THE Life and Death of william Long beard, the most famous and witty English Traitor, borne in the City of London.  
Accompanied with many other most pleasant and pretty histories, By T. L. of Lincoln's Inn, Gent.  
Printed at London by Richard Yardley and Peter Short, dwelling on Breadstreat hill, at the Sign of the Star. 1593.   

¶ THE LIFE AND death of William Long beard.  

How William Long beard betrayed his elder brother unto his death, of his falling in acquaintance with the Abbot of Cadonence in Normandy and how cunningly and colourably they got authority from the King to accomplish their ambitious pretences.  
WHilst all the world was in uproar, and schisms reigned in the Church, when God by prodigious signs, threatened pestilent plagues: at such time as two suns appeared in our Horizon in England, and three Moons were discovered in the West in Italy, William with the long beard was borne in the famous City of London, of greater mind than of high parentage, a graft of mighty hope at the first, though (as it afterwards proved) his parents spent too much hope on so little virtue. This free Citizen borne, tenderly fostered in his infancy, was afterwards trained up in good letters, wherein he profited so suddenly, that most men wondered at his capacity, and the wisest were afraid of the conclusion: And for that the age wherein he was bread (being the third year of Henry the Second) was full of troubles, this young man's rare gifts were raked up in the embers, little regarded because not yet ripened: but at last as years increased the mind ordained for mighty things began to mount, the rather because ambition sealed his eyes, which made him with the Dove soar so high, till his own cunning and labour made him be overturned: for when he perceived his father's foot already prepared for the grave, his mother seized by age, and more besotted with affection, himself at man's estate & without maintenance, he thus began the first fruits of his impiety, the sequel whereof exceedeth all conceit, and testifieth his devilish and damnable nature. He had a brother elder than himself in years, but younger in policy, who (having by his own frugality gotten great wealth) was called to be a Burgess of the city: a man beloved of all men for his upright dealing, and lamented of all men for his untimely death. For William little regarding the benefits he had received of him in his youth, the brotherly kindness, the bountiful courtesies, sought all means possible to betray him, who had trained him up, to suck his heart blood, who had sought his heart's rest, and to that intent seeing the opportunity fitted him, in the reign of Richard the first, that noble Prince of famous memory, he suborned certain lewd and smister confederates of his to accuse him of Treason: for which cause poor innocent man being suddenly apprehended, his goods were confi●…cate, his body imprisoned, his wife and children left succourless, whilst wicked William being both complotter, informer, and witness, wrought so cunningly with the king's council that the goods were his, which his brother with his long labour had gotten, and the poor innocent man brought out before the judges with weeping eyes, beheld his younger brother both reveling in his riches, and reiocing at his ruin. Many were his obtestations before God, and protestations to the judges, many his exhortations to his brother, and detestations of his perjury. But William whose heart was the very harbour of all impiety, ceased not in his own person to solicit, and by his companions to incense the judges in such sort, that his brother was at last by them condemned and adjudged to death, as some Writers suppose for coining. And being led forth to his execution like an harmless innocent, the people mustering about the place, the cursed brother the occasion and compactor of his confusion accompany him, with these or such like words he finished his life. Thou God that knowest the cause of my untimely death, canst in iu●…ice punish my unjust accusers, mean while take mercy on my poor soul, who am forsaken of my private friends, be thou a safeguard unto me, who am left without succours, and help the desolate widow with her distressed children: This said, after some private conference by permission, between his brother and him, he suffered torment.  
But William having gotten wealth began to take upon him state, and understanding his father and mother through hearty grief were in their extreme age committed to the grave, he seized on their goods, caring such a countenance in London that all men wondered at him: In wit he was pregnant; in public affairs politic; in revenges constant, in speeches affable, in countenance grave, in apparel gorgeous, yea so cunning was he to insinuate himself among the Commons, that as the report went, he had more Prentices clubs at his command, than the best Courtier had servants to attend him.  
And as the custom is whilst thus he behaved himself, it fortuned that he fell in company and conference with the Abbot of Cadonence in Normandy, a man as high minded as himself, and more subtle than Sinon, by whose advise and directions he grew so craftily conceited, that under a holy pretert he wrought more mischief, than either the Council of England could for a long time remedy, or by industry reverse, and thus it fortuned. After that the noble and warlike Richard the first of that name, had to his immortal glory recovered his rights in France, established peace with the French king, and by the persuasions of his mother Dame Elinor, reconciled his brother john, who had before that time been at deadly ●…d with him. It pleased his Majesty, partly for his own recreation sake, partly to remedy the discontents of his subjects, to go on Progress in the eight year of his reign, and in the year of our Lord 1197. at which time the Abbot of Cadonence and William watching an occasion and opportunity, so cunningly wrought she matter, that they had audience at his majesties hands, and attained under the broad seal the whole sum of their requests. The Abbot coloured his stratagem under the copy of conscience: assuring the king that the corruption of his officers were the chiefest grounds of public contention, praying him in the bounty of an heroic and princely potentate, to take some order for she correction of them, lest at the last it should turn to his own confusion.  
His majesty that had ever regard of the poor, with gracious good words thanked him for his good will, giving him warrant and authority to redress those inconveniences, and promising him great promotions, if he took any profit by his policy. William now that hath the second subtlety to enact, suited his looks in all sobriety, and stroking his long beard which he curiously fostered even from the beginning, told the king of the insolence and outrage of rich men who spared their own and peeled the poor, rob Irus and clawed Midas: beseeching in the commons behalf, a remedy for this inconvenience: whereunto the king easily condescended, so that he likewise was authorized to redress such enormities, and both he and his fellow Abbot, were with many princely favours dismissed.  
Mounted thus upon the wheel of Fortune, which every way sheweeth herself as fickle as she is favourable, as full of gall as she hath honey, they both of them departed for London, caring so high countenances as every one were amazed at their manners. My lord Abbot first suited in his Pontificallbus called forth divers officers, purposing to examine their accounts, taunting them with untoward languages, and accompanying threats with imprisonment. But as the Giants that threatened the heavens were over, thrown in their most haughtiness, and as Phaeton usurping his father's seat was confounded for his ambitious pride by untimely death, so the Abbot of Cadonence, when he thought to cavil at all accounts, was called to account himself, before she Tribunal justice seat of God, and died in midst of his jollity. But William who towered with the Phoenix to burn in the sun, and adventured to cross the troublesome seas of this world to perish with overmuch wrestling in the same, now began his pageant exhorting and stirring the commons to love and embrace liberty, to fight and labour for freedom, briefly to detest and blame the excess and outrage of rich men, who as he told them reaped the sweet whilst they poor souls sweat for it. Hereunto wrested he many stories of antiquity: First the Laconian state, next the popular government of Athens, wherein peace never flourished better said he, than when the Commons had freedom of speech. With these and such like honey speech, he so animated the multitude, that like a second Hercules he drew them by the ears thorough the honey of his eloquence. And to his words he annexed action, undertaking many poor men's causes, who were overborne by the rich, handling his matters with such policy, as that he was held for a second God among the poor, and for a long time esteemed for a good subject by the Prince. Yet notwithstanding this, the mighty maligned him greatly, for that he had informed the king that by their means his Majesty lost many forfeits and ●…scheats which were due unto him: and for that his detested subtleties may be more apparent, where through he cloaked his succeeding treacheries, I have thought good to set down some one of them, which may give a taste to those tragic miseries which shall ensue.   

