This Heav'n-aspiring Trees th'imperial State,  
Whose Branches, shaken by the Hand of Fate,  
Let fall their ripened Monarches, which appear  
The same in Urns, as on their Thrones they were;  
Herodian observed, and having taken  
Their several Lives, he weighs them with his Book;  
He finds them weight; Then recommends their Story  
To Fame; Fame's Trumpet sounds their Shame; their Glory.   

HERODIAN'S IMPERIAL HISTORY   engraved title page 
 depiction of Herodian  depiction of Fate shaking the tree of state  depiction of Fame with her trumpet Non ficti pravique tenax 
 sed nuntia vero  
London printed for Hen: Taunton and are to be sold at his shop in St. Dunston's Church yard Fleetstreet. 1635    

HERODIAN OF ALEXANDRIA His HISTORY OF TWENTY ROMAN Caesars', and EMPERORS (of his time.)  
Together with the most Solemn Deification of the Roman Emperors and Empresses.  Interpreted out of the Greek Original. 
LONDON, Printed for Henry Taunton, and are to be sold at his shop in St Dunston's Churchyard in Fleetstreet. 1635.   

THE APPROBATION OF THIS HISTORY, by diverse Authors of Eminent place and esteem.  PHOTIUS the Patriarch, in the 99 Chapter of his Greek Bibliotheke. 
HERODIAN neither swells with Superfluity, nor omits aught that is Necessary: In a word, he is not inferior to any, 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  for all Historical perfections.  HENRY STEPHAN in his Latin Dedicatory Epistle to Sir Philip Sidney (of glorious memory) prefixed before Herodians Greek History. 
THe reading of HERODIAN'S Historical Work, will be a matter of singular profit and pleasure to the 
* Nostri Temporis Aulicis.  Courtiers of this Age; for he represents (as in a glass) the Emperors of that age, and their Courts; with their Comedies, Tragedies, and Tragecomedies. It is most certain, that he was both an Eyewitness, and an Earwitness of many things which he writ. No Roman History did ever comprise such 
* Tam mirabiles vicissitudines.  wonderful changes happening in the Roman Empire, in so small a circle of time.  POLITIAN in his Epistle to Pope INNOCENT the 8. 
HAving bethought myself which of all the Hstorians I should translate (according to your H. Command) I resolved at last on HERODIAN that 
* Excellens rerum scriptor, & qu● diu in Palati●● versatus Aul●●▪ affect eque eque●t●t●●, historian ●● suis 〈…〉 e●●●●▪ etc.  excellent Writer, who having long continued in the Emperor's Court, and being very aged, undertook to write the History of his Time: which he hath performed, not only eloquently, but withal most frankly and faithfully. Your Holiness shall find in him great variety of Persons and Actions, many strange things, and frequent Examples of Fortune, 
* Vacillantis  reeling (as it were) sometime one way, sometime another: as also wonderful wise Counsels, accompanied with unexpected Events; and sage Precepts, delivered in a Style full of Majesty and Sweetness: lastly, a very Magazine of Morality; and (as it were) a Mirror of humane Fate: whence all men may select choice Documents conducing to the Weal and advancement of a private and public Estate.  M. D. WHERE, the public Professor of History in the most noble University of 
* Quam semper amatam, semper honoratam (sic D●voluistis) habebo.  Oxford, in his Book, De Ratione & Methodo legendi Historias. pag. 35. 
HERODIAN, a most polite and judicious Author, hath with singular Eloquence described the Acts and Lives of many Caesars and Emperors.   

THE NAMES OF the Roman Caesars and 
* Their gold, silver, and copper Coins (with their Images and Inscriptions) are in the custody of that noble Antiquary Sir R. C.  Emperors, whose Acts and Lives are recorded by HERODIAN.  
Anno Dom. 163. 


MArcus Aurelius 
* There is yet extant at Rome a stately Columre erected by him. In his time Britain received the Christian Faith. Beda Eccl. Hist l. 1.  Antoninus,  
Lucius Verus his son in law.   The two first Consorts in the Roman Empire  Anno Dom. 182. 

* His naked Statue (as he played the Gladiator) is extant at Rome in the F●rnesian Palace. See the Transumpt o● it in M. ●. Sandys journal, pag. 271.  Commodus.  Anno Dom. 195. 

* So called because he pertinaciously refused to accept the Empire offered her by the Senate. X 〈…〉  Pertinax.  Anno Dom. 195. 
julian.  Anno Dom. 196. 


Niger, in Asia, at once.  

* His Triumphal Arch is yet extant at R 〈…〉 No marvel if three stood for the Empire; for (once) there were thirty Princes elected ●one time, by several Armies (Zenob●a was one of them.) Vid Bed.  Severus, in Italy, at once.  
Albinus. in Brittany, at once. 
● Rep. l. 6. ●. 5. & P. Mexia in Galten.   
Antoninus, Geta, Brothers and Colleagues.    Anno Dom. 219. 
Macrinus, and Diadumenianus Caesar (his Son.)  Anno Dom. 220. 
Antoninus, or rather Pseud-Antoninus  Anno Dom. 224. 


Alexander.  
Maximinus.  
Quartinus.    Anno Dom. 237. 


Gordian the Father.  
Gordian the Son.    Anno Dom. 239. 
Maximus, 
* In the Greek, Balbinus (said in Fast● Siculis & Capitolinis, Albinus.)  Albinus, Colleagues.  Anno Dom. 241. 
Gordian, Nephew to the Elder Gordian.    

HERODIAN HIS IMPERIAL HISTORY.  

The first Book.  
The Contents.  
HErodian's Historical faith. The rare and choice Occurrents here recorded. A brief Character of the Emperor's ensuing. A Summary of the Emperor Marcus his Life and Reign. The education of Prince Commodus. How Marcus bestowed his Daughters. His Princely Qualities. Herodian a great Statesman. Marcus misdoubts Commodus. His speech on his deathbed. He dies and is generally lamented. Commodus succeeds. His speech to the Army. His bad Courtiers. Pompeianus a grave Counsellor. Roman Triumphs. Commodus posteth to Rome. The Romans dear affect him. His Description. His Entry into Rome. Perennius a Favourite. Lucilla, Commodus his Sister, conspires against him. Perennius his Treason. jupiters' Festival. Roman Priests honoured. Perennius discovered and beheaded. Maternus rebels: his Plot detected. The Mother of the Gods: her Holiday; and History. The strange river that made men geld themselves. A Plague and Famine at Rome. Cleander a Favourite. His Treason. He is generally hated. He arms the Soldiers against the Commons. Fadilla detects him. He is beheaded. Commodus his Cruelty and Credulity. Strange Prodigies. Rome fired. Commodus debauched and infatuated. Liberty, a Goddess. Commodus, an excellent Archer. He fights naked with Fencers before all the People. New-yeares-gifts. New-years-tide solemnly kept. Marcia, Commodus his chief Concubine. Philo-Commodus. Marcia and others conspire Commodus Death. He is poisoned and strangled.  

HERODIAN'S Induction.  
OF those which have hitherto bestowed their pains in compiling History, and recording the Acts of ancient Time, divers affecting the reputation of Learning, and covering by wel-tuned language to eternize their Fame (lest by silence they should be lost among the Vulgar) have been more careful to gild and embosse their Discourse, than to mine and search out the Truth: supposing (belike) though they 
Truth, the Soul of 〈…〉  delivered many fabulous Narrations of things done so long since, they could not easily be controlled; and yet nevertheless, their neat and spruce Compositions should be highly applauded.  
Others again, transported 
Passionate Historians censured.  with spleen against some particular People, or with hatred against Tyrants; or else too much addicted to glorify Princes, Cities, and private persons, have not perfectly delineated the Image of Truth.  
For my own part, I have 
Herodians Historical Faith.  here undertaken to write such a History as is not grounded on vulgar Airs, and vain Noises, or on the uncertain Credit of foreign Relations; but of such recent Occurrences as I have 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  faithfully and industriously collected, and cannot be unknown to the modern Readers: and I doubt not, but the intelligence of so many ra●e and memorable Accidents, which have fallen out in so short a time, will be both useful and delightful to After-ages. For if we reckon from Augustus, who reduced the State of the Roman Commonwealth to a Monarchy, we shall not find in all those two hundred years (for thereabouts it is to Marcus the 
The rare and choice Occurrents here recorded.  Emperor's Reign) either such change full Successions in the Empire, or such various chances and events of civil and foreign Wars, or so many Cities of our own and of the Barbarians conquered: beside earthquakes and pestilences, and the lives of Princes and Tyrants so strange and uncouth, that all the Records of Antiquity can hardly parallel: some whereof enjoyed their Principality for a longer time, others but a very small while; yea, many of them having scarce accepted the Imperial Title, the very same day they were elected, were like wise rejected, and deposed from their Imperialitie. Whereupon, the City of Rome having in 60 years more Emperors than for the proportion of the time, there happened many variable and admirable Occurrents: for those Princes 
● 〈…〉 Character of the Emper●●●s en 〈…〉 g.  which were of riper years, and could manage their Affairs with Wisdom and judgement, did govern themselves, and their People with great honour; but the younger sort of them, for want of Education and Experience, ran many wild courses. Thus disparity of Years and Conditions, was accompanied with diversity of Manners and Actions. The particulars whereof, exactly observing the Concurrence of the several Times and Princes, we come now to specific.   

A Summary of Marcus his Life and Reign.  
THe Emperor 
* A●reli●s.  Marcus had many Daughters, and but two Sons; whereof the younger (called (Vertssimus) died in his childhood; the other, (named Commodus) he 
The education of Prince Commodus.  was very solicitous to bring up well: to which purpose, he sent fare and near for many noble Philosophers, giving them great pensions to train him up in virtue and learning. His Daughters, 
The Emperor's prudent choice of his Son● in law.  as soon as they were marriageable, he bestowed on the best men he could find among the Senators: For in the choice of his Sons-in-law, he had not so much respect to ancient Nobility or great wealth, as to their Excellence in all Moral and Intellectual Endowments: rightly esteeming the Goods of the Mind to be the only permanent and durable Riches. 
His Princely qualities  He was endued with all Princely virtues, and of such rare and exquisite knowledge in Antiquities, that he was not inferior to any of the Greeks' or Romans in that kind; witness his many wise Speeches and Writings yet extant. He was also a Prince of so sweet a temper, and debonair behaviour towards all men, that he would give 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  his hand to every one that came to him, commanding his Guard to put back none that came to see him. In a word, he was the only Emperor that shown himself a wise man, not only in Words or Edicts, but in Gravity and Continency of life. Whereby it came to pass, that many famous Men for Wisdom and Learning flourished in his time. For Men are very apt to imitate their Princes, for the most part. Now whatsoever he did in peace or war remarkable, or attempted against the Northern or Eastern Barbarians, is already committed to writing by many excellent learned Men. But those Occurrents, which all my time (after Marcus' decease) I either saw or heard of (most of which I knew experimentally, in regard I bore divers 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  high and honourable offices in the State) it is now my Task to relate. 
Herodian an Officer of State.   
Marcus being now weakened with Age, and worn out and spent with incessant Toil and Care, suddenly fell (while he was in 
* Now Austria and H●aga●●e.  Pannonia) into a grievous disease. When he saw himself past recovery, he was sore 
Marcus misdoubts ●●s son Commodus.  afraid, left his son, who was then but 
* About 18.  young, should in the first heat of youth, through his uncontrollable Imperial power (when he was gone) abandon good arts and exercises, and betake himself to drunkenness and intemperance: for Youth is too forward to shake off the yoke of Discipline, and devote itself to the bewitching blandishments of sensual 
* 〈…〉 calls S 〈…〉 ●lity these arraign good of ●east●. ●p. 93.  delights. Being also a man of 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  high wisdom, and profound judgement, he was much terrified at the remembrance of many Princes, which came to their sovereignty when they were young & youthful: as, of Dionysius the Sicilian Tyrant, who was such an Epicure in his Diet and manner of living, that he richly rewarded them that could invent any new kind of pleasure: as also of Alexander's Successors, which were so exorbitant and irregular in their Government, that they were a great blemish and dishonour to the Empire. For 
* See justin lib. 24.  Ptolom●y so shamefully exceeded the bounds of modesty, that contrary to the laws of the Macedons, and all the Greeks', he made love to his own Sister. And Antigonus, who would needs personate Bacchus; in stead of the Macedonian Coronet and Diadem, did usually wear a Wreath of I●ie, and carry a 
* T 〈…〉  spear dressed with green boughs in stead of a Sceptre. The good Emperor was also much troubled with the late Examples of 
* In him the 〈…〉  Nero, who slew his own mother, and made himself the s●●ff● of the Vulgar; and of Demitian, who was a most horrible cruel Monster. Revolving therefore in his mind, these Images of Tyranny, he was grievously tossed 'twixt Hope and Fear. Moreover, he much disinherited the bordering Germane Nation, which (yet) he had not wholly at his Devotion, but p●rtly had Confederated, partly Conquered: whereof many (notwithstanding) had withdrawn themselves from his Obedience, and were only held in awe with the presence of the Prince. He was therefore in great doubt, lest despising his son's Minority, they would presently fall to rebellion; it being the usual guise of Barbarians, to raise Tumults upon the least Occasion. In these perplexities, he commands his Kinsmen and principal Lords that werethere, to come unto him; who being assembled, he sets the young Prince before them, and lifting up himself a little on his Couch, makes this Speech unto them.  

The Emperor Marcus his Speech on his Deathbed.  
IT is no mervell, if you bemoan and lament my present Case; for Men are led by Nature, to compassionate their Kinsman's miseries: and those doleful things which we see before 
Objects praesenti● movet potentism  our eyes, do most excite our commiseration. But between you and me there is a more special bond: for knowing how dear I have loved and respected you, I may justly challenge your love again. And now is the fittest 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  season for me to judge, whether I have deservedly honoured you thus long, and taken all occasions to prefer you; and for you to sh●w yourselves grateful and mindful of those Innoblements. You see here my son (your Pupil) is now entering the April of his Age; and withal, into such broken Seas, and surging Waves of business, that if he have not good Pilots, he may soon, by misgovernement, steer a wrong course, and make shipwreck of his Fortunes. Be you therefore as so many Fathers unto him, by your grave Counsels and Instructions. For no Treasure in the World can so assure a Prince, nor the strongest Guard so well preserve him as the  and love of his Subjects. The way to reign long and securely, is not to purchase Fear by Cruelty, but to win Love by Mildness and Clemency. For they are the best servants to their Sovereign, and furthest 
— peragit tranquilla potestas Qu●d violent a nequit.  from jealousy and Flattery, not which are compelled by necessity, but which are gently led by their own loving inclinations, nor will they ever stand out in any thing he shall require of them, unless they be unjustly and violently oppressed. And it is a point of great difficulty, for a Prince, that may live as licentiously as he list, to moderate himself, and bridle his own appetite. Wherefore if you by your prudent Admonitions shall plant in him a care to live well, and often remember him of what he hath now heard, you shall render him a worthy Prince both to yourselves, and others; and you shall (thereby) propagate my memory; which this only way you may make immortal.   
No sooner had MARCUS ended his Speech, but he swooned, and became speechless; being so sick and heart-sunke, that he fell back into his bed. Which lamentable sight, so moved all there present, that many of them cried out, as they were distracted. But he lived only a day and a night longer, 
Marcus dies  and then 
* April. 17. An. Dom. 181. Aetat. 59  deceased: leaving to the present Age, an infinite love to his Majesty, and to the future, an everlasting memorial of his Virtue. As soon as his death was made known, it is incredible what weeping and wailing there was in the Army, and among all the Communality: yea 
And is generally bewailed.  there was no nation throughout the Roman Empire, but with many tears received the message, and deplored their incomparable loss in him: some calling him their good Father; others, their good Emperor: some their most valorous Commander; Others, their virtuous and temperate Prince. Nor indeed, were any of them deceived in him. Somefew days after the celebration of his Funeral, it was thought fit by the Lords, to present the young Prince to the Army, that he might speak to them, and (as the manner of new Emperors was) bestow a Largesse of money upon them, to press them (as it were) to his Love and Service. Proclamation therefore was presently made, that all the Army should assemble together: which done, Commodus comes forth, 
Commodus succeeds.  and having sacrificed to the Gods, ascends a high Throne erected in the midst of the camp; where, being accompanied with his Father's Kinsmen and Counselors, which were very many, and excellent learned men, he speaks to this effect.  

Commodus his Speech to the Army.  
I Make no doubt, but both you and I are alike sorrowful for our late Calamity; and that you are no less grieved than myself. In my Father's time, I never bore myself among you as your Superior: for he loved us all, as if we had been all one; and did more willingly call me Fellow-soldier, than Son: esteeming this, to note a participation of Nature; that, of Va●our: yea, when I was an Infant, he would oft carry me in his arms, and deliver me into your hands, recommending me (as it were) to your tutelage and fidelity. I am in good hope therefore of all your loves, seeing the elder sort of you may repute me for your sosterchilde, and my equals I may well term my Schoolefellowes in Arms; so dear did my Father love us all, as if we had been but one; being careful to train us up in all kind of Virtuous exercises. And now after him, hath Fortune 
* The Roman Emperors kept the Image of Fortune in their chambers with great veneration.  made me your Prince, not by faction (as some of my Predecessors) nor by usurpation. For I only was borne and bred in the Court, and as soon as I came into the world, was received not into a private cradle, but vested in Imperial purple: so that at the same instant, the 
* Hinc Porphyrogeniti  Sun saw me a Man and a Prince. Which, if you duly consider, you will love me not as a Dative, but a Native Emperor. And now that my Father is translated to Heaven, into the Society and 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Consistory of the Gods; the Rule of the World, and care of humane affairs, is devolved unto Us: which, what powerful effects, or good success it may produce, rests wholly in you. For if you make a brave end of the War, and extend the Roman Empire to the Ocean, you shall puchase immortal honour, and crown the Memory of our common Father; who (as you ought firmly to believe) both hairs what we say, and sees what we do. How happy then are we, that shall have such a Witness of our worthy Acts. And whereas the Honourable Services which you performed hitherto, with such prosperous success, may be attributed to his Providence and Governance; your magnanimous Achievements under me your Young Prince, will purchase you a peculiar Trophy, and most noble Testimony of Loyalty and Valour. Thus shall you procure to my tender Age a glorious esteem, by your valiant Exploits; and the Barbarians being curbed in the beginning of our Reign, shall for the present not dare to insult, in contempt of our Minority; and being terrified with their own harms, shall ever hereafter stand in awe of Vs.   
Having thus said, and assured the Soldiers by a Magnificent Donative of Money, he returned to his Palace. For a short time, he was in all things directed by his Father's Friends, who daily assisted him with their prudent Counsels, permitting him only so much recreation, as was conducible to his health. But after a while, diverse of his 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Court winding themselves into favour, sought by all means possible to corrupt this hopeful young 
Bad Courtiers.  Prince. These fawning Parasites, placing their felicity in Belly-cheer, 
* In Ventre & Vene●e.  and brutish lusts, did ef-soones put him in mind of the Delices' of Rome, sometime recounting to him what brave things were there to be seen and heard; otherwhile, extolling the great plenty and abundance of all things there. Further, they shown how incommodious it was, to reside on the banks of 
* The greatest River (after Nilus) in all the Roman Empire Au. Gel. (● Sa●●st.)  Ister, which were both barren & unfruitful, and perpetually subject to Cold and Raine. Will your Majesty (said they) still drink such frozen and muddy waters; while others enjoy the warm Baths, cool Rivers, and dainty Air of Italy? With these, and the like sugared Allectives, they inflamed the young Emperor with the love of Pleasures. Whereupon calling his Council together, he told them he had a great desire to see his Native Country: but being loath to show the Reason of that sudden resolution, he said he was afraid, lest some of the chief Nobles should seize the Imperial Palace at Rome, which being a strong Castle, he might easily of the 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Traine-bands and others, raise a great Army, and proclaim himself Emperor. They hearing him allege these U●●brages, in great fear and amazement looked on the earth, and knew not what to say▪ at last, Pompeianus the most ancient of 
Pompeianus a grave Statesman.  all, who might best speak, because of his affinity, having married Commodus elder sister, said.  

Pompeianus his Speech.  
MY dear Sovereign, it is no marvel if you long to see your Country: for there is in all of us a vehement desire to be at home; but yet we check it not withstanding, because the Business in hand doth much more import us: th●se domestic contents may with more security hereafter be enjoyed. As for 
* Vbi Imperator, ibi Roma.  Rome, it is there, where the Emperor is. But if we abruptly break off the War, it will be both dishonourable and dangerous: for so we shall animate the Barbarians, who may think that we dismarched for fear of them, rather than any other respect. Now if your Imperial Majesty will proceed ●● your Conquests, and extend this North part of your Empire unto the Ocean, in what a glorious Triumph may you enter the City, with the chained and captived Kings and Princes of the Barbarians 
* In the Roman Triumphs, The Captives went before the triumphant Chariot. Vid. s. Amb. Ser. 62. de Pentecoste.  before you? For thus the Romans in ancient Heroical times, attained so great renown. Fear not therefore any domestic Usurpers: For the prime Senators are here with you, and all the Military Forces are here ready to defend you. Besides, here is all the Imperial Treasure. Lastly, the memory of your Father hath confirmed to you, the eternal Love and Loyalty of all Estates.   
This strong Dissuasive of Pompeianus, did (for a while) somewhat abate the edge of the young Emperor, who revering his words, and having nothing to reply with his Honour, dismissed the Lords, saying, he would better consider of it. But his Courtiers still pressing him with continual importunity, he advised no further with his Council, but instantly sent Letters to Rome, and commanded all to prepare for the journey, giving order to certain Troops to guard the Banks of Ister, and keep off the Ba●barians Incursions. They having received their Charge, did soon subdue many of them; and others, by rewards they won unto them: which they might easily do: for the Barbarians being naturally greedy of 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  cash; and not caring what dangerous Adventures they undertook, lived altogether by spoiling and foraging; or by selling Peace at a dear rate: which Commodus well knowing, and having a huge Mass of Treasure; to the end to leave all things in security, gave them whatsoever they demanded.  
As soon as it was proclaimed through the Army, that they must all go home, there was a mighty hurly-burly in the Camp, every man desiring to quit the Enemy's Country, and to taste the Delights of the City. And when it was certain lie known at Rome, that the Prince would come, all the Roman People were ravished with joy, every one conceiving excellent hopes of their young Emperor, and firmly believing he would tread in his Father's steps.  
He presently took his journey 
Commed●s posteth to Rome.  with high speed, posting in youthful bravery in his Chariot through every City, (as he passed) being Ro alley received, and ●●●ertained, with great Magnificence, and general Applause: But when he drew near to Rome all the Roman Peers and Commons (every one striving to b● foremost) went out to meet m●n with 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  laurels in their hand●, and all kind of Flowers, (as the Season afforded) to welcome their Noble young PRINCE: whom (in truth) they loved most dear and cordially; in regard he was borne and bred among them, being of the most Noble 
The Romans dearly affect him.  and Imperial Blood, from three descents. For by his Father, he was descended from the most Honourable Senators: and his Mother Faustina, the Empress, daughter to Antonius Pius, and Niece (by the Mother's side) to the Emperor Adrian, derived his Pedigree from Trajan her Great Grandfather. Thus Nobly descended was Commodus, who was not only 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  conspicuous for his youthful Prime, but also for his lovely Feature; being of a 
His Description.  fine Constitution of body, of an amiable and Majestic Presence, bright and 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  sparkling Eyes, yellow and curled Lo●ks, insomuch, that when he walked in the Sun, his Hair would glister l●ke Flames of Fi●e, which made many suppose it was powdered with Gold. Others conceited, it was a sign of some divine Excellence, and that he had that glistering Lustre (on his head) from his birth. Moreover the silken down of his Cheeks began to blossom, and bud forth like Roses in the Spring. This hopeful and Illustrious Emperor did the Romans congratulate with passing hearty and affectionate Acclamations, strowing all the way before him with Flowers and Garlands. Having 
His Entry into Rome.  made his entry into the City, he went first to the Temple of jupiter, and then to the Fanes of the other Gods: Lastly, having solemnly thanked the Senators and Praetorian soldiers, for their singular fidelity, he reposed himself in the 
* Built on Mount Palatine, otherwise called Palatium. See Aural Victor▪ de Orig. Gent. R●m.  Imperial Palace.  
For some few years he gave all due honour and regard to his father's friends, being content to be rul d by them in all matters of weight. But afterwards committing the Government of the Empire to others, he made Perennius an Italian (a 
Perennius a Favourite.  good Soldier) Captain of the Praetorian Bands: who suffering the young Emperor to follow his Pleasures, and wallow in all manner of sensuality, undertook all the Affairs of the Empire, and (in effect) ruled alone. The man was insatiably covetous, for being never content with what he had, he still gaped for more. Yea, it was his daily practice to calumniate the ancient Counselors of the Emperor's Father, and to being within compass of Misprision, the most Wealthy and Noble Persons, that the young Prince being by false fears and feigned surmises induced to put them to death, their Goods and Estates might be confiscate to his use. Yet for a while, was the Prince more temperable, out of respect to his Father's memory, and his Counselors Gravity: but by the malignity of Fortune, that good Temper and Disposition was soon altered and perverted. The occasion was this. Lucilla, Commodus eldest Sister, 
Lucilla, Commodus his Sister.  was first wedded to Lucius Verus, whom Marcus had associated in the Imperial Government, having obliged him in the strongest bond of love, by bestowing his Daughter upon him. After Lucius decease, she still retaining her former State and Dignity, was by her Father affianced to Pompeianus, and permitted by Commodus to enjoy the same Honours. For as an Empress she had her Chair of State erected on the Theatre, and Fire likewise (after the usual manner) carried before her. But when Commodus had married 
Crispina the Empress.  Crispina, who then as the PRINCE'S Wife, was to have precedence, Lucilla stormed at it, and interpreting the others Honour to be her Disgrace, yet durst not impart her Design (of surprising the Empire) to her husband Pompeianus, because she knew he loved Commodus entirely: Howbeit, opening her mind to a Noble young Gallant, called Quadratus, with whom 
●u●illa and others con 〈…〉 against 〈…〉  she was suspected to play the Adulteress▪ she grievously complained to him of the indignity, and at last persuaded him to such a Course, as was pernicious to himself, and all the Senators. For among others of the Nobility which were of that Conspiracy, there was one Quintianus a bold and desperate youth, whom he inveagled, and suborned to watch some fit opportunity to kill Commodus with a 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Stiletto (which he might hide in his bosom) which done, he undertook to salve the matter with Money.  
Shortly after, Quintianus standing in a blind corner in the Entry to the Amphitheatre, as Commodus passed by, offered to stab him; proclaiming aloud, that the Senate sent him that: which as soon as he had spoken, intending to follow his thrust, he was seized by the 
The Conspiracy detected.  Guard, and received condign punishment for his Madness: the Emperor's Safety being wrought by his own discovery. This was the prime and main Ground of the Prince's hatred against the Nobility. For his Mind was so deeply wounded with those words, that he took them all for his capital Enemies, and could never forget the speech of the youth which assailed him.  
Perennius laying hold of this occasion, counselled him to root ou● all the chief Nobles and Gallants, whose Estates being confiscate and given him, he suddenly grew to infinite wealth. For himself sitting as judge, 
The Conspirators executed.  Commodus his own Sister, and all that had a hand in that Conspiracy, or were but lightly suspected for it, were put to death.  
Thus Perennius having made away those whom the Emperor feared (which indeed did bear a Paternal Affection to him) took him into his own tuition: and now being in the height 
Perennius his treason.  of Authority, he cast about how to usurp the Empire: to which end, he persuaded Commodus, that his Sons (which were (yet) but youths) might be made Commanders of the Imperial Forces in 
* After called Dalmatia, now Solavonia▪  Illyria. Whereupon he provides a mighty mass of Treasure to win the good wills of the Praetorian Soldiers. The Sons also secretly levied great numbers of Soldiers, that as soon as their Father had slain Commodus, they might invade the Princedom.  
This Treason was strangely detected in this manner.  
The Romans use to celebrate a 
The Royal Festival of jupiter.  sacred Agon or Pageant in honour of jupiter Capitolinus, to which there is extraordinary resort of people, as is usual at the Solemnities of that royal 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  City. Now it is the custom for the Emperor also to be there present and Precedent, together with the Priests, which 
Honour of Roman Priests.  yearly wait in their courses. The Emperor being set in his Throne to hear those famous Actors, and the Theatre full of spectators (which with singular decency 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  were seated according to their Degrees) before any thing was said or acted on the Stage, suddenly there starts out one, in a Philosopher's habit, wi●h a staff in his hand, and a Scrip on his shoulder, (half naked) who running to the midst of the Stage, stood still, and beckening with his hand for silence, said; This, O Commodus, 
Perennius discovered.  is no time for Sports, Shows, or Festivals: Perennius his Sword hangs over your Head, and if you do not speedily avoid the present danger, you are undone: That same Man there hath raised both Men and Money against you, and his Sons likewise solicit the Illyrian Army: whom if you do not instantly prevent, you are a dead man.  
The fellow having thus said, whether moved thereto by some Divine Instinct; or to purchase himself a Name (being an obscure Plebeian) or because he hoped to attain some great Reward of the Prince for his discovery, certainly Commodus was mightily astonished. Others, though they believed it might be true; yet they seemed not to credit it. Perennius commands him to be apprehended, and as a seditious frantic to be burned. Thus suffered he for his mistimed boldness. Howbeit, diverse that made semblance to regard the Emperor's safety, and bore Perennius upon the spleen, for his intolerable haughty and disdainful carriage, taking this occasion, spared not to accuse him: in so much, that Commodus (thereby) evaded mischief, and Perennius with his children smarted for it. Soon after there came 
* They were British Soldiers (as our writers say)  Soldiers unknown to Perennius son, and brought coins stamped with his Image, which they secretly shown to Commodus, (unawares to Perennius though he were Praefect:) and detected all the Treason: for which service they were exceeding richly rewarded. Whereupon the next night the Emperor sent for Perennius his head, who little 
Perennius beheaded.  dreamt he was discovered. He sent also Posts to his son; which by their speed prevented the rumours of what was done at Rome, and delivered to him very loving Letters from the Emperor, requiring him to hasten forthwith to Rome, for his extraordinary advancement. The messengers also told him it was his Father's desire he should come; but writ not himself, because he knew the Emperor's Letters were sufficient. The young man utterly ignorant of his Father's disaster, or of the plot against himself, believed this to be true; and though he were much troubled that his designs were thus interrupted, yet relying on his Father's puissance, (whom he thought to be safe enough) he set forward on his journey, and as soon as he arrived in Italy, he was slain by the Emperor's appointment. This was the end of them.  
Then Commodus made two Praetorian Praefects, supposing it not safe, to delegate so great power to any one, which being divided betwixt two, might be the weaker and less dangerous. But ere long another treason broke out against him in this manner.  
There was one Maternus a 
Maternus a Rebel.  Soldier, that had committed many villainous outrages: whereupon forsaking the camp, he associated diverse Renegadoes like himself, and quickly rallied together a great Rabble of Roarers; wasting and spoiling Villages and Fields. Having got much booty, there resorted to him a fare greater number of Rogues, whom he promised great rewards; and having made them Sharers with him, he was so followed, that now they seemed not to be a pack of Thiefs, but an Host of men, or a full Army. For they took great Cities, and breaking up Prisons every where, set all Prisoners and Malefactors at liberty; which all turned Soldiers, in hope of Pillage and Impunity. Thus did they ramble over all Gallia, and Spain, sacking and burning all the great Cities they took.  
When Commodus heard this, he sent to the Vicegerents and Governors of those Countries, very sharp and minatory Letters, charging them with base cowardliness, and commanding them to levy an Army against them. Which when those Freebooters understood, thinking those Countries but hollow ground for them, they dispersed themselves, and slinking thorough unused Byways, made their Rendezvous in Italy: where Maternus began now to look big, and take more upon him: consulting with his companions, how he 
Maternus aspires to Sovereignty.  might rise to be a King. For seeing his former adventures succeeded beyond his hopes, he resolved to undertake some gallant Attempt; or (since he had run so great a hazard) not to die a vile and dishonourable Death. But considering withal, that he had not Forces sufficient to give battle to Commodus, who was (yet) beloved of the Roman people; he resolved to try by a cunning sleight how the Praetorian Band stood 
M●●ernus his plot.  affected to him. And this was his Stratagem. In the beginning of the spring, the Romans celebrate a great Anniversary Festival to the 
* Cybele.  Mother of the gods, in whose honour they likewise set forth a stately show: at what time, all the most sumptuous and precious stuff of the Citizens, and the choicest jewels and Singularities of the Emperors, are solemnly carried before the Image of the Goddess; all men having liberty to revel and mask at pleasure, & to disguise themselves in the habits of what Magistrate or Officer they fancy (be they never so great) so that a man can hardly discern the true from the counterfeit. This, Maternus imagined would be a fit time to colour his treason, & to act his Design, which was, to arm himself and his Followers, in all points, like the Emperor's Guard: whereby they might thrust in among the Spears and Halberds, as part of his train, and suddenly dispatch him, ere any were ware. With this purpose he privily entr●d the City with a select Troop; but some of his companions disdaining that their Fellow-thiefe should 
He is detected by his fellows and executed.  become their Prince and Sovereign, discovered all to the Emperor: whereupon before the solemnity, this king of Rakehell's and his Complices, were apprehended and executed according to their demerits. Commodus having sacrificed and rendered thankes and supplications to the Goddess, for his deliverance, kept her holiday with great devotion, honouring the Show with his own presence, which made all the people so glad, that they celebrated the day with great joy, for the Emperor's safety.   

