hope, upon the rising, or declining estate of his Prince. Moreover, let the Courtier apply, and bend all his power, so long as he continues in the Court, that as much as in him lies, he be very morigerous, and gratefully officious to his Prince, but yet so, as that he do 
Observance or obedience.  nothing with prick of his own Conscience. By obedience I here understand piety, or an honest, reverent, and religious care, whereby we heedfully hear, and dutifully finish, and accomplish, the Commandments of one lawfully commanding. For, what can such a man do or well perform, which is not of a quick, and nimble hearing, but is so dull and undiligent, in understanding and apprehension, that he doth not rightly conceive, nor is duly and truly capable of what is either commanded or demanded. Be thou therefore (good Courtier) very well affected to this Virtue, if thou desire to insinuate, and creep into the favour and affection of thy Prince. Think with thyself, that there is nothing more unindifferent, unreasonable, or more void of discretion, than for a man to desire to be reverenced, and obeyed by his Inferiors, who himself is most wayward, and undutiful to his own Superiors: therefore he is surely a happy and fortunate man, who unto his facility and easiness in hearing, and apprehending, doth couple and conjoin promptitude and readiness in performing, but always with this Proviso, and exception, that he undertake not to finish or effect, any dishonest, unjust, or unlawful Command whatsoever; but let him kindly and courteously entertain, that excellent saying of Aeschylus, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Obedience is the Mother of felicity. Let the Courtier then which rightly and honestly desires, to deck and adorn the form and fashion of his life in the Court, and to make his Prince his friend and favourer; as also to be expert and cunning in counseling himself, & contryving all his actions and affairs. Let him (I say) diligently ponder, and seriously consider these things. But after that his labours have been with prompt expedition, sustained and concluded, since the estate and condition of Courtiers is very slippery and uncertain, as they, who indeed are too often and too easily circumvented, and environed, with the fraudulent accusations, and malicious detractions of wicked men: Let the Courtier therefore, well and wisely 
To demand his Pardon.  shift for himself, and provide a remedy against them: let him (I say) in his first entry or ingredience into the Court, Covenant, or Compact with his Prince, that he will vouchsafe unto him a general pardon; and let him diligently take heed, that this Patent of his Purgation be not by the necessity of the Time, subtly, or violently taken from him.  
Now as touching Liberty, and Freedom in speaking, 
Of liberty of speech.  which Princes (for the most part) do take very distastefully, I must herein also admonish the Courtier, because indeed they are but few, which freely and faithfully do advise, admonish, and advertise Princes; Thou therefore whosoever thou be, which wilt show thyself not to be a counterfeit, false hearted, or sained, but rather a faithful servant to thy Prince, follow not so fast, seek not so much the glittering splendour of fickle Fortune, & thine own private commodity, as the Truth, which by no 
Truth.  means should be concealed, but honestly revealed, whensoever it may redound, and be conducible to the commodity, and honest utility of thy KING, and his Commonwealth; therefore thou being wise, wisely forbear to speak, until fit time and occasion, be happily offered unto thee. Hear what Solomon says to thee. Mars & vit● in manu Linguae. Life and Death are in the power of the Tongue. Wherefore, be thou neither a futile, or unprofitable babbler, by unseemly loquacity, Neither contrariwise, let thy Tacitarnitie or secrecy, be unhonest, but just and ingenuous: And esteem that Silence necessary and sufficient for thee, whereby without either contempt of God, or the common good, thou dost retain, and keep unto thyself those things thou knowest; lest they be dispersed and spread abroad, to the prejudice of thy Prince, or any other person.  
But now that I may return to speak of the study of Verity or Truth, whereof (kind Courtier) I hearty desire, 
What Truth is.  thou wouldst be a heartie-lover: and wherein I wish thee, not only a studious Practitioner, but a perfect Proficient, which that thou mayst the better understand, I thus define. Verity or Truth I take to be such a Virtue, whereby we speak of, praise and promote any thing, so, as the Person, or thing praised or spoken of, is, absolutely of itself. Hence then is commanded that we speak no otherwise of any thing, than as the matter is plainly in itself. But thou wilt peradventure object, thou fearest danger or despite thereby: fear it not, for 'tis far better, and much more commendable, to suffer death itself, than either to oppress or suppress Truth or good council, And questionless a good Prince, doth much more highly estimate, and value a faithful Councillor though dead, than a falsehearted flattererand disembler, though alive.  
For, no vain counterfeit or profane, thing can be of long continuance▪ wherefore, let neither the time terrify, nor necessity dishearten, nor wicked and malicious men, move, curb, or disturb, the good and faithful courtier, from truth and honesty; but with constant Socrates, let him be still the same, immutable, immovable. Excellently saith Cassidore, concerning justice, justice (saith he) knows no father, nor mother, it knows Truth, but makes no difference of persons, it directly imitates God. Do thou the same, (kind courtier) and that thou mayst come, very near to the nature, condition, and disposition, of God himself; love Truth: And if thou desire, that others should speak the Truth to thee, do thou hate and abominate, untruth in thyself: But perhaps, thou wilt say with the Comical Poet, Veritas odium parit, Truth hatcheth Hatred. And what hatred I pray thee Commedian dost thou mean? why man, Truth brought even death itself to Pollodorus, that noble Architector, to Papinian the Lawyer, to Socrates, that famous Philosopher, yea and to many others besides, what then? shall we therefore, maintain a lie against truth? God forbidden. Indeed 'tis true, I confess it, that truth, is oftentimes abused, misused, troubled, & tormented; yet for all this, as Solomon testifies Labium veritatis, firmum erit in perpetuum, The lips of truth, shall endure steadfast for ever. And Cicero, in his Oration for Caelius saith Omagna veritatis vis etc. O the admirable power of truth, which can most easily, sustain and maintain itself, against all the sagacity, and most acute subtlety, craft, and collourable treachery, of man's brain, or breast whatsoever. Esteem it then a greater glory and grace, to suffer disgrace for truth and verity; then to receive much honour, and present preferrment, for falsehood and flattery. It may be, the hatred, which thou pretendest that this truth will engender, is with the vulgar sort, or common-people; well, be it so, yet assuredly, amongst true and faithful friends, nothing is more acceptable, nothing more delactable, than truth and sincerity, if it be not embittered, with churlish, or uncivil asperity, and improper or ill proportioned, with rigid roughness and severity, which evermore should be absent from amiable truth. But I am the more willingly inclined, more copiously to inculcate, and entreat of this virtue, which, since it cannot by any means be kept in corners, but will abroad into the light; may not slightly be glanced at, or lightly be passed over.  
Unto all these sound and solid arguments, some Courtier may peradventure, yet farther object and say, that it is dangerous, all ways to speak the truth in a Court, esspecially in difficult, doubtful and intricate matters: Indeed I cannot gainsay it, and I know assuredly, that in such cases, a man had need of a more than vulgar or common with and judgement, and that in such astraight exigent, if a man will keep and conserve, good will and reputation, and avoid the infamous blot and spot, of disloyalty, he hath now something, to set his wits a work on.  
Go to then, put case it be thus, yet not witstanding I will (as God shall enable me) take away the obstacle, and remove the rub and scruple, which may in this case, seem to trouble thee. Of this than I first of all admonish thee, that it is more correspondent, and agreeable, to wisdom and discretion, always stoutly and manfully to deliver thine opinion, then with pusillanimity, and unseemly fearfulness, to hold thy peace and say nothing. If the matter, about which the question grows, be absolutely true, and perspicuously apparent, than I know thou art not moved with it: but if it be utterly unknown to thee, and more intricate, than that thy present intelligence, is able to wind into; then thou makest a demur, and art peradventure at a nonplus: Thou mayst then, with these and such like formal speeches, justly excuse thyself to thy Prince. As touching this matter, or counsel, as a thing both profitable and honest, I thus deliver my mind, so far as the matter is manifest unto me, As I conjecture, as it seems to me, So far as I can guess, apprehend, and understand. These and such like forms and kinds of speeches, being honestly used, and modestly delivered; the Prince, may receive very sufficient content and satisfaction: and if his counsels and consultations, obtain not a happy and hoped issue and event, the Courtiers just excuse and purgation, need not be to seek, which also a gracious Prince, will doubtless accept and take in good part.  
Now it follows that we speak somewhat concerning the delivering of our suffrages, judgement and opinion, in public, serious, and important deliberations & consultations; Observe this, that in many other matters, 
Rash speech Condemned.  delays are dangerous and unprofitable, but here, procrastination or discreet deliberation, is very behooveful, beneficial, and comfortable. Beware therefore that with the hasty and furious Dog; (as the Proverb is) thou bring not forth blind whelps, & that thou be not too forward, to utter any unsavoury, unreasonable or unseasonable words, which are indeed irrevocable. Have this also in frequent consideration & often remembrance, that the entrance and beginning of all things, is at the first onset, hard and difficult; And even after the same manner, the the foremost voice, in all councils and deliberations of importance, is most hard and hazardous. Therefore he doth wisely, which makes one more wise than himself, his Precedent and Precedent, and discreetly adheres and cleaves to him; and yet so, as that he do especicially depend and rely, upon his own opinion, judgement, and arbitrament, not altogether upon an others, for, as almost in all other things: so likewise here.  Alterius non sit, qui suus esse potest. 

he's not another's man,  
Himself, which counsel can.   
So likewise the Courtly Counsellor, in matters of moment, in grave and great affairs, must be both eloquent and evident, plain and intelligible, that he may descend and come near unto the matter in hand; and not with frivolous circumstances, or superfluous circumlocutions, to go about the Bush. Neither must he, according to that old saying, Wrist an Interpretation hit●er & thither, as if he would be the breake-necke thereof; nor must he dissipate or spread abroad anxious uncertanities: but, even as becomes a sage, grave, and judicious man, must precisely, and inexpresse terms, speak both of matters & men, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in plain words call, a Ship a Ship, and a Spade a Spade.  
Furthermore here may arise another question, as that, if the Courtier coming into the Court, finds other Courtiers at variance, dissension, and controversy amongst 
variance or dissension.  themselves, whither he may partially take part with either side, or keep himself neutrally indifferent between both? I answer, that neutrality or partiality, is rather to be fled then followed; what then? Choose me out (kind Courtier) him which is most wise, most intelligent, most capable of reason and understanding, and this man, even by the uprightness and equity of his cause, will easily break the passion and power, and allay and qualify the hot courage, of his Corrival and envious competitor. To which purpose saith ovid.  

Frangit & attollit, vires ni mil●ite causa,  
Quae nisi justa subest, excutit arma pudor.   

The soldiers cause erects, dejects his might,  
Which, if unjust, shame shakes of force to fight.   
Even so do thou also: join thyself to that party which maintains a just cause, for as for neutrality (as they call it) we must so assign and define it, that it rescues or redeems no man from the snares or ambush of his enemies; neither doth long keep or conserve, loyal or faithful friendship; let neutrality therefore go pick a Salad, as the saying is, but not mistrust or Suspicion, without which indeed, a Courtier cannot live; Let him not therefore be too credulous, or apt to believe every one, for although the old vulgar verse tells us;  Fallitur in multis suspiciosus Homo. 

That jealous men we see,  
Oftentimes deluded be.   
Yet (friendly Courtier) let not this much move or 
Not to be too credulous.  molest thee, but take heed whom thou trustest, for in trust is treason. And in this regard, let every Courtier be most curiously circumspect and vigilant, and what Homer requires in a Prince, namely, that he be quick sighted, and watchful, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, having eyes both behind and before. Let the wise Courtier (I say) prescribe unto himself the same rule. And let him not inconsiderately, lightly, or slightly, put confidence in a glavering, crooching, and deeply protesting or swearing Friend. If thou any thing at all, esteem me, hear and believe this from me, else thou wilt soon or late repent, that ere thou didst trust a Saintlike salvation and protestation. Let Epicharmus his wisdom be forcible and effectual in thee. Nulli Fidere, To trust none. Unless thou do so, 'tis a thousand to one, but that crafty Ulysses, will at one time or other, encounter choleric Ajax. And thus thou shalt be a debtor to thyself, to condole thine own folly, and to others also, to laugh thee to scorn. If therefore thou wilt cover thee with a Shield, against this sharp Dart, I admonish thee Courtier, and that most seriously; that thou neglect not this counsel: for, it will then undoubtedly confound thee.  
Furthermore, in whatsoever Court thou livest, let this also be thy care, and a cautelous observation unto thee, that thou strive not either to ascend too high, or to descend too low. What then? Beware of Extremes, and persuade thyself of the truth of that which the Poet sings;  Medio Tulissimus ibis. 

To keep a virtuous measure,  
Is surest, purest Treasure.   
Let then (I say) Mediocrities golden Rule, which is 
Medi 〈…〉, or a Mean●.  so frequently, so vehemently pressed and praised, and that most deservedly, by the most ingenuous and judicious, both Poets and Philosophers, be evermore thy love and thy delight. Excellent is that of one Pallas, who thus wished. utinam ego neque, nimis faelix, neque miserabilis essem .. O would I might be neither too mighty, nor too miserable; because indeed Mediocrity or a Mean, is the most desiderable and delectable thing in the world: and places of highest Honour, do cause and procure the greatest dangers. And contrariwise, Experience itself, which never deceives, teacheth us truly, that a most dejected and low estate, engenders disdain, contempt and contumely: they therefore are truly wise, which both say and do, as Phocylides did: 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. I desire to be an indifferent Citizen: for, many most excellent things consist in Mediocrity. To shut up all in a word; They, which in all their endeavours, desire to keep the Golden mean live most sure, most secure from fear of distress and danger. Such a soft and sweet kind of life therefore, which Solomon the world's wonder for Wisdom, sought and besought of God, giving the reason of his request, which was to a most honest and holy end, as is excellently set forth Pro. 30. Such a kind of life (I say) if thou be wise, I wish thou wouldst especially desire and delight in. And assuredly, if thou greedily gape not after more, or more necessary things, than are competently sufficient; this may very well satisfy and content any man to live an honest, wise, and blessed life.  
Moreover, if the affairs of thy Prince call thee to the expedition, of any great, notable, and important employment, be not too highly conceited or affected with 
Of employments.  this honour, or preferment. Neither be thou of opinion, that thy reputation, or authority, cannot well consist in safety, unless actions of such consequence, rely and depend upon thy performance. Avoid rather (good Courtier) if I may advise thee, by the examples of others, the too much intermeddling in the difficult affairs, and secret counsels of thy Prince; but so far forth as they are just and honest thou mayst, under go them; yet I say do not greedily desire to have the specially hand in them. For, if those employments (though never so great implicit and intricate, do not gain and obtain a happy and hopeful issue and success, than thou, who building Castles in the air, hadst purposed thereby to have set up the plumes of thy fame and renown, shalt contrariwise now become a grievous and egregious consumer and bankrupt, as it were, of thy former hoped fame, by a future happening shame.  
Now also as touching Matrimony or Marriage, I first 
Of Matrimony, or Marriages of Princes.  of all and especially admonish thee, that unless thou be thereunto solely or singly constrained, thou put not thyself forward in such a business, for we find it true by experimental proof, that many men (others being debarred and kept out) have been admitted, or rather have intermingled and involved themselves into the secrets, and matrimonial negotiations of Princes; as if they were the only ominous Augours, and solid Soothsayers of Nuptials and Marriges; but have thereby even plunged and overwhelmed themselves, into great and grievous dangers, especially when the event hath not fortunately answered the intent.  
Again, let the Courtier take heed in this respect, and 
Of Hum 〈◊〉.  embrace the good counsel of Polypus, which is, that he highly esteem Sobriety, & Humility, least being by any thing puffed up with pride, the Prince do not only perceive, but punish the same, in that such a one would seem and be esteemed, more wise and prudent than his Prince. This is an infallible truth, that Princes indeed do delight in, and love men famous for their learning, virtue, long grounded and grave experience: but they will, by no means, admit or permit with a patiented mind, any whomsoever, that goes about to promote and prefer themselves above him; nor those who for congruential government are more highly prized or praised than himself: Assuredly it hath been in times past, is at this present, and will be in time to come, most faithfully true; that,  

Nulla fides regni socijs, omnisque potestas  
Impatiens Consortis erit, etc.   