How William with the long beard handled the cause of Peter Nowlay a Cobbler, who was injuried by Robert Besant, sometime bailiff of London.  
DUring the time that William long beard flourished after this manner in all pomp and pleasure, attended daily and hourly by hole troops of Citizens, it fortuned that one Peter Nowlay a cobbler, a man of little capacity lived in London, who having gotten up by his own handy labour and endeavour, the sum of forty marks, and not knowing the means how to employ the same to his best commodity, solicited one Robert Besaunt, sometimes Bailiff of London, to take the same money into his hands and to employ it to some good use, to the end that after his decease, his poor infants which were two in number might have some succour and maintenance.  
This money Robert Besaunt accepted, having the use thereof for the space of ten years, accustoming poor Peter as these great men are wont to do, to a Sundays dinner, and sweet words (which in these our days is the very poison of this world, & in that time was no small pestilence) At last, pleased God to call the Cobbler to his mercy, where through his poor wife lived distressed, his children complain their misery, and all his neighbours considering the honesty of the man in his life, were compassionate, and pitied his Orphans after his death. The poor mother seeing her necessities increase, and her ability quite overthrown, separated apart from all company, began to weep very tenderly, recommending her poor babes to his mercy, who had no doubt lent them her to a better end than famishment.  
Alas (said she) my God, if the least Sparrow is not uncared for by thee, what letteth me to trust my children's health unto thee, who having bestowed breath upon them, mayest likewise in favour bestow bread upon them. Thou seest Lord their friend is taken from them, and the mother's neastlings without thy help must become starvelings: Woe is me; would God I had foregone my life, or forgotten love: o●… would my hands were as plentiful, as my heart is pitiful. Ah Pelican, I must imitate thee, and pierce mine own breast to the end I may foster my babes, otherwise the help is vain which hope yieldeth, since charity is cold which should feed hope. Woe is me, where should I begin to mourn, that have no end of moan. Shall I lament my marriage: no, the heavens ordained it: shall I complain of Fortune? no: for than I suppose an enemy where there is none: shall I blame my fruitfulness? how vain were that? since it is a felicity to enjoy babes. What then shall I do? truly put my whole trust and confidence in God's mercy, who being Lord of all plenty can best of all relieve necessities. Scarcely bad she ended these words, when as her young ones, the one embracing her neck cried for meat, the other kissing her hands moorninglie bewrayed his wants: whilst she like Myrrha having tears to bewail them, no treasure to relieve them, sung this woeful Lullaby unto them, whilst the music of her voice enforced them to listen her.  

Lullaby,  
Ah little Lads  
Give ceaseless sorrow end with lullaby,  
Suck up my tears  
That stream from out the fountains of mine eye,  
Feed, feed on me  
whom no good hope or Fortune glads,  
Oh set me free  
From those incessant and pursuing fears  
which waken up my woes and kill my pleasure.   