The Reason why the Romans have this Goddess in such high veneration, I have thought good to declare out of their Histories, because it is not commonly known to the Greeks'.  
THey say, that her Image 
The History of the chief Roman Goddess.  was let fall by jove, and that it is unknown who made it, or what it is made of; and they firmly believe it is no humane handiwork. The tradition is, that it fell in old time from Heaven, into a Field of Phrygia, called Pessinus, by occasion of that fall of the Image (it being there first discovered.) Others report, that a Battle was there fought betwixt Ilus the Phrygian, & Tantalus a Lydian, the Quarrel being, either about a way, or for the stealing away of Ganymede: and when they had long fought on even terms, and many were slain on both sides, the Place had that name of the great Slaughter there made. There likewise they say, that while Ganymedes brother strove to rescue him from his Lover, he was pulled in pieces betwixt them: but to salve the matter, it was given out, that jove took him from them both; whereupon he had divine honour ascribed to him. In this 
* See plinl. 5. c. 32.  Pessinus the Phrygians in old time celebrated their Orgia upon the banks of the River 
* Of which river whosoever drank, became so m●d, that he gelded himself  Gallus (whence the gelded Priests of the Goddess, are called Galli.) But when the Roman State began to flourish, the Oracle telling them that their Empire should continue and overtop all others, if they could get among them the Goddess of Pessinus, they dispatched Ambassadors into Phrygia, to desire the Goddesses Image, which was easily granted them, because they alleged that they were their cousIns of the whole blood, and descended of Aeneas the Phrygian. When the Image was brought by Ship to the mouth of Tiber (which was then the only Port the Romans had) suddenly by some divine power the Ship stood still, and could not be moved with all the haling or pulling of the Romans. At last a Vestal Nunnne, that was falsely accused to have lost her Virginity (which she had vowed to keep inviolate) fearing she should be condemned, besought the people to make the Goddess Pessinuntia her judge: which being admitted, she untied her Girdle, and prayed in the hearing of all, that if the Goddess knew her to be a Virgin immaculate she would command the Ship to remove. Then tying her Girdle to the Ship, she pulled, and it followed her: the Romans admiring both the Divinity of the Goddess, and the virginity of the Priestesse. And thus much of the Story of the Goddess Pessinuntia; which though it be somewhat long, yet I trust will not be unpleasIng to them that are not versed in Roman Antiquities.  
Commodus having escaped the Treason of Maternus, doubled his Guards, came seldom abroad, retired himself to his Houses of Pleasure in the Suburbs, or to his Manors fare from the City, and gave over all Exercise of Imperial lurisdiction.  
It happened about the same time, that all Italy was infested with a furious Pestilence, but especially the City of Rome, which 
A Plague at Rome.  of itself was wonderful populous, and had (besides) a great number of strangers in it, that resorted thither from all parts of the World. By reason of which Confluence, there was a strange Mortality of Men and Beasts. Then was Commodus persuaded by his Physicians, to retire to Laurentum, which had a more cool and temperate air, and many shady groves of Laurel (from whence it took the name.) For they said, that the sweet smell and pleasant shade of 
* Of Antidotes against the Plague, and groves of Bays, See L. S. Al●ans Natural History, Centur. 10. Experiment 913. and 936.  Bay-trees, did much avail against the Contagion: For which purpose also, the Citizens (by advice of Physicians) anointed their Ears and Nostrils with precious Ointments, and continually used Perfumes and sweet Odoraments, that their senses (as they said) being prepossessed, the infected Air might not enter, or if it did might be overmastered. But notwithstanding, the Plague still raged, and Men and Beasts were every where found dead, on heaps: There was also a grievous 
A Famine at Rome.  Famine in the City, upon this occasion: One Cleander a Phrygian, having been publicly sold for a Slave by the common Crier, became the Emperor's Page: and being bred in 
Cleander a Favourite.  the Court, grew at last into such favour with 〈…〉 preferred him to gre 〈…〉 Honour and Authority, as first to b●● Squire of the Body, then Gentlem●n of his Bedchamber, lastly, Captain of the Guard. This fellow was so puff● up with pride and too much rankness of prosperity, that he also had a mind to the Empire. And having got a huge Mass of Treasure, he monopolised and ingrossed great store of Corn, 
His treason  which he had locked in Granaries; intending when the City was pinched with want, suddenly to win the good wills of the Commons and Soldiers with magnificent Donatives. He also erected a stately 
* An Act●vity-Co 〈…〉.  Gymnasium, and a public Bath. These were his baits to catch the people.  
But the Romans having long borne him a grudge, and ha●ed him for his insatiable Avarice; said that he was the only cause of their Calamities. And first they publicly traduced him in 
He is generally hated.  the theatres: but at last, all in general ran to the Emperor's Palace in the Suburbs, crying out against Cleander, and demanding justice upon him. All the Suburbs being in an uproar, while Commodus lay wantonizing in the innermost rooms, and knew not of the tumult without (for Cleander looked to that) on a sudden (ere any witted) there rushed among the people the Emperor's armed Horsemen; who by Cleander's command, wounded and 
He arms the Soldiers against the Commons.  overthrew all afore them. The Citizens being all Footmen, and unarmed, were not able to resist: Whereupon they fied amain into the City, but being followed by the Corners of Horse, great numbers were slain and trampled under the Horse-feets, or thronged to death: for the Lanciers pursuing them to the Gates (without any stay) killed them outright. The Citizens which kept home, understanding what slaughter was made of their friends and neighbours, shut their doors, and from their Housetops threw Stones and Tiles at the Horsemen. And now the Commons had the better: for, not fight hand to hand, but darting and throwing every where aloft (out of their reach) they wounded many of them, and put them to flight: some were slain by the continual throwing of stones; others were thrown to the ground by their Horses, which stumbled on the Stones that lay on heaps.  
Also the Bands of Foot, which were billeted in the City, and hated the Horse-troops, suddenly came to the aid of the Citizens. A civil War being thus begun, yet durst none tell Commodus, for fear of Cleander. At last, Fadilla (his 
Fadilla Commodus his sister.  eldest sister) running to the Emperor (for they could not deny access to her) with her hair dishevild, and in mourning weeds, prostrated herself at his feet, and said; Your Majesty 
She detects Cleander.  here pursues your pleasures, and little know in what danger you are. We your flesh and blood are ready to be slaughtered. Your City of Rome, and a great part of your Army is overthrown; and those outrages which Barbarians would not offer, your own servants have acted; yea they, on whom you have heaped greatest Honours, are your chiefest enemies: Cleander hath armed the Commons, and Soldiers against you; and being hated of one sort, and loved of the other; both sides are up in Arms, and are now killing one another, and filling the City with blood. And we anon shall smart for this Gear, unless you presently make an end of that your wicked Servant, who is the Author of all this mischief, and will instantly be your ruin. Having thus said she rend her garment and diverse there present, taking heart at the words of so great a Lady, put Commodus into a terrible fright. And now fearing the instant danger, he sends hastily for Cleander, who knew nothing of what was told the Emperor, but suspected somewhat. Being come, he commands him to be arrested; and having struck off his head, and fastened it to a Spears point, he sent it to the Commons; to whom it was a most pleasant and welcome Spectacle.  
Thus was that bloody broil extinguished, and the fight on both sides ceased. For the Soldiers seeing him slain, in whose quarrel they fought, feared the Emperor's displeasure: for it was now apparent that he was abused, and that what was done, was without his warrant. But the Commons were well satisfied with his death, that was the cause of all the mischief: And now Cleander's two Sons (all the children he had) and all that had been his Flies and Familiars, were murdered, to a man; whose carcases were dragged through the City in most opprobrious sort, and lastly, thrown into the jakes. This was the fatal end of Cleander, and his Complices: Humanity (as I may say) having ambitiously showed in one man, that as Fortune can upon small occasion, raise from low degree, to high dignity; so in unexpected manner, She can likewise praecipitate whom she hath advanced.  
Commodus being now afraid, left the Commons would rise, and attempt some new matter against him; was persuaded notwithstanding by his Courtiers, to enter the City: where being received by the People with great Applause and Magnificence, he reposed himself in the Imperial Palace. And now having passed so many sharp Pikes, he wa● jealous of every one, killing first one, and 
Commodus his Cruelty 〈…〉 ●re●●●ity.  then another; for he gave creditto all 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Accusations, though never so false. Moreover, he was so enslaved to sundry sensual pleasures, which took him up wholly day and night, that he abandoned all honourable Studies and Exercises, and banished from his Court, as infidious Persons, all that had the least measure of Honesty or Learning. But Buffoons and Debauched Miscreants, were (as his chief Minions) most powerful with him. He was excessively given to Coach-races, and fight with wild Beasts: more than became the modesty or Majesty of a Sovereign Prince: yet his Flatterers extolled him as a brave Champion, for those Feats. 
〈…〉.   
At this time there appeared in the sky diverse fearful signs. Stars were seen continually in the Daytime, and blazing Comets of a huge length, hanged (as it were) in the midst of the air. All sorts of Creatures contrary to kind, brought forth monstrous and deformed births. But that which most grievously afflicted the City for the present, and amazed them with the ominous Presage, was this most hideous disaster; that the Temple of Peace (the stateliest and daintiest Monument of Rome) was on a sudden, without any Storm or Tempest preceding (but only a little Earthquake) quite burnt to the ground: whether by lightning, or fire (which might burst out, by the shaking of the Earth) is uncertain. That Temple was the richest of all other, because of its strength; being ●uriously adorned with 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Don rises, of Massive Gold and Silver: yea, every person of Quality, had stored there his principal treasure. But the fire happening in the night, made many rich men poor. All therefore deplored the public, and every one his private loss. When the fire had consumed 
Rome fired.  that Temple, it burned also many of the most beautiful buildings of the Cirie: among which was the goodly Fane of Vesta; insomuch that the Image of 
* The Pall●dium; the sacred ●ire, etc. ●ere in the V●●●alls Charge. L. ●l●●. l. 1. ●. 2.  Pallas, which the Romans kept in secret and sacred veneration, and was brought (as they say) from Troy into Italy, was now first seen in public: For the Vestal Virgins carried it through the Sacred Street, and conveyed it into the Emperor's Palace. Most of the fairest Pieces in all the City, perished in these flames, which raged many days together, and could not be quenched but with sudden showers which fell: whereupon, it was wholly reputed a Celestial Work; all men being fully persuaded, that the fire began and ended by the Decree and Power of the gods. Divers also conjectured that the burning of the Temple of Peace was a Prognosticke of Wars to ensue: which Conceit was verified by the sequel, as in the succeeding books we shall declare.  
The Roman Citizens being thus surrounded with direful mis-haps (one in the neck of another) begaune to look sour upon Commodus; imputing all their miseries to his illegal Executions and dismal Deeds: For his Excesses were notoriously known to all; neither did he seek to veil them: being ambitious to exhibit in public those base things which he formerly acted in secret. 
Commodus his prodigious vanity.  Yea to such drunken dotage he was now grown, that he refused his Father's name, commanding himself, in stead of Commodus the Son of Marcus, to be styled Hercules the Son of jupiter: and accordingly he forsook the Roman and Imperial Habit; and in stead thereof, thrust himself into a Lion's skin, and carried a great Club in his hand; and (which made him extremely ridiculous) he put on also purple Amazonian Robes, embroidered with Gold; expressing in one and the same Garb, a Feminine Delicacy, and a more than Masculine Austerity. This was his daily Attire. He gave also new names to the Months of the Year, abolishing the old, and calling them after his own 
“ As August, Commodus: September, Herculeus: December, Amazonius  Surnames: most whereof, referred to Hercules, as to the most valorous Heroë. Further he commanded his Statues to be erected in all parts of the City, and One before the Senate-house, in form of an Archer ready to shoot; to the end his very Images might strike a terror into the beholders. But after his Death, the Senate took it away, and placed there the Image of 
“ A Goddess among the Romans.  Liberty. And now could not Commodus any longer contain, but needs must he make himself an Actor in public Shows: proclaiming that he would with his own hands kill the Wild Beasts that should be presented, and likewise fight at sharp with the bravest Swordmen. When this strange News was blazed abroad, there flocked innumerable people out of Italy, and the Countries adjoining, to see that spectacle which they never saw, nor heard of the like before. For he was generally reputed 
Commodus an excellent Darter and Archer.  such an excellent Marksman, as, whatsoever he aimed at, he could hit with Dart or Arrow: and though he had about him most expert Parthian Archers, and Numidian Darters, yet he fare exceeded them all.  
When the day of that grand Solemnity was come, the Amphitheatre was thronged with Spectators. Now there was a Terrace set up for Commodus; wherein to run round about it; and thence fight (aloft) with the Beasts, without endangering his person (which shown rather his skill in Shooting, than his Valour.) He slew in Chase, Bucks, Does, and other horned Beasts (except Bulls) not one escaping him: But from the Terrace he darted at Lions, Panthers, and other of the Nobler sort of Beasts, with that rare dexterity, as that he never threw the second time, nor gave them any wound but was mortal. For when the Beast was roused, he presently hit it in the Head or Heart, aiming at no other part of the body; so that as soon as it was struck, it fell dead. For this purpose, all kind of wild beasts were brought fare and near; and then did we first see those, which before we admired in their pictures. Thus did he (to the Amazement of all) at once both show and slay whatsoever strange beast was brought from India, Aethiopia, North or South; so steady and ready a hand he had at his Weapon, to the Astonishment of all men.  
Once did he shoot Forked Arrows at Moresco Estriges, which were wonderful swift of foot, using their Wings as Sails in running. These did he hit so pat in the neck, that their heads being struck off, they ran awhile 
* See the reason her● of, in that noble L. of S. Alban, Nat Hist. Cent. 4. Exp. ult.  headless, so furious was the blow.  
Another time, a Panther having seized a man (that was brought into the Lists) with such vehement speed, that all made account she would instantly tear him in pieces; he darted at her with such lucky speed, as that he killed the beast and saved the man, preventing the dint of her teeth, with the point of his Weapon. He slew also 100 Lions with so many Darts; their bodies falling in such order, that they might easily be numbered (not one Dart miscarrying.)  
These Feats of Activity, though unbeseeming a Prince, yet because they were proofs of his Valour and Dexterity, were not unpleasing to the people. But when he entered the Amphitheatre naked, and began to play the Gladiator; O 
Commodus plays the Fencer.  it was a direful sight to see a most nobly descended Emperor, after so many Trophies of his Father and Ancestors, not to fight like a Soldier against Barbarians, nor to arm himself like a Roman Prince, but to prostitute so glorious a Dignity to so sordid a profession. He easily vanquished his Antagonists, and attempted no further than to draw blood; every one yielding him the Mastery; as acknowledging him rather an Emperor than a Fencer. In this mad humour he ranged so fare, as that he purposed to forsake his Palace, and live in a Fence-school: and now being weary of the Name of Hercules, he assumed the Name of a famous Swordplayer, deceased. And whereas the Romans had the Colossus or Image of the Sun in great veneration, he took the head from it, and set on another, representing his own; inscribing in the Basis, not his Father's Titles, or any Imperial Style (as he was wont) but in stead of Germanicus [or Conqueror of Germany] The Vanquisher of a thousand Gladiators.  
But now was it high time for him to leave his Foolery, and the City to be freed from his tyranny; which fell out in the beginning of the year, on that day which the Romans keep holy to janus the most ancient 
janus' his Feast.  God of Italy, who entertained Saturn, expelled by his son jupiter; from who●e concealment, it had the name of Latium. Wherefore to this day they first celebrate the Feast of Saturn, and then of janus: whose Image hath two heads; alluding to the beginning of the new, and end of the old year. Now whereas the Romans were wont on this prime Festivity, to congratulate each other, and 
Newyeresgifts.  to send to their friends pieces of Gold and Silver, and diverse other gifts interchangeably, in token of mutual love and observance and the chief Magistrates of the City vested themselves in rich Purple, in honour of that great Solemnity; Commodus then determined to issue forth, not out of the Imperial Palace (according to the ancient custom) but out of a Fenceschoole; and to show himself openly to the people, not in his Robes and Princely Purple, but armed like a Master of Defence, with a train of Gladiators following him.  
This his determination, when 
Marcia Commodus his Concubine.  he had imparted to Marcia his most honoured Concubine, who as if she were his married Wife, had all the honours of Empress, except that of FIRE; She fell down on her knees, and besought him with tears, not to profane the Majesty of the Roman Empire in that sort, nor to hazard his person among such lewd and desperate Ruffians. But when after much entreaty, she saw there was no hope of prevailing, she went away weeping. Then he sends for Latus, the General of his Armies, and Electus his Chamberlain, and commands them to prepare a lodging for him that night in the Fence▪ school, that he might the next morning go from thence to sacrifice on that solemn Festival, and show himself in Arms to the Romans. They humbly desired him to desist from that purpose, and not to do an act so unworthy an Emperor: whereupon, in great rage he commands them out of his presence; and retiring into his bedchamber, to repose himself at Noon (as he was wont) he took his Table-book, and writ down those which he doomed to death that night. Among which, were Marcia, Latus, Electus, and a great number of Nobles, and Senators; for he was fully resolved to cut off all the ancient Councillors, and others, which were his Father's friends; lest his black deeds should be checked by their grave centures; intending to divide their Goods and Estates among the sould●ers & Sword-players; that the one sort might defend him, the other delight him. Having thus done, he laid his Table book on the Pallet, not imagining that any would enter his Chamber. Now there was a little Boy that could scarce speak; such as those, which being half naked, are decked with gold and precious stones; and are the ●●●ysest delights of the noble●● Romans. This boy 〈…〉 〈…〉 dus so extremely 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  love, 〈…〉 oft l●y in 〈…〉 〈…〉 hi●, and w 〈…〉 Ph●lo-Commodus, that 
Ph●lo-Commodus.  is, Commodus h●s D●iling; his name she wing how he loved him. The child being fuli of play, went (as he usually did) into the Bedchamber (while Commodus was bathing and revelling with his Minions) and taking the Book to play with, went forth, and as some Divine Power ordained, Marcia met him; and catching him up in her arms and kissing him (for she dear loved him) took the book from him; fearing l●st by his childish dalliance, he might blot out some matters of weight. As soon as she perceived it was Commodus own hand, she had a great appetite to read it, But when she found the deadly Contents, and that she before all others was to be slaughtered, and that Laetus and Electus were to follow, with such a number of noble persons, she sighed and said thus to herself: Is it so, Commodus? 
Marcia and others conspire the Emperor's death.  do you thus reward my love? Have I deserved this at your hands, for enduring your ignoble and debauched conditions so many years? You shall find that a sober woman is able to dash your drunken Designs. Immediately she sends for Electus (as she was wont) in regard he was Lord Chamberlain; who (as it was thought) was overfamiliar with her; and giving him the book, said; See (Electus) what a banquet we are to have this night. He, as soon as he read it, being amazed (now he was an Egyptian borne, a bold and daring fellow, and very choleric) sealed up the book, and sent it forthwith by a trusty messenger to Laetus; who being likewise startled, instantly repaired to Marcia, pretending he was to speak with her about dressing the Fence school for the Emperor. Under this colour they resolved that now they must instantly do or suffer without delay or procra●ination. They concluded to dispatch him by poison, which Marcia undertook to effect very easily, in that she still used to give him the first Cup, which from her hand he would take most kindly. As soon as he returned from his baths, she presented him a poisoned Cup of Aromatical Wine. Commodus being exceeding thirsty with much bathing and chase of wild beasts, quaffs it off as he was wont. Whereupon his head being very heavy, he fell into a slumber, by reason of his vehement exercise (as was supposed.) Wherefore Electus and Marcia commanded all to be gone and departed the Court, lest they disturbed his rest. Thus was it ever with him in his drunken fits: for when he bathed or banqueted, he had no set times of Repose: being ever distracted with several sorts of pleasures, which still enthralled him. Having rested 
Commodus poisoned and strangled.  a while, and the poison now working in his stomach and belly, his head grew light, and now he fell a vomiting extremely; either by reason he had formerly over-glutted himself with feasting, and carousing (which might haply expel the poison;) or else because he used (as Princes do) to take some antidote to prevent poison. When he had long vomited, the conspirators fearing, lest disgorging all the poison, he should come to himself, and put them all to the sword, they promised a great reward to o●e Na●c●ssus a tall desperate youth, to strangle him as he lay. And this was Commodus end, having reigned 13 years after his Father's decease; the most Nobly-descended of all the Emperors before him, and the goodliest person of his time. And to speak of his dexterity in Darting, inferior to none. But he b●spurtled his life with foul Vices and ignoble Exercises, as hath been declared.    

HERODIAN HIS IMPERIAL HISTORY. The second Book.  
The Contents.  
PErtinax his description. His magnanimity. His worthy esteem. Laetus▪ his Speech to the Army, Pertinax proclaimed Emperor, and confirmed by the Senate. His Speech to the Senators. His rare Government. Embassies congratulatory. Pertinax a Father to the Commons. Informers punished. Pertinax his love to Learning. The Pretorians mutiny. His Speech to them. He is murdered, and extremely lamented. Pretorians make Port-sale of the Empire. julian buys it. The Commons curse him. He is debauched. Niger commended. His Policy to get the Empire. Stageplays and Revels. Nigers' Speech. He is elected Emperor, and visited by Ambassadors. His Security and Error. Severus described. His strange Dream. His deppe Policy. He is elected Emperor. His Speech. His Expedition to Rome. Italy surprised. julian amazed. Alps. Elephants trained. Severus his Stratagem. julian deserted and slain. Severus takes the Pretorians by a train. His Speech to them. They are degraded. He enters Rome. He courts the Commons and Nobles. His warlike Preparation against Niger. He fears the Britan's. Their Elegy. Albinus their Governor. He is declared Caesar by Severus. Herodian writes a History of 70 years.  
COMMODUS being 
* In the Night.  slain as hath been related in the former book) the Conspirators (careful to conceal the Fact from the Soldiers which watched the Emperor's Palace) caused his Corpse to be wrapped and wound up in a course Coverlet, and gave order to two of their trustiest Servants to carry it forth, as some void stuff sent out of the Bedchamber. They which conveyed it away, passed easily thorough the Guards, which were either so drunk or drowsy, that they could scarce hold their Halberds; or else gave small heed to that, which (they thought) little concerned them. Thus was the Emperor's Corpse closely carried out of the Court Gates, and sent (by Coach) that night to Arisl●um.  
Laetus, Electus, and Marcia, having debated what was best to be done, resolved to give out, that he died suddenly of an Apoplexy; which they thought would easily be credited, his excessive Epicurism and Intemperance being so vulgarly known. But their first care was, to elect for Emperor some ancient and temperate man, both for their own safety, and that all might have a breathing time, after so bitter and wanton a Tyranny.  
After consultation, they held 
Pertinax his description.  none so fit as Pertinax, who was an Italian borne, famous for many noble acts in Peace and War, and renowned for many victories over the Germane and Eastern Barbarians; and the only able man that was left of all those honourable persons which Commodus was recommended to by his Father Marcus, who reposed greatest confidence in him, above all his Nobles and Commanders; whom Commodus either revered for his Gravity, or spared for his Poverty: for that also was part of his praise, that whereas he took greatest pains in governing the State, yet he was the poorest of all the Nobility. To him therefore at midnight, when all were asleep, Laetus and Electus, with a ●ew others of that faction, address themselves; who finding the Gates shut, call up the Porter, who opening the Gate, and perceiving the Soldiers, and Laetus the General, ran in great affright and amazement to tell his Master, Pertinax bids him bring them to him, saying, that now that mischief would betide him, which he had long expected. They say, that such 
〈…〉  was his undaunted spirit, that he neither forsook his bed, nor changed his countenance, but with a bold courage, and unappalled visage, spoke thus to Laetus and Electus (whom he supposed to be sent to murder him:) This indeed is the end that every night I have a long while expected, being the last of all his Father's friends; and I have oft wondered that Commodus was so slow to dispatch me. Why then forbear ye? Do as you are commanded, that I may be rid from continual fear and anxiety. Laetus replied: Speak no further of these things, which are so fare beneath your merit: Our coming is not for your destruction, but for the safety of ourselves and the Roman Empire▪ For the Tyrant is dead, and hath his due reward, having suffered that which he intended to inflict on us. Our coming therefore is to invest you in the Empire, 
His worthy 〈…〉  whom of all the Nobility we know to be, for Virtue, Authority, Age, and Gravity, most loved and honoured by the people; not doubting, but this our choice w●ll be acceptable to them, and most safe for us. Pertinax answered; I am too old to be deluded in this sort. Why do you offer to abuse me as a Coward, and so to slay me? Then said Electus; Since you will not credit us, read this Book (you know Commod●s his hand, having been so long used to it) and then you shall perceive what danger we have escaped, and that we speak not this to try you, but truly to inform you. Which when Pertinax had done, knowing them also to be his ancient friends, and understanding all the business, he yielded himself to their dispose. First than it was thought fit to send to the Army, to know how the Soldiers would take it: but Laetus undertook to get their goodwill, being their General, and therefore of some authority with them. Wherefore the night being fare spent, and the next day the Feast of the New-yeare, they hastened to do all before it were day. They sent also some of their trustiest servants, to disperse the news of Commodus death, and Pertinax his going to the Army to be made Emperor. Which when it was divulged in the City, all the people in an ecstasy of joy, ran through the streets to bring the happy tidings to their friends that were of any note 
Who in greatest danger of Tyrants.  for wealth or worth; (for such were in greatest danger of Commodus.) Wherefore they ran to the Temples and Altars to give thankes to the Gods (for their deliverance.) And now some cried out, the Tyrant was dead; some, the Fencer; others, worse than all this: For that which before they durst not mutter for fear, they now proclaimed with impunity. But the most part of the people posted to the Army, being much afraid, lest the ruder Soldiers accustomed (under the former Tyranny) to ravine and spoil, would not admit for Emperor, so mild a Prince as Pertinax: which to the end to persuade them to, the more forcibly, they went thither in great numbers. Laetus, Electus, and Pertinax (with the multitude) being entered the Camp, and the Soldiers called together, Laetus spoke thus.  

Laetus his speech to the Army.  

Laetus his speech to the Army.  COmmodus our Emperor is dead of an Apoplexy. There is no other cause of his death but himself: and though we endeavoured to reclaim him to a better course of life, yet all was but lost labour: For carrying himself as you know he was wont, he hath killed himself with Gluttony and Drunkenness. This was his fatal destiny; for all die, not by the same means, but by different ways come to their common end. But in stead of him, We, and the people of Rome, here bring you a man venerable for Age; Gravity, and Integrity; and of approved skill in martial affairs, whose brave 
* Pertinax had done honourable service in Britain, and was therefore surnamed Britanni●●●.  exploits you which are Veterans, experimentally know; the rest cannot but acknowledge, that he hath these many years governed the City with singular honour and admiration. Fortune doth therefore tender you not only a Prince, but a Parent most indulgent: whose government, as it will be pleasing to yourselves here present, so it must needs be acceptable to your fellows in Arms, which guard the banks of the Rivers, and defend the Marches of the Empire; in regard they well remember his noble acts. And now we shall not need to win the Barbarians with money; who will be sufficiently awed with the experience of what they suffered under his victorious Arms.   
Laetus having thus said, while the Soldiers paused, and were demurring on the business; all the people with joyful Acclamations, proclaimed Pertinax Emperor and Father of their Country. So also did the Soldiers, though not with the same Alacrity: for the Multitude being every where mixed among them who were unarmed because it was Holiday, did after a sort constrain them to it, being but few (in comparison of them.) All therefore having sworn Fealty to him, and been present at the Sacrifice, the Soldiers and Commons with Laurel branches in their hands, conduct him ere it was Daylight, to the Imperial Palace: whither being come, he was exceeding pensive. For though he wanted neither spirit nor resolution, yet did the present action much distract and dismay him; not that he doubted so much his own safety (for he had despised greater perils) but considering with himself the sudden Change of the Tyrannical Government, and the Noble descent of some chief Senators; he supposed they would not suffer the Empire to be invested in a man of a mean and obscure Family, after an Emperor of so Princely a Lineage. For though his Life was much commended for his temperate carriage, and for deeds of Arms he were most famous; yet was he fare exceeded in birth by many of the Senatorian Order. Wherefore as soon as it was Daylight, he went to the Senate-house, not suffering Fire to be carried before him, nor admitting any other Symbol of Sovereignty, till he knew the pleasure of the Senators: but they, when they saw him, did with one accord joyfully receive him, styling him Augustus and Emperor. Which high and envious Title (as he termed it) he disavowed at first, excusing himself, by reason of his Age, and desiring them to pass by him, and elect some of the prime Nobility, which might better beseem the Empire. Then taking Glabrio by the hand, and 
Glabrio a noble Roman.  pulling him forth, he placed him in the Imperial Throne; He was the most Nobly descended of all the Peers, and derived his Pedigree from Aeneas, son to Venus and Anchises, and had been twice Consul. Notwithstanding he spoke thus; I whom you judge most worthy, do here render you this Princely honour; yea, all this noble Assembly adjudges you the Sovereign Rule. Whereupon 
Pertinax confirmed by the Senate.  being irrresistably importuned, and almost compelled by the Senate; after much reluctation, he seated himself in the Chair of Estate, and spoke as followeth.  