A Kingly Throne or Crown will near permit,  
Corrival or Copartner there to sit.   
But I speak not this, to that end and purpose, that all 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 all freedom and liberty of speech, should be taken from Courtiers, being both grave, wise, and understanding men; For, neither is it befitting, nor doth it stand with reason, that they should so low deject and abase themselves, as either to allow and approve of the illiberal and servile opinions of others, or themselves to speak unfaithfully; which absurdity and impiety (if we will believe Plutarch) is most worthy to be reproved, and reprehended of all men. Let not then the Courtier, if an honest, grave, and discreet man, fear the displeasure of his Prince, whereby he should be restrained, not freely to deliver those things, which he hath truly and wisely conceived in his heart.  
Moreover, let both Simulation and Dis-simulation, 
Simulation & dissimulation in speech.  that is, all counterfeiting or colourable dissembling, be far from the Courtly Counsellor, whensoever he is to give his judgement, or deliver his opinion, concerning any matters already propounded. Let him not then so much desire to insinuate, and creep into the favour and gracious acceptation of his Prince, by fraudulent cozenage, unhonest tricks, or false tales; as by virtue, wit, eloquence, excellency, and integrity, with all which notwithstanding that he may be enriched and richly garnished, yet let him not for this cause deride and laugh others to scorn, or basely esteem and vilify them; Nor so admire and magnify himself, that by this means, he as it were pessundate and tread ●●em under his foot. But what then? Why assuredly whosoever treads this path, walks hastily into the highway of his own ruin and destruction, which happily hath not happened to any one in our, or our Ancestors knowledge and remembrance. Doubtless this same Philautia, or self-love never makes mention or motion to any goodness. Neither is it repugnant to reason and equity, that he which only desires to please and content himself, and contemptuously scorns and contemns others, should semblably be of others disdained, rejected, and scorned.  
Furthermore (kind Courtier) I would here admonish 
Honest advise in Counsel.  thee this one thing also, That if peradventure, by the authority of thy Prince, thou be to sit in Counsel about matters of great Consequence; that thou seriously and sedulously ponder in mind, and strictly examine, whether the Counsel or business to be then undertaken, in the name and right of thy Prince, be pleasing to God, profitable to the Common wealth, befitting the fame and reputation of the counsellors themselves, as also easily and harmelesly to be affected: For, those counsellors do very badly advise and counsel their Prince, who many times are the special causes, that they erect and build Towns, Towers, Trenches, Bulwarks, or Warlike Rampires, and such like, little or nothing profitable to them, and by this means omit others more necessary and commodious. In these, and such like affairs, let the Courtly Counsellor be always most ready priest to appoint such works, as may be propice and profitable to his Prince and Country: Herein I say let him be very discreet and prudent in counseling, as also most cunning and quick witted, to display and lay open, what he hath 
Delay, discommended.  to that purpose, in his heart excogitated: For, Princes especially are of all other men most impatient of delays. Therefore to use delay or protraction of time, and either by reason of the dullness of wit, or slow motions and conceptions of the mind, or else through want of mature judgement, to procrastinate and put off from day to day businesses, and employments of great importance, and especial moment, will not only be very prejudicial and obnoxious to thy credit and estimation, but even to thy Prince himself most unpleasant and unacceptable.  
Again, let the Counsellor or honourable Ambassador, 
Not to discover Secrets.  mind and mark this, that he be not too forward to divulge and make known the weighty and important affairs, committed to his trust and fidelity; but what in him lies, let him cover and conceal them until such time, as they be effectually dispatched and concluded. But if otherwise, some with envy will speedily so prosecute and persecute thee, as very much to hurt and hinder thy noble actions, or else others will not stick to accuse thee of remissness, and want of wisdom, that such and such businesses were not with more celerity, and expedition performed. Be careful therefore without any rumour or noise, speedily to strike the stroke of thine intended actions, year any man have time, so much as to muse or think thereon.  
Furthermore, I would here suggest and put into the 
To be always in action.  mind of the wise Counsellor, this needful and necessary admonition: namely, that like the Sun he be always as it were in continual action; that is, That as much as in him lies, he live not without employment; this is the means to acquire and get a noble name, renown, and reputation, especially if he do speedily and fortunately officiate the affairs of his Prince.  
Now in the true and due deliberation and execution of such actions, let the Courtier be hereof most advisedly careful, that he wrap up in silence, whatsoever may either be hurtful, or not helpeful therein. For, in this case, as the saying is, Grau is iactura loquelae est, Great damage 
Silence is commendable.  and detriment ariseth from undiscreet speech; but commendable and comfortable is Silence, and Secrecy: For, as Babblers are in every business very unnecessary and unprofitable, so especially, in high, great, and important affairs. Excellently therefore doth that most wise King reprove and reprehend sutilitie, or foolish babbling. Pro. 20. Non admisceto te cum illo qui arcana detegit, Keep not company with him which revealeth secrets. That, therefore, which thou wouldst not have another to blab, do not thou thyself blaze abroad.  
Now after all this, these subsequent considerations will 
To do nothing without the Prince's knowledge.  also deserve thy frequent meditation, to wit, that thou attempt not any thing, though thou assuredly know it never so profitable, without the privity and consent of thy Prince, especially if he be not far remote and absent from thee: for, what may he thence collect and conclude, but that thou didst contemn his Princely prerogative; neglect him not therefore by any means, neither determine any thing, though in the smallest matters, or most easy and commodious manner, thy Prince not being therewith first acquainted.  
Likewise, if the Courtier have commission to execute 
Rules for an Ambassador.  the place and employments of an Ambassador, let him not either by his own authority, or by occasion of more commodious managing of his Embassage, altar or change any part of his charge therein contained: but let 
To tie himself to the rule of his Commission.  him refer all his proceed to the rule and form of his Commission, or else upon some new and inopinate accident, let him speedily advise and consult with his Prince: For although it be determined and concluded by the Civil Laws, that sometimes an Ambassador may exceed the bounds and limits of his Commission, if more amply and orderly the Embassage may be executed, than was therein commanded. Yet notwithstanding (kind Courtier) that, is not to be understood of public, but of private affairs. That of Valerius, may give thee satisfaction herein, Romanos Legationem, quibus acceperant verbis, peregisse. That the Romans delivered their Embassage in the self same words, wherein they had received it. And that also, of that most famous Father, divine Bernard is in this case worthy remembrance, and deep meditation, Non attendit (saith he) verus obediens quale sit, quod praecipitur, hoc solo contentus, quod praecipitur. The truly obsequious and obedient Ambassador, considers not what kind of Commission or Command he hath received, being only satisfied with what he is commanded. Hear this (kind Courtier) and perform the same: and acknowledge thy Prince lawfully, using his imperious prerogative, thy supreme Superior, to whom thou oughtest to be most morigerous, and dutiful.  
Again, whither thou be sent as an Ambassador, Orator, Interpreter, or Ledger, in time of War, or of Peace; either for the present, or for long continuance; for parley or performance of any affairs whatsoever, 
Not to undertake matters above his power.  thou must now most diligently enter into consultation with thyself, and examine thy power and faculty, what in such a case, is thy ability, or debility sound and substantially to effect and accomplish the same. For, there is not a greater token of foolishness, or fool hardiness, than for a man to take upon him the execution of such a Function or Office, as he is not able safely to undergo. Beware therefore I say, and that seasonably, that thou do not at any time, affect or desire those things, which either thou knowest, or at least shouldst know, will be by thine impotency, infirmity, and debility most obnoxious, most pernicious unto thyself, or others, be heedful herein I 
What is required in an Ambassador.  advise thee, and with a judicious heart, poised and consider in mind, the possibility, and efficacy, as well of thy body, as of thy wit and discretion; What thou art able to compass by thy wisdom, learning, and eloquence: as also how expert and circumspect thou art to contrive any thing. Neither is it impertinent, that I added the abilities of the Body: for, it is undoubtedly without all controversy, that in an Ambassador is required a fair and comely constitution of Body, that is, such an external beauty, and pleasant personablenesse, as may be most amiable, and lovely in the eyes of his beholders. For, no wise man surely will gainsay, but that even in the majesty or gracefulness of the body is a certain genuine and imbred honour, and reverence represented. Dost thou desire examples? They are pregnant. For, we read that Alexander the Great, was most coily and disdainfully beheld by the Queen of the Amazons, for no other reason, than that she found not in that so potent and mighty Monarch, such beauty & comeliness of body, as she expected in him; whose not able fame of admired deeds of prowess, had been from far bruited and divulged unto her. Very memorable also is that of the Stoic Cato, who derided & jested upon those Ambassadors of Room one of whom, had a very foul and unseemly scar upon his head, caused by a blow with a stone: the other being lame The Senate of Room (saith he) have sent an Ambassador, which hath neither head nor feet.  
Hear also (lest we prove a most thankless and ingrateful 
A Brief memorial of that most memorable Queen Elizabeth.  Posterity) let me step one foot out of the way, & add one more as a personal pattern, and lively example hereof; How great and gracious heroic imperial, and specious majesty, was in that most magnificent, and royal Elizabeth, so long as she lived Queen, of this famous and flourishing Island? our neighbours, The Low countrymen Germane, French, Itallians, Spaniards and Polonians, knew thee well, o thou never sufficiently praised Princess! yea, I say the Grecian and Barbarian Ambassadors, held it an especial cause of exceeding great reverence, only to see thy beauty, & no less than an admirable wonder to hear Thee speak. But, of thee, thrice noble Princess, in whose body and soul, was seated and settled divine Grace and Majesty, what can I say without thee? save only this that so long as any state and condition of mortal men shall remain; thy name, and fame shall remain▪ and freshly flourish; neither shall any age, or posterity smother up in silence or cast into the pit of oblivion, the worthy praise of thy Majesty, Gravity and magnanimity, which was most illustriously garnished, and as it were varnished, with unspeakable and unheard gracious courtesy, and affability, Farewell then, thou celestial and imperial Princess, the most excellent, and eminent Phoenix, fautrix, and favourer of learning, and all virtuous Arts and Sciences: Thou art now blessedly ascended, from this momentany and temporary Court, into a heavenly Palace; into that place where thou now enjoyest eternal joy without annoy or bitterness, and everlasting quietness without all care or disturbance. Thou o Angelical Sanited soul, year thou wast old, wast careful to live well, that when thou wast old▪ thou mightst die well. We also in the interim whiles here we as it were, creep up and down on the obscene Scene of this wretched world, do all of us bend our course thither, do all haste and run to that goal. But what do I, whither do I run, by digressing too far from the end, where unto I intent my journey? I must therefore now return, from that Court to this Court.  
After all these things, which we have admonished, and demonstrated, to the Courtier, Let the Courtly ambassador, do his best endeavour, so to dispatch and perform his embassages; and so discreetly to order and dispose of all his several actions therein, that he may not 
Impudence or 〈◊〉 to be avoided in an ●●mbassador.  with many others before him, fear that; Legato deesse os, The Ambassador hath no face, that is, he is such a one, as is not a shamed at any thing he does. Therefore (kind Courtier) that thou mayst be gracious in the acceptance both of thy Prince, from whom, and to the Prince, to whom thou art sent; be by all means furnished with a quick and nimble wit, that thou mayst answer subtly and eloquently, together with a certain gravity, gracefullnesse, and delectable sweet utterance, both to say & do matters premeditated, or not premeditated, with solid polished and acute judgement for many times (beleeive me) such accedentall matters may in thy employments be contingent and fallout, as will not admit delay, nor time for consultations.  
Let the courtly Ambassador or Orator observe and mark this also, that although, eloquence in speaking be 
Not to be too Rhetorical  very excellent and commendable; yet not withstanding he must discreetly, moderate his speech from too many Rhetorical glosses, and figurative illustrations; I deny not, but that such like painted amplifications, being, as it were, the most beautiful lights of an Oration, may have their most pertinent, & exquisite use in the Schools, Temple, and Seat of judgement, but not before a Prince Let therefore thine Oration or speech to a Prince be elaborate and well fraught, and furnished with grave reasons, and pithy and substantial sentences, rather than with the weight of words only; a pure, simple, smooth, and plain speech, is certainly most pleasing to a Prince: And contrariwise, an intricate, coullerable, and curiously, contrived speech is most displeasing.  
Furthermore, let the Ambassador be well seen in the 
To be expertin the language of that Country whither he goes Ambassador.  Language of that Country, or Kingdom, whither he is sent; but especially, in that which he may understand, the Prince; to whom he is sent, is most delighted withal. The Latin Tongue, undoubredly is very acceptable every where: wherefore let him be most skilful therein, that he may be able to speak it most promptly, familiarly, and exquisitely. Thou hearest not any Nicepherus speaking to thee, who most in considerately, would have a man learn perfectly all languages. Neither can I be persuaded that of Mithridates was true, that he was ever able to speak 22 several languages; But we here do only, and especially, persuade unto an Idioma, or most proper form of speech.  
Again, it is not so much desired in any Ambassador, 
To be a good Historian and Antiquary.  that he be a mere Philosopher, as that he be an excellent Antiquary, and well red Historian, for things to come are for the most part, like unto those which are already past and performed, which an Ambassador must also know, as being indeed a Politician.  
Unto these foresaid cautions I add Temperance, which 
Temperance in an Ambassador very requisite.  also I, as a special ornament recommend to the Courtiers, or Ambassadors, prudent consideration; Send I pray thee (friendly Courtier) into perpetual exile or banishment, all the unreverent rabble, of inordinate lusts and desires, which are indeed at utter defiance, and open war with Temperance and Reason.  
If thou be invited to Banquets, or Feasts, let amoderate and indifferent provision, of meat and drink satisfy, content and please thee, let thy Sermocination, or conference, be sweet and pleasant, and the good will & cheerful acceptance of the guests, be hearty and faithful and be not over come with wine, or strong drink; for, what soundness of wit and discretion, can be in the head, brain, or mind of that man, which doth as it were stuff, glut, and gorge himself, with immoderately denoured meat and drink. Neither is it to be imagined, that Circe's did Metamorphize, the companions of Ulysses into Swine, by any other means than this; which, her Sorcery or witchcraft (as the Poets feign) could take no effect upon Ulysses himself, he being a sober, satiate, and moderate man. Let the Courtier observe, and heedfully mark this, least by too indulgent freeness and forwardness to drink, being by the fables and false tales of others, pricked forward and provoked, he take such a fall as may utterly overthrow, the high building of all his former credit and reputation. These things I could heartily desire, every Courtier would at all times carefully ruminate, consider and recogitate, but especially then when as ●●e is to have Audience, and to deliver the Sum of his embassage. To this purpose let him think upon Xenocrates, who being by the Athenians sent Ambassador, that he might not in cur the the least suspect of intemperance, is said that he would never so much as touch or taste any the least quantity of meat or drink, until he had uttered, and delivered the effect of his embassage.  
Honorius and Theodosius the Emperors were of opinion, 
To be acquainted and to reveal the secrets of the place where they were Ambassadors  that it is not fit to search and pry into the secrets of foreign Kings; yet in my judgement, I cannot see any just reason why it should be blamable in an Ambassador, if when he be returned, he know and make known, those things which may seem and that most justly, to appertain into the commonwealth; I mean those things espicially, which belong to customs, Religion, Nationall laws, situations of Kingdoms, Castles, Cities, Raiments, Ornaments of Princes, Conditions of Counsellors, Originals, Families, power, possession or riches, form and fashions of Architecture or buildings and such like. For, what can be more disgraceful to an Ambassador than when his Prince doth question him concerning those things, to find him ignorant of them, the greatest part whereof or at least the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, That whereof himself was an eye-witness he might easily have understood and have had ample information?  
Let the Courtier be the first in persuading his Prince, 
Of dismission of Ambassadors.  that he would be pleased (notwithstanding that the Ambassadors for diverse reasons may be distasteful unto him) yet both royally and magnificently to respect and entertain them, and to give them a gracious and Princely hearing, and with a large & liberal reward to dismiss them; that they may not have any just cause to complain of his parsimony, ungentleness, and inhumanity.  
The Ambassador and Courtly Counsellor must not 
Of the dispatch of an Embassage.  (by any means) be remiss in his affairs, & yet let him be as fearful as hopeful of the prosperous issue and event of them: lest being only led with a precipitate confidence of good success, he do the more negligently and carelessly, put in execution the charge committed to him in his Commission.  
Let him also in all other matters, hate and avoid curiosity, 
Curiosity.  and not excruciate himself with care for those things which he ought not: for, as Plutarch testifies, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, Curiosity is a vile and servile vice or wretchedness. Therefore, though in Courts, curiosities tickling and enticing motions be pleasant and delightful, yet let every discreet, honest, and wise Courtier neglect, and reject it.  
Let this caution also be carefully imprinted in the mind 
Verbosity.  and memory of every Courtier, that in his speech he express more Prudency than Verbosity, and with the most sage and grave, to be brief & compendious, in the handling and dispatching of any his actions and employments whatsoever. For, there is nothing can be more irk some to a Prince, nor in deed to any other prudent man, than to listen to those men, which like a mighty flood of words, or an empty Barrel, do make a huge sounding noise, without any soundness of judgement or discretion; who are, as the Countryman said of the Nightingale, Vox tantum, praeterea nihil, Nothing but words and wind.  
Moreover, let the Courtly Counsellor observe, that when he 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 or intendeth any matter of moment 
Opportunity.  with 〈◊〉 Prince, he carefully watcheth a ●it opportunity, and that he begin the same from some new grateful 〈◊〉, which he may think will delight, or give content to his Prince. But if at that time, his Prince be exercised about other serious affairs, let him desist, and wisely watch a more seasonable and convenient occasion: how much opportunity is available, Pindarus in his Pythies doth excellently declare, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Time (saith he) in every thing hath the supreme place. Let the Courtier therefore know, and know assuredly, that such is the validity and efficacy of time and opportunity, that it is able to translate and transmutate, that which is honest into dishonesty, profit into dis-profit; and a good turn into a shrewd turn, and the contrary. Finally, time is able to alternate, and quite change the face, fashion, and nature of any thing: this did Solomon that most wise king understand and teach, Pro. 15. Laetatur homo in sentemi●●ris sui, & serm● oportunus est optimus. A man hath joy (saith he) by the answer of his mouth, and a word spoken in due season; is most excellent. But enough of these things, now to the matter.  
In the undertaking and handling of any public employments, let the Counsellor have an especial respect 
A fourfold Caution.  and regard of his honour and dignity, which he may safely provide for, by this fourfold rule and direction, maugre all the malice, fretting; and furring of all his envious enemies. First of all, let him endeavour what in him lies, to live well, and well to understand the Truth, which is a most luculent and evident argument of Sapience. Secondly, let him administer, and give good & wholesome counsel to his Prince, which is a point of Prudence. Thirdly, let him both desire and endeavour that which is good unto him; which is a property of justice. Fourthly, let him delight to do good, which is a token of constancy and perseverance. And he certainly which is armed with this Quadruple Shield or Target, shall not easily be over thrown from the height of his honour and dignity.  
But (kind Courtier) in every deliberation and consultation, 
Inconveniences.  which appertains to public businesses, consider well, whence either greater or lesser inconveniences may arise, and make choice (as the chief) of that determination, whence the smaller discommodities do accrue, and which come nearest to the Laws and written word of God: Let the Courtier settle his abode here as in a most exquisite, smooth, and plain way, namely, that he meditate, and muse on the most excellent things, that he speak the best, and but few things, that he execute and perform the most singular and substantial things, and these, all, such as may be most honest, lawful, and beneficial either to the Church, or Commonwealth. Such a man as this may easily be discerned, to differ from the form, figure, and similitude of a Servant, or slavish Vassal. Neither shall he be of necessity constrained to take all he needs from the Casket of a Woman's Nursery, 
Not to rely too much upon others.  or from the brain and invention of some Courtly Chaplain. For, what hath nearer relation to the condition of Servants and bondmen, than merely to depend and rely upon simple Women, or Ecclesiastical Courtiers, in Courtly affairs? What is more base and abject, than, lest we should be deprived of our office and preferment, to consent and subscribe to the opinions and purposes of others, though never so wicked, or unequal, yea, and that, sometimes in matters of Religion, and Salvation? Oh woe! oh shame; alas, What pen, what tongue is able to express, how shameful, gross, and grievous it is? That a man should thus mancipate and beslave himself to others? That whatsoever wrong, and injustice, they allow, we must approve? Whatsoever impiety, or dishonesty they affirm to be good, we must say and swear 'tis so? Let Courtiers in this case call to mind, that notable and remarkable example, which Theodorick Afrus hath left as a pattern to posterity, who commanded all such Gnathonical Sycophants, to be put to death, saying: Si Deo fidem non seruastis, quomodo homini sinceram conscientiam seruabitis? If ye be not faithful to God, how is it possible ye can be faithful to man? Mark this I pray thee (good Courtier) and thou whosoever thou art, whom Heaven hath advanced to I know not what Sceptres, Palaces, Courts, Kingdoms, and Empires, he certainly which is not faithful to God, or by such deceivable and fraudulent means, gets a Crown, or a Kingdom, hath undoubtedly Subjects scarcely faithful, and a Kingdom scarce constant, or durable to him, and in stead of renown, and I know not what majesty, which he sought for, findeth nothing, but a mere shadow, smoke, and vanity. I, of set purpose here let pass a most terrible and lamentable example, which, alas, not many years since did truly teach us, and the very fact itself of the murderer did apparently prove to be most true; which 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, we do but touch by the way. For, to desire either to rip up or rub over a fresh, the memory of which said most sad example, were to do nothing else than to renew our grief, sorrow, and lamentation, and to touch that Ulcer, wherewith that most prodigious Monster of men had stricken this whole Christian Orb, yea, us and all good men, with a most detestable, unhappy, and unlucky blow. But to the purpose: Fly, O fly I beseech thee (good Courtier) this infamous blemish, yea this dishonest and dishonourable stain aforenamed; seek not dainty delights, by such dangerous endeavours, to uphold the Nobility of thy Ancestors; do not too higly extol or magnify thy Pedigree, and the smoky images of thy progenitors. Neither do thou vain gloriously brag & boast of thy valiant or victorious deeds of Chivalry, truly 'tis thus, the glorious renown and fame of thy Forefathers, is a true and unextinguished light to posterity, and (to speak with Crispus) suffers not their good or evil actions to lie buried in oblivion; yet hear and believe this one thing, which I shall tell thee; since all men had nothing but Dirt and Slime for their first and great Grandfather, as well they which loftily and haughtily brag and vaunt it out in purple and scarlet robes, as they which are priest and oppressed with poverty, and sickness: As well they which with wide mouthed ostentation, do crack and boast of stately Statues, Trophies, Triumphs, and Consull-Ships of their Ancestors, as those who have most privately, penuriously, and very hungrily led their lives in poor Countrey-cottages: Do not therefore proudly, and disdainfully glory in thy Grand fathers, or great grandfathers Eminence, but if thou desire to mount and to surmount others, excel and exceed them in honesty and integrity of life and conversation; Let thy nobilities original and foundation be founded and grounded on Virtue, whereof assuredly 'tis far better to have been the first Author and Occasioner, then either being well begun by others, to be overthrow thereof, or at least to arrogate and vindicate the same unto thyself, by disgraceful frowardness, untowardness, and petulancy. Let then (I say) thy deeds be more worthy than thy words; and show not thyself such an idle, or unmanly Noble man, as only to vaunt of voluptuousness, ease and idleness, which thou hast especially got from the many worthy employments of thy generous, industrious, and virtuous progenitors. These things (kind Courtier) though I thus object unto thee, yet is it not my mind or intention, to counsel thee, that in the narrow straits of Fortune, thou shouldst debase or abuse the Noble Lineage of thine Honourable Ancestors, by subjecting thyself to slavery, or baseness; but that thou shouldst endeavour by all virtuous and laudable means; to conserve and keep it inviolate, unspotted, and undisgraced, and not suffer it ignominiously to sink into the pit of black oblivion, or utter forgetfulness.  
Here again take heed to thyself, that either by haughtiness 
Pride and haughtiness of mind.  of mind, or pride of life thou do not exasperate and provoke to anger, other men more noble, excellent, and eminent than thyself, and so kindle the furious flames of fiery wrath, and envy against thee, especially israised from a plebeian & most mean estate, thou stretch out and extend thy plumes so far, as to excel and surpass the noblest and most renowned men of honour and nobility, chiefly if thou attain to this height of honour and celsitude, by mere grace and favour, or as some (sometimes do) by illegitimate and dishonest stratagems, not by famous facts, or meritorious achievements. Let not therefore the immodest or immoderate care, & eager desire, or rather ardent fire of overmuch ambition, withdraw thy mind from modesty, from equity, neither enrich or ennoble thine estate by hook, or by crook, by right or wrong. Wilt thou Courtier win a Kingdom, or gain a Crown? then hate hot lust, and base covetousness, Yea, wilt thou enjoy all things, than I say thirst not after, covet not any thing?  
Hear and believe Seneca, that famous Philosopher, and excellent Schoolmaster of man's life, Hos est Regnum, nolle regnare cum possis; This is a Kingdom, to refuse a Kingdom, when thou mightst reign as King. Finally if thy mind provoke thee to inordmate desire, let that of Lucan in his first book, revoke thee;  Inuida fatorum series, Summisque negatum stare diu. 

Th'imperial and impartial Fates-decree  
That highest Thrones shall ruinated be.   
But, since all things which now seem old have been 
All things have their beginning and end.  new and did not once want their original and first being, let no wise and discreet Courtier hate or emulate another for the honour which he hath lately, and that deservedly got and attained unto; for if thou land or commend any man, for his riches, dignity, and prosperity, thou praisest such external matters, as not being a man's own, but as the Philosopher calls them Bona fortunae the Goods of fortune, are therefore due to fortune: but if thou extol and magnify, a noble man who is of singular parts, and excellently qualified; a great Scholar, passing eloquent, famous for counsels, at home; or conquests at war; here then indeed thou dost praise the man himself, & nothing but what is his own. Let such a Courtier, that he may the better maintain his honour, dignity, and Nobility, be a man of most exquisite carriage, beautified with sweet and delicate, constitution of body; his ornaments of Apparel very honourable rich and sumptuous, for if that be true which Homer said.  Namque viro magnum vestis decus addit honesta 

A mans rich clothes and sumptuous ornament,  
Adds no small honour to his high descent.   
This, indeed is in some sort true, and befitting every man, but especially him which is attendant at Court. Now to these external ornaments, let him add the magnificence and nobleness of other things, which as in all others so especially (as Aristotle testifies) are in a noble Courtier, most conveniently to be provided; otherwise he looseth the reputation and renown of his magnificence and excellency.  
Furthermore every Courtier must in the Court carry 
Of behaviour.  about with him a cheerful countenance, a tongue slow of speech, and a heart that can as it were imprison and lock up his secrets; but let him especially take heed of ridiculous or wanton gestures: for what can be more absurd fond and foolish than in conference to use mimical and idle behaviour, winding, wagging and wresting the body to and fro like a vice or fool on a stage, whereby beyond all gravity and decent sobriety, they seem to jet or dance up and down casting their heels, hands, & feet, hither and thither and looking another way, as if they were talking with some others. These things as they do very much deface and disgrace even the best speechees a man can deliver: so, are they most patent and apparent arguments, of a light and unconstant mind, which none surely but even a mere sot, or one that hath not so much as one eye of understanding, but most certainly knows to be true.  
Again I here advise every Courtier, that if at any 
A Caution.  time, he desire to shun, and avoid the danger and displeasure of his Prince's indignation, that he suffer not his offices, Place or dignities to be taken from him, by any others, than by his Prince himself: for doubtless it cannot but be very silly and absurd, for any man to expect a remuneration and recompense from any others, than from him to whom he desires, and endeavours his labours may worthily be approved; therefore I wish & advise thee, (kind Courtier) that thou be not always 
Not to be too frequent with or absent to long from thy Prince.  present with thy Prince, nor too long absent from him, dost thou desire to know my reason? 'tis this, the one procures hatred and wearisomeness of thee, the other causeth unmindfulness & forgetfulness of thee, be not therefore I say so absent from the presence of thy Prince as that he utterly forget thee, neither do thou so often & importunately intrude thyself into his presence, as that thy person prove irksome, and ungrateful unto him, but that thou mayest to thy special benefit and with his favour and affection, be absent from him thou mayst labour to compass and procure such favourable and honourable Embassages, as thou mayst imagine observe and perceive, will be gratefully acceptable to thy Prince; by this means, though absent in body, thou shalt be still present in the heart, and affection of thy Prince, and as a new and lately entertained favourite, mayest with joy and alacrity comfortably return unto him.  
Let the Courtier warily, and blamelessly learn, patiently 
Of envy.  to bear, contemn, and set light by Envy and Hatred, and let him in the interim both say and do whatsoever is just and equal, for by this means, as sure as what is most sure, it will come to pass, that thou shalt undoubtedly foil and fell thine Enemies, and envious emulatours, what ere they be. Also let the Courtier most assuredly persuade himself hereof, that Envy doth not so much harm, to the party envied, as to the Author thereof, or party envying, but by all means have thou a care, that thou thyself hate and repudiate this most odious and shameful vice in thyself, which assuredly proceeds from no other fountain or spring: nay, rather from no other sink, or muddy pit, than a loath some and savage motion and disposition of rancour and malice, most true therefore is that Greek Elegy, translated into Latin.  

justius invidiâ nihil est, quae protinus ipsum  
Auctorem rodit, discruciatque animum.   

Envy most justly doth himself destroy,  
Hurts his own Heart, procures his own annoy.   
Thou, Courtier, than whosoever thou art, that art sick of this envious disease, break the fury, vanquish the fellnesse thereof I advise thee. For, as a vessel which is musty and unclean, at the first, doth quickly and most easily putrefy, spoil, and defile whatsoever good liquor or moisture is put therein: So a mind vitiated and contaminated with this shrewd, lewd, and dishonest disposition, and inclination to envy, can never purely possess perfect quiet, and tranquillity. Wherefore either let the Courtier neatly, and pleasantly, frump and flout the biting and despiteful speeches of the envious, or else as wisely and wittily retort them, as they are maliciously darted against him, but never let him with violence, or vehemence, repugn or repel them, especially if they proceed from a Prince, Primate, or principal man of authority. For 'tis Wisdom with patience to endure and suffer, not to revenge and reprove that which cannot be otherwise altered. Let Courtiers also understand and know this, that envy is (as it were) the common pestilence and infection of a Court, which as it is connative with man, so doth it with man (either amongst them of equal or inferior condition) arise and grow up. Notwithstanding (kind Courtier) dost thou desire a preservative against it, and to have a salve to heal this dangerous sore; I desire thee at least to abate & extenuate it by courttesie, graciousness, and affability. If in the mean season any chance or mischance befall thee, by the envy of the impious and ungodly, think thus with thyself, that all men cannot (at all times) continue excellent & eminent: for, in short time many may be erected to the top of preferment, and the same men be as suddenly dejected to the depth of distress and calamity, and those especially which live in Princes Palaces. For, can any man possible be so ignorant of this our human case and condition 
The condition of a Couruer.  as not to know, and to be undoubtedly assured, that couriers according to the will and pleasure of their Prince, are sometimes happy, sometimes unhappy, sometimes mighty, sometimes miserable? What if this should come to pass, which also is a human casualty, and in a Prince, as he is a man excusable, and to be endured, namely, that without any great respect of judicious considerations, he magnify and lift up this or that man, to the highest step of honour and dignity, or contrariwise that he vilify and thrust down to the very bottom of baseness, a man famous for his noble lineage, virtue, and literature; and whose merits have been most meritorious in the Common Wealth. Thou mayst hence (I say) learn (friendly Courtier) by this and such like, to endure that which thou wilt hardly approve: yet fear and forbear to censure thy Prince, if thou mean not to deceive thyself; for so far forth as he is pleased to use his own Princely power and authority, let his will be thy rule of justice. Neither let the old or new examples which happened in Germany, France, and Polonia, put any other meditations and considerations into thy heart. But let this 
The Princes will the Couruers' tule.  just and upright Law satisfy and content thee; Principis tui voluntas tibi sit firma, rata & grata. Let the pleasure of thy Prince settle, firm, and confirm thine. Wander not farther than this I advise thee, if thou be wise. It may be some subtle violent and immoderate motion of the mind may dissuade, and persuade thee otherwise; but I say still, let reason and experience rule thee, and judge not that to be rashness or dishonesty, which seems to thy Prince right and equity; For surely that Courtier which by this means suffers shipwreck, in the sea of the court, shall, Improbe & iniqne (as the Proverb is) Neptunum accusare, Accuse Neptune unjustly. For, as the Mariner which once or twice hath suffered Shipwreck on the Sea, if when he approacheth near dangers, he strive not to avoid them, wants not opportunity and fit occasion, having entered into the Sea again, to fall into, and dash himself upon the same misfortune. After the self same manner, that Courtier which hath suffered divers and sundry sinister mischances, and disastrous slips, in this slippery way, and unconstant favour of Princes, hath no cause to promise to himself any certainty, nor can he in such violent and turbulent overflowing floods, assure unto himself a calm sea, or a sure and secure seat, I mean a peaceable and contented mind.  
Furthermore (kind Courtier) if thou hast resolutely resolved, and determined to undertake any large progress, course, and continuance under thy Prince, enforce thyself to the uttermost of thy power, to express thy 
Promptitude.  promptitude and industrious diligence in thine office or calling. For, as rash malapertness and disobedience, do hurt, hinder, yea, and utterly break off Courtly proceed; so assuredly obedience, prompt, and ready priest observance and diligence, do commend, promote, and advance the excellent endeavours of an honest Courtier.  
Let the Courtier also which desires and aspires to honour and preferment by his Prince, have this care & due 
To be exercised in his Prince's presence.  consideration, that as much as ere he may, he be ever occupied & exercised in his Prince's sight, that he may take notice of his diligence, yet let this be done very seasonably, and not too importunely: Let him therefore in this respect observe the most seasonable times; for usually sudden and unexpected employments are imminent and ingruent to Princes, which they (for the most part) will credit, and commit to their dispatch and performance which come next into their presence.  
Let the wise Courtier also observe and note this, that 
To prefer things present before future things.  always he prefer things present, and not perilous, before future and fearful things, if so be that which is good and honest do not prohibit the same; for, he which puts not a period and just limitation to his roving & ravening lusts and desires, or prefers future things, which many times prove bitter, and distasteful, before things present, greedily gaping after new offices, and employments; doth seldom or never gain much thereby, but like Aesop's dog, while they covetously snatch at a double doubtful commodity, they most commonly lose their single certainty. Wherefore I again and again exhort the Courtier, that he herein be advised, and that he lose not certain, for uncertain things: for to use a measure in our desires, is a special point of wisdom, and modesty, and not Spem praetio emere, to buy our hope at too heavy or dear a ra●e, as Terence his Sannio well and wittily doth admonish us.  
Let us also know thus much, that although young Courtiers be for the most part very rude & foolishly insolent, yea, in many things much to be reprehended; yet they not being grossly defiled with any heinous offences, or capital crimes, are therefore in some sort pardonable, and to be excused: For 'tis good that every one should have this in due consideration;  

Nam vitijs nemo sine nascitur, optimus ille est,  
Qui minimis urgetur.   