Lullaby,  
Weep, weep no more  
But let me weep, and weeping weep life hence,  
That whilst you want,  
I may not see false Fortunes proud pretence.  
When I am dead  
My God perhaps will send you store.  
Oh smile in need,  
Poor hungry babes let smiles be nothing scant  
I tears, you smiles; both have no better treasure,  
To bring these woes exceeding mean or measure  
To Lullaby.   
No sooner had she finished her song but Robert Besaunt entered the house, who though altogether given over to covetousness, yet beholding the woeful estate of the poor wife and children, he comforted them the best he might, sending for some little sustenance to yield her and her little ones some succour, and after some conference about her husband's state, & his manner of death, he desired colourably to see her writings, to the end he might covenably convey out of her hands the bill of forty marks, which he had passed unto Peter her husband in his time. The silly soul supposing his alms deeds was unattended by treachery, drew out of an old till, certain briefs which she had, using these or such like terms. Master Besaunt (saith she) your worship as I remember, aught to be a patron of these poor infants: for I have oftentimes heard my husband say (when I had a motherly care what should become of my children) that he had provided for them, charging me to remember that till ever when I needed, & to use you as a father for these infants, whose honesty as he swore, he would build his soul upon: for which cause (giving him the writings) I beseech your Wor. quoth she, to peruse all his secrets, & to stand my good friend in this my miserable widowhood. Master Besaunt touched to the quick, changed colour very often, and receiving them at her hands with a quivering fear (proceeding by reason of his earnest combat between conscience and covetousness) he at last, after long perusing, found his own bill, which he careless tearing, told her that all of it was but waste paper, and thereupon blushingly departed, giving her but cold comfort for her great hope.  
The good woman animated by some divine power, and espying the scales of his shame shadowed in his blushing brows, took hold of his gown sleeve, praying him to stay a little while, and not to leave her so suddenly: for (said she) good sir, if you thus leave us, you shall prove that you little love us: beside, your haste makes me to misdoubt your honesty (pardon good sir I pray you if I mistake) for thus to wreak yourself on paper, and to show by your suspectful looks, your apparent misdoubts, makes me imagine you have deceived my Peter's hope, besides these papers which you have torn, may perhaps be some testimonies, which I will gather as she relics of your rage (and therewithal she stooped and took them up) But above all good master Besaunt remember God, quoth she, and if there be aught that concerneth these little ones in your conscience, cloak not in that behalf, for God who gave them me, will not suffer their innocency to be vnreue●…ged.  
Master Besaunt sore incensed with these words, and suspicious lest his council should be disclosed, by the broken and scattered papers: at first by smooth speeches, began to persuade her, to restore him them; but when reason and entreaty enjoyed no place (for the more he moved her, the more she suspected) he began to use violence. When as she poor children seeing their mother injured beyond measure, cried for help for her, whom motherly care had animated already, even to the trial of death, rather than to leave her papers.  
The noise in the house, and the cry of the children, called in the neighbours, who seeing Robert Besaunt, a man of such reputation as he was held: not daring to enforce, began to entreat his forbearance: who dreading his own discredit beyond measure, left her for that time, puffing, sweeting, and swearing, that he would be revenged on her, who had in this sort wrought his discontent: to be short, he never desisted, till she were imprisoned, vowing never to grant her liberty, till such time as she restored to him the torn writings.  
The miserable Widow in this peck of troubles, gathering a very confident boldness unto her, denied the restitution. And finally, after the council of some poor Citizens, put up a supplication or a supplantation (as the sillier sort of people called it) unto William with the long beard, presenting him likewise with the broken and torn p●…ces of paper, never ceasing in most humble and pitiful manner, to entreat a merciful and tender compassion, towards the relief of herself and her poor children. William that pretermitted no occasion whereby he might insinuate himself amongst the poorer sort, and win the credit of a good justicer at his prince's hands, began to examine every circumstance, and to leave no mean unsought, where by he might get himself glory, and do the poor widow good.  
First therefore, he joined the papers, and conferred the manner of the injury with the other circumstances, and at last he evidently found, and therewithal certified others, that these torn papers, was the bill of debt for forty marks. Finally, comparing the estate of the poor man with that of Besaunts, the time the money had been in the defendants hands, and the corrupt intention of the rich man, who by renting the bill, thought to race out the remembrance of his due debt, he called him before him, charging the official to bring the widow and her children before him in open sessions: where after long debating, and trouble on both sides, Besaunt standing on his credit, the widow on her innocency: William willing to catch the cat with his own claw, began thus. Master Besaunt, you are called into justice, not that we suspect your honesty, or detract from your estimate, but for this cause are you called: that if you will be deposed, that all allegations which may be alleged against you by this widow are false, you may see her punished, and justice executed. Besaunt little suspecting the snare that was laid, and the subtlety intended, began with huge oaths to protest, that he neither stood any way indebted to the poor Coblerlatelie deceased: neither was in any sort liable to the false suggestions of the widow. William perceiving evidently she ungodly intent of the man to defraud, and how gracious a deed he should do, to speak in the innocents defence: First commanded Besaunts' Oath to be taken, and after that rousing himself in a majestical manner, he began thus.  
I see well my countrymen, that justice had need of a patron, when those that should maintain her, seek to maim her: Ah what a world live we in, when trust shall be betrayed: when simplicity, shall be undermined with subtlety: and poverty overtopped by power. Behold saith he, my contreymen (and therewithal he caused the two children to be placed by him) two harmless infants: for whom the poor father laboured in his life time, both left to beg after his death. Alas that corruption should blind judgement so far that where we ought in charity to secure these, men make no conscience to supplant them. The Cedar though a tall tree, let's the little shrub prosper under him: the Eglantine flourisheth by the Oak: the Gold●…nch feedeth by the Griffin: but the proverb is true among us nowadays. 
Homo homini Demon.  We live as we should know no lack, we flourish as if we fear no fall, we purchase as if life could not perish: to win the world we make shipwreck of our souls: and in such a world where corruptions are so rife, justice must not sleep: for if it should, the weak should to the walls, and the penny father by his power, should overpress the penniless in their poverties. Now therefore countrymen give ear, and hearing, pity: and pitying, patronize these poor souls. This Besaunt wrongeth them, making his credit the countenance of his craft, and his goods the colour of his ungodliness: behold his hand writing, wherein he thinking to extinguish the memory of his debt, hath renewed the means of his own destruction, (which said, he publicly showed the papers) and after that turning him to M. Besaunt, he expostulated thus; Well sir, since your corruption is found out, and your ungodly oaths have doubled your offence, by that authority which I have received from his majesty: I condemn you to pay the sum of forty marks with the use thereof, for ten years, unto this widow and her children: next, for your perjury, wherein you have offended God especially, and next your country: I adjudge you to pay, in way of a fine to his Majesty, two hundredth pounds sterling: advising you hereafter, to use your conscience more uprightly, and to deal by the poorer sort more justly.  
Besaunt who highly stood on his reputation, was so amazed at his so sudden conviction before the assembly of the city, that he knew not what to say: his own hand he could not denle, and if he should, there were some in the company well acquainted therewith. To be adjudged thus of by his inferior (as he thought) it was no small disgrace: for which cause, smothering under fair looks his false heart, he appealed to the king and his Council: assuring William that he would not be discredited in that sort, and that it should cost him a thousand pounds, but he would be revenged. With these and such like speeches, the court broke up, the widow & the children were dismissed with gifts, and William with a thousand Citizens at his tail, was with great triumph conveyed to his lodging. But Besaunt for all his braves, was committed, and enforced to pay the penalty, yea so did William work with the king and his council, as had not this corrupt merchant with great sums got himself free, no doubt he had been brought within the compass of a Praemunire, such subtle suggestions had William practised against him.   