Pertinax his Speech to the Senators.  
YOur singular Zeal, and incomparable Love, in preferring me before so many excellent Peers, being so fare from the least suspicion of flattery, that it is a pregnant proof, and clear demonstration of your Fidelity; might haply make some other more bold and cheerful to accept this Offer; and to imagine, he might easily undertake so great a Charge, that should be supported with your Friendship. ●ut these rare and high ●avours amaze me with their very sublimity; at the sight whereof, I am extremely intimidated. For it is no easy m●tter for a man, condignly to requite great Benefits. Among Friends, if greater Courtesies be returned▪ than were exhibited; not so much the Gratuity itself as the Gratitude is respected. But when a man's Friend hath (first) obliged him by signal Offices; if he show not all vicissitudinary Expressions of a thankful Heart, it may well be thought to proceed rather from blockish Dullness, and brutish Ingratitude, than any other defect. I see therefore what a hard Task I shall undergo, to render myself worthy of this great Henour, which you have conferred upon me. For the Glory of Sovereignty consists not in a 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  chair of State, but in such royal Arts as are well-beseeming a Prince. Look how much Men abhor the Evilis which are done and passed, so much more are they apt to hope for better times Great Injuries are ever remembered▪ and 
Injuries and Benefits.  Grievances are very rarely forgot: but Good turns perish as soon as they are done, together ●ith their Memory. Thus are we not so sensible of the sweetness of Liberty, as of the bitterness of Bondage and Slavery Nor do men take it as a Courtesy, that they may securely enjoy their own; For that, they hold, belongs to them as their proper right: But he that that is spoilt of his Good●o. Fortunes, can never forget so heinous a Wrong. Neither do men much esteem the best Change that can happen for the public Good (for common Benefits are little regarded of private persons.) But if they be d●mnifyed in their own particular estates, th●n are they touched to the quick. Moreover, they which have been used to▪ the profuse Prodigality of Tyrants, if a man go about to reduce them (when Money fails) to a more frugal and regular course, they will be ready to impute it rather to miserable baseness, than prudent moderation: not considering, that such excessive Donatives (as heretofore) cannot be given without Oppression and Rapine. But he that with Discretion gives to every one according to his Merit, is so fare from despoiling others unjustly, that he teaches all (by his Example) to be provident Husbands. These things if you take into consideration; you will (I trust) lend me your helping hands, and assist me in the Administration of the Empire: for seeing you are not like to live under a Tyranny, but rather an optimacy, you have Cause to hope well, and persuade others also to the like Confidence.   
Pertinax having with this speech exceedingly cheered the Senators, was with general acclamations, and great honour and reverence, conducted to the Temple of jove and the other Gods, where having sacrificed for his good success in the Empire, he went to the Imperial Palace.  
When it was voiced, how graciously he had spoken to the Senate and written to the Commons, all men were infinitely pleased; hoping that now they should have a worthy and temperate 
Pertinax his rare government.  Governor, and a Father rather than an Emperor. For he made an Edict, that the soldiers should no more wrong the Commoners, nor abuse any Passengers; intending to plant every where good order and civility. When he went abroad, or sat in judicature, he shown what a me●ke and sweet spirit he had. And by his zealous imitation of Marcus his Government, he did exceedingly content the elder sort, and attract the Affections of all, who being delivered from the cruel Thraldom of Tyranny, lived now in great peace and security.  
The fame of his Princely virtues, moved the Nations, Armies, and Confederate● of the Roman Empire to Deifi● him. Yea, the Barbarians which had revolted, o● purposed to rebel, overawed with the Remembrance of his Military Virtue in former times; and calling to mind his singular Integrity, justice, and Clemency, did willingly sub●it themselves unto 
Ambassadors.  him. Ambassadors also came from all pa●ts, to congratulate the Romans, for so Nobly qualifyed an Emperor.  
But that, which was such a general Rejoicement, was much 
The Pret●ri●ns Malign him.  resented by the soldiers in Rome which were the ordinary Guard of the Emperor. For being forbidden rapine & outrage, and recalled to a civil & regular form of life by the Emperor's Edict, they reputed his mild & moderate government to tend to their great Dishonour and Disparagement: and because it bridled their licentiousness, they resolved not to endure it. For a while, they did but grudge and grumble at his Commands; but at last, when he had not yet reigned two months (having given pregnant hopes, in that shorttime, of many excellent good acts) the malignity of Fortune overthrew all, and quite dashed his noble & admirable designs for advancement of the Weal public. For be first enacted that all the waste Ground 
Pe●tinax a Father to the Commons'.  in Italy, and other Countries (though of the Prince's demesne) should be planted and improved and freely given to them that would cultivate and manure it: to which purpose, he granted to Husbandmen, ten year's immunity from all Taxes, and security from all further Trouble during his Reign. As for the peculiar Goods of the Emperors, he permitted not his name to be stamped on them; saying, that the Propriety thereof pertained not to the Emperor, but to the Roman State in general. He released all Tolls and Imposts exacted in the time of Tyranny, at the Banks of Rivers, Ports of Cities, Highways, and Rhodes; asserting them to their ancient Freedom. Many the like good Deeds he intended; which shown his firm Resolution to benefit his Subjects. 
Informers p●●isht.  He banished Informers out of the City, and commanded them to be punished where ever they were found, to the end none might be endangered or ruinated by their forged Criminations. Hereupon the Nobility and Commonalty promised to themselves an assured happy Estate. For he was so moderate and 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  fellowlike, that he would not admit his son, a young Youth, into the Court, but caused him to live a private life. He frequented 
Pertinax love to learning.  the public Schools and Lectures, repairing also to the usual Places of Exercise, where he demeaned himself as an ordinary man, without any Princely pomp or State.  
Pertinax thus ruling with singular good order and decency, the Praetorian Soldiers (not enduring to be restrained any longer from their accustomed rapines and outrages) consulted and agreed (at a drunken Feast) to make him away (who was so great a grievance to them) and to substitute another that would impatronize their lawless and licentious misdemeanours. Whereupon, on a sudden, no man suspecting any tumult (for all lived in peace) in a great fury and Brutish rage they hurry at Noonday (in a 
The Praetorians mutiny.  Military March) with drawn Swords, and Pikes advanced, to the Emperor's Palace: where the Courtiers and Officers of State, affrighted with that sudden and unexpected Alarm, and not able (being few and unarmed) to resist so many men at Arms, forsook their several charges within the Verge of the Court, and fled. Howbeit, some few that were well affected told Pertinax of the Soldier's Mutiny; persuading him to avoid them by flight, and to desire the people's aid. But albeit he knew it were a safe course to follow their counsel, yet holding it an extreme Indecorum, derogatory to Imperial Majesty, and unworthy his former glory, to fly, or conceal himself; he resolved to affront the danger, hoping he should persuade them, and appease their causeless Commotion. Going therefore out of his Chamber, he met them, and asked the reason of that sudden Impression; dissuading them, without any show of amazement: For, composing himself in a grave and venerable fashion, suitable to his Princely 
〈…〉.  State, without any sign of submission, fear, or entreaty, he spoke thus.  

Pertinax his speech to the Praetorian Soldiers.  
IF you take away my life, it will be no great matter of gain to you, or loss to me, being arrived to this Age, with so much honour. For this humane life must of necessity determine at last. But if you, to whom the preservation of your Prince is concredited, and which, by your oath, are to guard his Person, should be the first that marther him, and so pollute yourselves with spilling your Countrey-mans and Emperors blood; (it were in present) a fact most heinous; and might prove (in future) no less dangerous to yourselves. My conscience tells me, I have not wronged you at all. If you are sorry for Commodus death, it was no strange thing for a man to die: but if you think he was made away by treason, it was none of my fault: For you know, I was not so much as suspected with it, but was altogether as ignorant as yourselves of what was then done. The suspicion (if any be) must light upon others. And though he be dead, yet shall you want nothing which is agreeable to reason and your estate, and not clogged with violence and ravine.   
With this speech diverse of 
The like effect of Majesty in Q 〈…〉 as, see in lo●t●● lib. 14.  them were persuaded, and many retreated, being daunted with the Reverend Majesty of their Prince: but others flew upon him and slew the old Emperor 
He is murdered.  while he yet spoke, which exec 〈…〉 act as soon as they had done, purposing to decline the f●●y of the multitude, who (th●y knew) would take it most grievously, they ran to their Camp; where immuring themselves, they placed Armed men on the Battlements, to keep the people from the Wals. This end had that renowned Pertinax.  
When this Massacre of the Prince was divulged, all places were full of uproars, and doleful Outcries; the people ran up and down like frantics, 
And extremely lamented.  in a great hurly burly; searching for the Actors, and not wotting where to find them, or how to be revenged on them: but especially the Lords and Senators took it most to heart, as a common calamity, wanting now their indulgent Father, and most gracious Governor: all men fearing a relapse into Tyranny; which they knew, the Soldiers so much delighted in. After a day or two, the people were calmed with their own fears, and the chief Nobles and Magistrates retired to their remotest country houses, avoiding the danger that might ensue, by being present at the election of the next Successor.  
The Soldiers perceiving that the people were quiet, and that none durst undertake to revenge the Prince's death; kept themselves close within the Camp, appointing those that could speak loudest, to proclaim from the top of the Wall, that the Empire was to be sold, and he 
The Empire se● to sale.  that would give most Silver for it, should be invested in it, by force of Arms; and safely conducted to the Imperial Palace. When they had made this Outcry, none of the worthier or nobler sort of the Lords or Senators, nor yet any of those wealthy Citizens, which were the small remains of Commodus Tyranny, would go to the wall, to traffic with them, as scorning the Empire [OF THE 
The bravery of the Roma●●s spirit  WORLD] on such base and dishonourable terms.  
But when Indian, a man of Consular dignity, who was reputed a great moneyed man (but of little honesty) had notice late in the Evening, being at supper (in the midst of his cups and jollity) of the Soldier's Proclamation, he was persuaded by his wife and daughter, and a number of Parasites, to rise from his 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 (for the Romans sat not at Tables.)  Pallet, and hie him to the Wall, to see what was done. All the way as he went, they counselled him to lay hold on the Empire, now it was proffered; for having store of coin, he might easily outvie all, in magnificent Donatives, if there should be any competition. As soon therefore as he got to the Campewall, he shouted to them, promising to give whatsoever they desired: for he said, he had a mighty Mass of money, and Treasuries full of gold and silver.  
At that same instant, Sulpitian 
julian and Sulpitian offer for 〈…〉.  Provost of the City, who had also been Consul, and was Pertinaxes Father in law, came thither with an intent to buy the Empire. But the Soldiers were jealous of him, because of his alliance to Bertinax, mistrusting, he went about to entrap them, and to revenge his death. Wherefore rejecting him, they put down a Ladder, and t●ok● up julian to the top of the Wall, yet admitted him not into the Camp, till the sum he should give were agreed upon. Being entered the Camp, he promised to renew the memory, and restore the honours and Statues of Commodus▪ which the S●nate had abrogated; to afford them as much liberty, as ever they had under him; and to give to every Soldier, more silver than they demanded or expected, and that without delay, in regard he had it ready at home.  
The Soldiers alured with 
I●lian elected.  such fair Hopes, proclaimed julian Emperor, sirnaming him Commodus. Then slourishing their Ensigns (which they had garnished with his pictures) they resolved to bring him into the City. julian having sacrificed in the Camp (as new Emperors were wont) issued forth with a stronger Guard than formerly had been accustomed. For having forcibly seized the Sovereignty against the People's mind, by foul and shameful means, he might justly fear a Commotion. But the Soldiers arming themselves completely. put themselves in Battalia, that if need were, they might be ready to fight; placing their Emperor in the midst, and covering their heads 
* In form of a Testudo. Vid. Lips. de Milit. Rom.  with their Pikes and Targets, to prevent the People's throwing stones up on them from the Housetops (as they marched.) Thus they conducted him to the Palace, none of the Commons daring to resist, nor congratulating him (as was usual at the Election of Emperors.) But on the contrary, they stood a fare off, cursing and banning him for purchasing 
The Commons curse him.  the Empire with money.  
Here first of all, did the Soldiers fall into extremity of Debauchedness, and by their ravenous and insatiable Desire of Money, the Imperial Majesty was blasted with Contumely. For there being none to vindicate the cruel massacre of the former Prince, nor to withstand the base Brocage of the present Usurper; it was the chief cause of many Insolences and Mutinies which afterwards happened: their Greediness of Money, and Contempt of Sovereignty, still inducing Murder and Blood shed.  
julian having thus ravished the Empire, plunged himself presently into all Riot and Disorder, little regarding State business; being wholly devoted to an Unprincely and voluptuary life. And now it was discovered, that he had cogged, 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  and cheated the Soldiers; and was not able to keep up his Credit with them: for he had not so great store of Coin as he vaunted. As for the Exchequer, Commodus had long since exhausted it, with his vain luxury, and vast prodigality. The Soldiers therefore falling short of their hopes, were extremely offended with him, and the Commoners, who knew their minds, utterly scorned him; railing at him, when he came abroad, and taunting him for his lewd and lascivious behaviour. Yea, in the 
* The Circus (or Horse-race) was built in an Oval form of great length, with rows of Seats one above the other, able to contain above an hundred thousand Spectators. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Cirque or Race-yard (where was the greatest Concourse of people) they decried julian; calling upon Niger, the chiefest Officer of the sacred Empire, to vindicate the Roman State, and hasten to free them from that propudious Governor.  
This Niger had been Consul long before, & at that time was President of Syria, which was then the highest and most eminent Dignity in the Empire; for the Phaenician Nation, and all the Regions as far as Euphrates, were under his Command. He was now well stepped in years, and having gone through many weighty Affairs, had got a very high esteem for his Moderation and Sufficiency: and was reputed to imitate Pertinax; for which Cause the Romans did chiefly affect him. And now in all their Assemblies they still cried aloud for him; reproaching julian to his face, and universally calling upon Niger, with acclamations 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Imperial.  
When Niger understood the Romans inclination, and what Out cries they made for him in their ordinary meetings; considering withal, that julian was contemned by the Soldiery, for falsifying with them, and condemned by the communality, for his Mercenary Purchase; h●e persuaded himself that the business would easily be accommodated, and made no doubt of obtaining the Sovereignty. Wherefore imparting these Roman passages and intelligences to somefew Tribunes, 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Colonels, and Captains; he sent them home one after another, that these Airs might (by their relations) be dispersed among all the nations and Armies of the Orient: for by that course 
Nigers' Policy.  he assured himself, that all men would most readily incline to him, when they saw that he did not insidiously invade the Empire, but was wooed to accept it by the ardent votes, and humble suit of the Romans. And according to his expectation, they flocked to him from all parts, beseeching and importuning him to take upon him the Sovereign rule. Now the 
The Character of the Syrians.  people of Syria are naturally light, and prone to Innovations; and were infinitely devoted to Niger, both in regard he had ruled with singular Clemency, and had also entertained them with Shows and Interludes. 
Stageplays and Revels.  For the Syrians are by natural Inclination, great lovers of sports; insomuch, that the inhabitants of Antioch (a mighty and flourishing City) spend (in a manner) all the yea●e in sportive Recreations, either in the City or Suburbs. Thus Niger by continual cour●ing them with Balls, Masq●ies, Shows, and other pleasurable pastimes, had chained their affections to him. Which he well knowing, appointed all the Soldiers thereabouts, to come together at a day prefixed; What time a great number of people being likewise assembled, he thus spoke to them from a high Seat purposely erected.  

Niger's Speech to the Army, etc.  
With what a gentle hand I have ruled among you, and how circumspect and punctual I have been in undertaking Actions of great import; I suppose is well known to all here present. Neither have I here assembled you of my own head, out of ungrounded Hope or flattering Desire. But the Romans call upon me with incessant Clamours and Solicitations, to lend them my 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  helping hand, and not permit so ancient, excellent, and glorious an empire to be basely merchandized. Now as it were a high point of Folly and Presumption, to attempt so great an Enterprise, without just Occasion intituling: So to refuse to ●yd them which implore our help, might breed an imputation of Cowardice and Treachery. The reason therefore why I have convened you at this time, is to know your Mind; and what Course you think were best: being desirous of your Advices and Assistance in this weighty Affair; which if it prosper well, will redound to your benefit, as well as mine. Nor are they vain or mean Hopes which solicit us; but the Roman people, whom the Gods have made Lords of the World: and the Imperial Dignity, which is yet wavering and unsettled in the person of any man. Now the Certainty of this Design is apparent, both by the forwardness of them that crave our succour, and for that there is none to make Opposition or Resistance. For they which are come thence, assure us, that the Soldiers which sold the empire to the Usurper, are not like to stick to him, because he hath broke his Credit with them; and was not able indeed to perform his Bargain. Show therefore (I pray you) how you stand affected.   
At which Words, the whole Army proclaimed him Emperor 
Niger elected.  and Augustus. Then vesting him in Purple Robes, and other Royal Abiliments (as that sudden Preparation would afford) they conducted him (with Fire carried before him) first to the Temples of Antioch, and then to his own House; which now honouring as the Prince's Palace, they adorned on the Outside, with all Imperial Ornaments.  
Niger glad at his heart, of this good success, seeing the Romans and all others conspired to advance him, made no doubt of carrying the Sovereignty. When this News flew abroad, presently all the Nations bordering on Europe, willingly submitted to him: sending their 
Ambassadors.  Ambassadors to Antiech, as to their rightful Emperor. Also the Kings and Princes beyond Euphrates and Tigris, sent to congratulate him, promising their aids, if he needed. He returned them many thankes, richly rewarded the Ambassadors, and rolled them he needed no supplies, for he was sufficiently assured of the Empire, and would reign without bloodshed. In which Confidence reposing, he began to be mo●e remiss and negligent; 
Nigers' security.  solacing himself and the Antiochians with all variety of sports, and Theatrical delights; 
And Error.  not regarding (which most concerned him) to take his journey to Rome, nor yet acquainting the Illyrian Armies; which he ought first of all to have solicited and gained. But he persuaded himself, that as soon as they heard of it, they would side with the Romans, and Eastern Forces. While he thus demeaned himself, and anchored on these Shallows, and Uncertainties; the Bruit of these Occurrents was fresh among the Pannonians, Illyrians, and all the Garrisons which were quartered on the Banks of Ister, and the Rhine, to defe●d the Roman Empire from the Incursions of the adjoining Barbarians.  
The Precedent of the Pannonians 
Severus described.  (for they all ●ad but one Governor) was Severus, an African by Descent, a brave active man, but of a violent spirit, enured to a strict and austere life; easily enduring labour and travel; of a nimble Apprehension, and quick Resolution to execute what he determined. When he perceived by the Messengers, that the Roman Empire hanged like a 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Meteor in the Sky, and was exposed to him that could catch it; he contemned julian, as an abject Fellow: and Niger as a dull Phlegmatic. He was also much animated by certain Dreams, Oracles, and Presages; which are then best credited, when they are verified by the event: most whereof himself recorded in the Book which he writ of his own Life; and presented them also to public view, in Statuary Representations; but his last and chiefest Dream, which raised him to the highest hope, I may not omit. What time Severus 
His dream  received intimation of Pertinax his Instalment in the Empire, having sacrificed and sworn Allegiance to him; coming home at night, he fell asleep, and dreamt he saw Pertinax mounted on a gallant Courser, adorned with Imperial ●●●pp●rs, which carried him through the sacred 
* Via sacr●  Street at Rome. But when he was to enter the Foru 〈…〉, where the people, in time of 
* Popular Rule.  Democracie, had their most solemn Assemblies; the Horse seemed to throw Pertinax (w●th a terrible fall) to the ground; and gently to suffer him (who stood next) to backe him; carrying him safely and steadily through the midst of the Forum; lifting up Severus on high, so that all the people saw him, ●nd adored him. And there remains to this day in the very same place, a huge brass Image of that Dream.  
Severus hus encouraged, and persuaded he was called to the Empire by Divine Providence, resolved to try how the So●ldiers were inclined: and first he convented a few Colonels, Tribunes, and Commanders; and taking occasion to speak of the Roman Empire, shown how vilely it was prostituted; and that none of spirit or worth, went about to vindicate it. He inveighed also against the Praetorian Bands at Rome, as Traitors; for violating their oath, by spilling their Emperor and Countrey-mans blood; saying, that it was fit they should pursue Pertinax his murder with a sharp revenge.  
Now he well knew that the memory of Pertinax was still fresh in the Illyrian Armies; which under his command (in the Emperor Marcus time) had got many glorious victories, over the Germans: and when he was Precedent of 
* Sclavonia.  Illyria, he carried himself very bravely in the wars; and ruled with such wisdom and moderation, as well shown his rare sweet spirit, and generous disposition. Wherefore they highly honoured his memory, and were enraged against his Assassinates: Severus embracing this opportunity, did easily draw them to his bent, by the lustre of his fair and winning Propositions; pretending that he affected not the Empire, nor any Principality, but was only desirous to▪ revenge the blood of that famous Emperor. For the Natives 
Illyrians described.  of that Region, as they are a Race of men, mighty of body and limb; tall Soldiers and good Sword men; so are they but of slow wits; not easily discerning the plot, if a man deal subtly or 
* Spalleto was an Illyrian, and Gondomar (they say) did Severely overreach him.  politicly with them. Wherefore Severus having solemnly vowed to pursue Pertinaxes murderers; they believed him, and submitting themselves, styled him Emperor, and conferred upon him the Sovereignty.  
Having thus assured the Pannonians, he presently sent to the bordering Nations, and to the Precedents of the Northern Provinces, which were under the Roman Regiment; whom he easily gained by great hopes, and fair promises. For he was the most cunning Dissembler in the world, and of a most winning behaviour; 
Severus a dark and subtle Prince.  not regarding to falsify his oath, to serve his turn. He knew how to cog for his own advantage; and would readily utter that with his tongue, which he never meant in his heart. Thus by his courtly Letters he won all the Illyrians to his lure, and likewise the Provincial Precedents. Which done, he levied great numbers of Soldiers from all parts; assuming for his surname Pertinax; which he thought would make him gracious both with the Illyrians and Romans (for their worthy esteem of him.) His Army being assembled, he thus spoke to them from an high Throne.  

Severus his speech to the Army.  
YOur zealous veneration of the Gods (by whom you have sworn) and your singular devotion to your Emperors, do well appear by your detestation of those heinous crimes of the Praetorian Soldiers at Rome; which are men, rather for Show, than Service. For my own part, having never till this present, entertained such high hopes (for you know how loyal I have ever been to my Liege Sovereigns) it is my chief care and 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Prayer to pursue and effect such things, as may sort to your general contentment, and not permit the Roman Empire, which hath heretofore been administered with so great glory and honour, to be thus embased. For albeit, under Commodus it suffered much, by reason of his youthfulness; yet the errors of that Prince were shadowed with his high Nobility, and his Father's memory. His faults deserve rather commiseration, than execration: since (for the most part) they were not to be imputed to him; but to his flatterers, corrupt Counselors, and Ministers of State. But when the Empire was invested in that grave 
* Pertinax.  Senator (the memory of whose valour and virtue hath taken so deep root in your 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  souls) the Praetorians not enduring it, most cruelly butchered that brave 〈…〉 and now (forsooth) there is 
* 〈…〉  〈…〉 bought the Empire of 〈…〉 but such a one, as is more 〈…〉ed of the Commons (as you 〈…〉) and not beloved of the Soldiers, whom he hath deluded. But admit they were willing to undertake his defence; they are not comparable to you for number or valour. Besides, you are better exercised in the Wars. For by your continual skirmishes with Barbarians, you have learned to endure all manner of toil and travel; to scorn heat and cold; 
Prop●r●●●● of good Soldiers.  to wade through frozen Rivers; to drink puddled waters; and to practise yourselves in hunting. In a 
Hunting a Military Exe●c●●e.  word, you have attained to such rare perfection in Martial Discipline; that if any Would; there is none Able to stand against you. The glory of a Soldier consists in labour, not in laziness or 
* No Ezcellencie hath foundation in Delicacy.  delicacy; wherewith the Stall-fed Praetorian Guards, being over-pampered, will never be able to abide your Military 
* 〈◊〉.  Shout, much less the Shocke. But if any misdoubt the Syrian 
* Under Niger's command.  Forces; he may clearly collect, how im-puissant, and dejected they are, that have not dared to stir out of their own Country; nor have had the heart to enter into consultation of an Expedition to Rome; but love rather to sit still, and entertain Fortune by the day: as holding it a sufficient Gu●rdon of an unsure Sovereignty. The Syrians are better scoffers than Soldiers, and more M●n●icall than Marshal. But the Antiochians (they say) are chief devoted to Niger. As for the other Countries and Cries, which as yet see none appear, that is worthy the naeme of an Emperor, or able to govern the state with wisdom and courage; they do merely temporize and colloque with him. But when they shall understand that the Illyrian Army hath made another Election, and shall hear of my name (which is neither unknown, nor inglorious among them by reason of our exploits there, when we were there Precedent) you well know they will not charge me with sloth, or irresolution: nor will they offer to make proof of your brave 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  courage, and martial fury; being so fare your Inferiors, 〈…〉 odlin●sse of person, and excellent skill at your weapon, when you come to handstrokes. Wherefore let us instantly advance, and seize Rome, and the Imperial Palace. Then may we with greater facility pursue our other 
〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  designs, taking our rise from thence; and reposing all our confidence in the Divine Predictions; and event in your victorious Arms, and unmatchable.   
Severus having thus said, the 
Severus proclaimed Emperor.  Soldiers with great cries of joy, proclaimed him Augustus and Pertinax; making all possible expressions of Loyalty and Alacrity.  
Severus without further procrastination, 
His Expedition to Rome.  commands all to Arm themselves as lightly as they could, and proclaims his Expedition to Rome. Then giving them Donatives, and distributing to every one a competent Portion for a Viaticum; he marches with high speed & haughty courage, resting no where, nor s●arse suffering his weary troops to breathe them a little. Himself took as great pains as any, using as course Lodging, and hard Far, as the meanest common Soldier; without any show at all of Imperial pomp or delicacy; which made the soldiers much more affect him. For taking such infinite toil in his own Person, it did so endear him to them, that they readily did whatsoever he commanded.  
After he had marched through Pannonia, and was come to the Mountains of Italy, preventing Fame itself, by being seen as Emperor among them, before they had any Intelligence of his coming; all the Cities of Italy were in a fearful Fever, at 
He surprises Ita●y.  the approach of so great an Army. For the Italians having long since left all us● of Arm, and Military Discipline, devoted themselves to Agriculture, and a peaceable course of life. While the Romans were a free State, and Generals were elected by the Senate, Italy was still in Arms, and having conquered the Greeks' and Barbarians, became Lords of the world; there being not an Angle of Earth, or Climate under Heaven, whither the Glory of the Roman Arms extended not. But when Augustus came to the Monarchy, his pacifical Government induced a general laziness and desuetude of Martial Exercises; for he kept only a certain number of Mercenary Bands in Pay, to guard the Roman Empire, at the utmost bounds thereof, which were naturally fortified with great Rivers, deep Ditches, craggy Mountains, and vast Deserts and Wildernesses. Wherefore a● soon as it was known, that S●verus was coming with so mighty an Army, they were sore aghast at that strange news, and ●ot daring to stir against him, went to meet him with Laurels in their hands. But he making no longer stay at any place, than either to sacrifice to the Gods, or speak to the people, posted away for Rome. When julian was advertised hereof, he made account he was utterly undone. For understanding what a numerous and potent Army the Illyrians were, and having no hope in the people (to whom he was odious) nor much in the Soldiers (whom he had gulled) he made 
julian in great▪ care.  all the money he could, by himself or his friends▪ r●bbing the very Temples, and public Treasuries, and gave all to the Soldiers to purchase their good will. But they returning small thankes for his great largess, took it rather as a due debt, than free gi●t. julians' friends counselled him to advance with his Army, and preclude the Alpine Straits. (Now 
The Alps.  the Alps are exceeding high Mountains (such as we have none in these parts) circuli●g Italy like a wall; nature adding to the felicity of that Region, this impregnable fortification; extending from the North to the South-sea.) But julian not daring to budge forth of the City, sent to the Soldiers to beseech them to take arms, and exercise themselves, and make trenches & rampiers before the City; wherein he prepared all military ammunition, & caused 
Elephants trained.  all the Elephants (which he kept for show and State) to be taught to endure Riders: supposing the Illyrians and their Horses would be skared wi●h the strange shape and bulk of those Beasts which they never saw before. All the City was now busy in providing Arms and Warlike Furniture. But while Iulian's Soldiers go slowly to work, and scarce prepare for War, Severus is reported to be come already; who having appointed many of his Soldiers, several 
Severus his Stratagem.  ways to disperse themselves, and enter secretly into Rome, they arrived by sundry passages into the City (by night) covering their Armours with Rustical habit, as if they had been plain Countrymen. And now was the Enemy in Iulian's bosom ere he was ware. When the People perceived this, being all amazed, and greatly dreading Severus power, they began to incline to him, condemning julian for a Dastard, and Niger for a Slug, but commending Severus who was now at hand. Whereupon julian being at his Wit's end, and not knowing what to do, assembled the Senate, and sent Letters to Severus, desiring to contract a League with him, and to be made his Consort in the Empire. But when the Senators 
julian deserted.  which had agreed on that course saw how basely timorous and dejected he was, they rejected him for a Recreant, and wholly revolted to Severus. Two or three days after, when News was brought that Severus was now come in person, all the Citizens utterly forsaking julian, assembled in the 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Authority of Consuls.  Guild-hall, by command of the Consuls (who in such doubtful times have charge of the Roman State) where they entered into Consultation, what was best to be done in that Exigent: julian abiding (the while) in the Palace, deploring his Infortunity, and humbly begging that he might abjure the Sovereignty, and resign all his Imperiality to Severus. But when the Senate understood, that julian was in such desperate Horror, and that his Guards 
No receipt against Fear. (Dictum Mariae illustrissimae Scotorum Reginae.)  (for fear of Severus) had quite forsaken him; they decreed his Death, and declared Severus sole Emperor. Then send they (as Commissioners) divers of the chief Magistracy, and prime Nobility, to render to him all Imperial Honours. The Execution of julian was committed to one of the Tribunes, who finding ●he wretched old Man (that had bought his own Ruin with his Money) wholly deserted and forlorn; slew him, 
julian slain. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉.  as he was tearing his hair, with abject Lamentations. When Severus understood the Senate's Declaration, and that julian was slain; he hoped to do greater matters; and laid a Train to catch all the Praetorian Soldiers that had murdered Pertinax. He sent therefore secret Letters to their 
* Coronels and Captains.  Tribunes and Centurions, promising them great rewards, to persuade their Companies in the City, to submit to his Mandates. Mean while, he makes Proclamation, that all of them, leaving their Arms in the Camp, should come forth like 
Severus his Train to take the Pretorians.  peaceable men, in such Habits as they used when they attended the Emperor at solemn shows and Sacrifices, that they might be sworn to Severus; and that they should come cheerfully, because they were to be his Guard. The Soldiers crediting this Edict, and being also persuaded by their Officers, lay aside all their Arms, and issue forth with laurel branches in their hands, in such Equipage as they were wont in some great Festivity. When they drew near to Severus Camp, and it was told him they were all come, he commanded them to be brought to his presence, as if he meant to welcome and entertain them with all honour. But when they came before his Throne (with joy full acc●●●nations) upon a signal given at the instant, they were all apprehended. For Severus commanded his Soldiers, that when they saw them assembled before him expecting some high favour, they should presently wheel about them in martial manner; yet not wound nor strike them, but only make a Ring, and hem them in; presenting their javelins and Pikes towards them, which they being unarmed, and but few in comparison of them, durst not resist so many men at Arms. When Severus had thus impounded them, with a strong voice, and furious spirit, he thus spoke to them.  