Sin, from our Birth hath all our hearts possessed,  
He then which hath least sin, is blest and best.   
If then in that more licentious life, which for the most part, Courtiers do enjoy in a Court, there be over much and immoderate looseness of life and conversation, it is better (but no farther than we may with a good conscience) in some measure wisely to excuse them, than by putting oil and fire together, to disquiet and trouble them with ignominious and bitter speeches. Let us be guided with this rule, through the whole course of our life, that we may (what in us lies) have Peace with all men; and wage War only with their vices. Now in the mean while, even those Courtiers which, as much as they are able, do cover and conceal the outward appearances, and demonstrations of their inward conditions, and inclinations, do, notwithstanding soon or late break forth, and discover what is in them: so that they which with so great care and circumspection, would have cloaked and kept close, what manner of men they were, have (at length) in one vice or other, been openly detected. Let Courtiers therefore in this regard, look to themselves, and although they may fond say, and so saying deceive themselves, That no man sees or can witness against them, yet let them know and know assuredly, that the All-seeing eye of God's knowledge doth (as it were) through the Looking-glass of Heaven, presently behold and discern whatsoever the heart of man, most privily and privately conceiveth. Wherefore it can nothing 
Neither greatness nor privacy of place, can hide our sins from God.  at all profit or avail the Courtier to be great in grace, and great favour and authority, or to seek out the most retired, or solitary places that may be, whereby he may the more eagerly, and conveniently without disturbance or discovery, think upon and put in practice, the high displeasure, dissimulation, and other private motions and machivations of his mind: God I say, who, as the Prophet testifies, Scrutatur corda & renes, Is searcher both of the heart and reins, sees & foresees all the most secret thoughts and intentions of thy mind. Neither be thou of opinion, that the impious imaginations which thou hast excogitated and ruminated in the depth of thy heart, though in most secret and obscurest places, if against the express rule of God's word and truth, can ever have a good end and prosperous conclusion. Thou mayst peradventure (occasion being offered) broach them abroad, but either wrath, rage, dissimulation, or faction, and such like, will assuredly cross, if not utterly confound thee. For, 'tis as true as old a saying, Qui fo●●ea●● alteri fodit, incidit in illam. He which digs a pit for another falls into it himself; So likewise after the same manner, he that pulls down his Neighbous hedge, is oftentimes by deceit, as a lurking Serpent, sorely wounded, if not by his venomous and mortiferous sting, stung, to the death: so I say, they which machinant or invent any treacherous destruction to their King or prince (not only because they contest with one more mighty) are themselves confounded; but especially because God himself hath commanded that the Majesty of a King, being as it were his representation and Vicegerent on earth, shall be held most holy and inviolate; And that he therefore will so surely, and severely, be the revenger of such impieties, as 
An admonition to perfidious Traitors and bloody jebusites.  that scarcely any I say not gracious Kings, but even graceless Tyrants, shall be peradventure destroyed or supplanted by them, but that after the same manner, a like revenge shallbe retaliated and paid home into their own Bosom.  
Think upon this then, you Courtly Politicians, ambitious Swashbucklers, and Blood sucking Traitors, which think to shroud and shelter yourselves, under the most holy & immaculate name of jesus. 'tis not your solitary, or retired places, 'tis not your cozenage and equluocation, 'tis not (I say) the authority of your great High Priest▪ or the dignity of a Cardinal, no nor the feigned and false vizard of your Catholic, Apostolic, Re●●ish Religion, that can make such evil to be good, 'tis better, yea I say 'tis far better, if perchance thou be expelled from the presence of thy Prince or removed from thy due dignities and preferments; not only to cover 
Not to revenge our own wrong●  and dissemble thine injuries and greivances, but even patiently, and with a contented mind to sustain and endure them. Neither should any wise or understanding man nor any that hath the fear of God before his eyes, think that he may justly revenge his own wrong, and either in word or deed intend or attempt any thing, that may redound to the prejudice of his Prince.  
Furthermore thou (kind Courtier) which art a man, 
Not to be ruled by women  and borne to be of a manly spirit and disposition, suffer not thyself to be over ruled by women, especially simple and ignorant women; for, nothing almost can be to any man more wretched and slavish, then to abase and indignify himself so far, as to obey the rigid rigorous & many times unjust command, of imperious and impetuous women: whereby indeed he doth no better than apparently seem to neglect, reject, and refuse, that Honourable prerogative wherewith God his all blessed Creator, had from the beginning honoured him.  
Now come we to lay down some few directions and instructions, how the Courtier may carry himself in the change and alteration of a King or kingdom. As in all other things, so likewise in this, a mean is the best. 
How to carry himself in the change of a Prince.  Wherefore a new Prince being inaugurated and invested into his Crown & kingdom, show not thyself too sad and sorrowful, nor too glad pleasant and joyful; what then? hear; and make use. Let thy countenance be modest and grave, and when thou mayst without harm to thy credit and reputation, temper thy joys with some tears of sorrow, and soberly and discreetly intermingle some sighs and lamentation with thy present obsequious observances.  
When the Courtier perceives that his Prince in his benign, bountiful, and liberal disposition, is forward and ready to confer and bestow upon him, any honest and Princely proffer or present pay of ready money; let him use no delays but with all celerity and expedition, let him (yet with an honest mind and carriage) receive and accept of it; for, assuredly 'tis far better to have in present possession, than to hope with long expectation, and once tene, tene, is better than an hundred times Cape, Cape.  
The Courtier endeavouring to compass a courtly 
Of the Prince's liberality.  life and being promoted thereunto, must give out and report abroad that he did not so much gain the same by his own proffered Service, but rather that, that his office or place of preferment, was conferred and imposed upon him, by the especial and free election and choice of his Prince▪ for, thou being by this means, admitted and placed therein mayst deal with thy most intimate friends as touching thy Prince, or his administrations and employments, always directing thy words to such a sense as that they may not maliciously be wrung and wrested to the worst; if thou be not careful herein, 'tis likely that one subtle Ulysses or other, will cirumvent and intrapp stupid & hasty Ajax, and thereby shalt thou grieve thyself, and make others scorn and scoff at thee. Let the Wisdom of Epicharmus therefore, I wish thee, be thy Wisdom, especially in Prince's Palaces, Nulli fidere, To trust no man. For it cannot be Wisdom or discretion in any man to put confidence in Courtiers rewards, gifts, and fair promises: because indeed many of them will seem even to load those men with rich gifts and presents, only out of mere pride of mind and vain glorious ostentation, to whom notwithstanding they bear intestine hatred and rancorous displeasure. And what then? Why even those will counterfeit and dissemble, that they rejoice at thy prosperity and welfare, whereas indeed they envy the same, and do inwardly grieve, when they seem outwardly to smile. Neither are these the tricks of Courtiers only, but even of the whole world, which indeed makes those that desire and look for that better life in heaven, to despise and hate this here on earth. And who indeed that hath any spark of grace, or is possessed with any contempt of the vanity and villainy of this present life, is not ashamed to think, that he can gather Figs from Thistles, Grapes from Thorns, or pure Wheat out of dross and Darnell.  
But I proceed, and here admonish the Courtier, that he beware of those dignities and preferments, which by reason of too eager desire, to bring his friends also into office and promotion, are a great hindrance to the better performance of his own proper, and peculiar affairs. Beneficence is indeed a noble virtue, whereby we according 
Of Beneficence.  to our power, do assist, and do good to those which are worthy the same. To our power, I say, because it is not fit I should water another man's ground, mine own being dry and thirsty; for, perfect Charity begins at home. Let us therefore be very wary and careful, that our good Deeds ill placed prove but bad Deeds, which certainly then comes to pass, when we immoderately and unlawfully seek the good of others, and bring thereby much harm to us and ours. Wherefore let the Courtier, yea, every one take heed, that when he stiffly intends to do a pleasure to his friend, he do not as great, or a greater displeasure to himself, and those which appertain unto him. But if thou have a desire to enlarge thine own estate, be most sedulous therein, especially when thou shalt perceive thine enemies or emulators, either drowsey or lazily disposed to sloth and idleness, or following their own lusts and pleasure, or busily exercised, about toys, trifles, and vain sports, then is a fit occasion offered thee, which to neglect, and not to lay fast hold on, were exceeding great folly and imprudence; yea, and then also not to confront and oppose those thine adversaries, but to the prejudice of thyself or others, were an apparent token of gross and egregious negligence, and inexcusable carelessness. They which tread this path, they I say which follow this Counsel, shall not (I am confidently persuaded) have need of any ungodly and indirect means or projects, to solicit and suggest their Prince, that he would incite, induce, and win those their enemies whom (by no other devise or means they could resist or remove) to marry their kindred and Allies, that by such unequal and subtle slights and shifts of affinity, they may ruinated and overthrow thom.  
When the discreet Courtier shall perceive, that he hath 
What the Courtier must do when he hath inconsiderately displeased his Prince.  inconsiderately and unadvisedly displeased his Prince, let him without all delay, by all the best means he can, study and endeavour to mitigate and assuage his wrath and indignation. For, assuredly displeasure and injuries done to Princes, do take a far deeper impression in their hearts, than one would think they could▪ if therefore in the mean season, thou do not expiate & pacify their conceived anger, they'll find a time most lamentably, to lay open thy final and fatal confusion.  
Again, if by negligence or imprudence thou haste provoked thy Prince to displeasure against thee, endeavour an atonement, and a reconcilement into his grace, and favour again, either by price or petition; make such Personages thy friends, who thou knowest (either for their place or person) can do much with him. Such are for the most part his Allies, his Wife, Mother, Sister, Daughter, and such like, all these and each of these as much as may be, let the wise Courtier, by his honest life, manners, and meritorious demeanours, make to be obliged and linked in love unto him, whereby the Courtier may safely sail through the dangers both of Scylla and Charybdis, or any other courtly storms, or tempests whatsoever; but (after this) if he perceive that for the redintegrate favour and friendship of his Prince, he be prosecuted with envy and malice, let him then again take heed of his emulatours or enemies: for the continuance of a new reconcilement, into the grace and favour of thy Prince, will again most easily and most vehemently, exasperated their hatred and despite towards thee.  
Moreover, since it is the order and observation of historiography, that we therein especially set forth, and commend the truth of things, do thou also good Courtier, if thou wilt be truly politic, follow love & embrace the same. Doth the consideration of the times persuade thee otherwise, and ●●uite and incite thee to fabulous and feigned matters, then for forbear to write Histories, for 'tis far better to desist from such a labour, than with shameful imprudence or impudence, either by flattery or forgery, to blemish and wrong the reputation of thy name and credit. And indeed it is very conducible to the good of the Common Wealth, not to commit any thing to the peruse of posterity, but what we have even by experience itself, sound and assuredly found faithful and true. He which doth otherwise, that is, which doth not place the love of Truth before his eyes, respectless either of good will or hatred. Fumum quidem, ad tempus vendet, sed tandem fumo peribit. May indeed sell smoke for a time, but at last shall perish himself like smoke.  
Rude and ignorant are those Courtiers, which condemn 
That learning & eloquence are excellent in Courtiers.  and dispraise, the study of eloquence, and other most excellent Arts and Sciences: this doubtless is most true, that there have been in all ages, political Courtiers most illustrious and famous, for their learning and eloquence; such idle drones therefore are not by any means to be heard, much less credited, no nor the base and ignoble opinions of the Common people, who disallow of and much discommend men's excellent parts, nobleness and renown, whose original being derived from a most honest & honourable foundation, hath spread abroad many admirable effects, to the health and prosperity of all mortal men. This is it (good Courtier) to wit, Learning and Discipline, which comforts the comfortless, makes the fearful, fearless, which bridles and pacifieth the Seditious, & makes rude rustics & uncivil people, both gentle and courteous. These and such like noble fruits and effects of learning and eloquence, if Courtiers would wisely examine and consider, they could not choose, but utterly detest and cast away so hard & harsh an opinion of so excellent things, and would freely and ingenously confess and acknowledge, the excellent & wonderful efficacy of Rhetorical Eloquence. 
Commotions among the common people how to be appeared and by whom.   
Now as touching the vehement concitation of the multitude or common people; this we must hold and believe for truth, that they'll spare no man, though near so noble or eminent a Courtier, and which also is not seldom, they are incensed and inflamed with fury, even against magistrates and men of especial place and authority; wherefore let him which is wise, give way to fury & an uncivil multitude. But to the appeasing hereof and pacification of tumults and outrages, those courtiers are most fit, who for their excellent parts and Arts, are most affected and reverenced, by the vulgar sort, who indeed since in the Court they are rare and seldom seen, are therefore, with so much the more care and diligence to be elected and made choice of. But in the interim the speediest means to suppress a sedition, is, that the Courtier with all expedition, cut off the heads of Commotions, and not by procrastination or too long delays, to permit them to a greater and more dangerous head & augmentation. And in such a case let the wise Courtier show himself very civil and courteous of behaviour, for questionless thou canst not (by any means) more assuredly or speedily win, the hearts and affections of the common people than by gentleness, and sweet humanity, wherefore let all 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, all Rustical or rude churlishness be far from him, yea let all peevish and testy frowardness be banished, whereby a man doth most bitterly and grievously contradict others, and utter many things with unseemly wrath and indignation. Let him call to mind the counsel of Solamon, Patientia Lenietur Princeps & Ling●● 〈◊〉 ●●nfringe● duritiam. By patience will a Prince be pacified, and a soft answer puts away strife. That also of P: Mimus is very pertinent to this place, Pars beneficij est, quod petitur; si bell neges. If a thing demanded be denied with courtesy & gentle behaviour; it comes very near to a good turn. Wherefore let the Courtier (by all means) so accustom himself to a civil, courteous, and most gentle demeanout, that it may seem habitual in him.  
Let him also here remember, that he put far from him 
Womanish altercation unbeseeming a Courtier.  all womanish altercation, or chiding: for, many times it falls out, that women's quarrels and contentions, do set both their husbands & neighbours together by the ears: therefore I say, let him beware thereof; and in any case let him take heed, that he seem not to strip himself (as it were) and to doff or put off a manly courage and condition, by wrangling about effeminate, trivial, and idle occasions.  
And although as oftentimes it falls out, many Courtiers 
Courtesy and humanity.  being descended of honourable parent age; have as it were by inheritance, high and haughty Spirits, yet for all this, let them incline to a more humble, courteous, and noble disposition, than to be so busily intermeddling in litigious and womanish chide and brawlings, wherefore let every wise Courtier shun and avoid all kind of strife and contention whatsoever, as also all private, and intestine dissension of Subjects one against another: which assuredly doth most commonly bring no small damage & detriment, not only to the adversaries themselves, but even to the common Wealth. Let then these three bonds or chains (even when greatest disturbance and discord is raised) bridle, deter, and terrify every Courtier, yea, any whomsoever from doing evil, namely, Religion, Shame, and Punishment. For, in good sooth I am of opinion, that the Courtier, or Gallant whosoever he be, doth no better than grossly abuse & utterly cast away himself, who by this threefold cord will not be restrained from doing ill, nor constrained to true obedience, and due performance of that duty which may justly be exacted from him.  
In Court also he whose words and deeds do not agree, 
To be faithful in promises.  is not to be trusted, no though he swear and protest near so deeply; but a wise and religious man will always be as good as his word. And let the wise and understanding Courtier, again and again consider this, that it is a most shameful, yea, in many respects a most abominable thing, which also Sallust laments in the men of his days, Aliud clausum in pectore, aliud promptum in lingua habere etc. To have one thing hatched in the heart, another thing coined upon the tongue, not to estimate and value Amity and enmity, according to their true property, but according to commodity; and rather to carry about with us, a fair face than a faithful heart. O but do thou (kind Courtier) fear and forbear these things, and desire rather to be than to seem to be.  
Be careful also herein, namely, that thou be faithful 
To be faithful in dealing.  to others, if thou wilt find others faithful to thee, for that man in my judgement, unjustly, yea, fond and falsely complains he is deceived, who himself did first deceive others. As for example, There are unhonest minded Courtiers, who peradventure, desire to displace their enemy; and that, no doubt many times, under a colour of higher and greater preferment, will seem to praise him for his learning, judgement, and virtue, that thereby, there may be committed unto him, some greater and heavier charge and office, than formerly he had, where his employments and affairs are much more dangerous, troublesome, & intricate than before. Now what if thou in like manner (that thou mayst untie one knot by another) shouldst as subtly cirumvent and ensnare such a like adversary, with as crafty and sly stratagems as his own, and so shouldst retaliate and repay his deceit with deceit, craft with craft? What if against an ensnaring and dissembling enemy, thou make simulation thy safe shield to protect thyself, and deject him? What if in Crect thou play the Cretian? Yet understand me not amiss (kind Courtier) I lay thee not down rules to deceive and cozen; God forbidden, I should; but even as Physicians by poisons, do wisely expel poison, not to hurt but to heal the sick and diseased. Even so when I here object unto thee small and innocent wiles & subtleties, I intent them not, for the ensnaring or abusing of other men, but as an opportune coverture, and protection of thine own estate and Fortune. And finally, I only urged it to this end, that if occasion were offered, thou mightst repay craft with craft, and recompense the malignant subtlety of thine enemy, with Serpentine fallacy.  
Furthermore, as touching matters of great moment, 
What is to be done in doubt full matters of moment.  which we cannot aptly and exquisitely unfold, or lay open to our Prince, we must demonstrate and declare to him those things, wherein custom and much use hath made him most familiar, & best acquainted; make choice therefore with all care and curious election of such a one, who is faithful to thee, whom thou knowest well, and dost assure thyself is free from flattery. For, assuredly as the ordination & institution of a Courtier's life is most ancient, so is flattery an inveterate and venomous evil, both to the Court and Commonwealth, yea, this evil (if we will believe Curtius) is perpetual, it doth oftener more private harm, to the welfare of a Prince, than a warlike open enemy can do. Truly 'tis a thing very much to be lamented, that so many worthy men, so honourably borne, so abundant in all wealth and prosperity that a Court or King can afford, should notwithstanding all this, utterly banish from them amiable Verity, and most freely give entertainment to falsehood and flattery. For, certainly to speak the truth with Aristotle 
Of flattery.  the chiefest and most sage of all the Philosophers, in his fourth Book of his Ethics, Nusquam plures qui familiari sermone, et convict u blando, gratiam Principum aucupantur; quam in aulis. Never were there more known, which with familiar speech, and smooth behaviour, did so hunt after the grace and favour of Princes, as in King's Courts. There, whosoever follows the Court, doth usually approve, and praise all things at their own pleasure, thinking, and judging that it is not fit they should trouble or molest those whom they always flock about, and are daily fed at their Trenchers. Hence I collect, and not without just cause conclude, that flatterers like impious impostures are most worthy of hatred, for whiles this most pestiferous kind of creatures do thus carry themselves, 
Flattery hinders the offices of sincere friendship.  all sincere offices of faithful friendship are utterly forsaken, whose special property amongst many others, is to admonish, and be admonished, to do the one freely without bitterness, and to endure the other patiently, without resistance, which friendly offices whiles they be thus entertained, they are sincerely and faithfully done, and friends hereby do not easily run headlong in sin and wickedness but are contrariwise sweetly and seasonably reduced and preserved from gross enormities. Examples I know more clearly, illustrate and confirm the truth; tell me therefore I pray thee (kind Courtier) What made Nero so cruel who was so graciously educated? Flattery; that is, that most filthy and slavish sin whereby for his bellies, palates and Lucre's sake he as it were sold himself to the perpetrating and committing of any, most atrocious, and inhuman impiety whatsoever▪ what made Caesar rebel, against his own native 
Other effects of flattery.  Country? Flattery: What made Rehoboam a Tyrant. Flattery; what needs many words: Is it not extant in histories that Dionysius his flatterers did call his cruelty, justice, and equity? did not the flatterers of Assuerus as is specified in the sacred Scriptures; cry out and say. justae est Regis indignatio, the wrath of the King is upright and just.  
But peradventure thou wilt object and say, a Courtier must have a cloak against every wind that bloweth: Indeed I hear it, and it grives me that I hear it, yet I can hardly, and in truth very hardly, deny and gainsay it. For Courtierrs had need to apply and confirm themselves, to all occasions, and to the conditions of them with whom they live; to be subtle and crafty both in their Genius and disposition, and more mutable and variable than Proteus himself. But here I must entreat the reader that he would not entertain such a thought of me, as that, what is now to this purpose said or written is out of any envy; peradventure I have writ somewhat too freely, (which if so) yet truly 'tis free from all malignant bitterness. And indeed if we will consider one thing with another, who is he that knows not that there be those in a Court, who at the first sight do seem to have in them much gravity, literature, and singular humanity, and yet for all this being deeply dived into, and narrowly observed are known under these beautiful, and spetious outsides and vales of virtue, to cover and keep secret the deadly poison of flattery? And with good reason, for the Court is the flatterer's stage or Theatre wherein he still doth practise, to adapt and fit himself to all assays excelling Polypus far, yea and the Chameleon in change of colours & mutability of conditions. Perennius endeavouring to enlarge and amplify his pomp and power, brought Commodus the Emperor to his utter overthrow, yea many other, have by this hellish enchanting poison, of flattery infatuated and finally ruinated many mighty monarchs, potent and powerful Conquerors of kingdoms and nations. But that I may briefly contract all in a word, that, of Gnatho, hath especial residence at 
The perfect picture of a flatterer.  Court: Quicquid dicunt laudo; id rursum si negant, laudo id quoque: Negat quis nego; ait, aio: Postremo ita comparavi egomet mihi, omnia assentari, is quaestus nunc est multò uberrimus. that is, Whatsoever they say I praise it, if again they deny it, I praise that also; does any one deny a thing, so do I; does he affirm a thing, I do the like, to be brief, I can so carry myself as to flatter all, and why? O this is now a days the most thrifty kind of life.  
This is assuredly the true picture of a Courtly life and Condition, this is the most beautiful behaviour of many, if not most Courtiers, whereby without all controversy or Contradiction we may take up that of ovid.  Agmen adulantum media procedit ab Aula. 