How William with the long beard behaved himself towards the Courtiers, and of his love to his fair Leman Maudeline.  
WIlliam (having by this means insinuated himself into the favour of the king, and by that reason brought the citizens in fear of him) like the untoward child, who having an inch, stealeth an elle: began to presume above the latchet (as the proverb is) setting light by all men, animating the base sort against the better: so that the Nobility put up much injury at his hands, the clergy were badly used by him, and the officers of the city highly offended. The earl of Durham then Chancellor and bishop, taking the part of a chaplain of his, who was injuried by a mean and mechanical townsman, was braved by him in Cheap side, beaten of his horse, and had not the bailiffs of the city rescued him, the common speeches went, he should never have courted it more. A gentleman in court at another time, upbraiding William of his base estate and birth, told him that the worst hair in his beard, was a better gentleman than he was: for which cause William mightily aggrieved, and watching opportunity of revenge, at last encountered him brave lie, mounted on his foot cloth in Friday street, where taking him forcibly from his horse, he carried him into a Barber's shop, and caused both his beard and head to be shaved close, pleasantly giving at him in this sort.  
Gallant, now have I cut of the whole train of of the best gentlemen, you durst compare with me the last day, and if hereafter you bridle not your tongue, (as base a Gentleman as you make me, I'll have you by the ears. The king informed hereof, grew highly offended, but William who wanted neither money, friends, nor eloquence, so ordered the matter, as his maligners might bark, but not bite him. But for that all his mind was planted on ambition, and his greatest fear was, least by over forward thrusting himself into state, his cloaked aspiring should be discovered, he began for a while to leave the court, to intend only the causes of the poor, and complot those means, whereby labouring for mightiness without suspect, he might attain the same without countercheck: and first to make show how much his mind was altered from high climbing, he craftily pretended a new conceited love, and but pretending it at first, at last was enforced to practise it, and thus it fell out.  
An honest and well disposed Merchant of London, had by his wife a fair and amiable young maiden to his daughter, being the only hope of his age, and the fruit of his courage: This lovely Maudlin (as the lesser stars are in respect of the sun, or Mercury in regard of the Orb of Venus) amongst our London damosels, was the A pierce for beauty, ●…d the paragon of perfections, her looks full of quickening purity, were able to animate love in Marbel, nature could do no more but wonder at her own handiwork; & art had nought but shadows, in respect of such a substance. All eyes that beheld her wondered, all pens that praised her were quickened by her excellence. To be short, her least worth was of so great consequence, as the best writer might be abashed, to conceit or imagine them: with this fair damosel William Long beard trafficked his fancies, summoning her yielding affections, with so many earnest suits and services, that he at last conquered that fort, wherein fancy himself took delight to tyrannize: and as the jet draweth Amber, the Load stone the Steel of the compass, so her beauty assaulted his senses, that all of them had no power of their offices, but were fatally assigned to subscibe to her sorceries, And where as authority and countenance are wrested, the bulwark of chastity (though otherwise impregnable) is oftentimes impugned, and not only assaulted, but at last subdued: William by his friends and followers so wrought, that what by his friends and fair words, he won her for his Lemon, sparing no cost to trick her out in bravery, to the end he might by that means, give a foil and glass to her beauty. This Maudlin thus compassed, her paramour began to prank it in the bravest fashion, wresting his wits to make an idol of her worth: whose amorous passions, since they are of some regard, I have here set down for the courtliest care to censure of.  

Amidst the maze of discontented mind,  
The royal trophy of ioy-breeding love,  
A happy hold and resting place did find,  
Within that breast which erst earths hell did prove.   

Since when my long-enfeebled eyes have reared,  
Their drooping sight to gaze upon the sun,  
Since when my thoughts in written lines appeared,  
Rejoicing at that Palm my faith had won.   

Ennobled thus, by that thrice-nobled passion,  
Which hath the power all worldly cares to banish,  
I fly sweet-seeming leures of false occasion,  
And let all thoughts but love-sweet vade & vanish.  
The fruits I reap in spite of Fortune froward,  
Makes me suppose no torment too untoward.   
Another he made upon this occasion. Maudlin his mistress had a fair jewel, wherein the two Cupids of Anacreon were painted, wrestling the one with the other, with this Motto Pro palma, for which cause he wrote this sonnet, and presented her therewith.  

Ye braine-begotten deities agree you,  
Nursed by transparent crystal of chaste eyes,  
Lest she that gave you life on sudden see you,  
And frowning kill you both who caused you rise.   

From her you came young Cupids from no other,  
And but for her if envious you shall wrestle,  
I fear you both will lose a lovely mother,  
Her brow your bower, her bosom is your castle.   

There 'gree you both, there both together go you,  
And suck the April riches of her breast,  
Then I who long have served and love to show you  
How much I love the bosom where you rest.  
Will come and kiss and bless you little wantoness,  
And feed you kindly wantoness if you want once.   
Another in respect of the occasion, I could not find in my heart to forget, for being at supper once in her company, where were many that discoursed of love, showing all the idolatry of their pens, in exemplifying that unchaste deity, he at last when the table was taken up, remembering him of a sonnet in an ancient French Poet, on sudden wrote this imitation.  

As soon as thou dost see the Winter clad in cold,  
Within September on the Eaves in sundry forms to fold,  
Sweet Swallow far thou fliest till to our native clime,  
In pleasant April Phoebus' rays return the sweeter time.  
But Love no day forsakes the place whereas I rest,  
But every hour lives in mine eyes and in my heart doth nest.  
Each minute I am thrall and in my wounded heart,  
He builds his nest, he lays his eggs, and thence will never part  
Already one hath wings, soft down the other clads,  
This breaks the skin, this newly flegd about my bosom god's.  
The one hath broke the shell, the other soars on high,  
This newly laid, that quickly dead, before the dam come nigh.  
Both day and night I hear the small ones how they cry,  
Calling for food who by the great are fed for fear they die.  
All wax and grow to proof and every year do lay  
A second nest, and sit and hatch the cause of my decay.  
Ah Maudlin what relief have I for to remove  
These crooked cares that thus pursue my heart in harbouring love.  
But helpless of relief since I by care am stung,  
To wound my heart thereby to slay both mother and her young.   
At another time, being absent from his mistress, by reason that he had a poor man's cause in Essex to be heard, he wrote this brief fancy to her, after the manner of the Italian rhymes.  

Oh fair of fairest Dolphin like,  
within the rivers of my plaint,  
With labouring fins the wave I strike  
whose floods are honoured by my saint.  
Withouten heart or gall I spring,  
And swim to hear thee sweetly sing,  
All like the fish when nature's art  
Hath reft of ●…ate and tender heart.   

And in the sea for love I burn,  
As for Arion did the fish,  
At every note I skip & turns  
I hark, I praise, I like, I wish.  
But out alas with better chance  
The friendly fish did him advance,  
He bore Arion on his back  
Where I thy sweet embracements lack.   
These ofher two for their shortness and strangeness, I could not find in my heart to pretermit, knowing that the better sort, that are privy to the imitation and method, will have their due estimate.  

My mistress when she goes  
To pull the pink and rose,  
Along the river bounds  
And trippeth on the grounds  
And runs from rocks to rocks  
With lovely scattered locks  
Whilst amorous wind doth play  
With hairs so golden gay  
The water waxeth clear  
The fishes draw her near  
The Sirens sing her praise  
Sweet flowers perfume her ways  
And Neptune glad and feign  
Yields up to her his reign.   