Severus his speech to the Praetorian Guards.  
You see now by experience, that we fare exceed you in policy, power and number. You are easily caught, and as easily held. Now are you all at my devotion, to do what I please with you. Here you stand like a herd of beasts, ready to be sacrificed at my beck. If you expect a Doom, or Death, responsible to your black deeds, and detestable villainies; the World cannot afford it. You have barbarously butchered that venerable Father, and Excellent Emperor, whom, as his Guards, you ought to have defended. You have most shamefully trucked for silver (as if it had been some of your own goods) the most glorious Roman Empire, which was anciently the Guerdon of Nobility, or Military 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  virtue. And now like base 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Poltrones, you have betrayed him that was your Mercenary Sovereign; not daring to guard or protect him. For these inexpiable crimes you deserve a thousand deaths, if you had your due. Now you see what you are worthy to suffer. But I scorn to imitate you, or to pollute my bands with your blood. Neither justice nor equity permit, that you should any longer be the Emperor's Guard; that thus have violated your oath, distained yourselves with your natural Prince's blood, and betrayed the trust and confidence reposed in you. Your Souls and Bodies (of my Nobleness) I am content to besto● upon you. But I command my Soldiers to ungirdle you; and divest you of all Military Attire, and Accoutrements; and send you away stripped: which done, I charge you all to get you packing, fare from Rome: for I here decree, vow, and swear, that if any of you be found within an hundred miles of the City be shall die for it.   
Having given this charge, 
The Preto●●ans degraded.  the Illyrian Soldiers presently ran to them, and disarming them of their short Swords, (which were curiously wrought with gold and silver, and customarily worn at solemn shows) they took from them their belts, scarves, and other military ornaments, and rashed off all their clothes; leaving them stark naked.  
When they saw themselves 
Traitors betrayed.  thus betrayed and taken with a Wile; there was no way but patience. For what could a few naked men do, against so many armed? They departed therefore with heavy cheer; yet glad their lives were given them; shrewdly repen●ing, that by leaving their Arms, they had subjected themselves to so foul and disgraceful a Doom. Severus used also another policy; for doubting lest being degraded, they would desperately run to their Camp, and resume their Arms; he had sent before some Troops of his choicest and trustiest Soldiers, by secret ways and passages, commanding them suddenly to seize their vacant Camp, and with their own weapons to keep them out, if they attempted to return. Thus were those Assassinates of Pertinax punished.  
Forthwith Severus with his 
Severus enters Rome.  Army arranged in Battle-array, makes his entry into Rome; the Romans being at first sight terribly afraid of him, for his daring and speedy Enterprise. Howbeit, the Peers and Commons received him with Laurels, who of all Men and Emperors, was the first, that without blood or sweat, effected such rare Enterprises. Indeed, 
His Elegy.  all things in him were admirable; especially his high wit, piercing judgement, indefatigable industry, happy-hopefull audacity in great and Heroical Attempts.  
After the people had welcomed him with their Acclamations, and the Nobles saluted him at the City Gates, he repaired to jupiters' Temple; where having sacrificed, he did his Devotions at the other Fangs (as the E●pe●●urs were wont) and last, betook himself to the Imperial Palace. The next day he went to the Senate-house, where he made a smooth and plausible Speech; and then gave his 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Hand to all the Company, professing, That his main End in 
His Plausibility.  coming to the City, was to revenge Pertinaxes Death, and to lay the Plo● and Foundation of an optimacy: promising that none but those which were condemned by Law, should lose Life or Goods: that he would not tolerate Informers: that he would make a happy and flourishing State, and in all things imitate Marcus; and not only assume the Name, but the Mind of Pertinax. With these fair Promises he stroked the Senators; most of them inclining to affect and believe him: but some of the elder and sager sort, that better knew his disposition, told them in their ear, that he was a right 
His Censure.  Politician, full of tricks and trains, and an exquisite Dissembler and Temporizer, for his own ends: As afterwards it proved.  
Severus intending but a short stay in Rome, gave to the Commons a magnificent Donative of Corn, and a great Largesse to his Soldiers; selecting the ablest among them for his guard (in steed of those which were degraded.) And now he prepares an Expedition to the Orient; where Niger lay rusting (all this while) and revelling at Antioch; whom he hasted to surprise ere he were ware, and take him unprovided.  
Commanding therefore his 
His preparation for War.  Soldiers to make ready for that Voyage, and recollecting all his Forces, he adjoined to them all the flower of the Italian Youth; and gave order, that the rest of the Army in Illyria should come down to Thrace, and meet him on the way. He provided also, a great sleet of ships, & pressed all the galleys of Italy, which he filled with Men at arms, & sent them a way: having amassed together, with incredible speed, a mighty magazine of all manner of provision & ammunition. For he well knew, he needed more than ordinary Forces against the Nations bordering on Europe, which were all under Niger's command. Thus Severus 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  gallantly prepared for the war. But withal, like a wise and provident man, he shrewdly 
He is afraid of the Britain's  misdcubted the British Armies, consisting of great & bravetroops of more 〈…〉 excellent 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Soldiers; whose General was Albinus; of 
Albinus Governor of Britain.  very noble & honourable descent & born to exceeding greatwelth and possessions. Him he resolved to win by policy▪ lest otherwise being excited by his riches, nobleness, forces & renown (sharp and piquant motives to aspire to Sovereignty) he should attempt to overtop him & seize on Rome (which is not very far distant from Britain) while himself were engaged in the Eastern wars. Now his bait to catch him, was by a glittering show of honour; for being a credulous man, and none of the deepest Politics▪ he presently believed the oaths & protestations which he sent him by Letters: wherein he styled him Caesar, anticipating 
He is stil●d Caesar by Severus.  his ambition, by communicating the sov●raigne dignity. In the said courtly and complemental lines, he besought him to be Protector of the Empire, which stood in great need of so noble and brave a young Gallant; as for himself, he was now grown old and gowdie, and his children were but infants. Albinus easily gave credit to him, and willingly took the honour upon him; being glad he attained his desire without battle, or further danger. To give the more gloss to his intentions, Sev●rus acquainted the Senate with the passages; commanding also Coins to be stamped with his image; as also his statues to be erected; with all other Imperial honours; the better to blanche his designs. Which having with high wisdom performed, & so looked Albinus in Britain, that there was no fear of him; he gathered all the Illyrian Forces into one body, & now all things being in readiness, he leads his Army directly against Niger. What were his Stations by the way, what speeches he made to every city, what frequent prodigies 
* N. B. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉.  by divine providence appeared; a● also what countries he marched thorough, what conflicts he had, and how many were slain on either side, many Historians have related, & Poets especially have largely dilated; making Severus acts the argument of their works. But my intendment is to compile a History of the acts of many Emperors reigning in the compass of 70 
Her●d●●● writes a History of 70 vea 〈…〉  years, which I certainly 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  know to be true. I shall therefore deliver part of the chiefest and choifest actions of Severus, not flattering, or feigning more than was performed (like the Writers of that time) nor yet suppressing aught that is worthy to be known or recorded.   

HERODIAN HIS IMPERIAL HISTORY. The third Book.  
The Contents.  
Niger prepares for War. He fortifies Mount Taurus, and Byzantium. Aemilianus his General, defeated Severus Policy. He assaults Mount Taurus. Moor's described. Alexandria. Battle betwixt Severus and Niger Niger beheaded. Severus Plots against Albinus. His Speech against him. His strange Winter-m●rch, Albinus sails out of B●ita●ie, and fights with Severus. The Britai●●● fight bravely, and beat Severus off his Horse: They win the first B 〈…〉: They di 〈…〉 and 〈…〉 Albinus beheaded▪ 〈◊〉 〈…〉 us Elegy. He makes two Vicegerents in Brittany. His cruelty and covetousness. Secular Games every three hundreth year. Severus his Expedition into the East. He besieges Atrae, and is repulsed. His strange fortune. He surprises the Parthian King. He enters Rome in triumph. His Son's Dissensions. Plautian a mighty Favourite. His Treason, strangely detected. He is cut in pieces. Severus instructs his Sons. News from Brittany. Severus his Expedition thither. Description and Elegy of the Picts or Scots. Severus dies for grief. Antonine's Cruelty. Severus Relics, Antonine and Geta sail out of Brittany.  
IN the former Book, we have related the Murder of Pertinax, the Slaughter of julian, Severus his Expedition to Rome, and lastly his Preparations against Niger. As soon as Niger (who little expected 
Niger prepares for War.  such ●ewes) understood that Severus had seized Rome; that the Senate had proclaimed him Emperor; and that all the Illyrian Army, and other Forces were coming against him by Sea, and Land; being extremely startled, he warns all the Vicegerents of the Provinces, to set strong Guards at all Ports and Passages; and sends for Aid, to the Parthian, Armenian, and Atrenian Kings. The Armenians answer was, that he would be Neutral, and reserve his own Forces to descend himself if Severus assailed him. The Parthian promises to write to his Nobles, to levy Soldiers (as his manner was in time of War.) For the Parthians have no ordinary standing Armies, nor any soldiers in continual pay. From the Atrenians came a Band of Archers, sent from King Barsemius, who then reigned in those Parts. The gross of his army he made up of the Soldiers which he had with him; most of the Country youths, but especially of the Antiochians, either out of their Levity or Love to Niger; more boldly than wisely flocking unto him. The Straits and Precipices of Mount Taurus, 
Mount Taurus fortified.  he fortified with strong Walls and Munitions; accounting that impassable place, would be a Barricado to block up the Way to the Orient. For Taurus lifting up his Ridge between Cappadocia and Cilicia, dissevers the Eastern and Northern Nations. He put also a Garrison in Byzantium, the chiefest 
Byzanti●m n●● Con 〈…〉.  and mightiest City of Thrace, flourishing at that time in strength and wealth; for being situate in the narrow Proponticke Sea, it ●eaped equal benefit by Water and Land; from the first, Impost a●d Fish; from the latter, Corn and Fruit; as having a large and fertile Territory. This strong City he preoccupates to prevent the passage of Severus Flee, which was to sa●le out of Europe into Asia, through that narrow Channel. The City was compassed with a ●uge strong wall, of squared Milstons, so courteously cemented that it seemed to be an in ●re work made by Nature, rather than Art: yea▪ the very Ruins and Rubbish (which yet appear) sh●w the marvellous skill of them that buil● it, and the stupendious strength of those that dismantled it.  
In this manner did Niger order his Affairs, with singular Prudence and Providence (as he imagined.) Severus on the other side, slacked not, but incessantly marched with his Army. And being advertized that Byzantium was well manned and strongly fortified, he turns his 
Aemilianus Nigers General.  course to Cyzicum. Aemilianus Lieutenant of Asia, to whom Niger had committed the Manage of the War, and chief Command; hearing that Severus was marching, leads all the Forces which he had levied, or were sent by Niger, directly to Cyzicum. When the Armies met on both sides, after diverse bloody battles in those parts, Severus at last was Master of the Field; a great number of Nigers' Soldier being routed, slain, and 
Defeated by Seve 〈…〉.  pu● to flight. Which Success mightily encouraged the Illyrians, and the 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Easterlings. ●ut many were of opinion, that from the beginning, Niger was betrayed by Aemilian; for these reasons. Some say, he envied Niger, disdaining that he, who was but his Successor in Syria, should now be his Superior, Emperor, and Sovereign. Others suppose, that he was thereto persuaded by his children's Letters, who besought him to take care of their safety: for Severus having found them at Rome, put them in hold, out of deep policy, and early providence. And it was Commodus his manner to retain with him their Children, whom he sent to be Lieutenants of Provinces, as Pledges of their Allegiance and fidelity. Wherefore Severus (like a vigilant man) 
Severus his Policy.  at his first Designment to the Empire in julians' time, sent secretly for his children out of the City, lest they should be afterward seized on. And at his coming to Rome, he instantly apprehended all the Children of the Precedents, and other chief Captains & Commanders that ruled in Asia, or the East, carrying them with him as Prisoners, thereby to induce their Fathers to revolt from Niger (for their preservation) or if they continue firm to him, to let them know, that by killing them, he could be revenged on them at his pleasure.  
Nigers' Soldiers being overthrown at Cyzicum, fled amain; some to the Armenian Mountains; others through Asia, and Galatia, hastening to Mount Taurus, to get into that strong Hold. Severus Army marched through the Country of Cyzicum, to the next region of Bythinia. When it was famed that Severus was victor suddenly all the Cities in those Parts, fell to deadly Feud; not so much for Love or Hate to either Emperor, as out of a mortal Antipathy, and implacable Enmity one to the other. And this was anciently the fault of the Greeks', who by their intestine broils and conspiracies, to extirpate the most eminent men, have utterly undone Greece: whose Inhabitants (by their old grudge, and civil disasters) first became Vass●l●s to the Macedons; and then Slaves to the Romans: the same heartburning, and spiteful emulation, continuing in the best Cities to our time. Wherefore after these things happened at Cyzicum, the Citizens of Nicomedia in Bythinia, revolted from Niger to Severus, promising him (by their Ambassadors) to receive his Army, and assist him in all things. But the Citizens of Nicaea, out of their malignity to them, took Nigers part, and entertained his Soldiers, which either fled thither, or were sent to detend Bythinia. Out of these two Cities (as several Camps) the Armies of both sides issuing, fought again; but after a terrible battle, Severus got the Victory. From thence the Remains of Nigers Forces fled to the Straits of Mount Taurus, to def●nd those Fortifications. Niger having left there as many as he thought sufficient to make good the Place, returns to Antioch, to raise more Men and Money Meanwhile, Severus Army p●ssing through Bythinia, and Galatia, marched into Cappadocia▪ and there began 
Mount Taurus assail ●.  to assail the Fortification But they met with no small difficulties; for the passage was extreme rough and craggy, and the Enemy which was on the Walls, and over their heads, tumbled down Stones upon them, and fought bravely; a few men serving to repel a great Number. For the Ascent was exceeding straight, being defended on the one side with a huge steep Mount, on the other with a wonderful Precipice, down which fell continual Cataracts from the top of the Mountains. Niger had also made there a strong Fort to bar their Entrance on every side. During this Assault in Cappadocia there arose Mutinies upon the like Grounds and Grudges as aforesaid. For Laodicea in Syria (in despite of Antiochi●) and Tyrus in Phoenicia (repining at the Berythians) when they heard of Nigers' Discomfiture, defaced his Images, and proclaimed Severus Emperor: which Niger (then at Antioch) understanding, though (otherwise) of a mild disposition, yet stung with those opprobrious Injuries and Defections, sends against both the Cities all the 
* Mauritania, now F●● and Mo●occo.  Mauritanian Darters that he had, and part of his Archers, charging them to kill all afore them, and to sack and burn the Cities. The Moors 
The Moors described.  (who are naturally bloody and desperate, regarding neither death nor danger) suddenly invading the Laodiceans, put them all to the Sword, and destroyed their Town. Thence marching to Tyre, they first pillaged it, and then cruelly slaughtering the Inhabitants, set it on a bright blaze. While this passes in Syria and Niger is levying new Supplies, the Severians persist in their assailment of the Fort of Mount Taurus, but with much wan hope and great discouragement; for it was an impregnable Work, and naturally defended with the Mount, and Precipice. Being quite wearied, and their Enemies now secure; extraordinary Storms and Snowes fell suddenly in the Night (for in Cappadocia, and especially at Mount Taurus, winter's are ex ream rough) accompanied with a vehemen and impetuous Torrent; which being check● by the Fortification, became more furious and violent. At last, Nature vanqui hang Art, and the Wall yielding to the deluge, the flood (having sapped the Foundation, which was made in haste, and not so carefully as wa● requi-site) bore down all before it, and made an exceeding great breach: which the Defendants perceiving, & feating that when the Waters were down, they should be surprised by the Enemy, they all quit the place, and fled. With this Accident, the Severians were infinitely cheered and animated (as lead by divine providence) and seeing also the Guardians of the Mount were fled, they easily scaled it, and entered Cilicia. When Niger heard these Tidings. he gathered a vast Army of undisciplined & inexpert Soldiers: & marching with main speed, was followed with huge numbers of people, and almost all the Youth of Antioch, who expressed great alacrity, but were not comparable to the Illyrians for Valour or Experience. A● the Bay of 
* A City called by Alexander Ni●opolis, for his Victory there.  Issus, the Armies met, in a goodly spacious Plain, which lying under a row of Hills, Theatre-wise, is extended all along the Sea-coast; Nature having here made (as it were) a Stage for a battle. In the very same place they say that Darius was overthrown and taken by Alexander in the last great Battle; the 
* In Nature the Northern Regions are most Martial.  Northern Men then also vanquishing the Eastern. The City Alexandria (built on a Hill) the Trophy 
Alexandria.  and Monument of that Victory, yet remains; and the brazen Image of him that so named it. Now it fell out that the Hosts of Sever●ss and Niger did not only encounter in the said place, but also with like fortune [to the other:] For on both sides were they ready to fight in the Evening, not sleeping all Night for Care and Fear. At 
The Battle betwixt Severus and Niger.  Sunrising, the Generals encouraged their Soldiers, who assailed each other with incredible fury; as accounting that the last Fatal Conflict; and that Fortune would there design the Emperor. After a long and grim Fight, there being on each side so great Slaughter, that the Rivers which ran through the Plain, sent much more blood than water into the Sea; at last the orientals turned their backs and fled, the Illyrians pursuing them to the Sea (where they thrust them in with wounds) and to the Hill-tops, where they flew them, together with a great number of people, assembled there out of the adjoining towns and villages, as Spectators of the battle; supposing they were safe in that high ground. Niger being bravely mounted, posted with a few of his Followers to Antioch; where the people flying every way, and piteously bewailing their sons and brethren; he also grew desperate, and be taken himself to flight; but being found hid in a Suburban house, by the Horsemen that pursued him, his Head was struck off. 
Niger beheaded.   
This end had Niger, being brought to that Disaster, by his dull protracting of time; though otherwise he were (as they say) in his public and private carriage not culpable.  
Niger being slain, Severus presently put to death all his friends and Partisans, whether Voluntaries, or compelled to assist him. Yet he pardoned the Soldiers which were fled (for fear) to the Barbarians beyond the River Tigris; and received them into favour. For great numbers of them retired into those parts, whereby it came to pass, that the Barbarians were afterwards more able to encounter the Romans in set battle; their manner of Fight, before that time, being only with bows and arrows on horseback, without complete Armour; having no skill to use Sword, or Lance; but clad with thin lose Garments, they shot their Arrows (most part) backwards, flying from their Enemies. But when divers Roman Soldiers, and (among them) many Armourers, which fled thither, had set set up their Rests there; the Barbarians learned not only to use Arms, but also to make them.  
Severus having settled the Affairs of the Orient to his own contentment, had a strong desire to invade the Dominions of the Atrenian and Parthian Kings, who were both Nigers Confederates. But deserriug that till another time, he cast about, how he might now establish the Roman Empire on himself and his Sons. For Niger being taken away, the only Rub that remained was Albinus, whom he held to be altogether unprofitable for his Purpose, and incompatible to his designs. Besides, the Report was, that his Caesarian Title had so puffed up his spirits, that he began to far like an Emperor; and that many of the chief Peers of the Senate had secretly writ to him to hasten to Rome, while Severus was absent, & elsewhere engaged. And indeed all the Nobles were most devoted to Albinus; who was very honourably descended; and reputed to be of a sweet and generous Disposition. Of all which passages Severus having got intelligence, resolved not instantly to make open war against him; or proclaim him his enemy (there being no just cause or colour for it) but to try if he could make him away by treachery. Wherefore he dispatches 
Severus plots against Albinus.  to him divers trusty persons, which (as Posts) used to carry the Emperor's Letters and Missives, giving them in charge, that after they had publicly delivered the Packets, they should desire him to understand some further secrets in private; and when he was apart from his guard suddenly to fall upon him, & kill him. Moreover, he delivered to them diverse sorts of poisons, to be ministered to him by some of his Carvers or Cup bearers, if they could persuade them. But Albinus his friends mistrusting Severus, gave him many caveats to beware him as a fraudulent and insidious person: For his fame was foully blasted by his ill dealing with Nigers Captains; whom having under wrought by their Children (as we formerly shown) to betray Nigers Affairs, when he had made use of their Service, and attained his own ends, he slew both them and their Children. By these Actions of his, they manifested to him his dangerous disposition. Albinus thereupon doubled his Guards, and admitted not to his presence any messenger from Severus, till he had laid by his military Falchion, and was also searched, lest he had any other Weapon in his bosom. And now were Severus his posts arrived at Albinus 
* In Britain  Court, where delivering their Letters openly, they besought him to step aside, to hear some special Secrets. Albinus suspecting them, commands them to be apprehended. Then, secretly torturing them, he learned out all their treachery, and put them to death; and made preparation against Severus, as a professed Enemy. Which Severus understanding, being of a violent spirit and ireful nature, he no longer concealed his Enmity, but assembling all his Army, spoke thus.  