The Truthless Troops of flatterers proceed,  
From Courts of Kings, and there they breed and feed.   
All this not withstanding, be thou (kind Courtier) which intendest to lead this life, a lover of honesty, justice, & integrity. we deny not, but that flattery may have his harvest (& for a time) may reap his commodities in the Court. But this again I say with a most constant & immovable persuasion and assurance, that the commodities, acquired and obtained by flattery, are always, for the present, most odious and opposite, to true credit and reputation, and will undoubtedly in process of time, bring deserved discredit and defamation. Let all Courtiers therefore eschew this Scylla, and Charybdis; which surely all that are wise and intelligent will do, considering that; Nihill simulatum Diuturnum, No counterfeit thing can long continue.  
Let that Courtier take great heed to himself, who presently 
Insolence and Arrogance.  hopes to have honours heaped upon him, for his arrogant and vain glorious pride and presumptuous insolence, yea rather let him carry & behave himself more submiss more lowly, for hence shall accrue and arise unto him a twofould benefit and Commodity, first he shall be sure thereby to continue the respect and favour of him from whom his hope of preferment is derived; secondly he shall by this means be free, from that common pestilence (I mean Envy) wherewith the Court of Kings are ever infected.  
Moreover, let the Courtier be mindful hereof that all worldly dignity and honour is most frail and transitory, especially in courts. Let that also be had in frequent and serious consideration, which Cicero left not only to Courtiers, but to us all, Quantò sumus superiores, tantò submissius nos geramus; by how much the more eminent we are, so much the more lowly and courteously we should carry ourselves. Let therefore I say, proud ostentation and insolent arrogancy, be far and finally expelled and banished from every Courtier. And let him not, attributing and ascribing too much to himself, overconfidently, but rather anxiously and doubtfully, attempt the highest things.  
And when the Courtier hath by his Prince's bounty 
Gratitude or thankfulness.  and liberality, obtained any benefit or commodity, let him (setting apart all proud ostentation, and vain glorious selfeflation) make known, and tell abroad by whose bounty and benignity he received the same, and he must by all means endeavour to retribute all condign thankfulness to him alone for the same. For it were very unjust & unindifferent for any man to seem to have achieved, and derived that, though near so little, from another, which hath only flowed from the fountain of his Prince's favour.  
Now furthermore, as touching money, he that knows 
Of money & covetousness thereof.  not how to use a measure in the having & craving thereof, let such a Courtier be expelled the Court, as having unclean hands, and a corrupted heart. For, can there be any present good hap, or future good hope in a greedy covetous man? He as Sallust saith, never endeavours to tread the paths of truth and equity, because as he is altogether unfurnished of all good Sciences, and honesty: so is he totally filled and fraught with craft and mere knavery. Avarice is expert in the trade and study of fingering money, which no wise man will immodestly desire or seek after, and with great reason, for, this, as being imbrued and wholly infected with deadly poisons, doth make both the soul and body of man most degenerous, foul, and effeminate, 'tis always infinite and insatiable, 'tis never abated by plenty, or poverty. Worthy Sallust, thou sayest most truly and wisely indeed. For, doubtless as gold is tried by the Touch stone, so is man tried by gold. What then, canst thou expect from a Courtier dedicated and utterly addicted to an insatiable and greedy gaping after gold, and filthy gain? In whomsoever this is found be sure to find these also, to wit, hard-heartedness, a troubled mind, violence, craft, and knavery, treachery, deceit, rapine, disloyalty; And what if we hereunto add, with that excellent Orator. Tam sanctum esse nihil vel solemn, quod non avaritia violare solet et comminuere. That there is nothing so sacred, sovereign, or solemn, which avarice doth not violate and extenuate. I deny not, but that it is honesty and discreet providence, for any man to provide, and furnish himself with all useful necessaries for him and his; but have we not seen and known, that these have been by many Courtiers got and gained with a foul, spotted, and stained conscience: by such I say, who never had learned wisely to limit the unlimmitted bounds of insatiable covetise. Wherefore be most assuredly persuaded hereof (kind Courtier) that if thou multiply thy Riches, and amplify thy Fortunes by the ruins and wrongs of other men, thou wilt not spare nor fear to be injurious to thy Country, Prince, and nearest or dearest friends.  
And though Kings and Princes (the estate and condition of things so requiring) are most liberal and bountiful to this or that man, paying unto them, and conferring upon them most large stipends, and rich revenues; yet be not thou (good Courtier) so avaritiously minded as to desire and endeavour to wrest, and violently (as it were) to extort from thy Prince his wealth and treasure, whither he give or deny what thou desirest: hear and make use of this counsel and wholesome admonition, which that I may more perspicuously and evidently illustrate, take by the way this short example: I suppose that no man is ignorant, that even at Feasts, and most sumptuous Banquets, there is always some one or other which is not so respectively entertained as the rest: so is it in Courts, wherein some have what they hope for; othersome leap short of that they long and look for. Let Courtiers consider this, not the new upstarts, or those which were lately initiated into the Court, but which have spent and bestowed the greatest part of their Age in this kind of life, and then I doubt not but they will ingenuously and freely confess, that what we have herein said, is most infallibly faithful and true.  
Let the Courtier also indefatigably strive and endeavour, 
To be industrious and diligent.  that he may not seem to his Prince idle, lazy, or too remiss and negligent in the speedy dispatch of businesses and employments: for such a servant certainly will he not vouchsafe (and that deservedly) so much as to look upon, holding him no better than a troublesome burden, or an unprofitable drone, and as not worthy to live amongst industrious, laborious Bees, wherefore let the Courtier be careful to express himself profitable, diligeent, and ever ready priest to perform what he is commanded, let him I say show himself a laborious Bee, not an idle drone, sleepy dormouse, or pernicious wasp, in his Prince's Palace.  
Now I make no question, but that Courtiers are (and indeed with special good reason, as chief appertaining 
How Courtiers may become wise & politic.  to them) very inquisitive, and desirous to know by what means they may best acquire and attain unto Courtly wisdom and policy; I therefore thus answer both the Courtier and Politician, namely, that the knowledge of them both, is thus especially obtained, by much reading, frequent employments, long experience, process of time travail into foreign Countries wisely disposed, diligent observation of the lives and conditions of men; and finally, by wise contemplation of Kingdoms, Courts, and Commonwealths. Now whosoever is graciously and egregiously furnished with these; shall not only, in hope, be profitable to himself; but also in deed most acceptable to his Prince: And whatsoever Courtier shall have purchased this prudence to himself, shall assuredly find himself intentively and readily prepared for all occasions offered. And indeed, to say the truth, without fit opportunity, even virtue, or whatsoever excellency may consist in any Courtier, yea, in any man what ere he be, doth pine, lanquish, and lie dead in him.  
Moreover, let the Courtier endeavour by all possible means, that by some honest office or other, he show himself, lovingly respective of all Princes, so that they be not his enemies, whom he is most nearly and necessarily obliged unto, otherwise he will be contemptible and hateful unto them. And if he cannot perform offices of observance to all, yet at the least let him not contemn or disdain them, and let him wisely avoid, and free himself from the suspicion thereof, for in such and so manifold changes and chances of humane affairs, he which to day was great and mighty, may suddenly sink down, and a mere stranger succeed him. Let Courtiers therefore weigh and well consider in mind, that even the shortest hour of man's life, can alternate, change, and overturn the lowest and highest things topsie turney.  
Truly I cannot sufficiently incite and stimulate Courtiers, 
Obsequious pliantness.  to the exquisite and ready performance of due and true pliantness, and humble service; for this is, as I may so call it, the bait and bird-lime, whereby he undoubtedly purchaseth and procureth to himself, the favour and affection of all men, and once gained firmly, keeps and conserves the same. To this purpose, that noble Historian Tacitus saith truly, Quanto quisque promptior obsequio, tanto citius honoribus & opibus extolletur. By how much the more ready a man is in obsequiousness, by so much the sooner shall he be raised to Dignity and Nobleness. Excellently also saith Austin, Quid iniquius, quam velle sibi obtemperari à minoribus, & nolle obtemper are maioribus? What can be more unreasonable, than for a man to desire to be reverenced and obeyed of his inferiors, and yet himself to neglect and disobey his superiors? Therefore let the Courtier, like a Soldier, ready at an instant, to give the onset to Battle, be most prompt and readily prepared to put in speedy execution whatsoever things are given him in charge, but ever with this law condition and consideration, that what he is commanded, be not dishonest, or illegitimate, for such undiscreet facility is unsufferable, and most culpable, both in Courtiers, and all other men whatsoever.  
Furthermore the Courtly Politician must prefer the 
A public good to be preferred before a private.  Public prosperity of the common wealth, before all his own private commodities, affections or injuries whate'er they be, yea and must in this respect no other wise estimate his private affairs, than he would a nut shell or asmall lock of will. And to this purpose let him here take (by the way) that verse most ancient and true.  Publica private is anteferenda bonis. 

A Public good, must evermore take place,  
Before a private or Peculiar case.   
Now he which is possessed with so honest an inclination, may hence learn to brook and bear with many molestations and griping grievances, until he happily arrive at the haven of his hope, and have hit the mark he aimed at, namely, until he patiently and peaceably, ascend the right and direct steps, unto honour and desired dignities.  
But let him especially, in all his actions and attempts, check and correct the fire of fury and heat of his hot affections, 
Not to be furious and Choleric.  for it is far more fit and convenient, to do what we intent, when the choleric heat of the mind is cold or quenched, then in the hot spurred heat thereof. Wherefore let the Courtier very courteously take heed lest his unbridled fury, force him violently from temperate reason and constant moderation, either in right governance or due observance in his accounts and employments; the end and reward of which, eronious temerity or rashness is, shame and late repentance.  
Moreover let the Courtier heedfully endeavoure to follow the ensample of an ingenuous generous soldier, 
To propound unto himself a pattern for imitation.  who intending to imitate some noble and victorious Captain in the wars, frames and confirms, his qualities, and practices, his fortitude and magnanimity, as much as in him consisteth, to the similitude and equiparation of his Leader or Commander: Even so, what Courtier soever desires to excel, or to be excellent in any thing, let him wisely make some worthy, eminent and excellent Courtier his pattern for imitation, and study and strive, to follow even to a hair (as the proverb is) his honest and laudable Arts and exercises, this course shall the Courtier see and observe to be most succinct & compendious, whereby he may exceeding much, and in a short space, promote and propagate his fame and fortunate affairs.  
Now as touching taking of revenge, although the 
Of taking revenge.  Court especially, doth oft times minister fit occasion thereunto, when the state and affairs of thy foes may be for diverse reasons, in anxious and sinister case and condition: Yet not withstanding, an honest and truly generous gentleman, should then especially curb and correct himself. For it were a foul shame and gross absurdity, in any man that is honestly, and honourably bread and brought up, by wrathful revenge to perpetrate any heinous and unhonest action, most unbeseeming his birth and breeding. Let all Courtiers therefore know, and know for certainty, that such is the vicissitude, alteration and mutability of man's mind, that although fortune smiling upon a man, his goods like floods flow into his lap, yet let not his wrath and rage, seem as it were now presently to break prison and to range a broad, but let him wisely tame, and temper the same with the bounds of moderation, and with the bridle of wit and discretion, let him curb and keep in the same; for, to pardon and forgive, is to a wise and worthy man the best revenge; and 'tis enough for a man of a true and noble spirit, not that he takes revenge, but that he can revenge. ovid. in his 4. de Trist. Elegy. 5. confirms the truth hereof.  

Quo quisque est maior, magis est placabilis irae,  
Et faciles motus mens generosa capit.  
Corpora magnanimo satis est prostrasse Leoni,  
Pugna suum finem cum jacet host is habet.  
At lupus & turpes instant morientibus ursi,  
Et quaecunque minor nobilitate fera est.   

Great spirits though provoked are soon appea'sd  
Their noble hearts, soon moved, are soon pleased  
The Lion leaves the corpse that lies prostrate,  
And when foes yield the fight doth terminate;  
But Wolves and Bears and other beasts most base,  
Spare not to spoil the corpse in dying case.   
Therefore I wish that every Courtier or who soever else, that hath a vindicative or revengeful mind would call to mind and consider these things, for many times (as is manifest) it hath fallen out to great and very famous Kings, that either they have stood in need, of the favour and friendship, or else have been forced to fear the fury of even the meanest and most base Peasants.  
Wherefore it is not good, no truly not for those that 
Not to provoke to anger.  are more mighty and powerful, to give occasion of discontent, or displeasure to any in Courts. But now adays this is the common practice amongst men, that as the Proverb is, The thread is ever broken on the weaker fide, that is, where the hedge is low (as our English Proverb is) the cattle quickly tread over it, neither is it, was it, or ere will be any new thing, but still falls out most true, that Might overcomes Right; and the weakest go to the Wall. And this is also as true as Gospel, that he which lives with one more mighty than himself, had need many times out of mere necessity, to yield up unto him that which indeed is his own right; Yea, though he never had committed against him the least discourtesy, or injury that might be. Let the Courtier therefore take heed, that he displease not, nor provoke to anger, one more potent, and powerful than himself.  
Again, those malignant and malevolent Courtiers, are 
False and slanderous accusations.  to be detested, abhominated, and out of the Court to be utterly extirpated, which study and endeavour, by false, feigned, and impious accusations, of mischievous deeds, or treachery, to hurt, excruciate, and incarcerate, an honest, honourable and harmless man, a man that is a true lover of learning, virtue, and piety: such nefarious, factious fellows, which struggle and strive to trouble a Common Wealth, to supplant the good, and to hold the Sceptre of all sovereignty, in their unworthy fists, do most commonly link & knit unto them, a knot of such desperate Knaves, as formerly having thirsted after glory, and dignity, yet could not by virtue, and the King's high way, that is, by discreet or honest courses, acquire the same, or grow great in the common weal. Let every Courtier that will be wise, flee the company of such Catelines, and that speedily; For, experience itself doth truly tell us, that such seditious swashbucklers, do very often, yea, most customarily, receive the wages and reward due to such deeds of impiety: And what's that? marry a miserable, lamentable, & tragical Catastrophe, or conclusion.  
Let the wise Courtier also be slow to believe, and not 
Not to rely too much upon, nor hope after Courtiers promises.  overhasty to hope; neither let him take, and interpret all things, in the best or in the worst sense. Yet seldom shall he be deceived, if he believe but the least part of those things which are promised: For, let him ever think this to be true, that in every kind and condition of life, it usually comes to pass, and most commonly in the court▪ that;  Pollicitis Dives quilibet esse potest. 

Each man's a Craessus, promises hath store,  
But in performance, who's not Irus poor.   
Let not such a Court too much content and please the 
To beware of too much licentiousness, or liberty.  Courtier, where without controlment, men may too licentiously & contemptuously upbraid one another with dishonest defamations, wrong one another, with contumelious detractions, gnaw in pieces (if it were possible) the fame and reputation of Magistrates deceased, and taunt and tore in pieces the credit of their fellow officers, yet living. He whose hap it is to live in such a Court, and will not as much as he is able honestly and speedily relinquish and abandon the same, such a man I judge not worthy to be hated, but much to be pitied, and commiserated.  
In the expedition of his Prince's affairs, let the Courtier 
Perseverance in diligence.  with all constancy, and courage press forward the perfecting, and final performance of those businesses which are committed to his charge; for, it is a matter of nothing, to begin a work fortunately, unless we with industrious perseverance, prosecute the same to absolute perfection: most agreeable therefore to this purpose, is that which is excellently mentioned in the Gospel. Non satis esse manum admovere aratro, si respiciamus atque opus inchoatum deseramus. It is not enough to put our hands to the plough, if then we look back, and leave the work unperfected. Wherefore let not the wise and discreet Courtier too suddenly set upon a work, nor too soon set it away. For, many things (as the Historian can tell us) as they are not to be enterprised, so neither (being once attempted) are they by their Agent to be easily refused, because indeed the shortest space of remiss and unsettled inconstancy, is able oftentimes to mar, and utterly to deface the grace, credit, and reputation of a man's whole life. Hence then mayst thou see, that industry and constancy 
Constancy.  are marvelous useful, yea, that constancy and perseverance is a most noble virtue. This teacheth us, that things necessarily undertaken, are with invincible courage and a safe conscience to be finished and effected. This is that virtue which arms and prepares us to bear, and bear to the end, crosses, losses, and misfortunes, least fearfully fainting, and yielding to dangers, and distress, we offend against the upright rules of reason. Finally, this virtue tells and teacheth us, that he is not a man whose heart is highly mounted, and puffed up with pride, and selfeflation in prosperity, or, is stricken dead, and lowly dejected 
To suffer for well-doing.  with adversity. But that Courtier is in a most happy case, if he suffer either for the exact observation of the constitutions, and injunctions of his Prince formerly deceased, or for the constant confession or profession of his faith and religion, this Courtier may with joseph, David, and Daniel, rejoice, and be hearty glad in his own behalf, that he doth patiently endure violence and offence, for the defence of his inviolate and immaculate faith, that for his pious opinions he suffers punishment, and despiteful 
Not to be ashamed to suffer for well doing.  dealings. Such a Courtier I dare boldly say, may arrogate and assume unto himself that of Cicero; Nihil esse laudabilius, quam memoria recte factorum & libertate contentum negligere humana: Si secuta fuerit, quae debet fortuna, gaudebimus, sin minus, ego tamen gaudebo, quamuis qui fuerim, & qui esse potuerim, esse non possim. That there is nothing more commendable, than for a man to be truly content with the memory of his good deeds, and perfect liberty, and to contemn and set at nought the things of this life; if that good fortune which was expected have fallen out, we shall be glad; but if otherwise, yet I rejoice, although what I have been, and what I might have been, I cannot be. If thou therefore show thyself such a man, and be for the same despised and hated, yet notwithstanding kick at and contemn even this contempt; if so be that thou have set down this certain resolution, to persist and persever in doing those things which are honest, just, and true.  
Moreover, let the Courtier be careful, lest whiles he endeavoureth to over come by pliantness and observance, he slip into Adulation and flattery, whose picture already we have indifferently painted forth. If a Courtier being degraded, and displaced from his height of honour and dignity, doth for all this live more contentedly, so that his wealth will bear it, in enjoying a peaceable & private state & condition, let him rather so continued; then either afterward to accept of preferments inferior to the former, or to adhere to the court of a more mean & less potent Prince, than the first, unless by his wisdom, authority, judgement, equity, & such like virtues, he be able to win unto him the love & affection of one more mighty.  
Let every wise Courtier endeavour to be the feedesman of amity and unity between a Prince, his Brethren, Sisters, 
Unanimity.  and such like; not the bellows to blow the fire of brawlings, and dissensions, let him consider, that Peace is most precious, let him I say again and again recogitate, that they which are lovers of discord and disquiet, have seldom or never any good and expected issue, or event of such their impious and nefarious plots and purposes. He therefore whosoever which will sow the seed of Sedition, or Dissension, shall reap the crop of cares, and a vexed and perplexed mind.  
Let not the wise and intelligent Courtier affect or effect 
Sincerity.  any enormous or dishonest thing, though with near so fair a colourable pretext or intention, whereby he may steal into the favour and affection of his Prince, lest hereby he blemish, yea, utterly blot out the noble fame and glory of his progenitors, with the black coal of ignominy, and with the maculation of most infamous aspersions: for, they err, and err most grossly, which for hope of gain, greedy desire of revenge of their honour, by sly tricks and treacherous deceit, have a desire to exalt and advance their fortunes. But alas, what's the issue of these in the end? assuredly this, that their treachery and villainy once finished and effected, they receive the due and just reward of their treason and disloyalty, which all ancient and modern Histories can easily confirm and ratify. But it is undoubtedly to be suspected, that no strongest fortifications, precepts, or exhortations are with wicked and ungodly Courtiers of any such force, as to force them from, or to fortify them against this impious act or artificial impiety. For, wicked and ungodly Courtiers, by pretending and counterfeiting the contrary of what they intent, do many times purchase to themselves great power and authority and by this means very much increase and augment their own means, yea and by bribes all and such like courses, do warily make or the greatest part of the principal noble men, & magistrates, their great friends patrons and protectors, and do creep or steal into places separated, only for princesses and great Ladies, there to pry into the secrets of Princes wherein as in many other such like matters most fit to be wrapped up in silence, they use Sejanus as their best tutor and Schoolmaster, whose horse they seem to have in keeping; a very proper praise I warrant you! If thou devise or invent any craft or cozenage against an other, ò I wish it may light reside and abide, upon thine own pate.  
Cornelius Tacitus paints out in their proper colours, and delineates to the life these goodly fellows, Corpus aulico sit laborum tolerans animus audax; sui obtegens, in alios criminator iuxtà adulatio & superbia palam compositus pudor, intus summa adipiscendi libido, einsque causae modo largitio & luxus, saepius industria ac vigilantia, haud nimis noxiae quoties parando regno finguntur.  
A Courtier saith he, must have a body strongly enabled to under go labours and pains taking; a stout heart, he must be a concealer of his own matters, and a censorious and critic carper at others; of a condition partaking both of pride and flattery; in outward show formed and adorned with modest bashfulness, but inwardly most libidinous covetous and greedy to have more, & to this purpose, to counterfeit sometimes liberality yea to be prodigal or profuse in his expenses, and oftentimes to be industrious and vigilant, which things are not hurtful but very helpful, to the sly and ambitious obtaining of a kingdom. But they which are instructed in these kind of Arts, being once observed of their Prince, let them in due time be removed for they are indeed no better than the plague and pestilence of men, infectious and pernicious to themselves and all others with whom they have commerce and dealing.  
Whensoever the honest Courtier shall hear (as oftentimes he may) any thing uttered against his Prince, there being no certain author or ground thereof, let him by all means endeavour to confute and repress such evil and calumnious reports.  
For, many unhonest vain and profane fellows will 
Not to permit his Prince to be ill spoken of.  scatter abroad false rumours & reports of excellent Princes, that at one time or other the Courtier may not want occasion, to justify and maintain the estimation and reputation of his Prince, that (by this means) he may purchase and procure to himself his Prince's favour and affection.  
Furthermore let the Courtier very carefully cover and 
To keep his own secrets.  conceal from knowledge, the exordium, beginning and increasing hopes of his Prince's grace & favour towards him, otherwise, that, which was likely to have been peculiarly appropriated and appointed to himself alone, will be converted or communicated to his emulators or corrivals; which were neither wisely nor warily done: wherefore Taciturnity is me thinks in this case very behoveful 
Taceturnitie.  profitable and necessary, as being indeed the best, safest and surest uniting chord of the well managing of all our affairs. And to this purpose let him remember that of the witty Poet.  

Sed tacitus pasci si possit coriws haberet,  
Plus dapis et rixamulto minus invidiaeque.   

If Aesaps Crow had fed in private place,  
He well bade fared, not shared of hate's disgrace.   
Let all, both inveterate and lately conceived rancour & 
To avoid all rancour and heart grudging.  hatred, be far remote and removed from the Courtier, for it cannot otherwise be, but that he which retains and maintains them within his bosom, should in the end be the special cause and procurer of his own ruin, downfall, and destruction. And as it is not fit he should nurse up any intestine or secret malice in his heart, so must he be most vigilant and circumspect, that he quench and utterly extinguish it so soon as ere 'tis forged and suborned within him.  
Assuredly, I easily see and foresee, that that will come to pass, if a man know and do not hate the manners and conditions of Courtiers; Let him then which will eschew and avoid the malice of other men, a little decline & give back in himself.  
Let the Courtier also very carefully observe this, that when as he hath happily and fortunately, according to his hearts desire, obtained the grace and favour of his 
To observe his Prince's inclination.  Prince, he do not regardlessly neglect or abuse it; in which respect it is most fit he should most curiously & thoroughly learn to know the nature, condition, and inclination of his Prince, so that as much as in him lies, he may wholly accommodate, and apply himself to his customs, and conditions: for, as equality and parity of inclination doth nourish and cherish amity and friendship: so contrariwise, disparity and unequality therein doth dimolish friendship, and in place thereof builds up hatred and contempt.  
Let the Courtier have an especial care, and make principal observation of the laws, customs, offices, conditions 
To frame himself to the condition of the Court he lives in.  and dispositions of that Court wherein he lives; and undoubtedly it shall free and secure him, if not from the malice of all, yet at least from the most. Let him also consider and call to mind, that if (as now and than by the malice of time, it is like enough to fall out) he be constrained to put up, to digest and bear patiently any grievous and troublesome matters, yet let him ever attribute and ascribe more to the love of justice, than to the fear of malice and mischief, for whosoever out of a fear of hatred flies justice, shall be sure to be sensible of the punishment of injustice, but seldom or never shall he taste the sweet fruits of equity in himself. Wherefore kind Courtier let me advise thee, that in a good and just cause thou be patiented, and harden thyself against adverse accidents, so shalt thou be a victorious conquer and overcome; for, this is most certainly true, that he which can wear out the time of adversity, and according to the mutability of various occurrents, can as occasion serves, contract, abbreviate, & prorogue or procrastinate delays in himself, may undoubtedly reserve and fit himself for the expectation of a better time.  
Now since the vulgar sort of common people is ever 
Not to rely on or trust unto the love of the common people.  variable, unconstant, and murable, let the wise Courtier never put any trust or confidence in them. For, assuredly the common people is a Hydra with many heads, or rather a strange creature without either head or sound understanding, this is apparently known, and Antiquities of all Pristine times, do testify the same, that many men have perished, and made a tragical end, who have joined themselves unto, and taken part with the common people. Therefore he whosoever he was, said most truly and wisely;  

Qui pendet ab errore & opinion vulgi  
Pendet magis, atque arbore qui pendet ab alta,  
Nam quod semel evenit & abijt, id nocet nil,  
At quod dubijs articulis stat, instat, urget,  
Vanescit, adest: esse malum id putabo solum.   

He which on common People's voice depends,  
Hangs worse than he, that's hanged upon a Tree,  
For, that which quickly comen and gone, we see;  
No dire effects, or lingering harm extends:  
But that which doth of doubtful parts consist,  
Which moves, removes; which strains, constrains, perplexeth  
Which comes and goes; which vanisheth and vexeth;  
That, that's an Ill, or I the mark have missed.   
Phocylides also hath very exoellently painted out this Beast, with many heads.  

Populo ne fidas, vulgus enim est varium & mutabile,  
Populus certe, aqua, & ignis nequeunt plane contineri.   