A●…ther.  
When I admire the rose  
That nature makes repose  
In you the best of many  
More fair and blessed than any  
And see how curious art  
Hath decked every part  
I think with doubtful vieu  
Whether you be the rose, or the rose is you.   
An Ode he wrote amongst the rest I dare not forget, in that the Poesy is appertinent to this time, and hath no less life in it than those of the ancient, & the rather because hereby the learned may see, how even in those days, Poecy had her impugners, and industry could not be free from detraction.  

His Oade.  

Since that I must repose  
Beyond th'infernal Lake,  
What veils me to compose  
As many verses as Homer did make?   

Choice numbers cannot keep  
Me from my pointed grave,  
But after lasting sleep  
The doomb of dreadful judge I needs must have.   

I put the case my verse,  
In am of all my pain,  
Ten years my praise rehearse  
Orsomewhat longer time some glory gain.   

What wants there to consume  
Or take my lines from light,  
But flame or fiery fume  
Or threatening noise of war or bloody fight?   

Excel I Anacrion  
Stesicores, Simonides,  
Antimachus or Bion,  
Philetes, or the grave Bacchilides?   

All these though Greeks' they were  
And used that fluent tongue,  
In course of many a year  
Their works are lost and have no biding long.   

Then I who want wits sap,  
And write but bastard time,  
May I expect the hap,  
That my endeavours may o'ercome the time?   

No, no: 'tis far more meet  
To follow merchants life,  
Or at the judges feet  
To sell my tongue for bribes to maintain strife.   

Then haunt the idle train  
Of poor Calliope,  
Which leaves for hunger slain,  
The choicest men that her attendants be:    
These and such like fruits of his fancy, may sufficiently testify unto you, both the high spirit and deep invention of this crafty Citizen, who flourishing thus in the very fullness of loves joy, and reveling in the chiefest palaces of pleasure, at last recalled to mind, the ambitious desires that were wont to accompany him, which having the nature of fire (which no sooner catcheth hold of dry matter but presently it consumeth it) from a light smoke at last fell to so huge a flame, that himself was confounded therewith, and all his hopes made frustrate: and thus it fell out.  
The king's Majesty hearing of his continual assemblies, and comparing his purposes with his practice, began under no small grounds to conceive his cursed intention: for considering with himself the manner of his life, the business of his brain, the 〈◊〉 eloquence of his tongue, and the mightiness of his mind; he imagined (as afterward it fell out) that so great means of quick and capable fuel; would at last break out to an unquenchable flame: whereupon the K. with considerate judgement called him to court, commanding him to cease his disordered assemblies, lest in seeking to exterminate the injuries of the rich, he should revive the in solence of the poor. For (said he) William, who seeth not whereto these routs tend? who thinketh not that riot will follow them? The labouring men that were kept from innonations by their work, are now capable of all change and novelties in their idleness: In living as they do, they rather are drawn to detest labour, then to follow it: wherthrugh the offices and mechanical crafts in the citiie do cease, and by the omission of industrieriseth, the pretermission of duty. For this cause, as you have care of my love, incite them not to too much liberty. Further them what you may, if they be wronged: but let not justice be a colour to win them to wickedness. With these, or such like admonition's king Richard attempted him, and so wrought him, that for a while the commotions and motives of trouble were laid apart, so that he walked London streets with lesser troops, and wholly addicted himself to play with his fair Maudeline, whose unchaste life was abi-word in the city.   

How William with the long beard slew Arthur Brown, who deceived him of his Maudlin.  
WHilst William was conversent in the affairs of state, intending every way to enlarge his own power, and attending daselie upon the kings pleasure; it fortuned, that one Arthur Browne, fur me red by his youth, and fitted by occasion, fell in with Maudlin, Willams wanton concubine: and having wealth sufficient, and wit no less subtle, he so craftily handled the cause, that he won the young woman to stoop to a second lure, and to accept his love. Many and often times had they intercourse, so that at last the rumour passing in every place, it could not choose but light at last in William's hearing: who moved beyond measure to see himself outfaced by one, who had so long time been feared by all, he frowningly prepared revenge, resolving with himself that no means were too mean, to give a tragical sauce to his corrupt meaning. Whereupon, breaking his mind with certain of his faction, he a 'greed to watch an opportunity to revenge impiety: and for that cause watching very craftily when Arthur his rival should repair unto his lawless leman, he at last surprised and encountered him, and causing some of his train to muffle him in his cloak, and to stop his mouth for fears of crying, he stabbed him with a dagger in divers places, and in the last wound left the same sticking, fastening the poor caitiffs own hand with his own dagger, which he had purposely (to avoid all means of suspicion, and to raise an opinion that he had murdered himself) sheathed in Arthur's own body. This done, he departed unespied and unsuspected: and the body being found, according to the censure and verdict of the jury which beheld the same, was thrust thorough with a stake, and so buried as if he had been guilty of his own murder. William thus delivered of a supplanter of his pleasure after some unkindness past and calmed between him and his Maudlin) finally fell to an accord, accustoming her as he was wont, under promise of more constancy in affection, and to the intent she should remember her of the injuries offered, he wrote this with a pointed Diamond in her glass.  

Think what I suffered (wanton) through thy wildness,  
When traitor to my faith thy looseness led thee:  
Think how my moody wrath was turned to mildness  
When I bade best yet base grooms did bed thee.   

Think that the stain of beauty than is stained,  
Whenlewd desires do alienate the heart:  
Think that the love which will not be contained,  
At last will grow to hate in spite of art.   