Severus his Speech against Albinus.  
LEt none, reflecting on my former Actions, tax me of Levity, Treachery, or Ingratitude, towards my reputed friend. I could do no more than associate him (by a firm League) in the Imperial Government: which some man would hardly do to his own brother. Yea, I communicated to him that, which you conferred on me alone. But Albinus unworthily requites these extraordinary Favours which I have heaped upon him. For he is now up in Arms against Us, contemning your valour; and not regarding his League with me. For he seeks with insatiable Desire, to engross, that with his own peril, which he securely enjoyed by a peaceful Participation. Neither doth he revere the Gods by whom he hath so oft sworn; nor respects he your travels, which with so great glory and courage you have undertaken for Us both. For the fruits of your happy success extended likewise to him. Yea, had he continued faithful to us, we had done him greater honour, than was yet imparted to him. Now as to do ill 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Offices, is an act of Injustice; So, not to redress a Wrong, is 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  unmanly. In our Wars against Niger, our Quarrel was not so just, as necessary. For he sought not to embrace the Imperial dignity invested in our person; but the Empire lying then at stake, and being yet litigious, both of Us with equal Ambition, fairly wrestled for it. But Albinus violating Leagues and Oaths; makes choice rather to be an Enemy than a Friend, and to wage War rather than continue in amity; being advanced by our mere bounty to that eminent 
* Title of Caesar employed H●●●e apparanc●.  Honour, which anciently appertained to the sacred Branches of the Imperial Stem. Wherefore as we have formerly ennobled him with great and glorious Advancements: So now we hold it meet, to chastise his ignoble Treachery by force of Arms. As for his poor Army of 
* Britain's.  Islanders; it is impossible it should resist your Puissance. For since you alone, by your own Valour and admirable Prowess, have won so many Battles, and conquered all the Orient: who can doubt but that now by access of so many gallant men at Arms (for here are almost all the Roman Forces) you shall easily rout a small Number, led by One that hath neither Wit nor Courage? For who knows not his Voluptuary life, fit for a Swine than a Soldier? Let us therefore 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  bravely advance against him, with our wont alacrity and magnanimity: having the Gods for our Guides, whom he hath dishonoured with Perjuries; and calling to mind the many Trophies we have erected, which he so highly scorns.   
Severus having thus said, the whole Army proclaimed Albinus Traitor, but making full Demonstration of their loyal zeal to him, by their Acclamations; they mightily encouraged him, and made him wondrous confident. Whereupon rewarding them with magnificent donatives, he took his journey against Albinus. Withal he sent certain Troops to invest Byzantium, 
B●zantium invested.  which was yet held by Nigers Soldiers that fled thither. Which City was afterward taken by Famine, and razed to the Ground; insomuch that the theatres, Therms, and all the splendour and glory thereof being quite defaced, it was reduced to a mean 
* The Fate of Roch●●: now, S. Marry Village.  Village, and given in vassalage to the Perinthians, as Antioch in like sort to the Laodiceans. Further, he consigned great sums of money for the re-edifying of the Cities spoilt by Nigers Soldiers. And now marching without any 
* Severus wa●●●wo●d was Laboremus  Intermission, or regard to holidays, or workedayes, heat or cold (all being alike to him) he would oft in that 
His Winterm●●●h.  stormy season, go bareheaded on the tops of Mountains, when it sharply snowed; to excite his Soldiers to Patience and Alacrity, by his own Example; so that they cheerfully endured all difficulties, not so much for fear of law, as in a generous emulation of their royal Chief. He sent also a strong Army to seize the Alpine Straits, and to forelay the passages into Italy.  
Albinus, who (this while) pursued his pleasures, and was supinely negligent, when he heard that Severus was marching with such expedition; being startled with the horror of the news, presently sails out of Britain, 
Albinus 〈◊〉 out o● 〈◊〉.  and disbarkes his Army in the opposite Coasts of Gallia; where he lend, his Mandates to all Governors of the adjacent Provinces, to furnish him with Money and Victuals. They which did so, dealt very unadvisedly, for they were plagued for it, when the War was ended; but they that refused (rather by good hap than fore sight, saved themselves: the Event and 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Fortune of the War determining who were the wiser.  
Severus Forces being entered Gallia, there were first certain light Skirmishes in diverse parts; but at last, they fought a pitched 
Battle betwixt Severus and Albinus.  Field, near the great and rich City Lugdunum; where Albinus immuring himself, sent forth his Army to fight. The Encounter was exceeding fierce; and doubtful it was a great while which way the Victory would 
Britain's Elegy.  incline; For the BRITAIN'S were no whit inferior to the Illyrians in 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Manhood, or Martial fury. Both Armies fight with equal bravery, it was hard to say, which would get the better. Divers Historians (of that Time) which more regarded verity than partiality, report that Albinus his Army was 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  fare superior in that Part, which was encountered by Severus in Person, with his Battalion; insomuch, that Himself was put 
The Britain's beat the bravest Martialist of the world.  to flight, and beaten off his Horse, yea forced to throw off his Imperial Cloak, and hide Himself. While the Britain's follow the Chase, chanting out their 
* Hymns s●ng to Mars before Battle, to Apollo after Victory.  Paeans, as Victors; Laetus one of Severus Commanders, suddenly charges them with fierce & fresh troops. He was harshly censured, as if he purposely kept aloof, and reserved that choice Regiment to get the Empire to himself: intending then to take the Field, when he heard Severus was slain. Which suggestion was fortified by the event. For when Severus had settled all things to his own mind, and secured his estate, he richly rewarded all his other Chieftains; but remembering how Laetus had served him, he put him to death, as he deserved. These things were done afterwards. Now when Laetus ●ame in view (as aforesaid) with a new supply; the Severians took heart again, and remounting Severus on Horseback, put on his Purple 
* A military Mantle.  Surcoat. The Albinians, that (presuming they were Masters of the Field) had 
* So the dis-ranking of the English lost all to the ●●●mans.  disbanded themselves; being suddenly and furiously charged by fresh Companies; after a short resistance, fled; the Severians following the execution to the City gates. The Number of the slain, and captives, on either side, is differently related by the Writers of that Age. The City 
* Lions in France.  Lugdunum was sacked and burnt by the Severians; who having took Albinus, struck off his head, 
Albinus beheaded.  and presented it to Severus.  
Thus raised he two most stately 
* Monuments of Victory usual in those p●rts.  Trophies; One, in the East; and Another, in the North; so that Nothing is comparable to Severus conflicts, or conquests, either for multitude of Forces, commotion of Countries, number of Battles, length of journeys, or speed in Marches. I confess, Caesar's Acts against Pompey (the Soldiers being Romen on either side) were very great; as also that of Augustus 
Severus the greatest Conqueror of the World.  against Antony and Pompey's Sons; and likewise the Exploits of Sylla and Marius, in the civil and foreign wars. But for One Man to have the kill of Three Enthronised Emperors; to surprise the Praetorian Troops at Rome by fineness of Wit; to kill One Emperor in the Palace Royal; to defeat another, that reigned in the Orient, and was elected Emperor by the Romans; and to vanquish a Third, that was a Caesar, of great Nobility and dependency; you shall hardly find the like. To this End came Albinus, having enjoyed his Fatal Dignity but a short time.  
And now was Severus full charged with wrath and indignation against Albinus Friends at Rome; whither he sent his head, commanding it to be publicly affixed on the Gallows. And in the Letters which he writ to the People of his Victories, he added this Postscript; that He there sent them his Head, strictly charging, that it be publicly set on the Gibbet, to the end, they might perceive by that Token of his Wrath, how highly he was offended with them.  
Having Ordered the State of Britain, and divided the government of the Province into two 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Presidentships; and having 
Two Viceroys in Britain.  likewise composed the Gallicke Affairs to his own mind, and slain all Albinus Friends and Partners, whether voluntary or forced; he set forward towards Rome; leading all his Army thither, to strike the greater terror. His journey being ended, with extraordinary speed (as his manner was) and being full of fury against Albinus Friends that survived, he enters Rome. The Commons met him with Laurels, and received him with all honour and joyful acclamation. The Senators also congratulated him, though many of them were extremely afraid that he would not pardon them; being so apt by reason of his Natural Immanity, to oppress Men on the least Occasion; and having now so probable pretences to question them.  
Severus having visited jupiters' Temple, and performed other 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Sacred Rites, went to his Royal Palace, and in honour of his Victories, bestowed great store of Corn on the Citizens, and much Coin on his Shoulders, to whom he granted many Privileges which formerly they had not. For he first augmented their proportion of Wheat, and permitted them to wear Gold Rings, and cohabit with their Wives; all which were reputed utterly dissonant from Military austerity, and Martial dispositions. But he was the first that altered their strong and manly Diet, and subverted all Order, Discipline, and Obedience to Governors; by teaching them to hunt after Money, and using them to delicate Fare. Having made these Ordinances (after his own fancy) he entered the 
* Or, Parliamenthouse.  Senate-house, where ascending his Royal Throne, he made a bitter Invective against Albinus Friends, producing the secret letters of some of them, which he found in his Cabinets; and objecting to others, that they had honoured him with the richest Presents; to these, that they had favoured his Eastern 
* Niger.  Enemies; to those, that they were Albinus Favourites. Then he put to death all 
Severus cruelty and covetousness.  the chief Peers of the Senate; and slew without mercy all that were of great Estate and Nobility in the Provinces: pretending to suppress his Enemies; but spurred on (indeed) by extreme Avarice; wherein he exceeded all the Emperors. For, as in Haughtiness of Spirit, hardness to endure labour, and Skill in Martial affairs, he was equal to the worthiest: So was he an unmeasurable Lover of Money; which he accumulated by cruel Slaughters, upon the least Cause or Colour; ruling his Subjects rather by fear than love. Nevertheless, he affected popular Lustre, by frequent 
His Popularity.  exhibiting most stately Shows (of all Sorts) where were oft slain an hundred beasts brought from strange countries. He distributed also magnificent Donatives to the people, and ordained a Triumphal 
* Game, or Exercse of Manhood.  Agon, sending for Actors and Champions from all parts. I have seen (in his Time) Shows of all kinds of Pageants in all the theatres at once; as also processions and vigils (like Ceres' mysteries.) 
Secular Games.  These were then called Secular Solemnities, because they 
V Alex. ab Alex. Gen. dier. l. 6. c. 19  were celebrated (as they said) after the Term of three Ages or Generations. What time, Beadles went thorough Rome and Italy, to invite All to come and see those 
* Instituted in honour of Apollo and Diana (the Sun and Moon)  Shows which they had never seen before, nor should ever after see: Intimating thereby, that the inter-space betwixt the past and present Celebrity, exceeded the longest Age of Men,  
Having stayed a sufficient time at Rome (where he associated his Sons in the Sovereignty, and declared them Emperors) considering that his former Victories were over his own Countrymen and the Roman Armies (for which cause he forbore Triumph) he determined to get himself honour by a glorious Conquest of the Barbarians. His pretext was, to be revenged on Barsemius the Atrenian King, for his Confederacy with Niger. Whereupon he lead his army into the Orient, and as he was about to enter Armenia, the 
Severus his second Expedition into the East.  King of the Armenians sent him Money, Presents and Hostages; humbly entreating to contract a League of Amity with him. Severus seeing all things happen to his mind in Armenia, marches against the Atrenians. But Augarus King of the Osroens submitted himself to him, and having assured his Homage, by delivering his children for pledges, sent to his Aid a goodly Band of Archers. Severus having passed the Region lying betwixt the Rivers and the 
Archers.  Country of the Albenians, made a Road into Arabia Felix, where grow those odorate Herbs which we use for Spicery and Frankincense. Having destroyed many Cities and villages, and wasted the Country, ●e entered the Land of the Atrenians, and 
Siege of Atrae.  beleaguered Atrae, a City mounted on the top of an exceeding high Hill, strongly, walled and fortified, well manned and full of excellent Archers. Severus army encamping before it, made many furious Assaults, striving with all their strength to master it; to which purpose, they assailed the Walls with all sorts of warlike Engines; pretermitting no kind of Invasion. But the Atrenians made abrave Resistance, and with Shot and Stones from above, did much hurt to the Severians. They filled also Earthen Vessels with small Fowls and Venomous beasts, which being cast among them, and lighting on their Faces, and other open parts of their bodies, crawled all over them, and secretly stung and tormented them. Moreover, they were not able to endure the stifling Air of that extreme hot Clime, which cast them into strange Calentures; so that the most part of the Army died rather by that means, than by the Enemy. Whereupon, the Soldiers growing desperate at that luckless Siege (where the Romans lost more than they got) Severus discamped, and departed without Effect, lest all his Men should perish: being much grieved that the success of the Siege was not answerable to his desire. For having been wont to get the Victory in all encounters, he now reputed himself overcome, because he could not overcome. But Fortune soon after smiled on him, and advanced his Designs; so that he lost not all his labour, but fared better than he expected. For his Army being embarked was not brought to the Roman Territories (as he intended) but was hurried by the violent Stream to the Parthian banks; not many day's journey from Ct●siphon; where was the royal 
Severus strange fortune.  Palace of the King of Parthia, who lived there in peace; esteeming Severus wars against the the Atrenians, to concern him nothing at all. In which security he little thought of any Disaster. Severus Host arriving there 
Si vis securus esse, time securitatem. S. Bernard.  against their wills, by the violence of the Current; presently landed, and immediately fell a syoyling & ravaging the Country; driving away all the Cattles they met with, for Provision; and burning all the Towns (as they went,) Then marched they to Ctesiphon, where the great King Artabanus was resiant, and 
King of K●●thia surprised.  finding the Barbarians ubpro●vided, they slew every man they found, pillaged the City, and led captive all the women and children. The King, with a few Horsemen, escaped: but they rifled his Treasures, and taking all his Ornaments and jewels, returned to their Ships. Thus got Severus the victory over the Parthians rather by chance than choice. And now having sped so happily beyond all hope, he sent 
* Dight with Laurel, as Conquerors used.  Letters to the Roman Peers and People, containing a glorious Relation of his Acts; accompanied with painted Tables, representing all his Battles and Conquests. Hereupon the Senate decreed to him all triumphant Honours, and the Surnames of the Nations he had vanquished.  
Severus having composed the Oriental Affairs, took his way towards Rome, bringing with him his Sons, who were now big Youths. Having ended his journey, ordered the Provinces (as was requisite) and visited the 
* Mysiae, now Servia and Bulgaria.  Mysian and Pannonian Armies, he entered the City in Triumph; the Romans receiving him with great Acclamations 
Severus Triumph.  and glorious Ceremonies. He again entertained them with Feasts, Sports, Spectacles, and Pageants; giving them Royal Donatives, and solacing them with Triumphal Shows. He abode many years in Rome, where he wholly gave himself to Matters of judicature, and State-affairs; endeavouring to train his Sons in all noble Studies and Exercises. But they being well-grown Youths, had their Dispositions corrupted by the Roman Diet and Delices'; as also by the excessive frequenting of Stageplays, Charriotsports, and Revels. Moreover, 
His Son's dissensions.  the Brethren fell at variance, one with the other; their first quarrel being about the childish desire of Victory at Quaile-fights, Cock-fights, and the wrestling of boys. Yea whatsoever they saw or heard in public, they were still divided; never affecting the same thing; but what the one applauded, the other scorned, Which Discord was fomented by both their servants and slaiterers; who 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  collogued with them for their own ends, Severus understanding their differences, assaled to reconcile them and reduce them to better temper. The elder of them (whose 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Genuine Name was Bassian, before his Advancement to the Imperial Family) Severus after his Inauguration in the Empire, named Antonine; which was the Surname of Marcus. To him he gave a wife; hoping that 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Marriage would make him a stayed man. She was the Daughter of Plautian, Captain of the Praetorian Ba●ds, who was (as they say) but of mean estate in his youth, and proscribed for Sedition, and other Crimes. He was Severus his Countryman (an African borne) and (by report) his Kinsman: and (as some have taxed him) in his younger years his Catamite. Him Severus advanced from very low degree, to great dignity; enriching him exceedingly with the Goods and Lands of condemned persons, and almost sh〈…〉 
* Of Severus 〈…〉 p●ss●g 〈…〉 t●e 〈…〉 Essay of Friendship.  pire with him. 〈…〉 Fortune's he ab 〈…〉 ciousnesse; omitti 〈…〉 cru●l●y or outrage, to comp●sse his designs; being more Tyrannically stern, than all the Princes that ever were. To his Daughter did Severus match his Son, and unite his House to his.  
But Antonine taking small joy 
Forced Marriage.  in those Nuptials, whereto he was forcibly yoked, without any prae-election of his own, infinitely hated both the young Lady and her Father; scorning to lodge or cohabite with her; yea, he so loathed her, that he daily menaced to kill her and her Father, as soon as he were sole Emperor. Which when she still told her Father, showing him how he abhorred her, he mightily stomached it. Plautian therefore considering that Severus was now grown old and diseased, and that Antonine was a bold fierce Youth, he feared his Threats, and resolved to do some Exploit, rather than suffer himself to be made away. 
Plautian the mightiest Favourite of the World.  Moreover, he had many provocatives to aspire to Sovereignty: such excessive wealth, as never any Subject had the like: Martial men were all at his beck: the whole Roman State highly honoured him: yea his ordinary Garb made him very gracious with the people; for he still wore the Senatorian robe, 
* Vid. Alex. ab Alex. l. 5. cap. 18.  purfled and embroidered with Golden Studds, and was ranked with the prime Nobility. A Sword was borne before him, and he alone represented the Emperor's Person. He walked abroad with such terrible Majesty, that none durst come near him; and if any met him (by chance) they stepped aside: his Gentlemen Ushers making Proclamation, that None should stand in the way, nor look at him; but turn aside, and look downwards. When Severus understood this, he disgusted it, and began to think harshly of him; insomuch that he clipped the Wings of his Authority; commanding him to leave that insolent Demeanour. Plautian taking this as an intolerable Affront, fell roundly to 
His treason  surprise the Empire: And this was his Plot: There was one Saturninus that had a Tribunes 
* The command of 1000 soldiers.  place under him, and was exceedingly devoted to Plautian; and though all were entirely his, yet he by his singular veneration, had won his Affection more than the rest. Thinking him to be a most trusty fellow, and the only Engine for his secret Designs; he sends for him in the Evening; and all being commanded to void the room, spoke thus to him.  NOw is the time for you to make a brave Consummation of the love and observance you have professed, and for me likewise to render to you according to your Merits, and to make condygne retribution. I put it to your choice, either to be as you see me now, and to succeed me in this eminent place; or instantly to suffer death for refusing my Command. Let not the greatness of the Enterprise affright, nor the Name of Emperors amaze you. When it comes to your turn this Night to relieve the Watch, you may go alone to the Bedchamber, and what you are to do, you may secretly effect without any let. Go your ways therefore to the Court (without any more ado) as if you had some special secret Message from me: and as soon as you come at them, kill them. Be resolute (Man) you may soon dispatch an Old man, and a Boy. And as you partake the danger; so shall you participate the greatest honour, for so gallant an Exploit. 
At this Speech the Tribune was not a little confused; yet recollecting himself, and being a notable shrewd pated Fellow (for he was a Syrian borne, and your Eastern Men are generally wise, and of quick 
* In warm Climates people are generally more wise.  sent) he considered, that to reject the motion of so mighty a Potentate, being in so great rage, were present death: wherefore pretending that he infinitely liked the Business, he adored him as Emperor, beseeching his Warrant for the Execution: (For it was the manner of Tyrants, when they commanded any to be slain (without judicial Process) to sign a Warrant to that purpose, for the Actors discharge.) Plautian, blinded with ambition, delivers his Warrant to the Tribune, strictly charging him, that as soon as he had killed both the Princes, before it were noised abroad, he should send some to call for him, that he might seize the Palace and Empire, before any man dreamt of it. With this charge and commission, the Tribune departs, and as he was wont, walks the Round through all the Emperor's Palace; and knowing how difficult a thing it were for one man to kill two Princes in several Lodgings, he intends to disclose all to Severus; and desired the Door keepers to let him in, for it concerned his Life. They delivering the Message to Severus, he commands them to bring him in. Being entered in, he thus said: Sir, I am come (as he that sent me 
Saturninus detects Plautian.  makes full account) to kill you, as your Death's man; but as myself resolve and vow to be a Preserver of your Life. Plautian traitorously aspiring to the Empire, hath commanded me to murder You and your Son, not only by Word, but also by Writing; (Witness this Schedule.) And accordingly I undertook to execute his Command, lest, upon my Refusal, some other should have attempted it. This I come to certify your Majesty, that you may avoid him. The Tribune having done, fell a weeping. But Severus could not instantly credit it: For Plautian's Love had taken deep root in his heart; and he suspected it to be a mere Illusion, and cunning Imposture; imagining that his son [the Prince] out of his hatred to Plautian and his daughter, had devised this stratagem & deadly 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  slander. wherefore instantly sending for him, he sharply rebuked him, for plotting such things against his dear bosom-friend. Antoninus swore deeply he knew nothing of it. The Tribune producing Plautians Warrant, Antonine encouraged him to detect the Crime. The Tribune perceiving his own Danger, and well-knowing how gracious Plautian was with the Emperor (so that if now he made not good his Charge, he should be put to a cruel death) said thus; Sir, what clearer proof or stronger Evidence can you desire? yet if you will give me leave to go out of the Palace, and send a trusty Messenger to him, to let him know that I have done his Command, he will presently believe it, and repair hither to seize the Palace. So may you learn out the Truth. Only command all in the Court to be quiet, that there may be no intelligence given to prevent the Plot. This being agreed, he sends a special friend to Plautian, to bid him come quickly (now both Princes were slain) before it were blazed abroad; that possessing the 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Castle, and ceiling himself in the Empire, he might get the Sovereignty in despite of all men. Plautian believing the Message, was full of hope, and putting on a Cuirace (for defence) under his Garments (the night being well spent) he posted in his Caroche to the Court, taking but a few with him, that supposed the Emperors had sent for him about extraordinary Affairs. Being en●●ed the Royal palace, without any stop (the Corpse de guard knowing nothing of the business) the Tribune meets him, and (of set purpose) salutes him Emperor; 
Plautian the Traitor betrayed.  then taking him by the hand in friendly sort, he leads him to the Chamber, where he said he had thrown the dead bodies of the Emperors; (Severus having appointed some of his Guard, as soon as he entered the room, to lay hands on him.) But Plautian (who little expected such a banquet) perceiving (when he was come into the Chamber) both the Emperors standing there, and that he was taken in the manner, being horribly afraid, fell on his knees, and sought them not to misdeem him; saying it was a mere Gull and Trick put upon him. Severus exprobrating his Ingratitude, in rewarding his many Honours and Favours in that sort; and Plautian on the other side remembering him of his ancient love and approved Fidelity, the Emperor began by little and little to incline to believe him; till his Cuirace was discerned by the opening of his Garment. Which Antonine espying, being a bold choleric Youth, and bearing a grudge against him; Sir (quoth he) what colourable answer can you make to these two points? First you come to Us (thus late) unsent for. Next, what is the meaning I pray of this Cuirace? who uses to sup or banquet in Armour? With that he commands the Tribune, and the rest that were present, to dispatch him with their swords, as an open enemy. 
Plautian slain.  They (without dilay) did as the young Emperor bade them, and threw his carcase into the Highway, to be the scorn of them that ha●ed him.  
This end had Plautian, answerable to his exorbitant Life and Insatiate Ambition. Severus henceforth made two Praetorian Prefects, and spent most of his Time in his Royal houses in the Suburbs, or in the Sea-coast of 
* The Region betwixt Rome and Naples.  Campania, ministering 
† Severus was a good Lawgiver. S. Aur. Vici. de Caesar.  justice, and attending State-affairs. He was also exceeding careful to have his Sons at Rome, bred in honourable fashion. For he perceived they were more addicted to Plays and Games, than was agreeable to their Princely estare. The pursuit whereof, and their eager desire to win, being st●ll accompanied with different success, and vehement altercation, distracted the brethren's affections, and inflamed them with Firebrands of enmity and discord. But Antonine especially (now Plautian was made away) began to be intolerable in his behaviour, and formidable to all; using all possible means to destroy his wife, daughter to Plautian. But Severus sent her away with her brother into Sicily, assigning them sufficient Maintenance to live plentifully (imitating Augustus, who dealt in like sort with Antonius sons, when he became his Enemy.)  
And now he mainly laboured 
Severus Instruction to his Sons.  to reconcile his Sons, and reduce them to Unity and Unanimity 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 : Remembering them out of old Stoties and Tragedies, of the disasters which befell to Brothers that were Princes, by such Dissensions. He shown them how full of Money the Treasuries and Temples were, so that they needed not to seek for Wealth and Riches abroad, that had such abundance at home, whereby they might bountifully reward the Soldiers at their pleasure: That the Roman Guards were quadrupled; and so puissant an Army lay before the City, that considering the Number of men at Arms, Hugeness of their bodies, and great store of treasure, no foreign power was able to come near them: And yet all (he said) would come to nought, if they jarred & warred one with the other.  
Thus did he daily school them, and by sharp reprehensions and fair speeches, strove all he could to bring them to sobriety and temper. But all in vain. For these unbridled Gallants, being in those first heats of youth, fleshed in all kind of Pleasures (by reason of their Imperial State) became worse and worse, and were more at odds than ever, by the practices of their Parasites, who did not only base offices in serving their Lusts, but were also still projecting new Quarrels and Debates betwixt them for their own sinister ends. But Severus finding out diverse of those bad Instruments, severely punished them.  
The Emperor being in great anguish of spirit, by reason of his children's unseemly and unprincely Demeanour, received 
News from Britain.  Letters from his Viceroy of Britain, cerifying, that the Barbarians there were risen, and had ranged over the Country, pillaging & wasting all before them: that he needed therefore greater Forces to defend the 
* He means the Provinciated part of Britain.  Place; or rather, that his Imperial Majestly should come in person.  
Severus was glad of this news as naturally desirous of honour, and ambitious (after his Eastern and Northern Victories and Surnames) to make a Conquest of the Britain's. joyful also he was of so fair an occasion to take his Sons from Rome, and wean them from the Diet and Delights of the City, by inuring them to a sober military life. He proclaimed therefore his Expedition 
Severus expedition into Britain.  into Britain, being now old and gouty, but of more vigour and alacrity, than any in the flower of youth. In his journey, he was carried (for the most part) in a Siegetta: and rested almost in no place. Having ended his Land travels, he imbarks (with his sons) for Britain; where he arrived sooner than any thought or expected. Presently he commands a general Muster, and raising a great power, prepares for the War.  
The Britain's much troubled at the Emperor's sudden 
* Omnia repentina terrent.  arrival, and understanding that he meant to bring all those Forces against them, sent Ambassadors to crave Peace, and excuse their Faults. But Severus seeking to protract time (lest he should return to Rome as he came) and being very eager of the Conquest and Surname of Britain, dismisses their Ambassadors without 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  dispatch, and provides all warlike Ammunition. And to the end his soldiers might stand firm in fight, and bestir themselves nimbly, and on sure ground; he gave strict charge to make Causies and Bridges over the Marish land: For the most part of that Region of the Britain's, being surrounded by the Ocean's continual Irruption, is Fenny and Moorish. In those Bogs the 
* The Romans styled all Barbarians, but themselves and the Greeks.  Barbarians use to swim and run up and down, plunging themselves to the middle; for being halfe-naked, they care not for Mire or Mud. They use not Vestures, but wear about their 
Description of Picts or Scots, a branch of the Britan's.  wastes and necks an Ornament of Iron, which they esteem a rare accoutrement, and rich habiliment (as other Barbarians do Gold.) They pownce and paint their bodies with curious pictures, and the shapes of all sorts of Creatures; in which regard, they are not clad all over, lest 
Their Elegy.  they should hide that brave Embroidery. They are a most Martial 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  people, and very furious in fight: wherein they use only a 
Sword and Pike the King and Queen of Weapons.  narrow Shield, a Pike, and a Sword hanging at their naked sides. As for Cuirace or Cask, they use none at all; deeming they would but hinder them in traversing the pools and fens; out of which the foggy vapours continually arising, make the sky in that Coast always cloudy.  
Severus having all things in readiness that he desired, which might further the Romans, or hinder & annoy the Barbarians, left his younger son Geta in that 
* Viz. at York  part of the I'll, which was under the Roman obedience, to minister justice, and govern the State; appointing (for his Assistance) his most ancient Friends and Counselors; but took Antonine with him to the War against the Barbarians. The Army (having past those rivers and Rampires which disterminate the Frontiers of the Romans from the Barbarians) made certain petty Skirmishes and Excursions, wherein they had still the better. But the enemies retreated at their pleasure into their Fastnesses among the Woods and Fens (so familiar to them;) wherein they hide themselves; which being no small 
* Severus lost fifty thousand in that Service. Dio.  detriment to the Romans, did spin the War to a great length. Meanwhile Severus, being now very aged, fell into a languishing Disease, which forced him to keep home, and send Antonine to prosecute the war. But he little regarding the Barbarians, bended all his endeavours to win the Soldiers, persuading them to make him their Chief. For he vehemently aspired to sole Sovereign; to which purpose, he still depraved and disvalue his brother. He was also much vexed that his Father's Disease was so lingering, and had not made an end of him; wherefore he solicited his Physicians and Attendants to dispatch the old man, and mischief him (by any means whatsoever.) At last Severus departed this life, being consumed and pined away, rather 
* Severus dies for grief.  with Heartgrief, than any other malady; having been the most famous Warrior of all the Emperors. For none ever got so many Victories over Civil and Foreign Enemies. He deceased 
* At York, April. 4. An. Dom. 212.  in the eighteenth year of his Reign, leaving to his young sons which succeeded him, such a Mass of Treasure, as never any did; and so puissant an Army, as was unmatchable.  
Antonine (after Severus death) 
antonine Cruelty.  being now in supreme authority, instantly began to bathe himself in blood: putting to death the Physicians for not hastening the old Emperor's death (as he commanded) & killing his own & brothers foster▪ fathers, because they had mediated an Accord between them: not sparing any that either honoured his Father, or was honoured by him. He solicited also the chief Captains and Commanders (with large gifts and promises) to persuade the Soldiers to proclaim him sole Emperor: using all possible Trains and Mines against his brother. But the Soldiers would in no wise yield to it; for they well knew, that Severus had from their Infancy trained them in the same degree of honour; and therefore they were resolved to love and honour both alike. Antonine seeing he could not prevail with the Army, made a League with the Barbarians; to whom having given peace, and received their Pledges, he departed in all haste to his Mother and Brother. Being come together, their Mother [the Empress] and all the great Lords and Counselors of State assayed to make them friends: whereupon Antonine, when he saw that all opposed his Designs, of constraint rather than willingly, yielded to a dissembled atonement. Then both the Brothers, ruling with equal Authority, sailed out of Britain, and took their journey to Rome; carrying with them their Father's Relics. 
Severus his Relics.  For his body being burned, the Ashes (mixed with sweet Odours) were bestowed in an Urn of Alabaster, which they took to Rome, to place it in the 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  sacred Sepulchers of the Emperors. They lead the Army (as Conquerors of Britain) and 
Antonine and Geta sail out of Britain.  landed in Gallia. Thus have we shown in this Book, the manner of Severus Reign and Death, and how his Sons succeeded him in the Empire.  
The End of the third Book.   

HERODIAN HIS IMPERIAL HISTORY. The fourth Book.  
The Contents.  
THe two Emperors enter Rome in State. What Roman Emperors Deified. Their solemn Obsequy and Funeral Triumph: Severus Deified: Wrestling: The Partition of the Empire: The Empress' Dowager hinders it: Antonine kills Geta: His Prodigality and savage Cruelty: His guilty Conscience: His Exercises and Military Austerity: He acts Alexander and Achilles: He is royally entertained at Alexandria: He offers at Alexander's Shrine: His Quarrel to the Alexandrians. A fear full Massacre: He pretends to be a Suitor to the King of Parthia's Daughter; under which colour, he massacres the Parthians: He consults with Magicians, and commands them to conjure: He is slain: Macrinus succeeds: His Speech: A terrible battle betwixt the Romans & Parthians: Heralds make a sudden League betwixt them.  
THe Acts of Severus the Emperor during the Eighteen years of his Reign, we have related in the precedent book.  
His Sons, who were yet 
The two Emperors take their journey to Rome.  young, hastened with their Mother towards Rome: but by the way, they fell to such jars, as that they neither lodged in the same house, nor eat together; being extreme jealous, lest they received poison one from the other, in their Meats or Drinks; either secretly from themselves, or otherwise, by suborning their Servants. They made therefore the more haste in their journey, as supposing they might both live more securely at Rome; and that the Imperial Palace (which 
The Magnificent Palace of the Emperors.  for Numerous and Gorgeous Edifices, was larger than all the City) being disparted betwixt them; there would be room enough for each of them to have his several Court, and live as pleased himself.  
Being come to Rome, the people 
They enter Rome in State.  received them with Laurels, and the Peers welcomed them. The Emperors themselves went foremost; vested in Purple Robes of State. Next after them followed the Consuls, which supported the Urn, wherein were Severus Relics. The Nobles having saluted the new Emperors, passed along, and adored the Urn: which having honoured with great Pomp and Ceremony, they shrined it in the Temple, where the Sacred Monuments of Marcus, and the Emperors (before him) are to be seen. After the Divine Rites and Offices were celebrated, (as is accustomed at Imperial Inaugurations) the Princes went to the Palace Royal; which dividing betwixt them, they dwelled apart, making fast all the secret passages; and using only in common, the public Court-gates. They chose also several Guards, and came not together, but for some small while, when they were to show themselves to the people.  
Yet had they special care to 
Severus Funeral.  solemnize their Father's Funeral with Glorious Ceremonies. For it is the manner of the Romans to Deify those Emperors, which at their Decease leave their Sons to succeed them. This Solemnity they call, placing of them among the gods.  
Over all the city there is a semblance 
The Ritual magnificence at the Funerals and Deifications of Emperors.  of Mourning intermixed with that Divine Celebrity. For the dead corpse is with sumptuous Exequys, buried as others usually are. Then in the Porch of the Palace, is erected on high, a stately bed of Ivory, spread with cover of cloth of Gold; whereon is laid an Image of Wax, made very like to the Defunct. This Image lies like a sick person, pale & discoloured. On both sides of the bed, there sit most part of the day, on the left hand, all the most Honourable Lords, in black Vestures; on the right hand, all the Ladies of Honour ennobled by the Splendour of their Parents & husbands. None of which are adorned with gold or jewels, but are vested in thin white Raiment, after the guise of Mourners. This they do seven days together Meanwhile, Physicians come often to the bed, as if they visited a Patient, saying still, that he grows worse and worse. When he seems to be departed, the most noble young Gallants, among all the Senators, & 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Order of Knighthood, lift up the bed on their shoulders, and carry it through the 
* Via sacra: It reached from the Palace to the Forum, which was the chief Place of public Meetings & Plead.  Sacred Street, to the old Forum; (where the Roman Magistrates use to resign their Offices.) On both sides are Scaffolds erected: On the one part, is a Choir of Boys of most noble birth and descent: opposite to them is a Choir of Ladies of prime Nobility: all which sing Hymns and 
* Or Paeans  laud's over the defunct, with solemn mournful Melody. Which done, they take up the bed again, and carry 
Cam●us Martius.  it out of the City, to Mars his field; in the broadest place whereof is erected a Frame, of a Quadrangled Aequilaterall Form, made like a little 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  House, consisting of no other Materials, but 
The Funeral Pile, or Deificatory Throne.  huge pieces of Timber compact together. Within, it is filled with dry wood: without, it is decked with Tapestry embroidered with Gold; with Ivory Statues, and Exquisite Pictures. In the lower part, is placed a lesser Structure, framed and beautified like the other, with little gates and doors set open. There is also a third, and fourth room; still lesser, and lesser: and then, divers other; till you come to the last, which is least of all. Which kind of Edifice, may be resembled to the 
By these Arabian Spices and Odours, & there seems to be in this supreme Solemnity, an Allusion to the Phoenix, etc.  
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Light-Houses, which by fire in the night, direct ships to a safe Harbour (vulgarly called Pharos.) The bed being brought into the second room, they throw in (by heaps) all sorts of Spices, and sweet Odours, that the earth affords, and all kind of fragrant and odorate Fruits, Herbs, and Gums: for there is not a 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. (〈◊〉 ●hich sen●e the Author uses it per totum.)  Province, or City, or any Person of Honour and Authority, which is not ambitious to send these last Presents, to the Honour of their Prince. When a mighty Pile of Aromatickes is amassed together, so that all the place is full; then, all of the Order of Knighthood, 
The Funeral Dance or Triumph  gallantly mounted on horseback, ride round about the Frame; wheeling to and fro, and prancing in great bravery the 
“ Dancing in Armour inve●●ed by ●. ●●rr●us. P●in H●st. lib. 7. ●. 56.  Pyrrhic Measures. In the same stately manner, there ride about the Frame, Purple Chariottiers, representing the Persons, & bearing the Images of the Noblest Roman Worthies & Emperors. Which Celebrity performed, the Successor in the Empire takes a Torch in his hand, and puts it to the Frame, Then, all the ●●●titude set fire to it on every side, and presently the whole Frame, filled with such combustible and odoriferous stuff, is all on a bright blaze. Immediately, from the top of the least and highest Turret (as from a Pinnacle) an Eagle is let 
An Eagle let fly.  fly into the Air, at the instant of the firing; which (as the Romans believe) carries the Emperor's soul from earth to heaven. And ever after, they worship him among the other Gods.  
The young Emperors, after 
Severus Deified.  the solemn Deification of their Father, returning home, the flames of discord burst out again; which growing to a deadly Feud, they plotted all manner of ways to surprise and entrap one another, each attempting all possible means to make away the other, that he might be sole Emperor. Yea the minds and affections of all the Citizens of greatest Power and Dependencies were infinitely distracted, both the Emperors sending (in secret) their different Letters, and seeking to win and wedge men to their several factions, by fair promises. But the mayor part inclined to Geta, because he shown 
The Character of Geta and Antonine.  some sparks of Noble Honesty, and was mild and affable in Conversation, and used Honourable Studies. For he had still about him Learned men, and was frequent at Wrestling, and other 
Wrestling a Princely Sport.  ingenious Exercises. He was also full of Humanity and Courtesy towards all▪ & of so graceful & Princely behaviour, that the fame and good opinion of him drew most men's affections to him. But Antonine bore himself in a harsh and rugged fashion; and being altogether averse from the things before recited, affected the reputation of a Martialist & Man of War. Whereupon, doing all things in Choler and Fury, he sought rather to win men by Threatening than Entreating, and by Fear than Love. Their mother seeing them so discordant in all their Actions (even of least Consequence) assayed to reconcile them, but in vain. Whereupon, they (once) resolved to share 
The Empire divided  the Empire betwixt them, lest residing still at Rome, they should be circumvented by each other. Wherefore having assembled their Father's Kinsmen & Councillors of State, they debated (in their Mother's presence) how to make the Partition: Where all Europe was adjudged to Antonine, and all the opposite coast called Asia, was assigned to Geta: (for so hath it pleased the Divine Providence to disterminate both Continents by the 
* Of this Vid. Strab. lib. 2. and the Travels of that noble learned Gentleman M. George Sandys, pag. 27.— quem pulcher Apollo, Omnes per montes, atque antra per omnia auxit  Propontick Gulf.) It was also, agreed that antonine Camp should lie at Byzantium: and Getaes' at Chalcedon, a City in Bythinia: that the Armies facing each other (in those Frontier Towns) might guard the Dominions of both, and forbidden the Passage by Sea: [Chalcedon being situate over against Byzantium, in the mouth of Pontus Euxinus.] It was likewise ordered, that the Senators and Nobles which were Europaeans, should reside at Rome; the rest should follow Geta; who destined Antioch or Alexandria (which were not much less than Rome) for the chief seat of his Empire; & was content to leave to Antonine the Provinciated Moors and Numidians of the South (with the bordering nations of afric) taking to himself the Countries (beyond) towards the Orient. While they were thus parting the Empire 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  by the Map, all the Lords being much grieved at it, their Mother julia thus interrupted them; O my Sons, you have 
The Empresses Speech to her Sons.  found the way to divide Sea and Land; and the Pontic Gulf (as you say) parts both Continents: But how will you divide your Mother? How shall I (Wretched Woman!) be torn & mangled betwixt you? First therefore kill me outright, and divide me (each of you taking his part) that I also (with Sea and Land) may be divided between you. Having thus said, with many tears, she caught hold of them both (with a loud shrieke) and clasping them in her Arms, with great violence of affection, endeavoured to reconcile them. Which piteous sight struck such a horror into all; that the 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Counsel was dismissed, the Proposition quite dashed, and the Princes returned to their several Palaces. Yet was there no hope of Reconcilement, but still their irrelenting Fury increased. At the Elections of Viceroys and Precedents, each preferred his Friend; and when they sat in judgement, they were of different Opinions; to the infinite loss of those which had Causes to be heard; for they more regarded Partiality, than justice or Equity. Yea, at Sports & Games they were still of contrary sides. Neither did they forbear any sort of Treachery; but dealt eftsoons with their several Cooks and Cupbearers, to poison each other. Which not taking effect, because of the ordinary care and caution of both at their Table; at last Antonine having lost all patience, and resolved to reign alone, intends to murder his brother. For seeing his secret plots succeeded not, he determined in despite of all danger, to break through all difficulties. Wherefore rushing into his brother's Chamber (who thought not of him) he slew him in his 
Antonine kills Get●  mother's arms, who was all imbrued with his blood. Which done, he leaps forth, and running through all the Court, cries out, he had like to have been murdered, and hardly escaped. Then he commands his Guard to convey him presently into the camp to save his life; saying, he should instantly be slain, if he stayed there. They believing what he said, and not knowing what was done within, ran along with him. The City was extremely terrified 
He fles to the Campe.  at the Emperor's running thorough the City in the evening. As soon as he got to the Camp, he went to the Chapel, where the Ensigns and Images of the army are kept with religious veneration, and falling flat on the earth, thanked the Gods for his great deliverance. Which when the Soldiers heard (that were then either bathing, or gone to their Rest) they all flocked thither in amazement. Antonine going among them, confessed not presently what he had done, but cried out amain, that he had escaped a dangerous plot of his Capital Enemy (meaning his Brother) and that with much ado, after a long Conflict, his Adversaries were overcome: in which fight, both being engaged, himself at last (thanks to his good Fortune) remained sole Emperor: By which dark and intortled Speeches, he meant they should rather guess at what was done, than directly understand him. Then (to secure himself and the Empire) he promised to every Soldier, two 
* 80. li. (aut praeter-propter.)  thousand five hundred Attic Drachmas, and double the 
His Prodigality.  Wheat they were wont to have: bidding them go themselves immediately and take the Money out of the Temples and Treasuries. Thus did he in one day squander away all the Coin that Severus had raked out of others ruins, in eighteen years. The Soldiers alured with such a Mass of money, and understanding how the world went, (the murder being now divulged by them that fled out of the Court) Proclaimed him sole Emperor, (terming Geta a traitor.) Antonine stayed that night in the Temple, and taking heart (as having by these Donatives assured the Soldiers) he repaired (the next day) to the Senate-house, with all his Army, which was better armed than in the usual Attendance on the Prince. Having sacrificed, he mounted the Imperial Throne, and thus spoke:  