Ith' common People put no confidence,  
For, they are vain, profane, and variable,  
To curb or keep them in, thou art not able;  
No more, than fires or waters violence.   
Let every not only Courtier, but judicious understanding man whatsoever, think, & assuredly persuade himself, that this is a most slavish condition of life, that a man should seem to devise unto himself any proper or peculiar estate and fortune, out of the disposition and behaviour of him, to whom he is in bondage and thraldom; and he which observes and obeys the covetous envious, and ignorant common people, who are altogether prone to mutability, and inconstancy, yea, and which is the head and worst of all, to those which are most ingrateful; let him I say consider with himself, whither 'tis likely, that he can ever be happy or fortunate with such men? Or shall he not rather, as often as he remembers and calls to mind, his own estate and condition by Nature, so often lament and complain of his slippery Fortune and calamity?  
Finally, let him know this also, that he whom he commonly serves, is himself most miserable, and in that respect let him have a great care, that in the whole course of his Courtly life, be clear and free himself from his Prince's jealousy, and sinister suspicion of him herein, especially from the rumours and reports of the vulgar sort, and from that infectious pestilence of a Court, I mean Enuy. wouldst thou enlarge the limits of thine honour and authority, than hate and contemn the common people's affection, who value nothing almost according to verity, but many things according to their own opinions unindifferencie.  
Mark this (kind Courtier I desire thee) that thou mayst approve these things, whereof there are extant few or no documents in the memory of any Annals, Chronicles, sayings, or ancient writings of the wisest authors.  
By this means I say, thou shalt easily gain credit and authority, and maintain and keep it being once gotten.  
Moreover, let Courtiers take heed, that they lose not the beginning or first entrance into favour and affection; by being with their Prince at unseasonable hours, that is, if they let slip, and do not always watch most carefully, a mature, most fit, and convenient time, but this we have already at large discussed.  
But this one thing, which we have not hitherto admonished, 
To be advised what employments he undertakes.  may not by any means be here pretermitted, namely, that the Courtier not being heedful, but very heedless, is oftentimes the cause of his own downfall and subversion, to wit, when he affects and makes choice of such a kind of service and employment, as is hateful and distasteful to his Prince.  
Again, let the Courtier as far as he is able, most accurately tread in the direct footsteps of his Prince, and 
To observe his Prince in all things is very great wisdom.  observe most diligently, what he allows, what he disallows. If the Courtier expect any benefit or commodity as the fruit of his labour, let him be assured, that not the least part thereof is to be expected and sought for out of this foresaid treasury or storehouse, as I may so term it.  
Let him also be hereof assured, that there is no better 
By his actions to express his love to his Prince.  means to purchase his Prince's grace and affection, than that he by due actions express unto his Prince, that he is more near and dear unto him, than his own life, and that he would be content to suffer death itself, for his Prince's life and safety. Whatsoever Courtier is of this mind, though peradventure he may have a just occasion, for some private respects, to complain of his Prince, yet shall (he by this means) easily avoid and put away froward and perverse speeches, which otherwise he may 
To cover and conceal discontent.  break forth into, and shall duly consider, that his superiors are of him always reverently to be regarded. Truly he spits against himself, which spits against heaven, he is scarcely wise who notwithstanding that the power and authority of his King or Prince is extended over him, yet will not obey him; But the greatest power of a Prince is apparent in this, that with his word only he can take punishment, as well on him that is absent as present, as well of a fugitive Traitor, as of any other malefector, according to that;  An nescis long as Regibus esse manus. 

Each Subject understands,  
That Kings have longest hands.   
He therefore shall enjoy much peace and tranquillity, which is submissively obedient to his King or Prince, who thus as we have heard, is able even by his word only, to manifest his majesty, power, and authority, when as on the other side, wicked malefactors, and ungodly transgressors, do not a little provoke and procure to themselves the sharpness of his majestical edict or commandment.  
Let the Courtier therefore study with all diligence and 
To get acquaintance with the best in the Court.  care, to know the inclination & disposition of his Prince, and to be well known himself of those which customarily are nearest about him, and so shall he undoubtedly acquire the end of his honest and just desires. He than which is thus resolved, must especially depend upon himself, and his virtue, and as formerly was said, must reverently respect his Princes special favourites and attendants, but must not (by any means undiscreetly) discover or impart his actions and intentions to any. Let the Courtier therefore shun and avoid undiscreet futillitie, and blabing loquacity, nor must he unlock the closet of his heart and so discover his secrets no not unto those whom he esteems his most intimate friends and familiars, unless in cases of necessity, for let him be assured that the reward of secrecy is safety, which also we have already largely dilated.  
Now therefore as the Courtier must keep to himself 
To be secret both to himself & others.  his own secrets; so also must he not like a barrel full of refts and clefts leak out on every side, or like a prattling jay, tell abroad the secrets of other men committed to his fidelity: for, such as these are deservedly termed curious and audacious babblers; And if we believe Plutarch, this Idle spawn and brood of Sycophants, is bred from the family and tribe of idle and curious Questionists. men for the most part of ignoble and degenerous condition and such as love to broach abroad into open view, the misery and misfortunes of other men. But do thou (kind Courtier) refrain and abstain from this so perverse a molestation and merely pedantical a vice, and be never unmindful of that notable Distich, touching that once great Courtier, Te cura, et tua, Look to thyself, and thine own office.  

Disce meo exemplo mandato munere fungi,  
Et fuge seu pestem 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉   

Thine own charge to discharge, learn by my fall,  
Hate like a plague to be Pragmatical.   
If at any time we fee a man exalted and erected by his 
Not to hate him whom the King will honour.  Prince, to great possessions and honourable revenues, let us also attribute unto him due honour reverence and respect, and let us not set him at nought as an upstart & unworthy man, or as if he were neither renowned or noble by birth, nor adorned with learning or any excellent parts; if thou hate and dishonour such a man whom thy King will honour and dignify, beware that thereby thou incur not the hatred of thy Prince himself. But peradventure thou wilt tell me, he is a man much unworthy the same, and his end will prove it true: put case he be so, And I deny not but sometimes it may be so; yet, all this not withstanding, I wish thee, with that Author of most exquisite and profound judgement I mean Tacitus, to use these and suchlike speeches; Great Prince, although thou hast elected & chosen, before other men much more worthy than he, a man scarce known unto us & unworthy thy Princely grace and bounty; yet I envy not his felicity, nor hate him for his dignity, but as a fellow counsellor &, as executing thy great affairs in the Common wealth I honour and reverence him. Hereby (good Courtier who are thou art) thou mayst consider that it is not fit thou shouldest exasperate the indignation of thy Prince against thee, though he be pleased to magnify or extol this or that man, though unworthy or unlearned, and respectlesly neglect and pass by thee, peradventure a more worthy person; think with thyself that this is a rule observed even by Heathen, yea practised 
'tis lawful for ever man to do what he will with his own  amongst private and mean men. Qui iure suo utitur nemini iniuriam facit. That he which useth his own prerogative, power and authority does injury to no man.  
Now if in this regard it be permitted to any private man to enjoy his own liberty: how much more ought it to be yielded unto, that a Prince may confer his favours upon this or that man in such or such amans opinion and judgement unworthy the same, and to pass over (if he please) other noble men esteemed and reputed more worthy than the other. Yet not withstanding I am of opinion that the excellent or grave counsellor is not to be blamed, but doth very wisely & advisedly which solicits & incites his, Prince to promote & prefer good and honest men, men that are lovers of learning and virtue, and profitably exercised about the benefit and good of their country and common wealth. undoubtedly a good and Godly Prince, cannot but highly approve and allow of without suspect of error or impudence, the honest exhortations of so wise a Councillor.  
A Prince may do well to think upon that of Antiochus, 
A good observation to Princes.  who twice was the Leader and commander, of an Army against the Persians; who as in a hunt he was chase a dear and happening into a homely cottage of a poor countryman, did there learn; Reg●s & Principes rare veru●● áudire, That Kings and Princes do seldom hear the truth. Therefore a wise King should not less estimate and value his Courtiers, which are prudent pious and lovers of truth, than those which only practise and accustom themselves to tickle his ears, with smoothing and soothing speeches, not withstanding we must know this for a truth, that although truly honest and religious men know not how to lie; yet living in the Court, they are forced sometimes against their will, even in the bosom 
Simulation & Dissimulation.  of the Court, to utter many evils yea false and feigned opinions and rules much savouring of Simulation: yea Princes themselves (witness Tiberius) do love and allow of dissimulation, which oftentimes for one cause or other cannot almost by any means be wanting in a Court. What say you to David, who being both a King and a Prophet, yet he also made use of dissimulation, neither is that of the Emperor Sigismond unknown, who was wont to say, Qui nescit dissimulare, nescit imperare. He that knows not how to dissemble, knows not how to rule and govern. All this notwithstanding (if thou be wise) take the counsel of the Philosopher, Nec dissimula, nec simula. Neither counterfeit or dissemble, nor simulate or speak untruly; Let not the ill custom of more evil men seduce or induce thee to be as evil or worse than themselves. And that thou mayst not be entangled in this snare, nor shackled 
To hate filthy Lucre.  in these gives, reject and despise foul, and filthy Lucre, and let not the accursed hunger of gold and gain at any time too much please thy palate, or delight thine appetite. For, he which is, and will be of this mind, shall never be able to keep his conscience unclogged, his tongue clean from untruths, his hands pure from bribes, or his heart undefiled with filthy and impious imaginations.  
Again, let the Courtier learn to be his money's master, and commander, not his moneys minister to be commanded by it. Yea let him learn of the Comical Poet, Pecuniam in loco negligere interdum lucrum esse maximum. That sometimes the forbearance of money is especial great gain. Let him also incessantly observe this rule and direction, so long as he resides and remains in the court, that as much as in him lies, and so far forth as he may with a safe conscience, keeping his honour and reputation unspotted, and untainted; that he I say so far forth as time serves, and occasion administers various and 
To observe the time and place.  divers conditions and alterations, do judiciously and circumspectly make use hereof; If his Prince and the affairs at Court be cheerful and merry, let him also be merry and joyful, but if they be sad and sorrowful, let him in like manner be the same, 'tis not almost to be expressed and uttered in words, what prosperous and fortunate success, many Courtiers have obtained by this one especial observation. But above all things let him be most mindful and careful herein, that whensoever he is to dispatch any weighty or important affairs, in foreign Nations, he accommodate himself to the customs and manners of the same places, so long as he there remains. I cannot compendiously comprise or epitomize the large discourse and dilatation, which this part of Prudence, this excellent Decorum, and most graceful behaviour might justly exact and require of me, excellently therefore said he;  

Si fueris Romae, Romano vivito more,  
Si fueris alibi, vivito sicut ibi.   

When thou'rt at Rome, put on a Romans face.  
Live as they live, wheresoe'er thou come in place.   
But here kind Courtier, thou must understand, that this admonion concerns especially the laws and institutions of those Kingdoms and Countries, wherein we most properly live; O how ingenuous is that man which understands this aright! o how prudent is he which is duly circumspect therein!  
Moreover, the free borne Courtier, that is, he which either by his own power and industry, or by some especial 
How to carry himself in his prosperity.  and singular grace & favour of his Prince hath floated aloft, & ascended unto some indifferent height of honour, let him not bear himself too hautily and lostily towards his superiors, too arrogantly with his inferiors, nor too malapert and uncourteously amongst his equals. I have already incited and invited thee to humility and modesty, therefore I omit to insist farther thereon, one only word by the way, let me add thereunto, namely, that if humility be linked and knit together with authority, it makes it exceeding acceptable, yea, and to be had in wonderful admiration; Melius est ut tibi dicatur, ascend huc, quàm ut humilier is coram Principe; It is far better, and much more credit (as that most prudent King Solamon admonisheth) that it be said to thee, come up hither, than to be dejected and set lower in the presence of thy Prince. Finally, take and make use of that of the wise Philosopher, whereof he very excellently adviseth thee. Insecundis nemo confidat, in adversis nemo deficiat, alternae sunt vices rerum. Let no man be presumptuous in prosperity, nor desperate in adversity, for various are the vicissitudes of all things.  
Let this than I say, make the Courtier circumspectly 
To provide for his own welfare in due time.  wise, that if at any time it so fall out, that he perceive his Prince's favours to be turned into frowns, and that the envy of his enemy gins to take growth against him, let him then with all convenient maturity desire an honest dismission, to departed from the Court, and of himself to lay aside his Courtly dignities, rather than to expect when he shall be by others enviously ejected. The rule is this. Praestat praevenire quam praeveniri. It is far better to prevent, than to be prevented. Which whensoever occasion is offered, to provide for thine honour and reputation, I wish thee to make good use of. But since there is nothing in the Court of Princes more perilous, or pernicious to Noble Peers, and great Statesmen, than are backbiters and slanderers. And the assistants and suggesters unto slander, are ignorance, jealousy, hatred, traps, and treachery. Therefore 'tis not amiss even for the Prince himself in this respect, to be very advisedly careful and circumspect, that such worthy men and wise counsellors; men I say of most worthy merit & desert, of their Prince and common Wealth, may not by such base and ignominious men, of whom we have formerly made mention, be so injuriously defamed, abvied, and even Butchered. A Prince therefore should by all means endeavour, lest by liftning to back biters, the person accused being utterly prohibited to make answer for himself, he be not inquisitive about the controversy, nor give sentence against him, until he have first judiciously and impartially heard the other party also speak for himself.  
Now an ambitious Courtier is he, who under pretence 
An ambitious Courtier.  of amplifying and enlarging the royalties and dignities of his Prince, in all his actions follows the line of his own lust, displaceth his ancient; honest, and approved Colligues, or fellow officers, substituting, and suborning other, whom he pleaseth in their places.  
If any thing be by the Prince mentioned, or proffered 
Of marriage.  to the Courtier, as touching Matrimony, he shall do very unwisely, if he refuse to be directed therein by him. But let him rather so far incline himself, that he make no contract or agreement, without the good liking, consent, and pleasure of his Prince; What good, and how great profit may hence arise unto him, no wise man but may well perceive, and understand.  
Let the Couriter also contemn and scorn those honours, 
Not to use indirect courses to rise to honour.  which he cannot attain unto, without the perpetrating of gross impiety; for, as Violentum nihil diuturnum, Nothing violent is permanent: So questionless, whatsoever is gotten by wiliness and wickedness, can never be fortunate or durable. Observe good Courtier, what is preposterously repugnant to reason, what is wicked, what unjust, and hate the same. And whither in time of Peace or War, thou enterprise any thing, accommodate thy wit, thy will, thy power, and policy to the full performance, and diligent dispatch thereof.  
And since the affairs of great men are very unstable, anxious, & variable, trust therefore rather to thine own power and virtue, than to any others. Let not that move or molest thee, which no wise man wonders at, that in the Court sometimes illiterate Idiots prove great men. Truly it oftentimes comes to pass, that such as these do for a season, enjoy the favour & friendship of their Prince, and do fond persuade themselves, that they may freely without controlment or correction say, or do any thing, what ere they please, but alas, they quickly come down, and so do all those that are not ruled by virtue and reason, but by their own vile and vicious affections, administering to themselves occasion of their own destruction, and running headlong into the pit they had prepared for others. Consider these things (kind Courtier) I advise thee, and when thou seest such a one placed and graced above thee, though thou do not approve it, yet do not resist, but bear it contentedly. And in the interim, be vigilant and provident, that base fellows make thee not as bad as themselves.  
Be always in all things very cautelous and circumspect 
A caution for rich Courtiers.  when thou art to deal with thy Prince, but especially if thou be wealthy and rich, lest afterward thou be forced to say, & to say too truly, my village goods & good fortune, wherein I once inebriated myself have now undone me. This assuredly happens to many men, especially to Courtiers covetous and desirous of domination over others, which makes them estimate and value honour, shame, truth, body, soul, and all, but base and beggarly to a kingdom. But these I say are most worthy to be detested and hated of Princes, and even to be thrust out by th'head and shoulders, and utterly banished the Court.  
Furthermore, let the Courtier so modestly, wisely, & advisedly, behave himself that as near as may be, he be able to approve and justify his actions and employments to his Prince; nor let him undertake any thing appertaining to the Court wherein he lives, his Prince not being acquainted there with; so shall he repel and beat back the deadly darts of envy, which otherwise upon light and slight occasions, may be either from his Prince or others leveled and shot at him.  
Let the Courtier also take heed, that he wrong not such 
To take heed whom we provoke to anger and indignation.  a man whose brethren or kindred, may justly be feared will be furious and fatal revengers thereof. He that is injured writes his wrong in marble not in dust. resist not therefore but bear with patience that which cannot by any means be altered, be persuaded that he which yields to time, serves and obeys honesty, and that they do excellently bear their misfortunes, which wisely cover and conceal them. Magnify not thyself, against those which can suppress and pull thee down, and strive not to stand upright, there where thou art constrained to fall down flat. This one thing remains, that thou hurt no man, but if thou thyself be hurt or molested with petty injuries, 'tis far better contentedly to endure them, than with any the least danger to indeavoure to repel them.  
Again, let the honest and religious Courtier who is of equality in power and authority, endeavour by all means to establish unity and concord, and let him utterly reject and cast a way all jars, grudges and seeds of dissension, which are indeed more pernicious than the tooth of a fierce dog, or the sting of a poisonous Serpent. Let him also which attempteth or enterpriseth any thing, discreetly and prudently, recogitate yea and premeditate the same, that so his employments (a mean being ever observed) may gain and obtain a happy and hoped issue or conclusion; for we shall seldom see a prosperous event of those thing, which are in considerately and precipitately attempted: wherefore let him again, and again, cast in mind with what council with what conclusion any thing is to be done, is to be left undone.  
Seeing that Courtiers set council at sail and sell their 
An admon●●to Princes.  Prince's secrets, it were very material that he would take aspeciall care that nothing at Court might be vendible, and that thereby he open not a gap to ambition and corruption.  
More over let the Courtier be very careful that he swell not in heart nor over highly lift up his head, because peradventure he hath abundantly received, much honour and dignity, from the hands of his benign and 
Note this  bountiful Prince, for it may so come to pass, that all those dignities and preferments, which through the whole course of thy life thou hast acquired, thou mayst in a moment of time, through thine ill usage and abuse soon lose them, and be utterly bereaved of them, and what then; thou shalt be thereby the only occasioner, of thine own unrecoverable detriment and damage, and give thine enemies if thou have any (as that's not to be doubted) a just cause to laugh thee to scorn. The controulers of a Court and Tutors of young Princes, must convive and wink at some matters, in that their minority & tender age, especially if no man be damnified or hurt thereby, that in matters of higher import and greater consequence, they may the better rule and rectify them.  
Furthermore because the necessity of a man's Country, 
To train up and bring up Horses.  the greatness of renown, and abundance of riches do all require that a courtier should be very forwardly inclined to bring up horses, and by how much the more nobly, and generously minded a man is: so much the more willingly doth he spare no cost, upon a beast of a stout stomach, tractable to be trained up to war, and fit for the defence of his person. Therefore I say the Courtier should not be pinching & sparing, but most forward & ready, in the buying & bringing up of such a Beast, especially if he perceive his Prince to be delighted with the view & exercise of the most generous stoutest and stateliest Horses. What needs many words? he must not only train up horses, but himself oftentimes back them & exercise his body to riding. For assuredly that of Crisaneas in Xenophons' fourth Pedia is very remarkable and worthy observation, who so highly commended the cunning and skilfullnesse of riding of horses, that he thought assuredly he could fly like a bird, had be been a 
of the excellency of riding Horses.  good horse man; and certainly this Horse-riding is a warlike exercise and most befiting a Prince or Noble Peer.  
To this purpose also we read in Plutarch, that julius Caesar was so exquisite and skilful a rider, even from his childhood, that turning both his hands behind him to his back, he would oftentimes use to put his Horse to the most furious & swiftest Careers that possibly might be.  
If again, thy Prince take especial delight in hunting, 
The praise of Hunting.  do thou also (kind Courtier) highly allow of the same, and let neither labour, cold, no nor the love of thy wife at home withhold thee from it. Hear what Cicero says to this purpose, Tusc. Quest. 2. Consuetudinis vis magna est, pernoctant venatores in nive, in Montibus se uri patiuntur. Great (saith he) is the power of Custom or exercise, it inureth Hunters to watch all night in the Snow, and to scorch and burn themselves by day in the Sun, on the high Mountains. And no marvel, for, Hunting is an exercise, as pleasant, as profitable, and commendable.  
The Spartans' in times past used to instruct their youth therein. And it was an ancient custom and practice amongst the Romans, to exercise their young men, not only to handle their weapons, to ride horses, and such like, but even to hunting and running of Races, to exercise the agility, and the nimbleness of their bodies: For this laborious kind of exercise, puts vigour into the tender minds of young men, it corroborates their strength, accustomes them to courage and fortitude, increaseth the powers and faculties both of the body and mind, yea, and it especially causeth nimbleness and patience to endure many brunts and difficult exigents.  
This is the exercise which very much preserves the health of the body, and amongst Noble and renowned Princes, begets much honour and reputation, & this doth that most acute and ingenuous Poet, in his Epistles plainly ratify.  Romans solemn viris opus, utile famae vitaque & Membris. 

Amongst the Romans Hunting was a game,  
For pleasure, health, and mirth of noble fame.   
Since therefore not only in ancient times, but even in these our days, most potent, and magnificent Kings and Princes have even from their childhood most desirously and with wonderful commendation used and delighted in this noble exercise; those Courtiers do not miss the mark, which endeavour to imitate their Prince in so famous and worthy a recreation, and with all diligence use it, and take especial delight in it. Neither may I wrong this so excellent an exercise, as with silence to pass over the notable effects thereof, namely, that the Prince, or any other honourable Courtier, having his mind and thoughts busied, nay, even overwhelmed with the various waves of cares, & distracting encumbrances, may even in the midst of these overflowing floods of trouble and molestation, relaxate and recreate himself with hunting. For, who is so Stoic or stone-like, as that in the very pursuit, and chase of the Deer, Yea, and in the striking and piercing thereof, may not with great boldness and alacrity, with the Liricke Poet say;  

Quis non malarum, qua● amor cur as habet,  
Hac inter obliviscitur?   

What's be whom loves or labours-cares so fright,  
As, once to mind them, in so much delight?   
Nay, to whom I pray you is it not a remedy against all his grinding and devouring troubles, if with Ascanius;  

—— Medijs nunc vallibus acri  
Gaudet equo, jamque hos cursu, iam praeterit illos,  
Spumantemque dari, pecora intermertia, votis  
Optat Aprun, aut fulvum descendere monte Leonem.   

Amidst the pleasant shadey Vales and Dales,  
He be well mounted on a stately Steed,  
Outruns the best which in the Race prevails,  
Or with his blade makes foaming Boars to bleed;  
Or from the Mountains meets a Lion strong,  
Whom with his Sword he vows to lay along.   
This then is the sum of all we have said hereof, namely, that the ancient Romans had hunting in especial use and exercise, as a certain 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Praeludium, or Introduction unto Martial Prowess. Touching which matter he that desires to know more, let him read Cicero. lib. 2. De natura Deorum, toward the latter end thereof. There shall the Courtier find such things as are not by any means to be condemned or contemned by any wise or discreet Courtier, especially when he shall perceive that his Prince is so highly delighted with so noble and majestical a pastime, which as was aforesaid, doth wonderfully augment and increase the strength, and manly vigour of the body and mind; Wherefore Sallust is not worth the listening unto in this regard, who though otherwise a most renowned, flourishing, and politic Author, and relator of the affairs of Rome, yet seems to liken Hunting, to Country husbandry, and other servile exercises.  
Concerning travail into other Kingdoms or Nations, 
Of traveling into fotraine Nations.  I say thus much, that it is very useful and necessary for a Courtier, for the time to come; the reason is both weighty and just: For, first by this means, he understanding the customs and conditions of other Nations, by experimental knowledge and much use, he grows more cautelous and circumspect over himself, he thereby also is instructed in the knowledge of tongues, and shall behold (as it were) the mirror or looking glass of all mortal men, and both discern and learn many most important and profitable matters, out of the strange variety of Nations, and their manners and conditions. I doubt not, but there are many of a clean contrary opinion, who certainly in mine opinion are not in this case to be credited, for if we do compare one thing with another, what excellent knowledge and experience shall he possess, both of affairs, customs, and tongues, beyond him which never saw any others, than such as himself, nor ere looked farther than his Father's cottage, or into his own Parish Church; Travail therefore cannot questionless but be very profitable and necessary for a Courtier, yea, for any generous or ingenuously educated gentleman whatsoever, especially if it be ordered and undertaken, not only for private pleasure and delight, but for a public profit and utility.  
The prudent Courtier to whom this wholesome counsel may be effectual, & who can be with Ulysses, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, a Proteus, to temporize or frame himself to all times, manners, and conditions, may contemplate, search out, and learn the conditions, or manners of men, and the situation of many Towns and Cities, that is, he may perfectly understand, and truly know, how to travail with fruitful commodity. Now than that Courtier which is fraught and furnished with such experience, I think cannot easily disrobe himself of that due, true, and ancient observance, whose grace and excellent comeliness ever takes place, least by negligent remissness, a way be opened and made ready to others, even upstarts, to ascend the steps to dignity and honour before him: Out of this warehouse, or rather sweet streaming spring, the Courtier may both exhaust, and learn to thwart and cross the counsels of his crafty enemy, and to retort the Darts and Arrows which were directed against him, into the face of their envious Archer.  
This caution is in this place very pertinent and useful, because that notwithstanding thou mayst perceive and see into the crafts and subtleties of thine adversaries in Court, yet it is not convenient always to disclose or discover them, but far better wisely to dissemble, cover and conceal them unto some fit time, which occasion may happily administer unto thee.  
Now also (kind Courtier) touching wanton, wandering, 
Of lascivious or wanton love.  and unlawful love, receive some admonitions, but as brief as may be. Avoid it, I say (kind Courtier) by all means avoid it, wouldst thou know the reason, one is not sufficient, I'll give thee more. First, thy fame is thereby confounded, thy riches or substance is thereby (as with a sponge) sucked up and drawn dry, thy reputation, name, and shame is left to the pleasure, fancy, and will of a woman, and the vigour, virtue, and worthiness of wit is utterly lost. Prettily saith Plautus to this purpose, Vbi sum, ibi non sum: ubi non sum, ibi est animus, cum amant is anima sit in re amata. Where I am, I am not: where I am not, yet there my mind remains, when the lovers mind is on the thing beloved. Hear I pray thee good Courtier, and believe this one thing, he was no vain, idle, or addle headed fellow, neither did he sing a mere fiction, or feigned tale, who ere he was that left these verses in writing;  

Quicunque ille fuit puerum qui finxit Amorem,  
Nun put as mir as hunc habuisse manus,  
Is primum vidit sine sensu vivere amantes,  
Et levibus cur is multa perire bona.   