Think that those wanton looks will have their wrinkles,  
And but by faith old age can merit nothing,  
When time thy pale with purple over-sprinkles,  
Faith is thy best, thy beauty is a woe thing.  
In youth be true, and then in age resolve thee,  
Friends will be friends, till time with them dissolve thee.   
But leaving these his effeminate follies of youth, wherein he so ungraciously passed his time, let us draw to the consideration of his traitorous practices, and finally, as the fruits of such sinister follies conclude with his tragical end. After he had for a time, until the prince's mind were otherwise withdrawn with more weighty matters, ceased both his routs and riots; the old rankled venom of his ambition began more fréelte to break forth, so that what before time he coloured under conscience, now at last he manifested with audacious confidence: The mighty in court that maligned him, he overmaistered by his attendants, swashing out in open streets upon every light occasion: for himself, he thought no man sufficient to suppress him, ●…or of sufficiency to brave him: for at a beck, Cobblers, Tinkers, tailors, and all sorts of the harebrained multitude attended him, fought for him, supported him, and made him Lord of their factions: wherethrough, the better sorts neither were Lords of themselves, neither commanders of their own liveliehoods. From some he extorted wealth by corrupt witnesses, sparing no means to enrich his followers, by racking and wresting the kings authority: and no sooner did he hear that the king had given order to his council to censure on his bad demeanours, but gathering to himself a huge multitude, he openly used this discourse unto them, beginning his exhortation with this place of Scripture: 
Haurietis aquas in gaudio de fontibus salvatoris  Which is as much to say, as, You shall draw waters with joy out of the fountains of our Saviour. For, quoth he, my worthy and faithful friends, who have more courage than coin, and ability in arms than possibilities of wealth, I am the saviour of you that are poor, and the sovereign of such as are penniless: you that have assayed the hard hand of the rich, shall be succoured by the happy hand of the righteous.  
Now therefore draw your happy fountains of council out of my words, and turn the troubles you have, to assured triumphs: for the days of your visitation is at hand. I shall departed waters from waters; I mean, the proud from the poor, the merciless from the merciful, the good from the evil, and the light from the darkness. I will oppose myself against all dangers, to prevent your damage; and lose my life, but you shall have living. Be confident therefore and bold: for such as have courage, are seldom conquered. Let the greatest upbraid, they shall not bite: we have weapons to withstand, as well as words to persuade: we are as courageous as our enemies are crafty. Stick therefore unto me, who will strive for you: let me be suppressed, you are subdued: let me flourish, you are fortunate: but if finister chance threaten; why, Alea jacta est: 
unasalus victis nullam sperare salutem  Thus daily and hourly animated he the ill minded sort: and although the king did oftentimes summon him, and by letters dissuaded him from his ill demeanour: yet was he enforced to use violence; or otherwise, that stripe which at first seemed to be but a fillip, would at last have grown unto a Fistula. For which cause, Hubert then Bishop of Canterbury soundly resolving in his thoughts, that forbearance would be the means of further mischief, by the advise of others of the Privy council, called him in question, summoning him against an appointed day, to come and yield a reason of those his factions tumults.  
William, that saw the iron ready to war hot, and the hammers ready to strike, began to remember himself; and his guilty conscience (which as the wise man saith, is a hundredth witnesses) would not suffer him to walk with so great confidence, yet lest fear should be suspected in him, whose good fortunes and life wholly depended on his courage, he oftentimes looked abroad, but attended by such a band of base companions, as if it had been the proud Changuis leading his legious of Tartars thorough Europe. But when the day of his appearance came, he was backed with such a number of mechanical rebels, that Hubert in stead of attempting him with upbraids, was feign to temper him with flattering persuasions: yea the stoutest councillor, though never so considerate, were feign to entreat him, whom they had resolved to threaten and imprison. William seeing them abashed, warred bold, and in these wordds saluted them: Honourable Fathers and grave Councillors, according to your Honourable summons, and the duty of a subject, I present myself before you, attended in this sort as you see, not to violate laws by lewd insurrections, but both to present my service to my Prince and your Honours, and to draw my friends and well willers to that duty, whereunto in soul I am devoted to this state. If therefore you have aught to command me, or if my services in times past be any way suspected; I stand ready to satisfy you in the one, or answre to the other. Hubert, that knew well that soft drops in time, pierce hard stones, and that the Diamond though not tainted by the hammer, is tempered in strong vinegar, began to colour where he might not command, and flatter where he could not enforce; and thus he said:  
Being assured, William, that good subjects tied by no bounty to their prince, yet yield him all observance, we cannot persuade ourselves that you, who have been authorized by your prince to countercheck injustice, will be the pattern of injurious insolence: for which cause we have called you, not as condemners of your faith, but commenders of your forwardness: neither have we so bad an opini●…on of th●…se good men that follow you, that either they would be drawn to violate justice, or you could be induced to violate and alter their honest and christian-like duties. Our only request to you in the king's behalf, is to cast off this Lordly train, and suffer these poor men to follow their professions, least being unawares assailed by want, they shall at last desperately attempt wickedness. As for these good fellows who in their looks promise no looseness, I beseech them in his majesties name to keep their houses, promising them in general, that if any one of them be wronged, they shall have remedy. Nay, we will have remedy in spite of you, said they, as long as William lives. And this said, without all reverence they departed the place, caring with them their captain commander, scoffing at the fainthartednes of the Archbishop: for full well was he assured, that greater severity was concluded upon, than he there would insinuate: for which cause he continually stood on his guard, spoiling all such men as he thought were abettors of the Bushop.  
The bailiffs of London, according to their authority, seeing matters were grown to such extremity, kept diligent and strong watch, drawing some of the commons from him by fair words, and some by gifts: This notwithstanding, William was never unattended. The Council, who every ways were vigilant to root out this viper from the common weal, what they could not by proves, they adventured by policy, animating divers valiant men with huge promises to mark his manners, and when the occasion was offered, to apprehend him at such time as he little suspected. But long was it yer they either could find opportunity, or catch the fox in his form: yet at last, when he least suspected, they caught him tardee in Breadstreat, attended only by ten or twelve; at which time, they drawing their sword assailed him valiantly.  
But he, who in all conflicts of Fortune was both confident and courageous, first animated his retinue to the fight, and after that wresting himself by main force out of their hands, he took him to flight towards the heart of the City, and ran int●… Cheapside. They who were bus●…ed against his poor followers seeing him fled, gave over fight, and earnest lie pursued him. By this time, the city was in an uproar: the poorer sort laboured to rescue William: the Bailiffs with the best Citizens armed them to back the king's officers: so that the city was altogether up in arms. William long beard seeing himself hotly pursued, and knowing no mean to escape, stepped to a poor Carpenter who stayed in Cheap for work, and taking his Axe from him, desperately assailed his pursuers, and with his own hands valiantly siue some of them: but when he perceived the factions of his enemies to be great, and his friends well nigh tired, he betook himself at last into Bow church, not for his sanctuary, but for a bulwark of his safety.  
Thither repaired all the poor commons, some with bats, some with spits, and such weapons as they had, driving away all the king's officers in despite of their friends, and determining with themselves rather to die than to lose their William Long beard amongst the rest Maudlin his minion knowing that his wrack was her ruin, came unto him where weeping mild tears from her immodest eyes, she so mollified his marble heart, that (as some testify) he was more moved therewith, then with the threats and terrors of his greatest enemies: but see impiety where it prevaileth, how it worketh? That church which was sacred to prayers, was now made a den of rebels: those places which were reserved to holy uses, were now soiled with dishonest abuses: where before our Lady was prayed to, lewdness was played withal. But to bring these causes to their Catastophe, sufficeth it that darkness for this time ended the dissension, and the coming on of the night, wrought also the conclusion of the fight.   