Antonine's Speech to the Senate.  
I Am not ignorant how odious and subject to calumny the Murder of Domestickes is at the first Bruit: for Men are apt to pity them that suffer, and to malign the Actors: so that he which is vanquished may be thought to be wronged, and the Victor to have done the wrong. But if Men look into the Matter with clear judgements, not clouded with favour to the defunct, but rightly weighing his cause and balancing his purpose, they will soon discern that it is fare more reasonable and necessary to revenge, than receive an Injury: (the Party slain being (withal) so egregious a coward, and the Victor so bravely valorous, as appears by the Event.) What perilous Plots he had on fo●t against me, both by Poisons, and all sorts of treacherous practices, you may soon find by the torture of his Servants, whom I have therefore commanded to be brought hither, that you may know the truth. Divers of them have been examined already; whose Confessions you may hear. The truth is, I being with my Mother, he and others rushed in upon me, with drawn swords: but I shrewdly suspecting it (my mind misgiving me) prevented it, and slew him as a Traitonr: for certes he had not the affection or disposition of a brother: Now as it is an act of justice to be revenged on such dangerous persons, so are there good Precedents for it. Romulus, the first Founder of this City, would not endure his own brother, 
* Vid. Liv. & Aurel. Victor. de Orig. Gent. Ro●●.  that did but jest at his endeavours. I omit Germanicus, brother to Nero; and Titus, brother to Domitian. Marcus himself, that made such affair Flourish of Philosophy and Humanity, would not suffer the affront of 
* There was a Report that Marcus Aurelius poisoned him, but (as Aurelius Victor saith) none but lewd persons believed it.  Lucius, his Son in law; but secretly dispatched him. And so have I anticipated (by a just Vindication) the Poisons and Sword of an Enemy: (for so his Deeds style him.) You are therefore to thank the Gods, that have reserved you such a Prince, under whose sole Regiment you may now live quietly and securely, without Distractions: For as jupiter is the only Emperor among the Gods, so hath he decreed that there shall be but one Emperor among Men.   
Having thus said with a loud Voice (in great rage) and casting 
His Savage Cruelty.  a terrible frown on his brother's friends, he leaves the Senators (most whereof looked pale and trembled) and hurries to the Palace: where he instantly slew all his brother's servants & friends, not sparing any Officers that were found in the House, nor any other, no not very Infants: All whose Carcases being despitefully thrown into Carts, and carried out of the City, were cast by heaps (at random) into the 
* They had not the honour of a decent Funeral.  fire. He spared none that had the least acquaintance with Geta; but put to the sword, even Wrestlers, Charriot-drivers, and all kind of Players and Actors, that had any way delighted him, by seeing or hearing them. He slew also the most eminent and opulent Senators, upon the least suipition or suggestion, that they were friends to his brother. He put to death Commodus his Sister (who was then an old woman, and had been much honoured of all the Emperors, because she was Marcus his Daughter;) imputing it as a crime, that she wept with his Mother at her Son's Murder. Nor did he forget his quondam Wife (Plautians Daughter) that lived in Sicily; nor his Couzen-german, named Sevecus; nor Pertinaxes Son; nor the Son of Lucilla (Sister to Commodus) but cut them all off, together with all the Imperial Kindred, and the flower of the Nobility and Gentry. Then sent he into the Provinces, and massacred all the Precedents and Procurators, as Geta's Favourites. Yea, whole Nights were spent in such Tragical executions of all sorts of people. He buried the Vestal Virgins quick, pretending they had lost their Virginity. Lastly (which was never done before) when at the Circensian 
* Instituted in honour of Neptune. Vid. Al. ab Alex. Gen. Die. lib. 6. cap. 19  Sports (where himself was a spectator) the people cast some scoff at a Charriotier which he favoured, he taking it as an affront to himself, suddenly commanded his Men at arms to rush among the Multitude, and kill all that had scorned the Charriot-driver. Upon this Command, it being impossible to find out the Delinquents, in so great a throng (no man confessing himself guilty) the Soldiers spared none that they light upon, but either slew them, or took away that they had in lieu of Ransom. After all which heinous Acts, his conscience 
His guilty Conscience  recoiling, and shrewdly stinging him, he was weary of the City life, and resolved to leave Rome, upon colour to reform the Legions, and visit the Provinces. Departing therefore from Italy, he came to the banks of Ister, and the Northern parts of the Empire; where he exercised 
His Exercises.  himself in Coach-races and combating with all kind of Wilde-beasts. Sometime he sat in judgement (though very seldom) where, after a few words on either side, he presently gave Sentence. He much affected the Germans, and made them his 
His affection to the Germans▪  Confederates and Associates in war; choosing from among them, the most valiant and personable, to be of his Guard. Yea, he oft laid aside his Roman habit, and put on German attire, going abroad in their Cassocks trimmed with Silver; and wearing a yellow Periwig, l●ke the German bush. Which affected Garb infinitely endeared him to the Barbarians. And the Roman Army was well pleased, by reason of his profuse Donatives, and because he descended to the performance of all Military 
His Military Austerity  labours in his own person; for he would first dig (when need required) and if a bridge were to be made over a River, or a Rampire to be cast, or any Manuary work or toil to be undertaken, he would be the first that should put his hand to it; contenting himself with a spare Diet, wooden cups and platters, and any bread whatsoever: for his manner was, to take so much wheat as would suffice one man, which he grinded himself, and then kneading it into Cakes, and baking it on the Embers, eat it. Brief, he left off all manner of junkets and delicates, faring no otherwise than the poorest common soldier. Moreover, it pleased him better (as he pretended) to be called Fellow-soldier, than Emperor; accustoming himself to travel on foot (as the rest did) and rarely using Horse or Caroche; carrying also his own Arms, and many times, the Great Imperial Standard; which being marvellous weighty, by reason of the rich and Massy Goldworke, was not easily borne by the strongest Ancient-bearer. For these and the like observances, the army loved him as a good Soldier, and honoured him as a brave Commander. And indeed it was a wonder, that so small a timbered man, was able to do so great matters. But when he had visited the Legions upon the banks of Is●er, and went down into Thrace, which borders on Macedonia, he then began to play Alexander; 
He acts Alexander.  reviving that King's Memory, by all means possible, causing his Statues and Images to be erected in every City, and filling Rome itself, the Capitol, and all the Temples with them. I have seen also diverse ridiculous Images, which had one entire Body, and one Head, which had two halfefaces, to wit, Alexander's and antonine. His ordinary Wear, was the Macedonian Habit, a 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Turban on his head, and Pantofles on his feet. He had a select troop of young Soldiers, which he styled the Macedonian Phalanx, commanding his Captains to call themselves by the names of Alexander's Captains. He sent for Youths from Sparta, and termed them the Laconicke and 
* Of the City Pitane in L●●onia.  Pitanite Band. After this, having made the Towns and Cities tenable, he went to Pergamus a City in Asia, to take Physic of Aesculapius; where having done as his Fancy led him, he marched strait to 
* Troy.  Ilium, to view the Ruins of it, and visit Achilles' Tomb; which having bravely decked with flowers and garlands, he then would needs act Achilles: 
He acts Achilles.  but wanting a Patroclus, he played this Prank. He had with him one Festus, his most beloved Freedman, and the Imperial Remembrancer, who died while he was at Ilium, being (as some say) poisoned, that he might have such a Funeral as 
* Vid. Hom. ●●●ad ●. 23.  Patroclus: but others say, he died naturally. However, he commanded his corpse to be brought forth, and a great Funeral Pile to be made; whereon having cast the dead body, and killed of all manner of beasts, he set the Pile on fire, and lifting up a Vial, sacrificed Wine, and prayed to the Winds. But when he was to cast his hair 
* This was an ancient Funeral ●●●●. Vid. 〈◊〉. Iph. 〈…〉 in 〈◊〉 pat  also into the flame, having a very thin Bush natural, all the Company laughed: yet he made a sorry shift, and cut of all the hair he had. Of all Generals, he comm●●●ed chief the Roman Syll●, and African Annibal: 
Sylla and Hannibal.  whose images and Statues he erected.  
Departing from Ilium, and passing thorough Asia, Bythinia, and other Provinces (where he settled his Affairs) he came to Antioch; where being honourarably entertained, and having stayed a certain time, he sent to Alexandria, pretending he had a great longing to see the City which Alexander founded; as also, to consult the God which the Citizens so much honoured. Upon these two Pretexts, to wit, the Adoration of their Deity, and Veneration of that Hero's Memory, he gave order that 
* Sacrifices of an hundred Oxen.  Hecatombs and Sacrifices (of all sorts) should be prepared against his Coming. Which Message being delivered to the Alexandrians (who are naturally Cocke-brained and lightheaded) they were almost beside themselves for joy that the Emperor was so devoted to them: They made therefore such royal preparations for his Entertainment, 
His royal entertainment at Alexandria.  as the like (they say) was never made for any Prince. All manner of exquisite Music and curious Melody was heard over all the City: All his Passages were perfumed with all sorts of precious Odours and Aromatickes. Torches were lighted, and all the way strewed with Gelsomines and Musk roses. The Emperor entered the City with all his Army, and first went to the Temple, where having sacrificed Hundreds of Beefs, and burnt Heaps of Incense on the Altars, he visited 
His Offertory at Alexander's Shrine.  Alexander's Shrine; where he offered his Purple Robe, his Rings set with Paragon Stones, his Belt, Scarf, and choicest jewels he had about him: all which he laid upon his Tomb; whereat the Alexandrians being 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  overjoyed, reveled and feasted day and night, little dreaming what a banquet the Emperor would shortly make them. For all this P●ausibilitie was merely colourable; his Intendment being to make a general Massacre among them. The cause of his secret ●ancour 
His secret 〈◊〉 ell to 〈◊〉 Alexandrians.  was this: It was told him a Rome in his brother's time, and after his death, that the Citizens of Alexandria had spoken disgracefully of him. Indeed they 
The Alexandrians described.  are naturally a very scurrilous People, and much given to gibing and giering of others; casting out against the most eminent Persons, many cutting Quips, which themselves think are fine conceits; but they against whom they are spoke, take them as great Indignities. For those jests are most biting, that have most relish of truth. Having therefore much traduced him for his brother's murder, nicknamed his mother jocasta, and scoffed him, for that being such a low Grig, he would presume to personate such High and Mighty 
* Or Semigods.  Heroes as Alexander and Acchilles; they did so enrage Antonine, who (by nature) was of a fiery and sanguinary disposition, that while they thus sported themselves with their Squibs and Flashes, he intended to la●● them with a terrible Revenge. Wherefore the Festival Celebrity being ended; he perceiving what an infinite number were come together into the City, out of the Regions adjoining, made Proclamation, that all the Youths should assemble themselves in a certain Plain; that as he had already a Macedonian & Spartan Phalanx; so also he might (in honour of Alexander) have another Phalanx; named (after him) Alexandrian. He willed therefore that the young men should be so ranked that a Lane might be left for him to walk and take a View, which were fittest for Age, Strength, & Stature, to serve in the wars. This being believed (as very probable 〈…〉 regard of the high honour he had so lately done to Alexander, all the yonkers accompanied with their Parents and Cousins, me● at the place assigned, with great joy and alacrity. Antonine passing thorough all the Ranks, and perusing them severally, commended first one, and then another; protracting the time, till his whole army had rounded them (ere any observed it or thought of it.) As soon as he witted that they were all circuled by his men of war, and taken (as it were) in a toil, he presently departs (with his Guard) and makes a signal to the Army; 
Alexandrians massacred.  which instantly rushing in on every side, make a furious slaughter of the unarmed Youths, and all the rest that were enclosed; some of the Soldiers employing themselves only in killing, other in throwing the dead bodies into huge deep Pits, whereon casting much earth, they made a huge great Mount. Many were thrust in half dead; and not a few were buried quick. There perished also many of the Soldiers: For they which had any breath left in their bodies, and had not lost all their vigour, caught hold of the Soldiers that fling them in, and haled them with them into the graves. So great was the slaughter, that streams of blood gushing through the Plain, died the Month of Nilus, and the shore about the City with Purple gore. And now affecting the Surname of Parthicus, and the honour of Conquering the Oriental Barbarians (though they lived in 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  profound Peace) he lays this Plot. He sends Letters to Artabanus the King of Parthia, and Ambassadors with stately Presents; 
An embassy to the Parthians.  Certifying them, that he was desirous to have his daughter to wife; that he was an Emperor, and Son to an Emperor, and was not minded therefore to be Son in Law to any Subject, or mean person, but rather to espouse a Queen, or some great Princess; that the Roman and Parthicke Empires were the two greatest in the world, which if (by affinity) they were united, & their powers conjoined, (without any Bar or Let by Rivers or otherwise) they would become absolutely Invincible; that the Barbarian nations subject to both Empires, would be more mannageable, if every several Country and City had governor's of their own Nation; that the Roman Infantry and Pike-men excelled all others in set Battle, that the Parthian Cavalry and Archers, exceeded for number 
Parthian Archers.  and Skill. Both which concurring with correspondent Military valour, and all Warlike necessaries, would easily reduce the whole World to an entire Monarchy under one Diadem. And whereas those Countries yielded Spices, Odours and the finest Silks; and the Roman dominions abounded in all kind of Minerals, and Manufactures, which (in the division) Merchants imported but by stealth, and very seldom; were this Union effected, on one sole Empire constituted, there would follow by mutual Traffic and Amity, a happy intercourse, without impeachment, or impediment.  
The Parthian having read these Letters, refused the offer at 
The Parthians Answer.  first, saying; That it was very inconvenient for the Roman & Barbarian Princes to match together, for what concord could there be in so different Language, Diet, and Habit? that the Emperor might find at Rome, many of great Nobility, and Extraction, not unworthy his Affinity; as himself had likewise among his Peers and 
* Princes of the blood descended of King Arsa●es.  Arsacidaes, and that it was not fit that either of their Races should be Mungrelized in that manner. This was his first answer to the Emperor's proposition: but Antonine reinforcing his suit, & by many gifts and solemn oaths confirming his zealous affection and desire of Marriage; The Barbarian King yielded (at last) and promising to give him his Daughter, called him, His son in law that should be. Which news being divulged; all the Barbarians prepared to entertain the King of the Romans; and rejoiced in hope of an eternal Peace. Whereupon Antonine 
Antonine enters Parthia.  passing the Rivers without opposition, progressed over Parthia (as if it had been his own Country) the Natives every where entertained him with Sacrifices, crowned Altars, and most exquisite sweet Odours; which he made show to be exceedingly affected with. Approaching after a long March to the Court of Artabanus, the King goes forth to meet the Bridegroom (his Son in law) in a fair Plain before the City, attended with a wondrous company of Barbarians, wearing Chaplets of flowers and diverse coloured Vestures of wrought Gold; frolicking and dancing to the Music of Flutes, Pipes, and Timbrels; for with these Revels they are marveilously delighted, especially when they are well tippled. Now when the greatest concourse of people was come together, and the Barbarians (having left their horses, bows, and arrows) were feasting and carousing (at random) and misdeeming nothing, thronged and crowded together to see the royal Bridegroom; Antonine made a sign to his soldiers to fly upon them and murder them. The Barbarians amazed at this, gave 
The Parthians massacred.  back and fled; the Roman, following the Chase, killing and wounding them. Artabanus himself being ●●●ued by his Guard, and set on Horseback, had much ado to escape with a few of his Courtiers. The Remainder of the Barbarians were put all to the sword; for they had neither horses (which they most needed) having turned them to pasture; nor could they run away, being hindered by their lose Garments, which reached down to the foot, nor had they with them their Bows and Arrows; for what should they do with them at a Wedding? Thus after a mighty Massacre of the Barbarians, Antonine taking magnificent Spoils, and many Prisoner's, departs without any resistance; burning Towns and Cities as he went, and licensing the Soldiers to take what pillage and booty they listed. This blow the Barbarians received ere they looked for it. Antonine having harried and wasted the Parthian Country (till his soldiers were weary) retreits into Mesopotamia, and from thence certifies the Roman Senate and People, that he had conquered all the Orient, and reduced all those Kingdoms under his obedience. The Senate, albeit they well knew how things went (
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  for it is impossible that a Prince's actions should be concealed) yet out of fear and flattery they decreed to him all Triumphal Honours. And now did Antonine keep his Court in Mesopotamia, wholly devoting himself to Charriot-races, and Combats with all sorts of Wild beasts. He had two Generals of his army; the one was very aged, and though no great Statesman, yet a good Marshal man. His name was Audentius. The other (called Macrinus) was well seen in points of State, and an excellent Lawyer. Him the Prince did oft shrewdly check and taunt (in public) as a man of no spirit or valour, giving him very contumelious terms. For understanding that he kept a good table, and loathed the course Viands that himself delighted in (like a soldier) and that he used to wear a short 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Cloak, and other City attire; he called him an effeminate Coward, and continually threatened to kill him. Which Macrinus taking to heart, was mightily enraged. Now there fell out this Accident (for at last Antonine was to leave the Stage.) Being naturally curious and inquisitive to know not only the secrets of Men, but of Gods also, and Daemons; and suspecting that all intended Treason against him, he consulted all Oracles, and sent 
Magicians consulted.  fare and near for Magicians, Astrologers, and Wizzards: not one escaping him, that professed those Curious Arts. But misdoubting that they all lied, and prophesied falsely (to soothe him in his humour) he writes to one Maternianus, to whom he had committed the Government of the State at Rome; and (as to his most confident friend) he had imparted all his secrets; willing him to inquire out the chief Magicians and Conjurers that 
Conjuring.  were to be found, and to demand of the Spirits that were raised, how long he had to live; and whether any intended to surprise the empire. Maternianus obeying his Command, (whether the Spirits signified so much, or whether he plotted so against Macrinus;) writes back to Antonine, that Macrinus 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  insidiously aspired to the Empire, and that therefore he should make him away.  
Having sealed these Letters (among others) he delivers them (as usually he did) to the Posts that knew nothing of the Contents. They with wont speed arrive at the Emperor's Court, at the very instant of his beginning his Charriot-race, (for he was now entering the Chariot) and deliver him the Packet, wherein the Letters (touching Macrinus) were. But Antonine's mind being wholly fixed on his present * Sports, he bids Macrinus 
Charriot-races a great sport in those days  take the Letters and peruse them, and if there were any matters of Weight, to certify him; otherwise to attend his Charge as he was wont, (thus he oft used to do:) And so he hurries away in his Chariot. Macrinus retiring himself, broke up the several Letters, and fell upon that which aimed at his destruction. Perceiving therefore that his danger was great and impendent; and well knowing antonine feral Cruelty (especially having so fair a Pretext) he reserves that Letter to himself, and (as his manner was) acquainted the Prince with the Contents of the rest. But fearing, lest Maternianus should write again of the same Business, he resolved rather to do than suffer; and thus he plots: There was one Martial, a 
* A Captain of an hundred men.  Centurion, and one of antonine Guard, that still waited on him; whose brother was a few days before, executed by the Prince, upon bare Information (without proof or proceesse) who had also called Martial himself, Base Coward, and Macrinus his Favourite (in scorn.) This man being infinitely grieved at his brother's death, and enraged with those reproaches, Macrinus (who knew all the Passages) sends for; reposing in him, as having been formerly his Servant, and obliged to him by many singular Favours. Him he persuades to kill Antonine, upon the first Opportunity. Whereupon alured with Macrinus Promises, and instigated with his own Quarrel, and his brother's Revenge, he undertakes to effect it, as soon as was possible. Shortly after it fell out, that Antonine lying at Carrae in 
Carrae in Mesopotamia.  Mesopotamia, went from his Palace to visit the Temple of the 
* Of Luna and Lunus see M. Sslden, de Dijs Syris.  Moon, (a good distance from the City) which Goddess is honoured by the Natives with great Devotion. Taking with him but a small Troop of Horse (not troubling the whole army) he went on his journey, purposing (when he had sacrificed) to return to the City. In the Midway, commanding all to stand off, he went aside to his Easement, taking but a Pag● along with him. Whereupon all turning their faces, and going a great way off (for Honour's sake) Martial, who watched every minute of opportunity, as soon as he perceived the Prince was all alone, runs instantly (as if he had beckoned to him to do somewhat) 
Antonine slain.  and stabs him behind with a Stiletto, (as he was uncovering himself.) The wound being mortal, he was suddenly slain without recovery. Which done, Martial takes horse and flies. But the German Horsemen which Antonine much delighted in, and used for his Guard, being next at hand, and the first that saw what was done, pursued him, and thrust him thorough with their javelins. When the report hereof was brought to the Army, they all ran together to the place; where Macrinus was the first that sell a weeping and wailing (dissemblingly) over the dead body. The Soldiers took his Death very heavily, accounting they had lost a dear friend and companion rather than a Prince: and not conceiting any thing of Macrinus his ●reason, they thought Martial had done it in his own quarrel: and so they all returned to their Tents: Macrinus having burnt the corpse, sent his Ashes in an Urn to his mother to bury it. She was then at Antioch, and for grief of her children's disasters, slew herself; whether voluntarily or by compulsion, is uncertain. This End had the Emperor Antonine, and his Mother julia, having lived in that manner (as I have related) he having reigned six years alone (without his Father or Brother.)  
Antonine extinct, the Soldiers being all in a Maze, were two days without an Emperor, debating who was fittest to be elected: For they had Intelligence, that Artabanus was marching with a mighty Army to be revenged on them, and to Sacrifice them to the Ghosts of them they had treacherously slain in the time of Peace and Festival Solemnity. They proceed therefore to Election: and first they make choice of Audentius, a man bred up in the Wars, and a good commander. But he alleging 
Audentius refuses the Empire.  he was super-annate, refuses the Empire; whereupon they elect Macrinus, by the persuasion especially of the 
* Colonels or Serjeant-Majors.  Tribunes, who (after his death) were susspected to have been accessary to Antoni●●s Murder, and of Macrinus Council, (as in the Sequel shall be declared) Thus was Macrinus made Emperor, 
M●●rinus Elected.  not so much by the Soldier's Love and Fidel ●ie, as by urgent Necessity. Presently after, Artabanus approached with his forces, leading a huge Army, consisting of great troops of Horsemen and A●chers, as also Riders on Camels (in complete Armour) with extraordinary long Lances. Whereupon Macrinus assembling his Soldiers, made this Speech:  

Macrinus his Speech to the Army.  
IT is no marvel that you all grieve so much for the death of so gracious a Prince, or Companion rather. But it is the part of Wise men to take humane Chances and Calamities patiently. His memory shall be ever de are and precious among us; and his brave and noble Acts, and singular love and respect to you (with whom he so familiarly conversed) shall to his eternal Glory be recorded to Posterity▪ And now having duly henoured his memory, and performed his Funeral solemnity, it concerns us all to look to our selves, & prevent the present danger. The Barbarian (you see) is at hand with all the Power of the Orient, having (in his own conceit) a just Cause and Quarrel against us. For we first provoked him by infringing the league, and Warring on him in time of public Peace and Security. And now all the Roman Empire depends on your valour & fidelity: For we are not to fight with this Great King about the Borders or Skirts of the Empire, or about Rivers; but for all our fortunes; he being come to revenge his Children and Kinsmen which we (as he opines) have slain unjustly, and contrary to our Oaths. Let us therefore take arms and (as Romen are wont) keep our R●●k●s; for this confused Barbarous rout, being not well murshalled nor trained, is like enough to be us own overthrow. But your good Order, Discipline, and Martial skill in fight, will hath preserve yourselves, and def●●t the E●●●ie. Wherefore charge courageously, like worthy Romans, and as you are wont; so shall we vanquish the Barbarians, and win great Honour; for them will it go curant with the Romans, and all the world; that we did not pilfer the former victory, by fraud, treachery, and perjurious violation of the League, but by force of Arms, and true valour.   
Having thus said, the soldiers seeing in what a 
* The Romans feared the Parthians more than any other nation: Rend the letter in the beginning of the next Book.  strait they were, put themselves in Battalia, and were [all night] in arms. At Sun rising, they descry Artabanus and his huge host advancing. When the Barbarians had done their devotions to the Sun (after their usual guise) they ran upon 
The Battle betwixt the Romans & Parthians.  the Romans with a terrible shout, & riding close to them, discharged their arrows among them. The Romans having arranged their battles in such exquisite order, that the Cornets of horse, & Moresco Darters, flanked each side, & the light armed soldiers had lanes made between the several Maniples, to sally forth as occasion served, with great courage received the charge of the Barbarians. Nevertheless, they were extremely galled with continual shot of Arrows, and gored with the long Lances, of the armed horsemen, & camell-men. Yet when the Romans fought hand to hand, they did easily put them to the worse. But finding themselves overpressed by multitudes of horses & Camels, making semblant to retreat; they strewed the way with calthropes, and other sharp pointed Iron engines, which being covered with sand, and not discerned, did great hurt to the Lanciers, & camel riders. For the Horses, and especially the camels (which are tender ho●●t) as soon as they trod on them, halted downright, and ca●t their Riders. The Barbarians, while they are mounted on ●orses or Camels, fight grimly. But dismounted, they are soon taken, for they dare not come to handstrokes; and if they be driven to fly, or pursue the enemy, their long lose garments are a main let to them. Thus all the first and second day they fought from morning till evening. Night parting them, both sides retired to their camps as victors. The third day, they joined battle in the self same plain; where the Barbarians (being the greater number) assayed to wheel about, and 
* Or take in a Net. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  enclose the Romans; who perceiving their purpose, extended not their army in length, but dilated it in Front, and so prevented their circumvention. Now there fell such an infinite number of men & beasts, that all the field was covered with them, insomuch, that huge heaps and piles of carcases (but especially of camels) lay one upon another, so high, that the Soldiers could not come together to fight, both the Armies being hindered from passing one to the other, by a mighty and almost impassable Barracado of carcases; whereupon they retreated to their several Camps.  
Macrinus understanding that the only cause why Artabanus fought so fiercely and obstinately, was because he supposed he warred against Antoninus; (for the Barbarians were wont, if they prevailed not at first, to droop and grow faint-hearted; but at that time they were more resolute, intending to fight again, as soon as they had taken away and burnt the dead bodies, not knowing that the Author of all those embroilements was slain) sends Heralds with letters to the Parthian; certifijng him, That the Emperor was dead, and had received condign punishment for the violation of his oath and league; that himself was now elected to the Empire, by the Romans (to whom it belonged) and that what was formerly done, did much displease him; that he was therefore willing to restore all the captives that were remaining, and all the spoils that were carried away; & that he also much desired to make him his friend, & to confirm the peace by oath and sacrifice.  
Which letters Artabanus having read, and being fully informed (by the Heralds) of Antoninus' 
Heralds.  murder; conceiving also, that he was sufficiently plagued for his perfidiousnes; and satisfying himself with the rendition 
A sudden league.  of the captives and spoils, (without more effusion of blood) he concludes a peace with Macrinus, and returns home. The Roman Emperor marched likewise with his Army out of M●sopotamia, and went to Antioch.   