Whose Fiction sere it was that loves a lad,  
O, what strange hands I pray, dost think he had?  
For, first he sees how Lovers senseless live,  
And how slight griefs, him from much good do drive.   
This is certainly most true, and therefore if thou desire a salve for this sore, and to see or to seek an end of lewd Love, take and make use of this counsel.  Cedit amor rebus, res age tutus eris. 

Fly idleness and Cupid hath no might,  
Use exercise, and he'll be put to flight.   
Avoid idleness therefore, which thou mayst easily do, since actions of honest and laudable employments can 
To hate Idleness.  never be wanting in a Court; if any man misdeem or censure the worst of thee, let it be thy care to depel and put from thee his sinister suspicion, and to convince the care and fear wherein thou wast, the most artificial means hereof is using all affability in speech, flickering enticements, and presenting honourable gifts. For, he which will overcome his enemies, with least detriment or danger, and most assurance of safety, must with many benefits, fair promises, and such like artillery, assault and vanquish him. Neither is this counsel causeless; for, under correction be it spoken, All Courtiers are either by nature so form, or by education so addicted, that they hold it a special point of wisdom, or policy at least to cover and colour their hatred with false, feigned, and fair concealments, and thereby do oftentimes put forth and proffer their hand, to those whom in their heart they hate, and give them the most smooth and glavering terms they can devise, with out any true or sincere intention. I may easily confirm what I here affirm, by a most probable and observable example. That triple headed Cerberus, of inhuman Tyranny, Caligula, Claudius, and Nero, having destroyed many famous and most virtuous men; whose cruelty and Butchery a certain ancient, 
Mark this.  and grave Courtier having wisely and very subtly avoided and escaped, and it being demanded by what means he amongst so many escaped such and so many inevitable dangers, and traps of their tyranny, his answer was, by often enduring injuries, and by showing himself most thankful, though he had small cause for the same. Let the Courtier by all means follow his footsteps, & though he live not in the Court of any tyrannical King, yet though he reside and abide in the Court of a most courteous and just Prince, let him either so fit and prepare himself, as that he may be always ready to swallow down, and digest many, yea, any molestations and discontents, or else let him without delay departed from the Court, as most unfit to live therein. The reason questionless why many Courtiers do make no progress in their proceed, hath no other original than because their hopes are dubiously & diversly distracted, and unsettled in that they cleave not firmly to some Patron or Protector of them, and their fortunes. But be thou (kind 
Note this.  Courtier) prudent and abstinent, as also most confident that virtue is most valiant and invincible being united to a strong adherent. And doubtless 'tis far better, to combine and conjoin himself, with some Primate or chief Peer as his Patron and to follow him, then to be a follower of many and yet firmly affected of none, certainly as he is no where which is every where, so questionless, he that serves & seeks after many, shall not sound or sincerely find any; for that which is diverse and separate cannot choose but be feeble and very desperate.  
Let the Courtier never be obvious or opposite to the pleasures of his Prince, so they be honest and warrantable, for otherwise he may quickly fall from the favour and affection 
Not to be opposite to his Prince.  of his Prince, & in vain does a man strive against the stream. And certainly a man must sometimes yield & submit to time, place, and the person, of friends: yea, he that lives with his Superiors had not need to contend and strive but to wink & connive at many matters and rather sometimes to lose his own right, than with lost labour, or rather eminent danger to contest or contend with his Prince or superior. And yet as I have formerly said, this is to be considered with this Proviso that it be so far forth, as he may with a safe conscience, excuse himselfee and the renown of his Prince.  
Furthermore some other impious and ignominious Courtiers, have a trick to try their fortunes, and to 
Slanderous accusations.  hunt after the favour and affection of their Prince by being most inquisitive to search, and find out, those with whom they understand the Prince is offended, that they may most maliciously and perniciously, accuse them to their Prince with unjust accusations, infamous lies, and slanderous imputations; examples hereof are extant both ancient and modern in Germany, France, Spain, and else where, but that which was most conspicuous and sensible to Seneca is most memorable.  
If in the Court, the Prince have 2. 3. or more in suspense for such and such matters of ill demeanour, let such then as will show themselves wise, intermit and leave off frequent conference & much private talk or whispering amongst themselves; which if they do not they may chance to add fuel to the fire, or put flax into the flame; & far better it is to cease & assuage, then to foster and increase the jealousy and suspicion of the Prince; for, since as hath formerly been touched, the suspicious man is most commonly deceived; why may not a Prince also err and be deceived, in his suspicious imagination; which his error I could wish that thou (kind Courtier) wouldst be the cause to discover, unless by thy wisdom and upright dealings, thou canst openly and boldly annshilate the impulsive or primary cause thereof.  
Let the Courtier addict himself unto, and deck himself 
To be of civil and courteous behaviour.  with urbanity and most civil demeanour, and be furnished with merry pleasant and witty conceits in his conference or talk, but let him by all means avoid both in jest and in earnest, all quippical taunts and satirical biting terms. For, he which endeavours and desires to purchase and procure the benevolent respect of others by rudeness rusticity and barbarity of speech, doth rather discover his own simplicity, than any smooth or facile humanity, but that which is neatly and trimly contrived, being indeed the fruit of a witty invention doth most delight and recreate the hearers, and is more sound and sooner approved of by thy judgement of the most indifferent, wherefore let thy merry jests and witty speeches be graceful and honest, not bitter or biting scoffs 
Of jesting & merry speeches.  not delivering the bare truth of things, which indeed were an occasion to bite to the quick, the party touched therein. Let the Courtier also put far from him all clownishness which in jesting and merriment shows but a dull wit and slowness, yea is very unsavoury and merely foolishness. Let him no less set packing all Scurrility or saucy and malapert derision, which mirth is very shameful and unseemly. Finally let him hate as a capital enemy, uncivil snapishnesse, which also in merriment is no better than dogged snarling, and virulent or envious biting.  
The faults and offences of imprisoned, m incarcerated 
Of Courtiers committed to hold.  Courtiers are not to be extenuated by any others in the Court, but are to be buried at least, in the depth of silence, & not mentioned at all by them. Neither yet must they privily whisper, or avouch openly, that such men are blameless and innocent, whom for envy hatred and displeasure, they apparently perceive to be imprisoned: For certainly if it be our humane condition to err, and to be apt to slip by natural infirmity, even the Prince himself being violently carried away with a certain precipitate heedlessness, and heat of spirit, may in some one case or other commit an error, yet notwithstanding he is not bound to give an account thereof to any private or particular Courtier whatsoever. Let not the Courtier therefore rashly, and inconsiderately miscensure, or disallow what his Prince may be pleased to like of & allow. Let him not excuse or account such a man as guiltless, whom his Prince doth accuse and condemn as guilty of some notorious or public offence; Princes have their secrets, which who so ere dares or desires to peep or pry into shall hardly be free from danger, and give most palpable and apparent signs of his gross imprudence. In this case therefore let the Courtier be very cautelous & circumspect, that he dive not too deep into this dangerous gulf, but that he keep nearer the shore, and that he wisely conceal much more than he shall dare to reveal, and that he depress and keep in what he should not express; yea, let this be the period of all, that silence is a safe & sure reward to him which embraceth the same.  
Though peradventure the Courtier may perceive, that 
A wise caution.  he is vilipended, and not much respected or regarded of his Prince, yet let him very advisedly take heed, that he express not the least semblance or appearance of indignation or discontent against him, but let him every where carry himself with all signs of obsequious observance. He may freely think whatsoever he pleaseth, for (as our English Proverb says) thought is free; but let him take heed that he speak not openly, what he hath in his heart conceived privily.  
In matters also of piety and Religion, the Courtier 
Not to trouble himself about matters of Religion.  shall do exceeding wisely, if he superficially meddle not with too nice inquisition after unprofitable and unnecessary things, as about the innovation or alteration of Phrases in the sacred Scriptures, yea, and let him endeavour to prevent all such like actions, that he may show he approves not the leiutie and inconstancy of such vain and fleeting fellows, by answering and subscribing to their conditions, and thereby show himself a companion and copartner in their unbeseeming curiosity. I would not (good Courtier) that thou shouldst be too strictly bound with this indissoluble bond of Religion, from which thou mayst easily untie and unlose thyself, without the prop and protection of others thy teachers and instructors. And that this admonition is not frivolous or fruitless, the unhappy times of our Forefathers, yea, and this present and most turbulent time in the Low-Countries, doth most truly testify.  
If any discord and dissensions happen in the Court, let the courtly Chaplain be very sedulous to appease and 
Of Chaplains in the Court.  qualify the same; to reconcile them as brethren, to admonish them as men, to reprehend and reduce them as wanderers, and going astray, and with the savoury and wholesome sweetness of courtesy and gentleness to dissolve and bring to nought the arguments of the opponents, 
They must be Peacemakers  not to increase wrath, but to make peace and appease wrath, not to foster faction amongst the contentious, but to lull it asleep, yea, into a dead sleep, that it may not be easily awakened again. Finally, not to plant the young sprigs, or to sow the seeds of litigious discord, & grudging between them, but with the sickle & sword of God's word, to supplant and eradicate the same. Certainly such an Ecclesiastical Courtier will hereby apparently approve indeed, that he is the Disciple of that great Doctor, that he follows the footsteps, and treads the paths of that fruitful Pastor, which once said, Peace (not Discord) be unto you. Wherefore as that Prince of the Celestial Palace did especially love Peace, and live in Peace; let us also in this vale and dale of tears, in this mansion of misery and mortality, do the same and be the same. In the occupation and possession of Kingdoms and Provinces, it is no small advantage for a Soldier to make use of a well spoken Prelate, or Preacher of the Court, for if he be one that is excellently Rhetorical, and subtle of speech and arguing, he shall assuredly do much 
A politic note.  more good thereby than a Soldier by his weapons in war. The actions of those most factious jesuits in the siege at Paris, and obtaining and taking in of the Kingdom of Bohemia, by George Podibradius ratifies and confirms the truth hereof, who for all his fair and smooth tales had never attained or enjoyed the end of his desires, if he had not used the vail and vizard of Religion, & made Roikiranus the Priest his spokesman in the business. Frequent examples also may we find in other Kingdoms, and Nations, which here I willingly let pass, but this counsel although indeed it may peradventure take effect, yet for all that if any should demand of me whither such a project were to be practised, or praise worthy, my answer should be, that such counsel is not always to be administered to a Prince, by a pious, religious, and honest Courtier.  
This question also hath been urged by some prudent 
Art and Nature.  Courtiers, namely, whither a Courtier furnished with excellent natural parts be to be preferred before him which is adorned with Arts and Sciences, without the former. Truly, to speak with Hypocrates, Illud optimum quod à natura; That is best, which is established and perfected by Nature. Nature always works more perfectly; and as another says by a certain imbred and secret Law, is able to take revenge. These things surely we must needs say, and hold for truth. And yet we do not utterly repudiate that Axiom, as a thing of no import or consequence, Ars certior dux est; Art is a more sure and certain Guide.  
The Courtier which hath spent the flourishing spring time, and Summer of his Age in the Court, and which also 
Of giving over to follow the Court.  by the gracious aspect and respect of his Prince, hath atcheiued much honour, wealth, and dignity, must not for light and slight occasions relinquish the Court, but if so be that the times prove dangerous, if his travails and pain, be overgreat and grievous; Finally, if sickness or such like, do justly move and admonish him to another kind of life, let him honestly & discreetly desire a dismission from the Court, rather than to change the continued course of his life, with a too sudden or scarce honest and seasonable alteration.  
Let the wise Courtier industriously and diligently consider 
Of entering into familiarity.  in mind, whom and what a one he is whom he entertains in to intimate society and familiarity, yea, into his administration and service. Touching thy Friend (kind Courtier) this is my advice, that thou be not overhasty 
Of Friends.  in making choice of him, and whom thou hast chosen do not rashly put from thee. Now herein there is need of sound judgement, and curious choice, for if we will credit the Comedian, Pauci ex multis amici sunt homini qui certi sient, There are but a few friends amongst many, that are truly faithful to their Friend. Finally, let that friend be near and dear unto thee, whom virtue and parity of honest qualities and conditions, hath conglutinated and knit unto thee.  
Now also concerning thy Servant, thou must sedulously 
Of servants or attendants.  take heed, and seriously think upon that proverb as true as ancient, Quot servos habem us totidem habemus hosts, Look how many servants we have, so many enemies we have. Let no man therefore too far trust his Servant, nor be so conceited, that he can hearty love thee, which serves thee more for fear then affection; And what man is he which is ignorant and knows not, that there are and have been many men, who instead of a faithful friend and servant, have found a faithless and mercenary hired witness against them, yea a traitor unto them? wherefore the wise Courtier had need to bestow no little care and pains taking herein. But let him especially 
To take heed offeruants in matters of secrecy.  take heed, that if at a feast or banquet or else where he intent to speak somewhat more freely then ordinary of any matter whatsoever, let him as near as possibly may be, exclude his servants from the hearing thereof; For, how many discommodities & inconveniences those Courtiers have incurred, which have herein been remiss and careless, is I am sure, so sure and certainly known, as that there needs not any proofs thereof by superfluous or needless relations.  
Those Courtiers by how much the more potent and powerful they are in regard of their Prince's favour, and affection toward them, are for the most part so much the more hated and contemned of others, unless they have fortified that favour and affection, with singular kindness and affability in themselves. Certainly if any remedy may be found against this malady, or if their be any liquidity or moisture, which can extinguish or at least diminish this furious flame of envy; it is the sweet juice of gentleness & courtesy. Memorable & remarkable is that which Alphonsus, that most renowned King of Arragon 
Mark this good Couruer.  was wont to say: Canibus frendentibus proijciendum esse frustum panis. Thou must cast a piece of bread to a snarling dog, insinuating and signifying that wrathful outrageous and envious people, must be pleased and appeased by smooth humanity, and that they cannot by any means be pacified, with bitterness and rough dealing (kind Courtier) I desire thee therefore to observe and to follow the tract, and trace of that mostnoble King.  
Princes newly established, have for the most part litigrous servants, and contentious officers: and commonly they use to contend and separate themselves into diverse factions for chief place and priority in their contentions: In this regard, I advise and counsel the Courtier that he take heed of those, who for their own advantage and profit like Aesop's base and turn coat bats, do lean sometime to this faction sometimes to that. But concerning neutrality we have already delivered our opinion.  
Although the Prince may in his own peculiar love 
How to continue and increase a Prince's favour begun.  and affection, have made choice of the Courtier, yet let him, all this notwithstanding, endeavour to procure unto himself an honest and faithful propitious Patron, who may still kindle and increase the fire of his Prince's affection, to his farther felicity, favour, and welfare: now in the interim let the Courtier little or nothing regard how he be estimated, or accounted of by others, especially the vulgar sort, so that his Prince, by whom he may be promoved, and advanced to dignity and honour, do approve and duly praise his fidelity, painfulness and industry. excellent and very considerable is that which is recorded of Steven King of Polonia, of whom it is reported that he should say, to Castelanus at that time his high Chancellor, standing by him according to the fashion and custom of his ancestors, Faciam ut brevi possis sedere, I will make thee shortly sit down by me. Esteem as nothing therefore (kind Courtier) others that would seem to pull thee down, so long as thy Prince intends to promote and prefer thee; fear not I say, if (maugre all the malice of any others) thy Prince be pleased to set thee down by him, who lately didst but stand, attending on him.  
Concerning vestures and apparel, I advise thee (kind 
Of apparel.  Courtier) let it not be thy least care, for it may easily be that either by excess or defect therein, may be engendered and occasioned either thy praise or dispraise, observe this also, that thou follow such a habit, apparel, consultations, and actions, as may bring credit and commendation to thee, and breed envy in thine emulators.  
This also is the true nature and property of Court-lyers, 
A forget of lies in the Court.  that when they once begin; first a flying and unfaithful rumour is spread abroad, which by flying farther, like a snowball rolled in the snow, grows bigger and bigger, than some others, not of the meanest but highest rank and order, affirm and avouch it, which thereupon is divulged, promulgated, and made common in the mouths of all men, and by this means, do blabbing and lying Courtiers begulle & delude the credulous common people. This undoubtedly is evident enough, and more than sufficiently apparent to all, which we might by most express and faithful examples more lively illustrate, but that examples of this kind are always most odious.  
Wherefore I will now go forward and here I also advise 
What one a Courtier should be.  the Courtier, that it is not sufficient, that he be void of all vices, and free from foul enormities, and gross deformities, unless he be adorned & beautified with those virtues, whereby dignity, grace, and authority, may be purchased. Let him not therefore be careless of his same & good name, not covetous of other men's goods, but honestly sparing and thrifty of what is his own▪ and a provident keeper and maintainer of the common good.  
The Courtier being advanced and extolled to some 
Of his carriage in turbulent affairs, his Prince being absent.  great and egregious height of honour, and dignity, and in the absence of his Prince being (as it were) precedent or principal Agent, in an intricate employment, and affairs of great consequence, being also desirous to frustrate the expectation of the common people; since he is not in himself able to bridle, curb, and keep them under, when they unjustly importune the death, captivity, or imprisonment of any one; let him wisely dissemble his anger and displeasure, and let him affirm and protest, that he will do more good for them than they desire, and thereby shall he in the interim set the innocent party at liberty, from undeserved danger and calamity. This kind of Art or subtlety, whensoever opportunity administers occasion thereunto, is very highly to be commended in a Court.  
Now the pious, prudent, and intelligent Courtier shall 
Of disputations in matters of Religion.  do exceeding well, to sollidite and move his Prince, that he would not frequently permit public disputations, or altercations in matters of Religion, the case is plain;  

Nam servare modum laus est, nimiumque movendo,  
In dubium trabitur religiosa fides.   

A measure is praiseworthy; but true Faith  
Ost moved, removed, doubtful disturbance hath.   
Do not those examples which we have in that famous Empire of Germany, in France, and some of the Provinces of the Low Countries at this day, ratify and confirm this truth? How many Oceans of evil and Troian-miseries, have flowed from this fountain? Alas, forsooth every illiterate waterman, and paltry Porter must now adays prove a disputant, must be showing forth the superficies, and outsides of his wit and wiliness, and must first teach, before he himself have ere learned, or been taught, and all these notwithstanding (shame and sorrow 'tis to speak it) they themselves do utterly neglect to live piously, soberly, and uprightly. gain they not a goodly commendation? Get they not I pray a huge harvest, and a copious crop of piety, and religion thereby. O light leaves void of fruit! O smoky shaddew without any true substance! Wherefore let the Courtier be such a lover of piety and true Religion, that he may be a special means to his Prince, that refractory and obstinate irregular men, may by his authority be forced and constrained to live in order and true obedience.  
Let the honest Courtier be ever of this honest mind, and never let him desire or endeavour to fish with the froward in the waters of wilful obstinacy, contention, or dissension. And indeed what other effects doth difference in Religion bring forth, but that even subjects also be at variance and utter defiance one with another. Let the Courtier I say, understand and know this, let him freely and faithfully put his Prince in mind of this, namely, that this Anchor cannot so easily be moved, but that the whole ship of the Commonwealth must needs be removed, and assuredly I am persuaded, that hatred for the most part doth inhabit the hearts of the common people (through dissension and difference in Religion) towards those whom they hold and esteem either perverse or adverse therein; nor be they afraid to do harm and injury to those whom they imagine & suppose hereby to hurt even God himself.  
Now whensoever the Courtier confers with his Prince, concerning these and such like matters of great moment, let him endeavour to use a reverent, respective, and moderate kind of speech, and not uncomely or unseemly alter his countenance: For, doubtless such a kind of gesture and demeanour cannot but be very acceptable, delightful, and forcible in a prudent Prince, yea, and thereby thou shalt (as it were) even set before him a mirror or looking glass, wherein to contemplate, and behold thy modest mind, and sweet conversation.  
It is almost unutterable, how much it concerns every 
Affability and courteous behaviour in a Courtier most excellent.  Courtier to be, both by natural disposition, and artificial acquisition, fashioned and made sit in the alluring and delighting men with his external carriage and behaviour. Whosoever therefore is by the goodness of Nature or Art best garnished and furnished herewith, and can with speedy expedition bring his affairs to a perfect end and final conclusion; Such a Courtier whensoever occasion is offered wherein he may without all Thrasonical bragging, manifest and declare the efficacy and power of his wit and learning, ought ever most circumspectly, and considerately to make use of the same. As for example, If he be to undertake a business of great import and consequence with his Prince, let him very attentively listen thereunto, not being defatigated or tired with any other affairs, lest that which should be seasonable and mature, become hereby unseasonable and immature, that which thou wouldst have acceptable, prove unacceptable, and lest thou find that which should be profitable and commodious, unprofitable & obnoxious unto thee.  
Let him therefore (if he be wise) as was form early advised, diligently observe a fit time and opportunity, lest he, both suffer his talk to be unperfected, and his patience and hope prove vain and be fond frustrated: for, this is ever as sure as sure may be in the Court, Camp, and whole condition of a man's life, that Hope & Rewards are ever most anxious, and uncertain, which as much as may be, it is very fit and convenient to correct and rectify by a kind of Art, and perspicuity of wit and understanding. What herein I have affirmed is truly confirmed by one, who so ever he was, both most learned and very well acquainted with the varieties and vicissitudes of Courtiers conditions.  

Vita quid est hominum? nisi spes incerta metusque  
Haec inter dubij, vivimus & morimur.   

O What's man's life? but, Hope, Fear; anxiously,  
Between both which we doubtful live and die.   
Not much unlike unto this is that elegant Distich.  

Vita quid est hominum, spes & formido futuri,  
Multum tristitiae, Laetitiaeque parum.   

Alas what's life? Hope, Fear, of future things,  
Whence little pleasure, much displeasure springs.   
Assuredly, 'tis most true, that all good men, whether Courtiers, Nobles, Commons, yea, all of us of what so ever condition we be, do spend our space and term of life, in good hopes, and ill haps.  
Moreover, that Courtier which hopes after greatest 
A good observation for Courtiers.  matters in the Court, can never make any great progress therein, if he cannot brook and is impatient of contumely, or knows not how to endure scoffs, taunts, or mockery. Let him therefore with patience undertake this journey, and weave the web of this life with these manners & demenors, namely, let him please all men; part with what he hath, observe the times and seasons, let him learn to cover, & discover his nature, yea, let him turn and wind himself hither and thither, which way soever occasion requires; to be sorry with those that are full of sighs, merry with those that are full of mirth, grave with old men, and grateful to young men. And unless the Courtier be skilful in this Art, he can neither grow great nor long continue therein.  
But wretched and miserable are those Courts of Kings wherein no man endeavours either by honesty, learning, or industry, to ascend the steps to honour and dignity: but where all men, either lawfully or unlawfully, by right or by wrong, they care not how, no man by his own merit or desert, strives to attain unto dignity, power, and preferment. Endeavour not thou (kind Courtier) to creep into office and authority, by any other means than only by virtue, and laudable courses.  
If thou receive a repulse, and another inferior unto 
Patience in the Court is an excellent endowment.  thee, both by lineage, virtue, and learning, be preferred before thee, yet notwithstanding take it patiently & with a contented mind, and do not revenge thine own quarrel, by impious wrath, or perfidious, and nefarious treachery. It is very behoveful, for a wise Courtier to follow evermore the most mighty and powerful personages; and (as it were) to follow the very tracts and footsteps of the most favoured and fortunate, but ever with this caveat, that he do it no otherwise than will stand with honesty or equity.  
Let the Courtier never hunt after o● eagerly desire of 
The suits and desires of a Courtier must be honest.  his Prince, any such things which cannot be had without infamy, and ignominious disgra●e; with whatsoever show or vail of honesty, or utility, they may seem for a season to be overspread and covered. Peradventure it may seem pleasant, delicate, and delightful, being varnished over and garnished with a beautiful, and probable colour of profit or pleasure, but it cannot long continue so, for, 'twill quickly be turned to shame and bitterness. It may perchance (as I said before) admit some certain mantle of modesty, or cloak of honesty, and so deceive and delude thee, but be assured, that Quod per se turpe, nunquam erit honestum. That which in itself is filthy or shameful, can by no means be honest. Let the Courtier therefore take heed that he delight not or delude not himself with goods ill got, which will in th'end undoubtedly turn to his own destruction.  
Let the Courtier also especially consider and meditate this one thing, Improbum atque hominem infamem aliquando habuisse latendi fortunam nunquam fiduciam. That notwithstanding, that the wicked and dishonest man may cover and conceal his actions from public view, yet his conscience within will like Cain never suffer him to trust himself.  
Again, let the Courtier know thus much, that indeed wicked and ungodly malefactors, may by favour or good fortune escape the punishment of their villainy, but not from the terror and guiltiness thereof in their Consciences: for proof whereof let these true and excellent ensuing verses, give thee full satisfaction and assurance.  