How William with the long beard after long trouble was taken by the king's officers, and executed for his misdemeanours.  
NO sooner 'gan the hours draw forth the brunisht chariot of the sun, and the star that beau tifieth the mornings break, shut up her beams in the bowels of the hidden Hemisphere, but Richard and his council ascertained of that which was happened, commanded the bailiffs of the city by express letters to ferret him out of his hole, and cease the tumults, by their authorities, for which cause, ●…he bailiffs attended by a bold troup of men in harness came into Cheap. The eldest of whom, being called Gerard de Antiloche, handled himself with such gravity, and used so effectual persuasions, that the commons for the most part withdrew them to their own houses, and after assurance of pardon from his Majesty, b●…tooke them to their labour. As for the rest in the Church, when neither persuasions could allure them, nor threats intenerate their hearts, the bailiffs fell to arms, and for the space of four hours continued a bloody and desperate fight. But when they perceived the Traitors were desperate, and the Church was sufficiently strong to keep them out: they at last found out this worthy policy.  
They caused some chief men to bring them great store of straw, which they f●…ered in divers parts about the Church, & in every corner whereas the wind might work the smoke any entrance, which so smothered and stifled them in the Church, that they were all of them for the liberty of a short time of life, to submit themselves to the judgement of succeeding death. Hereupon, after many woeful plaints powered out on every side by William, his Maudlin, and other malefactors, they were all enforced to leave the church, and submit themselves to the hands of the bailiffs, who according to the king's command, picking out William with nine other his confederates, committed them unto ward for that time, dismissing the rest under the king's general pardon: who certified hereof, was not a little solaced. For which cause, he sent some of his Council and judges the next day who ascending the judgement seat, called forth William with the Long beard with his confederates, arraigning them of high treason against God, the king and country.  
Among all the rest, William showed himself most confident: for neither did the ta●…nts of the judges extennuate his courage; neither could the bonds he was laden withal abash him any ways, but that with a manly look and enticing eloquence, he thus attempted the justices. You lords and Honourable judges, though I know it a hard thing to strive against the obstinate, or to extort pity there, where all compassion is extinguished: yet will I speak, using the officer of nature to work you, although I know I shall not win you. I am here called and indited before you for high treason, a heinous crime I confess it, and worthy punishment, I deny it not; but may it please you with patience to examine circumstances: I have emboldened the poorer sort to innonation, to fight for liberty to impugn the rich; a matter in the common weals of Greece highly commended: but here accounted factions, and why? there subjects made kings, here king's master subjects: and why not say you, and why not think I? yet am I faulty under a good precedent, and the ambition which hath entangled me, hath not been without his profit. To offend of obstinate will, were brutish: but under some limits of reason to default, can you (my Lords) but think it pardonable? I have raised one or two assemblies, and what of this? peace was not broken, only my safety was assured: and were it that the Law had been injured, might not the righting of a hundred poor men's causes, merit pardon for two unlawful assemblies? But you will say, I have animated subjects against their prince. I confess it, but under a milder title; I have counseled them to compass liberty, which (if nature might be equal judge between us) I know should not be so hainoustie misconstred.  
For my last tumult, I did nothing but in mine own defence: and what is lawful, if it be not permitted us, Vim vi repellere? But why plead I excuses, knowing the laws of this Realm admit no one of my constructions? If it be resolved I must die, do me this favour my Lords, to protract no time: execute your justice on my body, and let it not pine long time in fear thorough supposal of extremes. For my soul, since it is derived from a more immortal essence, I dare boast the liberty thereof, knowing that eternity is prepared for it, and mercy may attend it. But for these poor ones who have defaulted through no malice, but have been misled through vain suggestions, how gracious a deed should your honnors do, to exemplify your mercy on them? poor souls, they have offended in not offending, and but to enthrone me, have overthrown themselves: for which cause, if consideration of innocent guiltiness, & guilty innocence may any ways move you, grant them life, and let me solely enact the tragedy, who am confirmed against all Fortune's tyrannies.  
These latter words were delivered with so great vehemency of spirit, and attended with so quickening motions and actions of the body, that every one pitied that so rare virtues should be ravished by untimely death, or accustomed with so many ungodly practices. The judges, who were Socratical in all their speeches, showing their Rhetoric in their upright judgements, not acquaint discourses; after the examinations, indictments, verdicts of the jury, and such like, at last gave final and fatal judgement: That William with the long beard with his confederates, should the next day be hanged drawn and quartered: and so, after some other worthy exhortations to the people to maintain peace, and that they should show themselves more dutiful, and after thanks to the bailiffs and good citizen for their faithful and good service to his Majesty, the assembly broke up, and the prisoners till the next day were committed to the dungeon.  
No sooner was the gay mistress of the day break prepared in her roseate coach, powdering the heavens with purple, but the bailiffs repaired to the prison, leading forth William and those his other confederates to their execution. Then flocked about them divers sorts of people, some to see those who were so much searched after: others to lament him whom they had so loved: at last arrived at the place where they should finish their days, & all stood to behold their death. William, as principal in his life time of seditious practice, was to enact the first and fatal part in the tragedy: for which cause boldly climbing up the ladder, and having the rope fitly cast about his neck, after some private prayers, he spoke after this manner unto the people: My good countrymen, you are repaired hither to see a sorry spectacle, to behold the folly of life paid with the fruits of death, to mark how sinister treasons, end with condign torments: if you apply what you here see and behold to your own profits, I shall be glad, who now even at this my last hour, desire rather you should reconcile yourselves from all wickedness, then be dismayed ormoved with my wretchedness.  
Oh my dear friends, I now protest before God, & vow before men, that mine own presumptuous climbing hath been the just cause of my confusion: I have had more desire of glory, then respect of God, more regard of dignity, then of duty, deeming it better to be a famous Traitor, than a faithful and true subject. For which my inestimable sins I cry God heartily mercy, I beseech his Majesty to forgive me, and pray you all by your prayers to implore God's grace for me. Neither deserve I death only for the offence I have made the king, but my conscience accuseth me, and I here do openly confess it, that I was he who murdered Anthony Browne, in that he was a rival in my most lewd love, This, this, if nought else, my countrymen, sufficeth to condemn me, for this and all I am heartily sorry. My God, I repent me from my soul, my God. Which said, lifting up his eyes to heaven, he prayed a long time very vehemently and after many fruitful exhortations, finished his life to the comfort of those who wished his soul's health. The rest his confederates after their several confessions, were served with the same sauce, and thus ended the troubles with their tragedies.  
Their bodies cut down, were buried by their friends, and happy was he among the poorer sort that had any thing to enrich the funeral of William Long beard: and notwithstanding his confession at his death, and divers other evidences at his condemnation: yet were there divers, who after his death held him for a saint, casting out slanderous libels against the Archbishop, terming him the bloodsucker of good men. There were many superstitious women, who in their devotion were wont to pray to him, and after his death digged up the ground about the gallows tree, affirming that many had been healed of sundry sicknesses by the touch thereof. All this their idolatrous constructions at first began by reason of a priest, a near alley to William, who openly preached, that by virtue of a chain wherewith William was bound, during the time of his imprisonment, there were divers men healed of hot fevers, the blood that fell from him at such time as he was quartered, they clearly scraped up, leaving nothing that could yield any memory of him, either unsought or ungotten: But at last the Archbishop of Canturburie remedied all these things, who first accursed the Priest that brought up the fables, and after that caused the place to be watched, where through such idolatry ceased, and the people were no more seduced. But for that William wrote many notable Poems and translations in the prison, which if you peruse will notify unto you his singular wit, I have thought good to subscribe them, desiring your favourable censure of them.   