HERODIAN HIS IMPERIAL HISTORY. The fourth Book.  
The Contents.  
MAcrinus his Letter to the Roman Senate and People. The Senate confirm his Election. Informers punished. Macrinus his Error. Maesa a poluicke Lady. Temple of the Sun. His Image and Priest. Bassian made Emperor, and called Antonine. julian beheaded. Battle betwixt Macrine and Antonine. Macrine flies, and is beheaded. Diadumenianus Caesar. antonine Devotion at Nicomedia. He sends his Picture to Rome. His Acts at Rome. He dances about the Altars. His Crueliy and Luxury. He writes to the Senate to excuse his ravishing of a Nun. He marries his God to Minerva, and after divorces them. He marries the Sun and Moon together. He inthrones his God in a new Temple. His strange Donatives. Alexander made Caesar. Wrestling a princely exercise. Stage-players highly preferred. Antonine slain.  
We have treated in the former Book of the Reign and End of Antonine, & of the treason wrought against him, and of his Successor. Macrinus remaining at Antioch, sent Letters to the Senate & People of Rome, to this effect.  
Macrinus his Letter to the Roman Senate, etc.  
FOr as much as you well know my manner of life from the beginning, how mild my Conversation hath been, and what great moderation I used in my former Office, which is not fare from Sovereignty (seeing the Emperor puts himself into the hands of the 
* Or G●ne 〈…〉 of hi● Ar●●●●s.  Praetorian Praefect) I hold it needless to use many words. You may remember how much I was grieved at his Misgovernment, and not a little endangered for your sakes, when he giving ●are to all Delators did extremely tyrannize you Wherefore he still railed at me, and publicly taxed me for my mildness and lenity, which he scorned, and termed baseness and Pusillanimity: For delighting in fawning Sycop●a●s, he esteemed them his trustiest Friends and Counselors, which did whet his cruelty, and spur his ingenerate freity, by exasperating Calumnies, whereas ●ever highly prized modesty and humanity. I have therefore so ended the dreadful Parthick war (wherein the whole 
* N. B.  Roman Empire was hazarded) as having regard to our honour, we have not yielded a j●t to the Enemy (in valour) yea we have made that great King (which brought so huge an Host into the Field) of an Enemy a Friend, by ratifying a firm I ague. As for my government in the Empire, it shall be so free & unbloudy, that you shall rather judge it an optimacy than a Monarchy. Nor let any deem me unworthy so great honour, or blame Fortune for making me of a Knight an Emperor. For what is Nobility 
* Quid gens? fine meat.  without Virtue and Civility? Externall fortunes may befall the unworthiest; but a Mans own solid Worth is that which begets true Glory. Nobility, Riches, and the like, are reputed to make men happy, yet deserve not much to be commended being derived from others. But Courtesy and Affability, as of themselves they are lovely, so do they also give a singular instre to the most praiseworthy. What good did you reap by Commodus his nobleness? or Antonine's succeeding his Father? Such as they, attaining the Rule by hereditary right, abuse it at their pleasure (as their private Patrimony) to all licentiousness. But they which receive it of your bounty, are eternally obliged to express their Gratitude by all good Offices. Moreover, it is often seen, that the native Splendour and Nobility of Emperors doth so puff them up with pride, that they scorn all men as their Vassals. But they which get the Sovereignty by moderate actions are more careful to retain with sobriety what they attained with difficulty; and to give all due honour & respect to others, For my own particular, I have determined to do nothing without your approvement whom I desire to associate as my Counselors and Assistants in the mannagement of the State. The liberties and Franchises which you lost by the tyranny of those so nobly descended Emperors, and which Marcus and Pertinax (raised to the Throne from a private estate) endeavoured to restore, you shall fully enjoy. For it is more honourable for a man to give the first lustre to his Family by his own noble Achievements, than basely to contaminate (by degenerate and debauched behaviour) the Nobility received from his Ancestors.  
The Senate having read this 
Macrinus election confirmed by the Senate.  Letter, gave him all their votes, and decreed to him all Imperial honours. Yet was not the Senate so joyful at Macrinus succession, as all ●he commons were glad at antonine destruction. For there was not a man of any ●a●ke or quality, but thought he had now escaped the sword which hung over his head. And now 
* Sycophants  Promoters, and all servants that had appeacht their masters, were trussed on gallows; all the city of Rome, & almost all the Roman world being well weeded of those wicked wretches, by their death or exile. And if any of 
Informere punished.  them skulked so close, that they were not apprehended, yet was their poison kept in, for that one year that Macrinus reigned. For it was his main error, that he did not presently dissolve the army, (by commanding the soldiers to their several homes) and repair to Rome immediately; the people still crying & calling for Macrinus. But he (unwisely) stayed 
Macrinus his Error.  at Antioch, trimming his Beard, and stalking in State with a solemn ●low pace, and scarce vouchsafing to speak to any that came to him; or with so low a voice, as (oft) could not be heard. In which garb he imitated Marcus the Emperor; not resembling him otherwise in any sort. For he daily gave himself to a more delicate course of life, and was more addicted to Stageplays, Masques, & Revels, than to the Administration of the Empire. When he went in public, he was decked with jewels, and a 
* Or Baldric.  scarf embroidered with gold and precious stones of inestimable value▪ which excess, the Roman army much disliked, holding it fit for Women & Barbarians, than Princes. Considering therefore his effeminate & unmartial conditions, they began to disvalue him, & were still paralleling his riotous looseness, & antonine military skill & prowess. They also took it very heinously, that they were forced still to live in tents far from home, and many times without provision of necessaries, and not permitted to return into their several countries, a peace being now concluded, while he fared plentifully, and lived deliciously. Wherefore abandoning all respect to him, they watched every opportunity to make an end of him. Thus did the Fates decree, that Macrinus having reigned but one year in such delicacy, should lose his life & Empire at once; Fortune ministering to the soldiers a very small and slight occasion to effect their desires, in this manner: There was one Moesa, a woman of 
Moesa.  
* See M. G. Sands Description of it in his journal, p. 207.  Phenicia, borne in the City Emesa, whose sister julia was wife to Severus, and mother to Antonine; who in her sister's life-time, had lived many years in Severus and antonine Court. This Maesa, after her sister's decease, and antonine murder, was commanded by Macrinus, to take her goods, & remove into her native country. Now she had great store of coin, which she gathered all the while she lived in so flourishing an estate. And being now old, she returned to her old home. She had two daughters, the elder named Soaemis, the younger Mammaea, that, had a son called Basstanus; this, another, called Alexianus▪ both bred up with their mothers & Grandmother. Bassianus was upon the point of fourteen years, and Alexianus of ten: both Priests of the Sun, which is worshipped (as a god by the Phoenicians, and termed (in their language) Heliogabalus: to whom they built a stately Temple, 
The Temple of the Sun.  bravely adorned with gold, silver and precious stones. Nor is the Sun only adored by them, but also by the bordering Princes and Kings of the Barbarians, which yearly strive who shall send him the most costly Donaries. This god hath no Image to represent him, that is made with hands, after the Greek and Roman fashion; but there is only a 
V IO Selden 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 de Dis Syris. Synt. C. 1.  huge great* stone, all round from the bottom, and sharp towards the top, like a 
* Or Spire.  Cone. The stone is of a black colour, & they confidently affirm that it fell from heaven. Some shining spots there are in it, and diverse figures. This (they say) is the Sun's Image, not 
The Image of the Sun.  made by human art. To this god was Bassianus sacred, as being the 
Bassianus  elder Son; and therefore did he execute the Priest's Office, being vested (after the Barbarian Rites) with gold-embroidered coats, with hanging sleeves reaching down to the foot. His under-garments, which covered him all over from his hands to his legs, were like wise cloth of gold tissued upon purple: his head was adorned with a rich crown of precious stones. He was a delicate graceful youth, and of so sweet an aspect, that he was held the wonder of his time. So that his beauty, age, shape, and costly habit corresponding, he might not unfitly be compared to the dainty Images of Bacchus. This brave young priestling as he sacrificed, and caperd about the Altars, to the music of flutes, pipes and all kind of instruments, was curiously eyed of all, but especially of the Roman Soldiers, either because they knew he was of imperial lineage, or because his attrative beauty drew all their eyes upon him: for at that time a great army was quartered near to that 
* Emesa.  City, for defence of Phenicia; being soon after lead thence, as we shall hereafter show. The soldiers therefore daily repairing to the city and temple, under colour of devotion, were ravished with the sight of so rare a creature. Now many of them being Roman fugitives, were familiarly acquainted with oesa: who (when they extolled his favour) told them (whether tru●ly or no, is uncertain) that he was son to Antonine, (though he were reputed another's) who lay with her young fair daughters in the time of her abode with her sister at the Emperors Court. Which when they heard, and had told their fellows, the bruit of it flew thorough all the arm●. It was also reported, that Moesa had great store of treasure, and would give it all to the Soldiers, if they would render the Empire to her nephews. Whereupon they promising to receive her & all hers, and proclaim antonine son Emperor, if she would come secretly in the night to the camp, the old woman resolved to undergo any hazard, rather than live a private obscure life. Wherefore, issuing privily out of the city in the night with her children and nephews, she was conducted by the troop of fugitives to the army; where all the soldiers welcomed her, and proclaiming the Boy, Antonine, clothed him in a 
●assianus a young Priest proclaimed Emperor.  purple robe of State. Then fetching into the camp all her provision, together with her daughters & their husbands, & whatsoever goods or cattles she had in the fields and villages, they victualled & fortified the camp, that (if need were) they might hold out a siege. When this news was brought to Macrinus lying then at Antioch, the army there, understanding likewise (by report that antonine son was found out, and that juliaes' sister had given great store of silver to the Soldiers, they believed all to be infallibly true, and began to waver, and take new resolutions, being excited thereto, both by the grudge they bore Macrinus, & commiseration (as it were) of the memory of Antoninus but especially for the hope of cash: insomuch, that many presently fled to this new found Antonine.  
Macrinus scorning all this, as 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Boys play, and being as jovial as ever, stirred not himself, but sends one of his Captains with certain companies, which he thought sufficient to ●ame the rebels. As soon as julian (so the Captain was called) approached the Cam●e walls, instantly the soldiers that were within, shown the Boy to the adverse army, from the Turrets and Pinnacies, proclaiming him to be antonine son, and holding up their purses full of money (as a bait to betray Macrinus.) Whereupon the soldiers without, believing he was antonine son, and persuading themselves, he did exceedingly resemble him in face and lineaments, struck off their Captain julians' head, and sent it to Macrinus. 
julian beheaded.  Which done, the camp gates were opened and all let in. Thus were their numbers increased to a competent Army, not only to hold out a siege, but also to fight a battle, being augmented also by the access of others, that in great troops revolted to them. Which Macrinus understanding, rouzes up his spirits, and leads forth all his Army to aslaile the Campe. But antonine Soldiers, not intending to endure a siege, march into the field. Both the armies met on the borders of Syria & Phoenicia; but antonine fought 
The battle betwixt Macri●e & Bassian, or Antonine. ●  more fiercely, as knowing they should be sound punished if they were overcome: on the other side, Macrines was more faint & remiss, & many of them fled to Antonine. Which when Macrinus saw, fearing lest all leaving him to the 4 winds, he should be taken prisoner, and villainously entreated: when it grew toward the evening, he stripped himself of his Purple 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  surcoat, and other Imperial ornaments (while his Army yet stood firm) and being attended with a few of his trustiest Captains, betook him to flight: shaving his beard close (lest he should 
Macrinus fl●es.  be known) and shrouding himself in a Riding cloak & hood (posting day and night to prevent the fame of his misfortune.) For his Captains every where took up Coaches, as if Macrinus still being Emperor, they were sent from him about extraordinary affairs. Thus he escaped by flight. Mean while, both armies fought; Macrinus his guard (termed the Praetorian Band) 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  bravely maintaining fight against the whole Power of the enemy; for they were the tallest and choicest men that could be found. All the other multitude fought for Antonine. But when Macrinus his men, after a great while, neither saw him, nor any sign of sovereignty, not knowing whether he were slain, or fled, or what was become of him, they were in a great maze; for they determined to engage themselves no longer for him that was not to be seen; and yet they feared to come into their ●●●mies hands by yielding 〈…〉 en prisoners. When An 〈…〉 ●●derstood by the Rene 〈…〉 hat Macrinus was fled, 〈…〉 eralds' to certify them, 〈…〉 not to fight for an 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  unmanly fugitive; that he pardoned them all that was past, and would confirm the pardon by oath, & the better to assure them, would make them presently his Guard. Thus all giving credit to the Heralds, yielded. Instantly Antonine sends to pursue Macrinus that was now gotten a great way on his journey: he was found at Chalcedon, 
* Chalcedon, a Sea-City, situate in view of Byzantium Strabo l. 12. Macrinus beheaded.  a City of Bythinia, grievously sick and over-toiled with travel, being hid in the suburbs, where they struck off his head. It was said that he made such haste to Rome relying on the people's love, but as he was passing into Europe over the Proponticke Gulf (being come near to Byzantium) he was driven back by contrary Gusts, as if the Winds themselves had conspired to his punishment. Thus Macrinus not being able to escape his pursuers, came to a miserable end (through his improvidence) determining to go to Rome at last, which he should have done first of all; having neither good fore sight, nor good fortune: his son Diadumenianus 
Diadumenianus Caesar  (whom he had made Caesar) being slain also with him. When all the army had saluted Antonine Emperor, and he was now established in the sovereignty, the oriental affairs being ordered (as was requisite) by his Grandmother and friends (for he was very young and of no experience) he made no long stay there, but prepared for his journey to Rome. Maesa longing to return to the Palace, where she had so long flourished. When intimation hereof was given to the Roman Peers and people, it was heavy news to all. Antonine marching out of Syria, wintered at Nicomedia, 
Antonine winters at Nicomedia.  (the season so requiring.) There he fell to his hiddygiddy 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  veneration of his country Deity (whose Priest he was) with antique dances; attired in rich Sacerdotal vestments of gold, tissued on Purple; adorned with jewels and armlets: and wearing coronets of gold and precious stones, made like a Persian diadem. The fashion of his habit was betwixt the long robe of the Phoenicians, and the apparel of the Medes. For he scorned the Greek & Roman attire, as made of wool, that is (as he termed it) of base stuff; not daining any other wear▪ but Syrian silks & going 
〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  abroad usually wi●● a noise of flutes & shalms, as at his sacrificing solemnities. Which Moesa much distasting, humbly besought him to put himself into the Roman habit, left entering the City and 
* Parliament house  Curia in that exotic and barbarous garb he should be an eyesore to the beholders not used to such gaudy & garish dresses 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , which they would judge fit for women than men. But he rejecting her as an old doting fool, and refusing all good Counsel (for he would have none about him, but such phantastics as himself, which soothed him in his vicious humours) resolved to wear no other fashion, & therefore meant to try a conclusion, how the Roman Senate and people would like it. Whereupon he sent to Rome his 
He sends his Picture to Rome.  own picture (at large) in his superfine Pontificalibus, and withal, the Image of his patriall god, whose Priest he was; commanding them that carried it, to place it on high, in the midst of the Curia, over the Image of victory; that when the Senate assembled, all the nobles might burn Incense, & sacrifice wine before it. Also he made an Edict, that all the Roman Magistrates, and Sacrificers, should, before all other Gods that they remembered at their devotions, pray to the new God Heliogabalus. Wherefore when (afterward) he entered Rome in the aforesaid Habit, he was no Novelty to them, having been used to his Picture. Giving therefore great Donatives to the people (as new Emperors are wont) 
His Acts at Rome.  he exhibited all kind of stately Shows; and erected to his God a most gorgeous Temple, wherein were many altars, on which every morning he sacrificed hundreds of Beefs, and great numbers of Sheep. Burning also huge heaps of all manner of redolent Odours on the Altars, he poured out [in Sacrifice] many Roundlets of the daintiest old Wines, so that streams of wine & blood intermixed, ran over all the Temple Then fell he to 
* By these dances, the Gentiles intimated, that every part of their body was to be implo●ed in the service of their Gods.  dance about the Altars, to a Consort of all kind of Instruments, diverse of his Country-women capering and skipping with him, as they played on Cymbals and Timbrels; while all the Nobility and order of Knighthood, stood gazing at these Gambols (as Spectators in a Theatre.) Moreover, the entrails of the Sacrifices, and Aromatickes, laid on Golden Plates, were borne not by Servants and mean Persons; but by Generails of Armies, and the chiefest Officers of State, vested in long Robes with Hanging sleeves (after the Phoenician fashion) and shod with Linen shoes, like Syrian Prophets. Whom he admitted to these Mysteries, he accounted to have highly honoured. And though he seemed wholly devoted to Dances and Sacrifices, yet he kept more tragical Revels; executing many 
antonine cruelty.  wealthy and noble persons, which (as he was informed) took small pleasure in those things; and now and then scoffed him. He took 
His marriages.  to wife the most illustrious of all the Roman Ladies; whom he called Augusta, yet soon after divorced her, & stripping her of all honours, sequestered her to a private life. After, pretending he was in love, and intending now to show his manhood, he violently took out of Vesta's sacred 
* Pomp. L●tus says, they might marry after 30 years of age. Lib. de. Sacer. Rom.  nunnery at Rome, a Vestal Virgin (who by the Divine Laws was to continue in chastity and virginity to her end) and married her. And when he heard that the Senate was much aggrieved at that sacrilegious act, he sent them a consolatory Letter; certifying them, That it was but a humane sin; 
antonine Letter to the Sena●●●.  That he was enchanted with the magic of her beauty, and that it was no incongruity, for a Priest to marry a 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Priestesse: which was therefore a most sacred match. But this wife he kept not long, but cashiering her, took a third, which was said to be of Commodus Lineage. Nor did he thus play at fast and lose with human matrimonies, but now his God also (whose Priest he was) wanted a wife. He took therefore into his bedchamber the Image of 
* Three cubits high, holding a Spear in the right hand, and a Sp 〈…〉 le in the left.  Pallas, which 
He marries Gods together.  the Romans kept in secret veneration, unseen of any; and till that day had never been removed since it was brought from Troy, but only when the Temple was 
* It ●ost the H●g● priest Met●ll●s his Eyes, to rescue it out of the flames.  fired: and so he married that Goddess and his God together in his Palace. Soon after, giving out, that his God liked not such a Martial wife, that was ever in arms; he commanded the Image of Urania to be brought: Which having been exceedingly adored by the Carthaginians & Africans, was erected, as they say, by Queen Dido (the Phoenician) what time she re-edified Carthage, by cutting an 
* Dido bought of the Lybians so much Ground as an Oxehide might compass: then cutting it into small thongs, she enclosed 22 furlongs, and there built Carthage.  Oxehide. This goddess the Africans call Urania, the Phoenicians, 
* Queen of Stars. Vid. Selden de Dis Syris.  Astroarch, or the Moon. Antonine said, it would agree bravely, to marry the Sun & Moon together. He sent therefore for the Image, & all the treasure and gold in the Temple; giving it to his God, for a Portion with her. When the Image was brought & set near to Heliogabalus, he commanded all the people of Rome and Italy to use all public & private feasts and exhilarations for joy of the gods wedding. 
He married the Sun and Moon.  He erected also in the Suburbs a mighty and magnificent Temple, into which every year (about mid summer) he brought his God; recreating the people (as he thought) with Chariot-races, stage-plays, feasts & nightshewes 
* Masques. . He brought his God out of the city into the suburbs, placed in a Caroche adorned with gold and most precious stones, & drawn with six goodly white steeds, decked with rare goldworke and rich comparisons. There was no man in the chariot, 
The inthronization of Heliogabalus.  but all attended about it, as if the God had driven it. Antonine running backward with his face towards the Image, went before the chariot, leading the horses by the reines; going all the way backward (in that sort) still looking on the God. Lest he should fall o● stumble, the way was strewed with filings of gold; and h●● guard supported him on each side for his more safety; the people running along with torch, & throwing flowers & garland▪ This pompous show was honoured with the Images of all the Gods, and the most sumptuous Donaries that were in the Temples; as also with the Imperial 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  jewels & ornaments: All the nobility, gentry, and soldiery accompanying it. When he had shrined his God in the Temple, he solemnised the above mentioned Sacrifices and Festivities. Then he ascended exceeding high turrets purposely made for him: whence he threw 
A strange largess.  (as a largess) among the people, gold and silver plate, and all kind of rich apparel and fine linen: also all manner of tame beasts, 
* This was done by throwing little balls or tickets, which were warrants for receipt of the largess.  except swine; which he (as all the Phoenicians) abhorred. Many there perished, being either trod to death, or thrust thorough with the soldier's pikes: so that it proved a fatal festival to many. He oft used his charret-sports and wild dances in public, not caring who saw his unprincely pranks. He walked abroad with his eyes painted, and cheeks purpled, disfiguring his fair face with foul tinctures. Which 
* His Grand mother.  Moesa perceiving, mistrusted the soldier's dislike; and fearing if aught came to him, she should be remanded to a private life, she persuades the vain young fondling to adopt for his son, and declare 
* The title of the heir apparent.  Caesar, his cousin German and her Grandchild by her other daughter Mammaea: speaking him fair, & finely instilling into him, That it was most meet, that he being dignified with the sacred Title of a Priest, should attend only on matters of Religion, and the celebration of divine Orgies and Offices; and that some other should be substituted to manage humane affairs, and be as his Viceroy, to free him from all cares and encumbrances of State: yet no stranger or alien, but rather his Cousin German to be so honoured by his princely favour. Alexianus was he, than named Alexander, his old name being changed into that of the Macedonian kings: for that famous king was much honoured by Antonine (son to Severus) who was both their father, as the old beldame pretended: not sparing to vaunt of both her daughter's dishonesty, to make their sons more gracious with the soldiers. Alexander 
Alexander made Caesar  therefore was proclaimed Caesar, and made Consul (or Associate) with Antonine: the Senate ridiculously decreeing what he commanded; to wit, him to be the father, that was 16 years old, and Alexander the son, that was 12 years old. After that Alexander was made Caesar, Antonine assayed to train him to his courses, as dancing, revelling, sacrificing, & the like rites, & robes, & ceremonies. But his mother Mammaea weaned him from those vain and unseemly exercises, and trained him up in honourable fashion, secretly sending for professors of the Mathematics, & all liberal sciences, & using him to 
* Wrestling a princely exercise.  Wrestle and such manly activities: instituting him also in Greek and Roman literature. Whereat Antonine much repining, repent that he had adopted him, or made him his colleague in the Empire; and expelled all his tutors from the Court, putting some of the chief of them to death, and banishing others: alleging ridiculously, that the pedants spoilt his son, not suffering him to dance and revel, but teaching him to be modest, and use manly exercises. Yea, he was so besotted, that he preferred all sorts of 
Stage- players preferred.  theatrical Actors and Players to the highest honours and most eminent dignities; making Lord General of his Armies one that in his youth was a public dancer on the theatre He appointed one Stage-player, trainer and guardian 
* Or master of the Wards.  of the young Lords and Gentlemen; another, to be Lord Precedent of his Council; and a third, general of the horse. He advanced to the chiefest places of trust in the Empire, charret-drivers, comedians, and histrionical jesters; bestowing on his servants and 
* Bondmen set free.  libertines that were most extremely debauched, the Procuratorships of Provinces. At this mad and drunken distribution of so many honourable offices, all men murmured, but especially the soldiers stormed, and scorned him, as being more effeminate than an honest woman would be; and detested him for prostituting the Imperial Majesty to contempt, by his capricious dresses, golden gewgaws, and public Revels. They were therefore more inclinable to Alexander, conceiving fair hopes of him for his noble and virtuous education; and conserving him diligently from the insidious practices of Antonine. His mother Mammaea suffered him not to taste any meat or drink that he sent. His Cooks and Cupbearers were not those that waited on the Emperor, but such trusty servants as his mother made choice of▪ She gave him also much money in private, to bestow on the Soldiers secretly; to win them to him with that bait, which she knew would soon catch them. Which Antonine understanding, plotted to destroy him and his mother; but his plots were prevented by their common Grandmother Moesa; a subtle woman, and a politic 
A Politic Lady.  dame; as having lived many years in the Imperial Palace with her sister julia, wife to Severus, whereby she was well read in State affairs. For she knew all the designs of Antonine, who was naturally a blab, and would ordinarily lay himself open, and divulge all his intentions. When he could not surprise him by treachery, he determined to strip him of his Caesarean dignity; not permitting him to be saluted, or go abroad. Then the soldiers enquired for him, and were much discontented, that he should be deposed. Whereupon Antonine disperses a fame, that Alexander was like to die, to try how the Soldiers would take it. They, when they could not see the young Prince, were cut to the heart with the report; and being infinitely enraged, sent not the usual guards to Antonine, but locked themselves the Camp; demanding to see Alexander in their Temple. Antonine startled at this, taketh Alexander, and places him with him in his Imperial Caroche, richly adorned with gold & gems; and hies to the Campe. The soldiers opening the Gates, received them, & conducted them to the Temple of the Camp; exceedingly congratulating and welcoming Alexander, but coldly saluting Antonine; which he storming at, after he had lodged all night in the Campe-Temple; was so incensed at the soldiers for doing such special honour to Alexander, that he commanded the chief and most noted (for it) to be apprehended & executed as Authors of sedition and mutiny. Whereat all the Soldiers being exasperated, and having formerly hated Antonine, they resolved to rescue their fellows, and put away that abominable Prince. judging this therefore to be a just occasion, and fair opportunity; 
Antonine slain.  they presently slew Antonine, and his mother Soaemis, who was with him (as Empress) with all their Privadoes, and Instruments of lewdness that came with them into the Camp. Then delivered they to the people, the Carcases of Antonine & Soaemis, which being disgracefully dragged a long time over all the City, and lastly dismembered, were thrown into the public jakes, which are voided into the River 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  Tiber. The Soldiers proclaiming Alexander Emperor, conducted him to the Royal Palace; being very young, and yet in the tuition of his mother and grand mother.  
The End of the Fifth Book.   

Appendix to Herodians fift Book of his History.  
To the Readers.  
HErodian having lively drawn (in little) that Monster of Ethnic Priests and Princes, Pseud-Antonine, I have thought good to adjoin (for your further satisfaction) this ensuing Delineation of him, extracted out of diverse ancient & principal Authors.  
HIs Apparel was extreme brave and gorgeous: yet he never wore one Garment twice. His Shoes were embellished with Diamonds, 
See an Antiquity of a Roman Bath or Stove (lately discovered near Leicester) related in the Description of that County, by that worthy Patriot and judicious Antiquaty Wil Burton Esquire.  and Oriental Pearls of the most Characts. His Seats were strewed with Musk● and Amber. His Beds were covered with Cloth of Gold tissued on Purple, and embossed with Gems of inestimable value. His Way was strewed with Filings of Gold and Silver. His Vessels, even of basest Use, were of Obryze Gold. His Lamps burned with precious Balms & Gums of India and Arabia. His Fishponds were filled with Rose-water. His Ships in his Theatrical Sea-fights floated in Rivers of Wine. His 
* Bathing was as ordinary with Romans, as eating and sleeping.  Baths, most magnificently built, when he had once used them, were still plucked down, and new built. His Plate of refined massive Gold; but never served twice to his Table. His Rings and lewels infinitely rich, yet never worn twice. His Concubincs numberless, but never lain with twice. Every Supper in his Court cost 1000 pounds sterling. When he lay near to the Sea, he would eat no ●ish: When he was farthest in the Continent, he would eat no Flesh. Whole Meals were furnished with Tongues of Singing Birds, and Brains of rarest Creatures. All Europe, Asia, and Africa, with the Lands adjacent; in a word, the Globe of Earth and 
* As fare as was then discovered to the Romans.  Sea (whereof he was Lord Paramount) was not able to fill this Gulf. In his Progress, he was attended by 600 Chariots fraught with Concubine's, Catamites, and Panders: for whom be built a Seraglio in his Court; where himself (in the habit of a Courtesan) used to make solemn speeches to them, terming them his brave Fellow-soldiers and Companions in Arms: [What gallant Instructions he gave them, I sorbeare to mention.] He caused to be gathered in Rome 
* Vid. Lips. de magnit. Romana.  ten thousand weight of Spiders, ten thousand Mice, and a thousand Polecats; which he exhibited to the Roman Peers and People, in a Public Show and Solemnity: Professing, that now he perfectly understood how mighty a City Rome was. Lastly [to omit other more strange pranks] his summoned a 
* Senatum  Parliament of Women, to consult about Tires, Fashions, Dresses, Tinctures, and the like weighty and important Affairs.  
FINIS.   