Honesta siquae feceris  
Cum maximis laboribus  
Cedentibus laboribus  
Du●e is manebit gloria.  
Si turpe quid commiseri●  
Cum gaudijs amplis simi●  
Abibit omne gaudium  
Turpi manente infamy.   

If thou do aught, laborious,  
Yet if it honest be,  
Thy name and same most Glorious  
Shall rest from pains most free:  
But if with pleasure & delight  
Thou work a wicked fact,  
Thy pleasure soon will take his flight  
Shame stays and Credit's cracked.   
But let the wise and cautolous Courtier, diminish or 
The Courtier's joy or sorrow must be measured by the weal or woe of his Prince.  measure out his pleasures, cares, troubles, or molestations, according the health safety sickness or bad condition of his Prince, and let him not (his Prince being dead) like certain proud Pseudopostles and bloody factious, and nefarious jesuits (far from any show of sorrow and lamentation) Sing, A Te deum laudamus, for his departure. But let him rather in a lawful, honest, and religious manner condole his death and immature departure, in whose only life consisted (as many times it falls out) the lives of an infinite many more, by whose death an entire region, yea a whole Kingdom, Church and Commonweal, have endured an unspeakable loss and detriment.  
In an ungodly and an ungracious Courtier over much 
Wealth discovers what men are.  prosperity, doth unlock and lay open to public view, his Avarice, Pride, and all other intestine hideous vices whatsoever, that formerly lay lurking with in him, 'tis therefore no marvel, though they having been lifted and mounted up to the top of honour and preferment, possessing to much riches and worldly felicity, are suddenly ruinated and precipitated, into the bottom of bitter calamity. Examples hereof are too many and too manifest, both in this blessed Island, and in France, both ancient and modern, I say not left in the registers of Antiquity or reports of people, but fresh and palpably objected to our eyes and understanding. Wherefore in this respect let the Courtier be wise and wary, to consider that he which too hastily, and to highly climbs up, is likely most lowly and lamentably to tumble down, And to this purpose hear what a great and most learned Doctor saith.  

— Quicquid in altum,  
Fortuna tulit, ruitura levat,  
Modicis rebus longius aewm est.   

What ever fickle Fortune lifts on high,  
She soon throws down; I'th' Meane's most safety.   
Moreover, let the Courtier attempt all his enterprises 
To be private or secret in his intentions.  and employments smoothly, currently, and privately, without any the least rumours, or reports, of what he intends to do, let him I say use all diligence, hate all arrogance, and in the very act itself, be as private and silent as a man a sleep. The reason hereof why thus he shall perform his actions, I have already declared which here (with the reader's patience) I shut up in silence. I only add thus much and it is indeed a shame to be spoken: yet such is the property and ungodly guise of most Courts, that gifts and bribing presents, are the present and chief preparations to remove all the rubs, and to make the way plain to grace, favour, and preferment, But the truly noble and illustrious Courtier which hath learned by virtue (a better way than by fawning favour, & insinuated friendship) to rise and raise himself to honour and dignity, were better to want both place & grace, than to acquire or desire his honour, by gifts and rewards yet 'tis true which Sallust that most grave and learned Historian says, especially of the Court of Rome. Romae omnia esse venalia. That all things are set to sail at Rome, so are they for the most part at many other Courts, where little or nothing is given with out Gold or gain. And therefore,  Navigat infaelix qui caret huius . 

His suit must needs be cold,  
That wants the help of Gold.   
Nay if we will believe Aeneas Silvius, ipsae manus impositiones & Spiritus sancti dona venduntur; quinimo ipsa peccatorum venia nummatis in aula Romana impenditur. 
The impious abuses of the Court of Rome touched.  Even the imposition or laying on of hands▪ and the gifts of the Holy Ghost are sold for money; Yea I say the very Pardon and forgiveness of sins is in the Court of Rome made only a money matter: They which know the Court of Rome, and that monstrous great hireling of Rome himself, do know that I tell no fabulous fiction, but know too well to the cost of many of them, that he and his Courtiers are of Titus Vespasian's opinion, Lueri odorem esse bonum ex re qualibet: That the sent and savour of gain is sweet, by what means soever it be gotten. This imposture, deceivable juggler, and pesantly peddler, doth foster & favour under him such cunning cozners, & sharking shifters, as scarcely with a good conscience or credit, do, use not from urine or stolen, but even from Strumpets, jews, Grecians, and Barbarians to, scrape together and even wipe their noses of myriads and millions of gold and treasure. I here omit the epicurious gluttons, the refuse offals and scum of all men, who when they once, like ravening Harpies begin to hunger and gape after gain, will bring the wealthiest men (though never so honest) within the danger of their devilish Inquisition. But let every wise and discreet Courtier hate and repudiate all such unhonest wiles and juggling tricks, and whatsoever favour, moneys, or stipend, he shall by any means procure and store up in Court, let him not for the present greatly regard them but in such a manner respect his riches, and expect his remuneration or reward, even as though he were not much troubled with the thought thereof. Since riches (as the Philosopher saith) Non nunquam comitentur indignos, Do sometimes accompany the unworthy. And Dinites vel sint impij & iniqui, vel iniqui haeredes, Rich men (as the Proverb is) are either impious, or unjust; or else unjust heirs of what they possess. Whatsoever wealth or riches therefore thou dost desire to acquire in the Court, let thy eager appetite or solicitous endeavours for them be unknown rather than seen and shown forth, that is, seem rather to have sought, than to seek them.  
Moreover, that Courtier or any else whatsoever he be, 
To put our hopes in practice.  is not to be commended, which hopes for great matters, and yet attempts very few: Let such a one know, that the saying of that most sage Philosopher, and sweet Orator is most authentical and true. Non in verbis sed in actionibus virtutem consistere. That, virtue consists not in words, but in works. That Courtier therefore which desires and endeavours to promote and raise his estate and fortune, must seriously and sedulously consider, and have a care that he be sparing of speech, and most diligent and industrious in the expedition of his affairs; for, a man's mind and his matters taken in hand must ever go together, and agree in one, if he expect any praise thereby. As every 
Stupidity.  work therefore which the Courtier undertaketh must be far from stupidity, or remissness: so also from temerity 
temerity.  and rashness, and he certainly which is thus careful, needs not deject and reject his hopes, though peradventure the Prince whom he serves do not presently repay his honesty and diligence with a princely benevolence. For, many times 'tis with him as with others, Quod desert non ausert, Forbearance is no acquittance. And how knowest thou, or why shouldest thou not hope, but that he may in his Princely Magnificence reserve a greater benefit or reward, for a wise and faithful Courtier; wherefore faint not, fear not, for, although elsewhere delays may prove dangerous, yet here 'tis otherwise, where oft-times procrastination proves commodious; nor indeed is it fit we should prescribe bounds and limits to a Prince's bounty and liberality, but rather patiently to expect; For, Beggars (as our English Proverb is) must be no carvers. Such a contented Courtier, questionless howsoever the case stands with him for the present, yet he ever retains in his consultations, reason and honesty; And let both these be always as a light to direct him, yea, let these be the paths he means to tread in, not turning out of them to the right hand or to the left.  
But take thou no pleasure in the conditions of crafty 
Not to praise any action by, the event.  and subtle Courtiers, who in their lives and conversations do so carry themselves, as that, by the event they will highly praise & approve prosperous things, though near so shameful and dishonest, and contrariwise will dispraise and disprove adverse things, though near so honest and unblamable. But let all honest hearted Courtiers, I say, eschew and avoid such vile and servile qualities, and base conditions, and let them with me thus hearty wish and desire.  

— Careat successibus opto,  
Quisquis ab-euentu facta notanda putat.   

O, may he want a hopeful happy end,  
Which by the Issue doth the Act commend.   
The wise and well experienced Courtier having to do 
To know men's conditions and to be, well read in Histories.  with diverse and sundry men, must as variously as warily bear and behave himself with them all: which he may easily do if he be well acquainted with their qualities and conditions; but especially if he be well seen in Histories, out of which he shall learn and discern, that the Genius and disposition of the Spaniard is different to the nature and inclination of the Italian, the Italians to the French, and the French to the Germans, and thence may the wise and politic Courtier see and perceive their variety and diversity. But what I now admonish and advise thee of, I wish may be laid up and kept safely in the most secret closet of thy heart and memory, namely, that there are a most pestiferous kind of Courtiers, who for filthy Lucre's sake, will avouch and confirm falshold for truth, who will praise any thing which they have by relation or report, either from the Prince, or Common people, whither it be honest or dishonest, yea, and which on the other side will with the Prince or people vilipend and dispraise any thing whatsoever, be it near so commendable, changing like Polypus not their superficies or outward colour, but even altering their mind and understanding with the change and mutation of their places of abode. Certainly such Courtiers as these, do never take any care to keep a pure or unspotted conscience to God, nor a good report toward their neighbours. But let us consider both Kings, Princes, & courtiers, yea all men both public and private whatsoever, that there is above and about us, an ear to hear, an eye to see, and a Book wherein all our words and deeds are writ and recorded: and that therefore in whatsoever kind and condition of life we live we especially choose and make choice of piety and integlitie, as our chief guides therein, and let us be most cautelous and careful that when we labour by all means to gain the grace and favour of our earthly Sovereign, we thereby lose not the love of our celestial Saviour. O let us mark and remember this, that the conscience being maculate, and contaminated with sin and impiety begets a worm, which will gnaw there eternally: but contrariwise, that the conscience which is beautiful, specious, and free from gross enormities, doth wonderfully conserve, nourish, and cherish in us the special grace and favour of the Almighty.  
Whiles I advise and admonish these things, me thinks those unconscionable, untutred, and unlearned Courtiers, and such as are ignorant of this humane condition, may and that most justly listen to me, who to the end they may intercept and stop up the way from better and more learned men than themselves, by cunning craft and subtle stratagems do imagine mischief and destruction, yea, and as much as in them lies, do press and oppress men, most worthy eternal laud and memory. For, there is nothing doubtless more usual and customary in the Court, than with malice, lies, & calumniations, to curb, keep under, and ensnare, most excellent and eminent men, yea, such as have marvelously well deserved of the Common wealth; by whom (alas) too often, and therefore the more lamentable, even the good, discreet, and wise Prince himself is by them sold for gold and gain.  
Furthermore, unless I be much deceived, I have noted 
Difference between a Courtier and a Soldier.  & observed this difference between a Soldier and a Courtier, namely, that the Soldier for the most part useth plainly and apparently, to express and exercise his hatred & displeasure, and to speak that with his tongue which he intends in his heart: but contrariwise, the Courtier (I mean the sly, subtle, and deceivable Courtier) will cog, sergeant, cousin, and dissemble his hatred if time and occasion do give him leave: wherefore such as these in time of peace, and in a calm and quiet estate and condition of things, may easily supplant & overthrow the plain and unarmed Soldier.  
Moreover, let the Courtier remember this one thing, to wit, that he, very 〈◊〉 and carefully carry himself, as well against injuries already received as against those which are offered, and that he keep and protect himself safe and secure from them both: Let the Courtier also 
Of giving Council in doubtful matters.  know that to be able to give council in uncertain and doubtful affairs doth purchase the favour and affection of others; which doubtful businesses if they be so anxious and intricate that thou canst not deliver thine opinion of them, without manifest danger and detriment, than 'tis far better and more safe to confess thy wants, and honestly and soberly to excuse the same, than either to plunge thyself into error or them into pernicious danger.  
Let the discreet Courtier also speak of his Prince 
How to carry himself towards his Prince being absent.  when he is absent as though he where present; wouldst thou know the reason? with patience hear it, and I shall willingly show it. Assuredly this is undeniable, that almost in every Court, Envy and Avarice, do stand up in a corner behind the painted cloth, but flattery, and Ambition will confront and out face thee, let the Courtier therefore I say be advisedly vigilant, and that I may again speak with Homer as formerly, a front & a tergo, that is, watch on all sides, For such will seem in show to be thy friends, who indeed are nothing less, who artificially and enviously will coin and forge new terms & acquaint phrases, thereby to induce thee to say somewhat touching thy Prince, all this while aiming and leveling at no other mark, than that thou mayst be induced either to make some ill report of him, or to entrap thee by some crafty or captious apprehension of thy speeches, wherein thou mayst seem to offend him absent, whereof had himself been present to hear, he never had made any ill construction. Wherefore let the Courtier be of Polypus mind, to take upon him divers conditions and disposations, several shapes, and shows as time and place shall repuire, yet never digressing from equity and honesty.  
Again, let the majesty, dignity and authority of thy Prince, be always so reverently had in remembrance by thee, that even being absent thou so behave thyself towards him, as if he were present, and suffer not thy tongue at any time to let slip the least syllable, which may be either disgraceful to him or prejudicial to thyself.  
Modesty in an other kind of life doth excellently season 
Of modesty or Bashfulness.  & set forth virtue, but in Court to be bashful, & not tocarry himself boldly (as if he came of a base or mean parentage) is most distasteful and disgraceful in the Court, yet let the Courtier then take heed that he besot not himself with over much modesty, which the Ethics do not improperly or imprudently call Frigidity or coldness of courage, pusilanimity or faint heartedness, for he which thus undiscreetly withdraws or pulls himself back, being never called to the execution of important affairs, nor in any notable or excellent employment assistant or serviceable to his Prince, shall never be capable of promotion or preferrment. Let the Courtier likewise wisely avoid to much shamefastness, that is, such an excess or extremity therein as comes most near to rusticity and sottishness, whereby we can scarcely do almost any thing but that we blush and seem to be a shamed thereat, notwithstanding that the thing which we do be honest and laudable. Certainly this disposition or motion of the mind, is a silly servant to regal or majestical government, and surely if ever this affection or disposition be to be put away, 'tis as well here in the Court, as in the Martiall-Camp.  
Certainly that Courtier shallbe esteemed truly noble and renowned amongst the most eminent and illustrious, who in all the actions, and offices of his life shows himself immovable, constant, a contemner of riches, a firm keeper and maintainer of what is just and honest, and which can with a constant & courageous spirit, pass by and bear patiently the unjust menaces, taunts, and threatenings of any what ere they be; The Courtier which thus behaves and carries himself, and may peradventure at one time or other, incur the displeasure of his Prince and be environed and hedged about with the deceit and subtlety of his envious enemies, yet let him still by all means entertain a good hope and honest cogitations of his Prince; for it may so come to pass that he who to day was incensed with anger against thee, may tomorrow be reconciled to thee; and to this purpose let the notable examples of Mordochai and Haman, of joseph, David, Daniel, and many such like, move and admonish thee herein.  
It is almost unutterable, how much, a good and just 
Of a clear Conscience.  cause, that is, a clear conscience may prevail. Listen unto and learn this (kind Courtier) I advise thee that in every estate and condition of life thou make use of that rule which was prescribed by that wise and witty Poet.  

Sirecte fancies, hic murus a-heneus esto,  
Nil conscire sibi nulla pallefeere culpa.   

To do well, is a wall of Brass within,  
Aguiltlesse heart, not blamed, or shamed with sin.   
A good conscience is indeed likened to a brazen Wall, for, Bias that famous Philosopher, being asked by one, Quid esset in vita metu expers, what it was that could be absolutely free from fear in this life, made answer that, it was a good conscience. Wherefore let a man have ever a reputation or report, and a clear conscience, as it were two strong walls of Brass, to oppugn & oppose all the calumniations, contumelies, and detractions of his malignant enemies, yea I add this also that a man that is faithfully conscious of his own innocence, should not be moved or molested with unjust slanders or backbiting: nor should he think it a matter of more import and consequence to hear himself ill spoken of by another, than to bear in himself the testimony of his own integrity and uprightness. And let not only Courtiers but even all men of whatsoever place and condition of life, as well Peers as Peasants, Fathers as Children, as well the rich as the Poor, have recourse to this haven of happiness, and fly to this Sanctuary for safeguard. Finally who soever intendeth wisely and discreetly, to manage and order his life either in Public affairs.  

— Petite hinc iwenesque senesque,  
Finem animo certum, miserisque viatica Canis.   

Let him what ere he be or young or old,  
Make this provision, hereon take fast hold.   
But I stray to far, therefore I come to the matter; let not the wise and understanding Courtier be too urgent, or instant for the undertaking of such ambiguous rigid or 
To take heed what businesses he undertakes.  intricate matters, which he knows or fears may prove distasteful and contrary to the desire and expectation of his Prince, notwithstanding that he can yield some reasons and probabillities for the same, but let him rather either utterly be silent, or at least deal therein very sparingly and indifferently. And to this purpose let him learn in obscure anxious and doubtful businesses to express a more benign dulcide and gentle opinion, and (all rigour being removed and set a part) let him so far forth as the thing itself will admit, work and win his Prince to the most soft and smooth sense or signification thereof, especially if he himself be voluntarily inclined there unto.  
Now let the Courtier know and understand this to be 
The Court never empty of falsheartednesse.  most true, which hath been else where formerly touched, that Courts are never empty of feigned friendship and secret snares and subtleties, which do for the most part lurk and mask themselves either in the simulation of Courteous offices, or in some bond of encroaching familiarity and acquaintance; but be very watchful to beware of these ensnaring involutions entrapping turnings and windings, & of these perilous and pernicious Rocks: For truly here's need not only of wisdom, but even of good luck as I may so say, and a fortunate estate and condition.  
In the interim if any fortifications or protections, may 
Munition against false-heartedness.  shield succour or descend thee, go forward to arm and fortify thyself with this munition, and excellent furniture here following, first every thy mind with knowledge, variety of matter and languages, but especially be expert in histories, a skilful Lawyer, and a wise politician▪ furnished with solid counsel and a discreet and sweet utterance of speech, as also an exquisite, and excellent penman, be courteous of speech. grave in thy style, rarely garnished with the liberal Sciencs, neat in apparel and a bountiful house keeper. Assuredly, that Courtier which hath furnished himself with these instruments and ornaments, if he achieve not hereby the amity and affection of the most, yet may he certainly avoid the sly collourable and counterfeit snares, and treachery of many; and with much praise and commendation to himself wisely and justly delude his enemy.  
The Courtier also being desirous to free and clear 
Of gifts or Presents.  himself, from the least occasions of offence by him given, may make the way clear to him by giving gifts and presents, and indeed the old Proverb testifies this to be true, which saith, Muneribus vel Dij capiuntur, That even the Gods are won by gifts. And Seneca relating the Apothegne, or witty saying of a certain Philosopher saith thus, Accipere omnium est dulcissimum, To take or receive is the sweetest thing of all. Nor are these things repugnant or contradictory to those afore specified. And this is indeed most certain, that the sores & swellings of a Court▪ must of necessity be mollified and softened with those like poultesies, and healing plasters, whereby we may assuage and mitigate the wicked and perverse qualities and conditions of men, and the most vicious and pernicious customs and practices of this our Age. Wherein as the Poet testifies;  

Munera crede mihi placant hominesque Deosque  
Placatur donis jupiter ipse datis.   

Men are by gifts beguiled, the Gods appeased,  
Yea jupiter himself by gifts is pleased.   
〈◊〉 of Plat● is worthy remembrance.  Cum Di●is flectu● ve●era●dos munera reges. 

The Gods, the greatest King,  
loves him which gifts doth bring.   
Wherefore let the Courtier use sometime this beneficence and liberality, especially towards those whom he knows he hath offended▪ and whom he is persuaded his riches and possessions may very much resist and withstand, questionless, if there be any hammer or wedge wherewith to pierce, penetrate, or clean in sunder the most obdurate & stubborn heart of man, 'tis this, namely▪ Gifts or Rewards. Yet here again it is not idle, but worth the questioning, whither the Courtier himself may also receive gifts again, we may answer with An 〈…〉 the Emperor, Neque omnia, neque quou is tempore, 
Observe this.  neque ab omnibus, Neither may he take all things, nor at all times, nor from all men▪ but each of these discreetly and wisely; For, as in all other matters, two extremes are to be avoided, namely, Excess and Defect, even so it is here, for the extremity of defect, is, not to receive aught from any man, which were very inhuman and uncivil; and the extremity of excess, is, always to receive all whatsoever is proffered, which is most vile and avaricious.  
Those Courtiers are to be highly commended, who receive small rewards, and that very sparingly from men 
Of abusive bribery.  of mean estate or condition, especially for the propagation and necessary execution of equine and justice, but let them rather with a free heart, and a grateful mind, accept of what is, for that cause, conferred upon them by their Prince himself: But those Courtiers are contrariwise most worthy detestation & bitter execration, which do sell justice and Truth for gold and gain. Let the Courtier therefore think upon that, which that most wise Otatour and Philosopher Cicero makes mention of in the second Book of his Offices. Fundamentum perpetuae commendation is & famae est justitia, sine qua nihil potest, esse laudabile. The Basis or Foundation of eternal Fame and Commendations is justice, without which nothing can by any means, be praise worthy. Excellently also said that Noble Historian. Ius aiunt nimis saepe a veritate laborare, extingui ●unquam. 'tis said, that Equity is often forced from Verity, yet it can never be utterly extinguished or put out. Let not therefore any gain, any gifts, though never so sweet, never so sumptuous, no pleasant enticements or inducements of honour, favour or affection, move the honest and conscionable couttier from the love and true delight of justice and equity.  
Let young men also, and such as are but newly initiated 
Not to admit too young men, too soon into offices in a Court.  Courtiers, be disposed of in the more inferior places of office or employment; Nor is it indeed fit that any one should be mounted up to the high steps of dignity, except he have by virtue, fidelity and industry ascended the same. For, this we do firmly hold, and constantly conclude, that Arcadius and Honorius were of an honest and upright opinion, who said, that whosoever did rise to dignity and honour, should not by any means obtain it by Ambition, but by much labour and industrious acquisition. Mere drones therefore are those Courtiers, yea, dry Sponges, and blood-suching Hore-leaches, who neither being decked with any eminent virtue, nor adorned with the beautiful flourish of elegant Learning, no, not decorated with any pleasant delicacy, or delightfulness of manners and humanity, yet for all this do intercept, forestall, and encroach into those dignities and preferments those riches and commodities, which by due desert and merit belong and most truly appertain to others, more worthy and more learned than they.  
Again, let not any Courtier of whatsoever condition 
Of proud bragging or ostentation.  order, and rank show himself a vain glorious Braggad●chi●, in the presence of his Prince; and if he know that by any exquisite seemliness, dexterity, grace, or favour, he be excellent, prevalent, and powerful, yet let him nor arrogate the same to his own singularity, but wholly ascribe all things to his Prince's favour, bounty, and benignity, as having received them from him, and rendering due thanks to him for the same. For it may so come to pass, that thy Prince for thy ambition and vainglorious ostentation, may say to a stranger, Come up hither, but to the Thrasonical, and fond insulting Courtier, Go down lower, and learn to humble thyself.  
Now whither of these two be the better and most pleasing speech, let the wise and understanding Courtier judge and heedfully consider. Doubtless these things cannot be too much moved, nor admonished in vain, because as martial saith,  

Arduares hec est opibus non tradere meres,  
Et cùmtot Croesos viceris esse Numam.   

Rich 〈◊〉 can b●rdly hide their qualities,  
And few be thrifty, when to wealth they rise.   
Think upon, yea, and in time ruminate and recogitate that of the most wise King Solamon. Pro. 29. Superbum sequitur humilitas, & humilem spiritu suscipiet gloria. A man's pride shall bring him low, but honour shall uphold the humble in Spirit. Intimating thereby, that the Lord will cast down and punish Pride, but that he will magnify and exalt the humble and meek.  
Furthermore, it is most decent and befitting the wise 
Of drunkenness or surfeiting.  Courtier or Counsellor, especially to abstain from the immoderate, or rather beastlike abuse of wine; because where drunkenness reigns, there assuredly can no secret be kept secret: excellent indeed is that Greek and Latin sentence, and worthy here to be remembered, Quoth in cord sobrij, id in lingua ebrij, That which is in the heart of a sober man, is in the tongue of a Drunkard. I will not here recite the large description which Horace makes of the effects of Drunkenness, but yet I cannot omit nor let pass the Distich, which Virgil hath to this purpose in his Epigrams,  

Vina sitim sedent; natis Venus alma creandis:  
Sed fines horum transilijsse nocet.   

For procreations' sake, and Thirsts just use  
Drink Wine; but more engenders gross abuse.   
Touching this also Ovid writes thus.  

Aut nulla ebrietas aut tanta sit, ut tibi curas  
Eripiat, si qua est inter utrumque nocet.   

Drink not too much; or if so, be it such  
As only cheers the heart, for, more hurts much.   
Let the Courtier therefore in this respect manage or demean himself according to the direct rules of reason, and let him always contain himself within the bounds of modest sobriety, and firmly keep and conserve this wholesome and healthful form and demeanour of his life and conversation, that he do not any otherwise cocker or pamper his body than only is sufficient to the conservation of the health & strength thereof. Let his meat only satisfy hunger, and his drink only quench his thirst.  
But I shoot beyond the mark, therefore I return to 
Of Petitions.  the matter. It is a very customary and usual thing in Courtiers to delay and put of the answering of petitions, from day to day, And we read that this was the practice of Roboam, who used to say to his suitors and petitioners Ite usque in tertium diem & revertimini ad me, Depart till three days hence, and then come again to me. He doubtless which takes notice of this delay and procrastination and yet persists to petition to such a one, doth for the most part, but lose Operam & oleum (as the Proverb is) both his cost and his care. Let that Courtier therefore which is wise, in due time desist from such fruitless exhibiting of petitions, and so unprofitably to solicit and move them with helpless importunity. Dost thou proceed to petition and entreat? what canst thou expect or hope to obtain? assuredly nothing, but either no answer, or, at the most, a harsh and unsavoury answer, which indeed is most commonly held in Courts, to be a fit and sufficient answer to poor men's petitions.  
Furthermore, like as many men are such blabs and babblers that even those things which have long time lain hid and undiscovered, yet they will at one time or other broach, and spread them abroad, as things most fresh and newly revived so let not the honest and discreet Courtier presently publish what he hath conceived in his heart, but then also let him very advisedly watch and expect a convenient time and an occasion most fit for his▪ intended purpose.  
Moreover, The Courtier which hath now spent much 
The reward of many Courtiers.  time, made a large progress in the Court and hath there suffered and set lightly by many molestations, yea much toil and travel, let him not much admire or wonder that he hath with a courage & immovable mind done well therein; because the reward and remuneration of Courtiers labours is, for the most part. Sapere & paenitere, to grow wise and repent what they have done. He therefore which writ these witty and true verses, was doubtless sensible of the truth of them by experimental proof.  

Contrini misere miser tot annos,  
Gustando mala, gratias agendo,  
Sperando, ingenu●que seruiendo  
Tantorum mihi premium laborum,  
Sunt sapere atque p●nitere.   

I silly wretch most wretchedly have spent,  
Much time at Court, in tasting evils many  
In thankfulness, in hope but small content,  
Yet yielding due observance unto any.  
And now, for all my labours, what's the Prize?  
But late repentance, and to grow more wise.   
Certainly 'tis most miserable and lamentable, which I herein write and yet ●ost true notable and too well known. For how many have there at all times been, are there 〈…〉 there be, whose condition jumps 
Ingratitude oft times in the Court.  〈◊〉 with th●● that where as they have been excellent 〈◊〉; and have most worthily deserved of their commonweal; yet for their notable and meritorious actions, have undergone most disgraceful and immerited requitals: Let us consider and call to mind, in what reputation lived Parmenio with Alexander, Eusenides with Ptolemy the King; Pannonianus with Alcimenides, Aratus Sigonius with Philip of Macedon? let us also remember what a most illustrious and renowned Captain and commander was Aetius, in grace and greatness of authority in the days of the Emperor Val●etinian; nor may I here omit that famous Warrior, and most valiant Commander, Bellisarius, against whom alas what other cause of so great, cruelty could justinian ever find out, save only mere surmises and unjustly suggested suspicions, who hereupon (after the Vandals and Persians were by him discomfited and overthrown) being disgracefully degraded from all his honour and dignity his eyes lamentably put out, was thus forced to get his living, by begging on the high way, by many other examples I could amplify, and exemplify this truth, which for divers just c●●ses I hold sit in silence to be pretermitted, as being very unwilling to give offence, by too largely describing the inconstancy of a courtly condition and fortune, yet that I may not seem also too much to sooth and dissemble with thee (kind Courtier) but to deal plainly and faithfully, I will hear only add that most worthy sentence of Plutar●h, in the life of Aratus, which indeed I hold most worthy due respect, credit eternal memory & observation amongst all great Peers and flourishing potentate's whatsoever. Amicitiae Regum feruentes sunt a●repentine, & ardore quodam amoris sabitò incend●tur; sed labefactari expugnarique facile possunt, & veluti ventis invidiae atque flatibus calumniae assidue agitantur. The friendship & affection of Kings, is for the time, very hot & hasty, & they are as it were inflamed with a certain repentine and sudden heat of Love: but soon alas and very easily may it be extinguished and quite quenched, and themselves be daily driven or blown to and fro, with the winds of envy and blasts of backbiting emulatours.  
Wherefore (kind Courtier) since the case stands thus with thee, and that Solamon in his proverbs seems to hit the same Wight, when he saith, Cùm sedes ut Comedas, cum potente, sis cautus & ponas cultrum inguttere tuo, ut serves animam tuam. When thou sittest down to eat with a ruler or mighty man, consider diligently what is before thee, and put a knife to thy throat, that thou mayst save thine own life. With very great reason, saith the same King also, Iram Regis nuncium esse mortis, That the wrath of a King is the messenger of Death. Yet notwithstanding all this courteous Courtier, I advise thee, circumspectly and warily to wade through all these, with a good and a gracious hope, and do not (at any time) so far distrust thine own virtuous endowments, and immaculate conscience, but that notwithstanding, some adverse & cross times, thou mayst easily overcome the danger-obuious familaritie and affection of a Prince, especially, if thou happily happen to live with a Prince that is pious, prudent, virtuous, and a lover of honesty.  
Neither be thou herein too low dejected with fear and doubt, but that although through defect and want of judgement, or by erroneous unadvisedness, thou mayst have both said and done somewhat contrary to the will and pleasure of the Prince: and he therefore preventing thy hope & determination, may let lose the seines of his power, and authority to take revenge upon thee: yet for all this it may so come to pass, that he may return to himself be better 〈◊〉, and in the end, submit himself to the rule of God's word, to justice, equity, and reason, especially I say if he be a Christian Prince, but as touching those which have rejected and cast from them the sweet and easy yoke of Christ jesus, which do all by this rule;  Sic volo sic jubeo, stat pro ratione voluntas. 

Thus will I have it, this is my command,  
My lust is just, my will for law shall stand.   
But as they (I say) have nothing to do with Christ, 
helpfulness to others required in a wise Courtier.  so we have nothing to say to them. Here also I advisedly exhort the wise Courtier, that if God have given unto him more wisdom, dignity, authority, virtue, and such like excellent endowments, than to many others, that he than consider with himself, that he is so much the more obliged and bound to be helpful and assistant to his neighbour, yea, and that both God and nature, yea, all wise men do consent herein, that it is very behoveful and befitting all men, to be profitably helpful one to another. Let not any Courtier therefore in this respect, exalt and magnify himself, or set up the plumes of his pride above others, but let him in the fear of the Lord, make a modest and right use of God's gifts, namely, that by how much he excels others, and is more excellent and eminent than they in the exquisite ornaments of wit, or some other singular virtue, so much the more lowly let him prise and esteem himself, being always mindful hereof, that to whom much is given, of him will the great Master and Prince of heaven, exact and require much again. Let the Courtier therefore be very modest, gentle, and beneficial to others, or apt to pleasure and do good to all men; for, herein shall he indeed most nearly imitate God himself.  
But since the Courtier (according to the opinion of the common people) lives a soft, sumptuous, and delicate life, and is continually conversant and exercised about some noble subject or other; namely, in doing service to his Prince; Who is he, that can truly term that man a good Courtier, in whom the virtues and endowments, as well of the body as of the mind, do not duly concur, namely, a desire to be in action and employment, furnished with noble thoughts, excellent qualities and conditions, heroic exploits, and of a speech well seasoned and tempered with wit and facetious pleasantness? Assuredly let him which perchance is either ignorant hereof, or unfurnished herewith know and understand thus much from me, that 'tis not enough for a man to swell and puff himself up with pride▪ of some vain and bare name of a Courtier, or with the Image and stock of honourable progenitors, yea, or with the title and indeed tittle of Nobility, or fleeting dignity, and finally, that I may speak with Grispus the Historian; To seem, but not to be the same he makes show of; But this rather I say is the thing which is especially required, that he which desires to be honoured and adorned either by the Court, or any other estate or condition of life, let him first adorn and beautify it in himself. But never shall he acquire or attain 〈◊〉 (I mean with due desert) this ornament, this excellency, if he addict and devote himself to ignoble and base cloth and idleness, to voluptuousness, vain and unfruitful pleasures, to toys and fooleries, yea, and if he show himself an unprofitable burden to the earth he lives on, and Catterpiller-like lives, only to devour and destroy the fruits thereof; but if he be beautified, adorned, and decorated with those excellent parts above specified.  
Furthermore, let not a Courtier strive beyond measure 
Of praise.  to extol and magnify his Prince, with glorious praises, and glozing phrases; for, as wise men will certainly be offended, if thou too bitterly and sharply taunt and reprehend them: so questionless, will truly wise men take it in exceeding ill part to be too extremely & vehemently commended. Praise all things therefore sparingly, indifferently, & in due season, for as it is in other things, so here also to observe 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 a decorum, is always very profitable, and praise worthy.  
Now even as a Physician in healing a sickness, and in curing a malady or diseased member hath a special care, that whiles he applies the plaster or medicine to one member, he hurt not the other: even so let the Courtier or courtly counsellor so advise his Prince, that he would so providently and prudently provide, and take care for his Common wealth, as that in protecting the one part thereof, he destroy not the other, especially by exactions of moneys, and heavy taxations. Let him also put his Prince in mind of that of Tiberius, if at any time a fit 
An excellent observation.  and opportune occasion happen, to wit, Boni esse pastoris tondere pecus non deglubere, That it is the property of a good Shepherd, to take his sheeps fleece, but not to slay their skin over their ears. So likewise, when he sees any Collectors of moneys, too eagerly or oppressively exacting and extracting from others; let him then imitate Alexander the Great, who being moved and urged by some about him, that he might very well impose larger mulcts, tributes, and subsidies upon his Cities, thus answered, Olitorem odi, qui radicitus herbas excidat. I hate that Gardener, which 
A Princely saying.  pulls up the herbs by the roots. Assuredly it was a most pious, Princelike, and renowned saying, yea, it was a speech most befitting so regal and royal a Prince as himself was. For, what can be more shameful and absurd in a Prince, or any other great Peer, than with Vespasian to desire Gain, yea, though it were out of foul and filthy stolen or urine?  
Moreover, it is a foul shame for a Courtier to be ignorant 
What a courtier must not be ignorant of.  of, and unacquainted with the state, condition, and potency of Princes, the Science and knowledge of counsellors, the original of Families, and especially, all the true tokens and badges of honour, and such like, of those Regions, Kingdoms, or Countries wherein peradventure upon his Prince's command, he is to live, and to execute any honourable Embassages. Again, it is very pertinent to the knowledge of a prudent courtier, that he understand and know, how many Castles, offices of eminency, Woods, Ponds, and such like, are belonging to his Prince, what, and how many Soldiers they train up in military discipline, how many and how well fortified Cities, as also how many worthy men, who have been educated in the most famous Academies of Europe, and are exquisitely instructed in all the Sciences. Truly it is unspeakable to declare, what especial means of honour and advancement it is for the Courtier to be thoroughly insighted and experienced in these thing?; and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 disgrace and discredit it 〈◊〉 him to 〈◊〉 and dumb, when he is questioned concerning all 〈◊〉 of these.  
Now the chief and especial means to know these▪ things very perfectly, is out of Histories, and Antiquities, nor am I able indeed sufficiently to exhort, sti●v●, 
Antiquities.  and stimulate the Courtier, to the most serious, sedulous, and constant reading of them. For, out of this ●ouhtaine, especially out of the Storehouse of the sacred Scriptures, Courtiers may collect and draw forth this knowledge; 
Sacred Scriptures.  that, it is not sufficient only to know what is just and right, but that they must of necessity do the same. 
Note this.  For so says the Text of holy writ, Nequequam sufficit Dei voluntatem 〈◊〉 nisi illum ipso fact● 〈◊〉 opere praestemus. It is not enough only to know the will of God unless indeed and action we perform the same. And to this purpose I thought it worth my labour, to add this Distich of an uncertain Author, most worthy due observation of all good men.  

Quid in●at innumeros scire atque 〈◊〉 casus  
Si fugienda facis, & facienda fugis.   

What profits it to read much, much to know,  
If Badness thou embrace, Goodness forego.   
Furthermore, let the Courtier contemn and abstain from all lying, cheating, simulation, and dissimulation, let him here listen unto that most grave and godly Father Saint Augustine, giving him honest and religious counsel, 
A good note.  Quiescat, mi bomo lingus, & vit●● interroga, My friend let thy tongue be silent, and be careful to examine thy life. And why? because indeed, it is more assuredly known and discerned what a man is by his fruits, that is, by his works then by his words.  
That Courtier (which the term of his abode in 
Not to depend wholly on princes.  this this transitory and frail Court on earth, being terminated and expired) doth look and long for a place in that perpetual Palace in heaven, after that he hath seen observed and collected both out of sacred and profane writings, what soever the wit of man is capable of and able to comprehend, yet let him call to mind that of the Psalmist, and sweet Singer of Israel and with him conclude that.  

Tutius est, praestatque Deo consider soli,  
Quam se principibus credere mill viris,   

'tis better far to trust in God alone  
Than in a thousand Kings in regal Throne.   

And again.  
Qui Domino fidit, felici nanigat unda  
Fidere Principibus, ventus & auralevis.   

He which on God depends, sails with best wind;  
For, Princes blasts of love, prove most unkind.   
Now before I put a period and full conclusion to this my labour and little treatise, I must truly tell thee (kind Courtier) this one thing, namely that the Court makes not a man better, but men rather may make the Court itself better, whereby I would intimate thus much, that 'tis not enough to live in Court, to go to bed at midnight▪ 
Mark this.  to rise the next morning at ten a clock, and then what with appareling himself, with frizling and curling his hair with his curling pin, with powdering and turning up the fame, this way and that way, about his ears, continuing thus in his bed chamber, even till noon at least, and then to spend the rest of the day in feasting jesting▪ and many such like toys and trivial exercises and practices; assuredly I say (and let every Courtier believe me) that he which is only occupied and busied in cropping these roses, shall undoubtedly find then but pricking thorns on these trees, shall find nothing but fruitless leaves; shall find these vines both wild and barren, in these garners shall find nothing but chaff; and finally, in these treasuries, shall be possessed of nothing but mere counterfeit mettle. The Courtier (I say) which adheres, cleaves, and is inclined to these things above mentioned, cannot rightly undertake, excogitate, do, or begin to do any thing, much less perfectly finish or effect the same; he also which clears not himself of these things, shall find many defects in himself, and such, as that, if he mend not his manners, will give him just cause to weep and lament.  
Let not that Courtier therefore think himself a happy and fortunate man, which in the Court hath power to live as he lists. For if Courtiers were (which I would to the Lord they were) the most absolute happy and perfect of all men, then assuredly, they which would not presently profess, and embrace a Courtier's life, might wander (as the saying is) all the world over▪ since we all know that there is no time of a man's life▪ that can be better spent than that which is spent, and bestowed in the sweet fellowship of wise and learned men, yea, of such as are famous for their wisdom, and excellent parts, and employments. Therefore that I may once for all (more perspicuously) unfold and lay open my full scope, meaning, and intention herein, this I say is the thing which I especially aim at, to admonish thee (kind Courtier) namely, that since even Courts also have their brambles, briars, and thistles, no man should therefore put too much confidence and hope in himself, notwithstanding all the glittering and glorious show and resplendent lustre of a Courtly life, and so (by that means) alienate and estrange himself from his God; but that he should always bear in remembrance, how many at all times in King's Courts have been pressed, yea, with lies, detractions, and envy oppressed, and that much sorrow is sheltered and hid under that glorious misery; and indeed who can term it otherwise than a glorious misery, when a man shall so live, & in such a place, where (for the most part) he is still subject either to the danger of other men's malice and hatred 
These are not only the conditions of Courtiers, but of this age in general.  or else himself to have others in hatred and detestation; where a man in outward show of reverence, with cap and knee makes bare his head to him; whose head (in his heart) he desires, were smitten off; Others again to be seen to bow themselves low, and even make a leg to him, in the working of whose destruction, they could be better content to break their leg.  
Again, is it not a thing much to be lamented, to see men daily to frequent each others company, to laugh and rejoice together; and yet all this while to foster within their breasts most cruel and capital enmity and hatred each against other▪ Is it not intolerable, yea, incredible dissimulation, that a man should i● his heart bid a mischief go with him, to whom he outwardly ●alneth much worship and reverence. O misery (I say not now) glorious, but most gross and gri●●ous, yea, most unbefitting an 〈◊〉 and generous Nobleman.  
These things (kind Courtier) are most true, nor yet do I fly from the judgement and censure, which I know you yourselves may urge and infer herein. But this we must hold and be assured of, as an infallible truth, that neither the Courtier nor any what so 〈◊〉 he be, may well leave of to complain of himself, until such 〈◊〉 as ●● doth begin to amend himself; For, certainly as it is a great folly, and mere madness, F●r●●m, qui intra 〈◊〉 delitescit, extra ●andem 〈◊〉 & perfequl, Without 〈◊〉 to 〈◊〉 pursue the Th●●ft, which 〈◊〉, and is close hid i● 〈◊〉 of the house: so it is a manifest token of great want of experience in us, that when we see ourselves ●●●●ult, we blush not, nor are a jot ashamed to lay it upon others, and to justify ourselves.  
To ●●ke it appear yet more plain by example▪ how 
Every man is the cause of his own misery.  comes it to pass, that we so travail up and down, both at home and abroad, that we so pine, pinch, and punish ourselves, that we so often break our sleep by rising up early, and going late to bed, what necessity urgeth, or constrains ●s hereunto, but an insatiate desire to satisfy our un-bridled lusts? who I pray makes us so proud, but even our own madness? Who is it that fetters our 〈◊〉 in the gives and shackles of envy and malice, but our own natural defects? Who is it, that (as it were) inflames and kindles the fire of wrath and fury, in all our inward parts, but our own impotence and impatiency.  
In brief, that I may abstract abreuia● and epitomize the subject and argument, of this whole treatise into the narrow lists and limits of one line: Let the Courtier hereof be most wary and heedful, that out of himself he draw a rule to rectify and govern his own life, that he be content to taste the sour with the sweet; and in Court to expect as well, burdensome blame and injury; as beautiful fame and dignity, yea let him know & know assuredly, that he which enters into the Court, enters into such a kind of life as comprehends much more labour and care, than ease and quietness.  
Finally, let him thus conclude, that our whole life doth overflow and abound with various, yea great and grievous cares, affairs and employments, from which that the Courtier may at last be set at liberty, let him accept and make use of this my counsel, if at lest which I hope it may prove honest and wholesome unto him.  
When soever he determines to bid farewell, and to 
Wholesome admonition. for every Courtier.  take his Vltimum vale of the Court, let him be wholly exercised and employed in pious readings, and divine meditations; with a constant and courageous mind, let him deride and laugh to scorn the vanities of this world, and send back this news to hope and fortune itself; and having once found the haven of rest and quietness, let him with a free heart and a cheerful voice say,  

Iwem portum spes & fortuna valet,  
Nil mihi v●biscum est, ludite nunc alias.   

My hauen's sound; Fortuen and Hope▪ adieu;  
Mock others now▪ for ● have done with you,   
And truly since it is so excessive hard for any man to carry and demean himself in every kind of life so, as that he 〈◊〉 in any thing: therefore (kind Courti●●) recei●● these other most short remedies herein. First th●● be thou 〈◊〉 of firmly assured that then thou hast found out wisdom, When thou d●st truly lament thine own evils past; dost wisele vilipend all seeming good things 
St. Barnard.  presant, and dost heartily 〈◊〉 and desire the best things to come. Also if thine affections and desires be truly settled and fixed them, where our head and heavenly King our Lord and Saviour Christ jesus, doth rule and reign in blissful eternity. If then (kind and courteous Courtier) thou be of this mind and blessed resolution, thou shalt easily and truly understand, that it is not the safest way, to rely and only to trust to the world or any Prince's palace. For, the world passeth away, and all the pleasures thereof, but he which doth the will of the Lord, he shall endure for ever. Be advised then, ●o be advised (good Courtier) I exhort the●, which shortly dost desire to relinquish and forsake this sickle▪ frail, and impure Court on earth, and to be thence 〈…〉 stated and transported into the eternal most pure and perfect Court of Heaven. Hold fast this resolution▪ 〈◊〉 by ways, obstacles, obstructions, and impediments; hinder or with hold thy progress, and constant proceeding in this right rhode, & King's highway; nor let any thing reduce, or seduce thee, from that life to come, in which, is that day which admits no night and out lasts all eternity of time. Now that thou mayst elect and make choice of a holy and happy course of life, consider with thyself, What thou now art; whence and for what cause thou art, and then thou shalt find, that oblivion was our first original, our middle being is labour, and our end is sorrow? And what are all these being knit and conjoined together, assuredly nothing else than most apparent and manifest Error. What needs many words, man's whole life is spent and passed over, in hoping well and having ill. Now therefore (courteous Courtier) here will I conclude with these three brief 
The conclusion of all with three brief notes.  observations, which I desire thou wouldst always keep in perpetual remembrance, and in Court always bear about thee; namely, that in Heaven above, there is an Ear which over-heares thee; an Eye which over-sees thee; and a book whereinto all thy words and deeds are most curiously, and carefully written.  
THese are the things (thrice Noble and Renowned MAR●QVESSE) which I have humbly presumed, and thought good to deliver and set forth in writing, touching the life of a Courtier, which I have especially done for the honour of the Court of the most magnificent JAMES, King of great Britain, etc. Indeed I know and do ingenuously agnize, that I have omitted above a thousand things, which might worthily have been expressed, concerning the dignity, honour, and gravity of this argument; yet howsoever, hereof I am most confidently persuaded and assured, that I have herein accomplished and collected those things which may in some measure, delineate and display the life, manners, and demeanours, yea, the lively image, similitude, and portraiture of a Court and Courtier. And I hope, not altogether obscurely demonstrated to every Courtier, what he is to follow and embrace, what to fly and utterly contemn. And unless I be most grossly and palpably deceived, the Courtier, if he do not unkindly neglect and reject these rules, precepts, and prescriptions, but brings them to practic proof and trial, by daily custom and exercise; shall have some matters objected to the eyes of his understanding, wherein, as in a mirror or looking-glass, 〈◊〉, 〈◊〉 of all 〈◊〉 intended ●● the Court of our most 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 KING, I here 〈◊〉 devote vows, and 〈◊〉 prayers▪ most hearty wishing and desiring that his Palace and Princely Family, may ●euer be desolate, destitute, or distressed, but that he may always have, such, to love him, & to 〈◊〉 with him, as may ever be assistant to him; with their loyalty, comfort, and good Counsel: Yea, that he may ever have about him, such conscionable Coadjutors, as jethro advised Moses his so●●e i● 〈◊〉 to ioy●● unto him, in his counsels and consultations, namely, Men of approved integrity, wise, fearing God, speaking the truth, pure and uncorrupted. Such Courtiers and counsellors I say do I hearty desire, may always happily attend in our most gracious, and sacred Sovereign, who will honestly prefer a Public▪ before a pri 〈…〉 Good, who had rather religiously to enjoy a mean estate, than to relinquish or forsake virtue and honesty, which are not inclined, nor addicted to lust and volupt●●●s▪ 〈◊〉 and which can be content to put up a private displeasure, but are most rhodie priest to punish a public injury. And finally such ●● are not selfe-fla●ed, or affected with insolent 〈◊〉 disloyalty, and covetousness. Which that the great King of Kings, the eternal Lord of H●●sts, would graciously 〈◊〉 to confirm and ratify, I h●●bly pray, and most heartily desire.  
FINIS.