HERODIAN HIS IMPERIAL HISTORY. The sixth Book.  
The Contents.  
ALexander Emperor. The Religion and State reform. Maesa Deified. Alexander's Elegy. His Marriage. Persians invade the Romans. Alexander writes to the Persian; who scorns his Letters. General Muster in Italy. Alexander marches against the Persian. An Embassy. Another braving Embassy. Ambassadors punished. Alexander's Policy, Archery. Armenian Mountains. The Romans defeated. Alexander retires. Best Physic for Soldiers. Germany rebels. Alexander comes to the Rhine. Archers. Heralds. Maximine described and elected Emperor. Alexander slain.  
We have formerly declared 
Alexander Emperor.  in what manner Antonine (the elder brother) ended his days. After him Alexander had the title and ornaments of Emperor; but the management of affairs, and regency of the Empire rested in 
Moesa and Mammaea Regent's.  Maesa and Mammaea; who laboured to reduce all things to better order and moderation,  
And first they selected out of the Senate 16. ancient, grave, and honourable Peers, for assistants and counsellors to the Prince: without whose suffrage & consent, nothing was to pass as an act of State. Which manner of government was wondrous pleasing to the People, Soldiers and Senators; the Empire being thereby reduced from an injurious Tyranny, to the form of an 
* 〈…〉 ment of the principal men.  optimacy.  
Their prime care was to restore the Images of the Gods 
Religion first reform.  (removed and displaced By Antonine) to their own ancient Temples and Oratories. Next, 
Next, the State.  all that he had advanced to honours and offices, either without 
N. B.  desert, or for their lewd pranks, they discharged and degraded; commanding every of them to follow their former trades and professions. All civil and judiciary offices they bestowed on famous learned men and excellent Lawyers: and all places of martial command they gave to brave noble Captains, & Soldiers, expert in 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. In w●●●ch words the excellent author hath couched both the parts of war: viz Tactick and Strat●gematick.  Marshalling of 
Moesa dies, & is de●f●●d  Armies, and Military Exploits.  
The Empire being thus administered a long time, Maesa being now very old, deceased; and was buried like an empress; being after the Roman fashion, 
* At a Woman's deification, they used a Peacock (into which they supposed her soul to s●●t:) as an Eagie at a M●●s See this supreme solemnit described in the beginning of the 4 book of this H 〈…〉.  deified.  
Mammaea being now sole Regent and Guardian of her Son, followed still the same track of government. When he came to his age, to manage the state himself, she fearing lest his unstaid youth might in that height of liberty & sovereignty, p●●c●●i●ate him into the vices and vanities incident thereto; set a strong Watch about the Court, prohibiting allewd and lose persons from his presence, lest his good nature should be corrupted, and his mind provoked to lust by bewitching Sirens, and fawning Parasites. She persuaded him also to attend matters of judicature 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  the best part of the day; to keep him from Idleness, the Mistress of all lewdness. Alexander (indeed) was naturally adorned with Affability, Clemency, and other Princely graces (as was afterwards apparent in the course of his life.) For in 14 years, his 
Alexander's Elegy.  Empire was not stained with blood: not one being put to death (by him) all the while. And though diverse were convict of haynour crimes, yet he spared their lives: which you shall hardly find to have been done by any Emperor since Marcus. None can remember that in all the time of his Reign, there was any executed without judicial Process. He much blamed his Mother, & was very angry with her, for her greedy covetousness of money, and accumulating of riches. For Mammaea pretending to hoard up Coin, to supply Alexander's bounty to the Soldiers, got a great Mass of Treasure to herself. Which, although it were much disliked in her, and condemned by the Emperor; yet did her 〈…〉 lent practices in spoiling 〈…〉 their good and estates, 〈…〉 him, to his obloquy & 〈…〉. She gave him a wife of a noble Family; whom he dear loved: but she soon after banished her the Court. For, arrogating to herself alone the title of Empress; and maligning her Daughter in-lawes honour, she proceeded to that outrage, that the young Empresses Father, though in great esteem with Alexander (his son in law) not able to endure the many wrongs she did him and his Daughter, fl●d into the Camp: prosessing he was much obliged to the Emperor for doing him that honour, but accusing Mammaea for her opprobrious injuries. Whereat, she being the more exasperated, commanded him to be slain; and having expelled the young Lady from the Court, confined her to Africa. All which was done without Alexander's consent, & merely against his will: for his Mother carried a high and imperious hand over him, and he tenderly reuered and obeyed her in all things: so that his main error was too much softness, & over great obsequiousness to his mother, in things which himself disapproved.  
Having thus ruled the Empire thirteen years, without any grievance (in regard of his own particular) suddenly in the fourteenth year, there came letters from the Precedents of Syria and Mesopotamia, cetifying; That Artaxerxes King of Persia having 
The Parthian king ●laine.  conquered the parthians, and slain Artabanus (who was the first that was called, The great King, and 
A double 〈…〉 m.  wore a double Diadem) did likewise subdue and make Tributary the bordering Barbarians: and not containing 
●●e Persi 〈…〉 inv●de the Romen  him●elfe within the River Tigris, had transpassed the banks and bounds of the Roman Empire, and made a road into Mesopotamia, th● eatning to invade Syria, and challenging the 
* The lesser● Asia.  opposite continent to Europe (limited by the Aegean Sea, and Propontick Gulf, and called Asia) as the ancient Patrimony of the Persians: in that, from Cyrus (who first translated the Empire of the Medes to the Persians) until Darius the last Persian King (deposed by Alexander) all those countries, as far as jonia and Caria, ●ere ruled by Persian Viceroys: and therefore, he held himself bound in honour to recover all that which was anciently under the Persian Sceptre W●en Alexander received this dismal news from the Eastern parts, he was not a little perplexed and troubled, having been ever trained (from a child) in peace and tranquillity, and nuzzled in City-delights: advising therefore with his Council, he first resolved to send Ambassadors with letters to stop the Barbarians proceed. The letters were to this effect: That he ought to contain himself 
Alexander's Letters to the Persian.  within his bounds: and not in vain hope of new Conquests, raise wars and stirs. That every one ought to rest content with his own estate, That he would find great difference in fight betwixt Romans and his fellow Barbarians. Lastly, he put him in mind of the victories which Augustus, Trajan, Lucius & Severus had obtained against them. With these letters Alexander persuaded himself he should overrule the Barbarian and make him quiet. But he scorning them, and holding it 
The ●●rsian scorns them.  his best course to fight rather than talk, was now more rampant than ever: ranging over all Mesopotamia, taking great booties, and assailing the Roman camps that were pitched on the river banks, to defend the limits of the Empire. Being also naturally of a high spirit and haughty mind, which by this sudden success was much more elevated, he thought he should conquer all afore him. He had great encouragements to enlarge his Dominions, being the first that attempted the Parthians, and recovered the kingdom to the Persians: for after Darius, whom Alexander the Macedon conquered, the Macedonians and Alexanders successors for many years divided among them the principality of the oriental Provinces over all Asia. But when by their civil wars and discords, the Macedonians & the rest were weakened, Arsaces' the Parthian did (as they say) first persuade the barbarous people of these countries to revolt from the Macedonians: and being crowned King by the Parthians and adjoining Barbarians, he held the kingdom: and left it to his posterity, which enjoyed it until the reign of Art●banus (in our time) slain by Artaxerxes, who reunited that kingdom to the Persian Monarchy, and having brought in subjection the adjacent Barbarians began to trench on the Roman territories. Which Alexander understanding, and knowing it concerned him in a high degree of justice & honour, not to suffer the insolent Barbarian any longer, (his commanders earnestly importuning him to come in person) with much ado, at last he prepares to set forward (against his own inclinations) and now there were General musters through all Italy, and the Roman Provinces, of the 
A general ●●ster.  strongest and ablest persons for the wars; great hurliburlies being in all parts of the Empire, about training the choicest that might be found, to encounter the barbarous multitude. Alexander assembling into the field all the Soldiers which were quartered near the City, spoke thus to them from his Throne:  

Alexander's Speech to the Army.  
I Can wish (my brave Fellow-soldiers) that I might as heretofore speak such things to you, as were to my applause, and your content. It may be that after so long peace, an unexpected war may somewhat dismay you. But it is the part of generous and temperate men to pray for the best; and be 
〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  content with that which happens; for as those things which we perform with pleasure, are delightful: so valiant Exploits necessarily undertaken, are most glorious: And as he that first offers wrong deserves small favour; so he that redresses a wrong is more confident, as having a good conscience; and more courageous, in that he offers not wrong but repels it. Artaxerxes the Persian, having traitorously slain his Sovereign Artabanus, and translated his Kingdom to the Persians, hath presumed also to bid us Battle, and in despite of the Roman majesty, hath begun to invade and destroy our Provinces. At first, I thought good to write to him, to desist from that insatiate fury of coveting other men's Estates: But he in his barbarous pride is so far from containing himself in his own Limits, that he challenges us to fight. Let us not therefore refuse the Challenge, nor foreslow the War; but you, which are Veteranes, make him know, that you are they that under the conduct of Severus and my Father Antonine, got those famous Victories over the Barbarians. And you which are young Soldiers, must strive for honour and glory, that all may know, you are not only well disciplined to obey in time of peace, but that also in time of war when need requires, you are able to make full demonstration of your Valour. The Barbarians are very fierce against them that shrink, or come on slowly: but if they be furiously charged, they are soon calmed. For it is not their manner to attempt the Victory by pitched Battles: but to make sudden praedatory Excursions, and then run away; thinking they have gained sufficiently by foraging the country. But we, with our fair and wel-ordred armies, have put them to the worst, & returned conquerors.   
Alexander having thus said, the soldiers by their general cry expressed their alacrity and readiness to march: wherefore giving them large pay, he commands them to prepare for the voyage, & having made another speech (of like effect) to the Senate, he appoints a day for his departure: which being come, and the usual sacrifices & ceremonies performed, (all the Senate and City attending him) he departs from Rome, often looking back towards the City, and weeping. Neither 
Alexander beloved o● all.  was there any of the people which parted from him with dry eyes: so dear were they devoted to him, being bred amongst them, & having reigned so many years with such rare moderation. With speedy journeys he visited the Illyrian Nations and armies, and taking great forces from thence with him, he marched to 
He marches to Antioch.  Antioch, where he made diligent preparation for all warlike necessaries, still attending the training of Soldiers and other Martial exercises. Here again (hoping to end the war by Treaty) he sent another Embassy to the Persian king, to conclude a peace, & contract 
An Embassy.  a league with him. For being come so far in person, he was in hope either to persuade him, or at least to terrify him. But the Barbarian prince proudly rejects the Roman Ambassadors, & sends 400 of his tallest Persians in brave & rich attire as Heralds or embassadors, mounted on goodly coursers, with their gay bows and arrows, thinking the Romans would be daunted with the sight and habit of the Persians. His embassage was this, The great King Artaxerxes commands the 
A braving Embassy.  Romans and their Prince, to departed out of all Syria, and Asia 
* Asia minor.  that is opposite to Europe; to permit the Persians to rule as far as jonia & Caria, & over all those countries which are divided by the Aegean and Pontic sea, and by patrimonial right belong to the Persians. These 400 Ambassadors Alexander commanded 
Ambassadors punished.  to be apprehended, & stripping them of their Persian gallantry, banished them into Phrygia, assigning them certain villages for dwelling, and fields for tillage: contenting himself to punish them by debarring their return into their native country; it being (as he thought) an 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  unholy deed, & unmanly act to put them to death that fought not, but only executed their Sovereign's command. This done, Alexander being about to pass over the rivers, and lead his Army into the Barbarians country, many Egyptian soldiers revolted from him; and others began to make a commotion in Syria: but they were soon suppressed and punished. Alexander also sent some Forces into other countries, to prevent the Barbarians incursions. All 
Alexander's policy.  which things being set in order, and having now a great army, not inferior to the enemy, he divided it (by his counsels advice) into three Battalions, commanding one to march Northward through Armenia (which seemed to be in friendly terms with the Romans) and that way to invade the Borders of Media; another likewise, to pass by the North through the Barbarian countries, where Tigris and Euphrates mere, & are drowned in great Marshes and lakes; whence it is unknown how they are dis-emboged; the third, being the best part of the army, himself undertook to lead against the Barbarians, & assail them in the midst. By this means he thought to take them unprovided, invading them several ways, and that the Persian forces would be much distracted & weakened, and so less able to resist the Romans by being dispersed to encounter them in places so far disterminated. For the Barbarians have no mercenary bands (as the Romans use) nor any set Camps or veterane Armies that are still exercised in Martial discipline: but all their men (and women too sometimes) are mustered together at the King's command: and after the war, return to their houses, taking (for their pay) all the booties they get. They use shooting and riding, not only 
Archery  (as the Romans) in war, but (even from their childhood) in hunting for their food: using their bows perpetually on horseback, whether they follow the wars, or pursue wild beasts. This plot of Alexander, though it were plausible proved not fortunate: for the army that marched thorough Armenia, having with great difficulty climbed over the extreme steep and craggy Mountains of that 
The Armenian mountains.  Region (which they did the better, in regard it was Summer) entered Media, where they burned many Villages, & got much pillage. Which the Persian King understanding, hastened against them with all his power. But they could not impeach the Romans, by reason of the hillinesse and roughness of the country, which was more firm and p●ssable for footmen: but a main hindrance to the Barbarian horse. Then came other news to the king that another Army of the Romans had entered the Parthian dominions Eastward, and wasted the Country. Fearing therefore, lest having soon conquered the Parthians, they should invade Persia, he left as many troops as (he thought) were sufficient to defend Media, and posts with a puissant host to the East parts. The Roman Army when they saw none come against them, began to be more negligent in their march; supposing that Alexander had with the third part of the Army (which was the strongest) invaded the Barbarians in the middle. Resting therefore & reposing themselves, they supposed there needed no haste; as not doubting, but that all the Army did come on, according to the first determination; to which purpose a place was assigned as a rendezvous for themselves, the prey & prisoners which they should take. But Alexander disappointed them: for he neither went himself, nor sent the Army: whether for fear of losing his life in defending the Empire; or whether his mother out of a feminine fear and fondness detained him, is uncertain. Undoubtedly she did much abate his noble courage, persuading him rather to expose others to danger, than himself to the fortune of war. By which means, the Roman army that had entered the Barbarians Country, was merely betrayed. For the Persian king leading all his forces against 
The Romans defeated.  them ere they were ware, and taking them as it were in a net, gave them an absolute defeat: for being few, they could not withstand so many: but guarding as well as they could the open parts of their bodies (with their Arms) against the shot of the arrows, they supposed they acquitted themselves well, if making no resistance, they escaped safe. But having for some space defended themselves by joining their targets together, as with a wall, & being like a city assaulted on every side, & grievously wounded, at last, after a long and brave resistance, they were every man slain. The loss of which great Army (which might well be compared to any of the Ancient, for valour or fidelity) was a mighty and unspeakable calamity to the Romans. But the Persian puffed up with so good success, bore his Crest aloft, and aspired to higher matters. Which when Alexander heard, being then very sick (either for grief of mind, or unwholsomenesse of the air) he took it exceeding heavily: and all the Army was grievously offended with the Emperor: in that by disappointing his men, he had so foully betrayed them. But Alexander not able to endure hi● sickness, nor that hot clime which afflicted all the army and especially the Illyrians (who having been used to a cold and moist ay●e, fed more plentifully than re●●) purposed to dismarch to Antioch▪ and send for th●se few Soldiers that remained of them that perish (amongst th● Mountain ● by extremity of the Winter season. The companies that alexander had wi●h him, he brought back to Antioch: having lost many of them also: to his infinite dishonour, & his soldier's discontentment: Fortune failing him every where. For the most part of his threefold army (for so he divided it) perish diversely, either by sickness, sword, or cold.  
Alexander being come to Antioch, 
Alexander retires to Antioch.  and having soon recovered his health by the change of air (Mesopotamia being extreme hot, but Antioch much cooler, & well watered with dainty fountains) he refresh● his army & revived their drooping spirits with great store of Coin (for that he held to be 
Pilula ●●●●eae, the best physic for Soldiers.  the only preservative to assure the soldier's love.) Here he raised new Forces, as if he meant to lead another Army against the Persians, if they were further troublesome, & desisted not from their enterprises. But he received intelligence, that the Persian king had dismissed all his Soldiers to their own homes. And though the Barbarians seemed to have got the upper hand, yet were they exceedingly wasted with those frequent skirmishes & battles in Media & Persia▪ & they which survived were (forth most part) grievously wounded and much weakened. For the Romans which fell, sold their lives full dear, and ●lew not a few of their Enemies, though they were but a handful in comparison of them: insomuch that there were almost as many slain of the Barbarians as of the Romans, who were not inferior to them in valour, but number. And this was a certain sign of the Barbarians great loss, that they took not arms, nor offered to stir for 3 or 4 years after.  
Alexander thus advertised, during his abode at Antioch, and being disburdened of the irksome care of War; he was much more free and frolic, and gave himself to the City-pastimes and pleasures. And now while he was confident that the Persians would be quiet, or at least, that they would not (in haste) re-assemble their Forces, which are rather a confused multitude, than a wel-ordered Army (for they have no other provision, than what every man brings from home for present use; and are also very loath to leave their wives, children & possessions) there came posts with letters from the Procurators of Illyria, which troubled Alexander & perplexed him more than ever: for they certified him, That the Germans 
The Germans rebel.  having past the Rhine, and Isther, had invaded the Roman Frontiers, assaulted the Armies upon the Banks, & made great havoc in the Cities and Villages: to the great hazard of the Illyrian Regions adjacent, and abutting on Italy: that his Presence therefore was mainly necessary, together with the whole Army.  
This news amazed Alexander, and grieved the Illyrians, being twice miserable; by their late discomfiture in the Persian expedition, and the slaughter of their countrymen by the Germane incursions. They were therefore exceedingly enraged at th● Emperor for betraying the affairs of the East by his fear or negligence, & for delaying to secure the North, being so earnestly called upon. And now Alexander and his Counsel began to misdoubt Italy: which was in greater danger of the Germans than the Persians. For the remote Nations of the Levant, so far disjoined by Sea and Land, scarce hear of the name of Italy: but the Illyrian Dominions being of small extent, and consisting but of a few Provinces, are the only bar betwixt Italy and Germany. Being compelled therefore by necessity, he much against his will proclaims his Expedition: and leaving as many Companies as he thought sufficient to guard the Roman frontiers (having well manned & fortified the Camps, Sconces, & other praesidiary places) he hastens with the rest of the Army against the Germans. Having ended his journey with 
Alexander come to the Rhine.  great speed, he encamped on the banks of the Rhine, and there made provision for the Germane War. He made a bridge of ships and barges for the more easy passage of his Army over the river: Rhenus and Isther being the greatest rivers of the North: the one running through Germany, the other through Pannonie. In summer they are navigable, by reason of their deep & broad channels: but in winter they are so frozen, that they are ridden over, as if they were Plains: the Ice being so firm and thick, that it bears not only horse and man, but they also which want water, bring not with them Pitchers or other vessels, but axes and hatchets, wherewith they hue out water, and carry it thence like stones. Alexander had in his Army diverse Regiments of Moors, and a goodly band of Archers, which he brought out of the East; some from the O●roenes Country; others, that were Parthian Fugitives, or Stripendaries, which he sent against the Getmen, who were much infested 
Moor's generally n●●●lefooted.  by them: for the Moors cast their darts at a great distance, and are very deft and nimble in running 
Archers.  to and fro: and the archers standing afar off, easily hit the naked heads and vast bodies of the Germans; being fair ma ks to shoot at. Sometimes also they came to hand-stroks; wherein the Germans were (oft) not inferior to the Romans. While these things were on foot, Alexander sent ambassadors 
Ambassadors.  to them to treat of peace, and to assure them that they should want nothing that they needed, & that they should be well furnished with money. For the Germans are soon persuaded with that, being very greedy of Ghelt, and ever ready to chaffer peace with the Romans for gold. Alexander therefore assayed rather to buy a league, than to hazard himself in the war. But his Soldiers were much discontented, that they spent their time vainly and were not led to some brave Service or gallant Enterprise. Alexander (as they said) caring more to follow his Charretting and Revelling, than to pursue or punish the presumptuous Germans (as concerned him.) Now there was in the army one Maximine, borne in an obscure 
Maximine ● described  Village of the innermost part of Thrace, a Semi barbarian; and which in his younger age had been bred a Shepherd; after, being at man's estate, he was for his bulk and strength appointed to serve in the wars among a troop of horse; soon after, Fortune leading him by the hand, he passed through all Military preferments, to the command of Armies and Provinces. Thus Maximine, was for his singular skill in the exercise of arms, made Captain by Alexander, over all the young soldiers; to the end to train and make them fit for Service. Who performing his task with care and diligence was very gracious with all the army. For he did not only teach them what they should do, but himself did by his own example, daily instruct them: whereby they became not only his Scholars, but also 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  zealous imitators of his valour, being obliged to him by Donatures, and all manner of honours. These young Soldiers (whereof many were Pannonians) applauded Maximine for his prowess; but scorned Alexander, as being still Ward to his mother, & wholly subject to the authority and will of a woman, which made him so slowly and unmanly to prosecute the wars: whereby the oriental expedition miscarried: and nothing (in effect) was done against the Germans. And now being naturally prone to Innovation, and wearied with the long reign of the Prince, which was but little beneficial to them (there being no competitors for the Empire) hoping also that if some other were made Emperor (beyond his expectation) it would be more for their profit and preferment, they resolved to kill Alexander and elect Maximine Emperor, who was their comrado and fellow in Arms, and for his Martial skill and valour fittest for the present war. Assembling therefore into the field in Arms, when Maximine came (as his manner was) to train them, they invest him with Purple, and salute him Emperor, 
Maximine elected Emperor.  which whether it were so complotted, or he were ignorant of their intentions, it is uncertain. At first he refused and threw away the Purple. But when the Soldier's brandished their Cymiters, threatening to kill him if he yielded not, he chose rather to avoid the present then future peril; and accepted the Honour; which (he said) had been oft foretold him by Oracles and dreams: protesting withal to the Soldiers, that it was much against his will, yet he would submit to their importunity: & seeing they would needs have it so, he wished them instantly to take arms, & before the rumour were blazed▪ to surprise Alexander that knew nothing of it, that his soldiers and guard being astonished with the news, might either be drawn to their party, or being taken unprovided, compelled to yield. Then cheering all the Army, with promising them a double portion of Corn, extraordinary Donatives, and remission of all punishments and penalties, he leads them strait towards Alexander's Pavilion, not far thence; who, when he heard of it, was mightily amazed, & leapt forth of his royal tent like a mad man; weeping and trembling, and accusing Maximine as perfidious and ungrateful for all the honours he had done him; and the young soldiers as perjured & disloyal for conspiring with him. Lastly, he promised to give what they would have, and amend whatsoever was amiss.  
The Soldiers that were with him, comforting him for the present said they would stand for him to the uttermost. When the night was past, and it was now day, news coming that Maximine was at hand, that a great dust was seen, and a huge multitude heard not far off, Alexander went again into the Plain, & assembling the soldiers, besought them to protect and defend him that was bred up by them, & had reigned 14 years without harming any: whereat, all commiserating him, he commanded them to take arms & charge the enemy. But the Soldiers, though they gave him good words, yet slipped away one after another, and would not fight. Some wished the Praetorian Praefect and Alexander's Courtiers might be executed, imputing the mutiny to them. Others laid all the blame on his mother, which by her insatiable avarice and base niggardice (in scanting the soldiers) had made Alexander odious. Thus for some while they parleyed and argued, but marched not. When Maximines' army came in sight, & began to persuade them to leave that wretched woman, and puny Prince, that was still under his mother's wing; and adhere to a valiant Soldier and brave commander, that was their own companion in arms, and an excellent Master in the Art Military; they all presently revolted from Alexander, and with one voice proclaimed Maximine Emperor. Alexander 
Extreme calamitires confound the spirit.  in great fear and distraction returns to his Pavilion, where hanging on his mother & (as they say) bemoaning his infortunity, which happened by her means; he expected his deathsman. Maximine being saluted Augustus by all the army, commanded the Knight Marshals and 
O▪ Tri●●n●  some Centurions, to put Alexander and his mother to death, and all that resisted. Whereupon they 
Alexander slain.  rushed into his Tent and slew him with his Mother, friends, and counsellors: except them that a little before escaped by flight or concealment: which yet soon after were all apprehended and slaughtered by Maximine. This end had Alexander and his Mother, having reigned 14 years without 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  blame or blood. For he abhorred murder and cruelty, and was so mild and temperate, that he suffered none to die, but those that were condemned by Law: and had not his miserable Mother blasted his Honour by her sordid demeanour, there had been nothing wanting to have rendered him a most excellent Prince.  
The End of the Sixth Book.   

HERODIAN HIS IMPERIAL HISTORY. The seventh Book.  
The Contents.  
Magnus'. Quartinus made Emperor against his will. Macedon a base Traitor. Germans good swimmers and soldiers. A terrible battle in a Pool, betwixt Romans and Germans. Informers and Catchpoles fomented by Maximine. His Covetousness, Cruelty, and Sacrilege. The Romans Devotion. Afrique revolts. A Speech to Gordian; elected Emperor. Vitalian slain. Insurrection at Rome. Sabinus slain. Maximines' Flies and Spies. His Speech to the Army. His Expedition to Italy. Capellian defeats the Carthaginians. Prince Gordian elected and slain. The Emperor Gordian strangles himself. The Romans solemn Parliament in joves' Temple. Maximus and Albinus elected Emperors by the Senate, and rejected by the Commons. The Commons deluded. Gordian Caesar. Soldiers slain. A Commotion at Rome. Fencers slain. A Conncel of war. A general pardon. A Stratagem. Rome fired.  
WE have showed in the former Book, how Alexander demeaned himself in his 14 year's reign, and how he died. Maximine having attained the Soveraingty, there followed a strange alteration. For he carried himself in such rough & terrible sort, that the Empire was now fallen from a fair calm rule, to a stormy blustering Tyranny. Knowing now he should be generally prejudged, because he was the first that was raised from the lowest step, to the highest State; and being also a Barbarous caitiff and villain of birth, and by education, custom, and condition, given to blood; his chief care was to settle himself in the Empire by cruelty: supposing he should be (otherwise) contemptible to the Roman Senate and subjects, who would not so much consider his present fortune, as the baseness of his parentage: for all men knew that (first) he was a Shepherd in the Mountains of Thrace: and that after, being (for his vastness & activity) pressed for a soldier among his poor countrymen, he was led by the hand (as it were) of Fortune, to the Roman Empire: wherefore he instantly 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  discomposed all Alexander's councillors & assistants that were chosen by the Senate; sending some of them to Rome; and depriving others of their offices, upon pretence of misgovernment. Which he purposely did, that being rid of all which were his betters (in birth) he might the more freely & uncontrollably practise (in his Army, as in a strong Arcenal) all kind of Tyranny, without regard to any. He banished also from the court, all Alexander's servants, that had so many years waited, and put many of them to death upon misprision of Treason, because they mourned for their old master. But that which set a keen edge upon his Tyranny, was an information, that many Captains and all the Roman Senate conspired against him.  
There was one Magnus, a very 
Magnus.  noble Gentleman, that had been Consul; who was accused to the Emperor that he raised a faction against him, and dealt with the Soldiers to make himself Emperor. The Plot was said to be this: Maximin had built a bridge over the River to go against the Germans; for as soon as he came to the Sovereignty, he presently applied himself to the wars. For being elected to the Empire for his huge bulk, approved valour, & skill in military affairs, he intended by deeds of Arms to confirm the Soldiers in their good opinion, and to make the world know, that Alexander's fear, & 
* 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉  retardation of the war, was justly to be condemned. Wherefore he spared no pains to muster and train the Soldiers, and being still in arms himself, he mightily encouraged the Army Having made the bridge, he purposed to pass into Germany. But Magnus was reported to have persuaded many of the best soldiers (who had the charge of guarding the bridge) that as soon as Maximine were passed over, they should cut it down; and so (preventing his return) betray him to the Barbarians. For so deep & broad was the river, that it was impossible he should retreat (there being no ships on the other side.)  
This was the rumour, but whether true, or feigned by Maximin, is uncertain; for it is hard to determine any thing therein; all that were suspected, being suddenly apprehended, and cruelly slain, without judicial Process or Pleading. But now the Osroene Archers began to revolt. For being much grieved at Alexander's murder, & meeting (by chance) 
Quartinus  with Quartinus one of Alexander's friends (dismissed but a little before by Maximine) they laid hold on him, and utterly against his will made him their Chief, and honouring him with the fatal Ornaments of Purple, and Fire carried before him, they proclaimed him Emperor, that neither knew of it before, nor thought of it: howbeit, soon after sleeping in his Tent, he was suddenly slain by one that had been his companion, and (as some say) his affied friend: whose name was Macedon, 
Macedon.  the Captain of the Osroens, and the first mover of their revolt from Maximin. And though he had no cause nor quarrel at all against him; yet he slew him, whom himself had compelled to take upon him the Empire. Then, thinking he should be wondrous welcome to Maximine, he brought him Quartinus head for a Present. Maximine being glad to see it, and rejoicing that his enemy was so easily made away; whereas the Actor expected great thanks and preferment; he put him to a most cruel death; as a Ringleader of Rebellion, a murderer of him that he had persuaded (against his will) to that enterprise; and a Traitor to his dearest friend. These & the like occasions whetted Maximine to all immanity, that (of himself) was exceeding bloody. He had a horrible ugly countenance, and such a Cyclopicall Bulk, that no Greek nor Barbarian Champion was comparable to him. Having thus ordered his affairs, he leads all his army with great courage over the Bridge, and makes war upon the Germans. A wondrous multitude of people followed him; almost all the Roman forces, the Moresco darters, and many Bands of Archers of the Osroens and Armenians: (whereof, the first are Vassals to the Romans; the latter their Allies and Confederates) as also the mercenary and fugitive Parthians, and the Captives of that nation that served the Romans in the war. Which confused Mass, having been first raked together by Alexander, was after augmented & well trained by Maximine. These Darters and Archers are very serviceable against the Germans, because they nimbly sally forth upon the enemy (ere they are ware) and easily retreat into the Gross of the army. Maximin being entered the enemy's country, & finding none to resist him (for all the Barbarians were fled) spoilt all the country, (the corn being now ready to reap) leaving all the villages to be burnt & pillaged by the soldiers. Their cities & buildings are very apt to take fire, for the Germans rarely use to build with stone or brick, their houses being like sheds made of boards & timber fastened together. Maximin progressing in this sort, burning all the fields, & giving all the cattles to the Soldiers, could yet find no enemies. For they had left all the Champagne and plain Country, and betaken themselves to the woods 
Woods & Bogs.  and bogs, where they skulked & watched their advantage to make an irruption upon the enemy: as knowing that the trees which grew so thick would hinder the enemy's Darts & Arrows; and the depth of the bogs would be dangerous for the Romans that knew them not: but easy & accessible to them that well knew where they were passable, running daily thorough them, up to the knees. The Germans also are very skilful 
The Germans good swimmers.  swimmers, using to wash only in Rivers. In these difficult places began the battle, the Roman Emperor himself most bravely giving the onset. For being come to a mighty great Meare or Marish, whither the Germans had fled, the Romans fearing to follow them; Maximin was the first that entered with his horse: where 
A terrible battle in a Pool.  plunging above the horse-belly, he made a great slaughter of the Barbarians that very stoutly resisted. Whereat the Soldiers being abashed lest they should seem ●o betray their Emperor, leapt boldly into the Mear, where many on both sides were slain (but the Barbarians were almost cut of) the Roman prince most valiantly fight in person: insomuch that the pool being filled up with carcases, and the fens all purpled with blood, it represented a ghastly & hideous sight of a sea-fight (as it were) on land. This battle and his other Martial acts, the Emperor did not only certify by Letters to the Roman Senate and People, but commanded also the Portrait of them (at large) to be publicly set before the Council-house, that the Romans might not only hear, but behold also his brave Exploits. Which Table (with his other honours) was afterward taken down by the Senat. Other skirmishes there were, in all which, he fought in the head of his troops, and with his own hands hewed out his honour. Winter approaching, he retreated (with many prisoners, and mighty booties) into Pannonia Where, in Sirmium (the greatest City of that Country) he lay in Garrison, preparing for a Spring▪ War; and often saying (which he seemed to intent) that he would exterminate and subdue all the Barbarous nations of Germany to the very Ocean. Such a famous Warrior he was! And surely great Glory he had got, had he● not been more bloody and cruel to his own subjects than to the enemies. For what thanks to kill Barbarians, if far more were murdered in Rome itself.  
FINIS.