William Long beards Epitaph.  

Untimely death and my found fruits of Treason,  
My lawless lust, my murders long concealed,  
Have ship wrecked life amids my April season,  
Thus covered things at last will be revealed.  
A shameful death my sinful life succeed  
And fear of heavenly judge great terror breedeth.   

My mangled members in this grave included,  
Have answered laws extremes to my confusion,  
Oh God let not my murders be obtruded  
Against my soul wronged through my earths illusion.  
And as the grave my lifeless limbs containeth,  
So take my soul to thee where rest remaineth.   

Thou travailer that treadest on my tomb,  
Remembreth thee of my untimely fall,  
Prevent the time forethink what may become,  
See that thy will be to thy reason thrall,  
Scorn world's delights, esteem vain honour small:  
So mayst thou die with fame, where men of conscience foul  
Perish with shame and hazard of their soul.   
I have here unto annexed likewise some other of his spiritual hymns and songs, whereby the virtuous may gather how sweet the fruits be of a reconciled and penitent soul.  

The First.  

That pity Lord that erst thy heart inflamed  
To entertain a voluntary death,  
To ransom man by loathed sins defamed,  
From hell, and those infernal pains beneath:   

Vouchsafe, my God, those snares it may unlose  
Wherein this blinded world hath me entrapped:  
That whilst I traffic in this world of woes,  
My soul no more in lusts may be entrapped.   

Great are my faults, O me most wilful witted:  
But if each one were just, there were no place  
To show thy power that sins might be remitted.  
Let then O Lord thy mercy quite displace,  
The lewd and endless sins I have committed,  
Trough thine unspeakable and endless grace.    

The Second.  

Such dark obscured clouds at once encumbered  
My mind, my heart, my thoughts from grace retired  
With swarms of sins that never may be numbered,  
That hope of virtue quite in me expired.   

When as the Lord of hosts my gracious father,  
Bend on my dulled powers his beams of brightness,  
And my confused spirits in one did gather  
Too long ensnared by vanity and lightness.   

A perfect zeal (not office of my senses)  
So seized my judgement smothered in his miss,  
That heaven I wished and loathed this earthly gail,  
My heart disclaimed vile thoughts and vain pretences.  
And my desires were shut in seemly vail,  
So that I said, Lord, what a world is this?    
After such time as he had received his judgement, he grew into this meditation of the miseries of life, which I dare enough is both worthy the reading and noting, yea even among the learnedst  

The Third.  

A shop of shame, a gain of livelong grief,  
A heaven for fools, a hell to perfect wise,  
A theatre of blames where death is chief,  
A golden cup where poison hidden lies.   

A storm of woes without one calm of quiet,  
A hive that yieldeth hemlock and no honey,  
A both of sin, a death to those that try it,  
A fair where cares are sold withouten money.   

A fleshlieioy, a grave ofrotten bones,  
A spring of tears, a let of true delight,  
A loss of time, a labyrinth of moans,  
A pleasing pain, a prison of the spirit,  
Is this my life: why cease I then resolved  
To pray with Paul and wish to be dissolved?    
Thus endeth the life of William Long beard: a glass for all sorts to look into, wherein the high minded may learn to know the mean, and corrupt consciences may read the confusion of their wickedness, let this example serve to with draw the bad minded from Bedlam insolence, and encourage the good to follow godliness. So have I that fruit of my labour which I desire, and God shall have the glory, to whom be all praise.   
FINIS.   

Of many famous pirates, who in times past were Lords of the Sea.  
THere were many worthy Pirates in our forefather's days: but among all of greatest reckoning, Dionides was not least, who exercised his larcenies in the Levant Seas in the time of Alexander the great and Darius, disdaining either to serve the one, or submit himself to the other: yea so resolute was he in his robberies, and dissolute in his life, that he neither spared friend nor savoured foe, but robbed all in general. Against this man Alexander levied a great army, and by strong hand subdued him: and afterward calling him into his presence, he said thus unto him: Tell me Dionides, why hast thou treubled all the Seas? to whom he thus replied: Tell me Alexander, why hast thou overrun the whole world, and rob the whole sea? Alexander answered him: because I am a king, and thou art a Pirate: truly (replied Dionides) D Alexander, both thou and I are of one nature, and the self same office: the only difference is that I am called a Pirate for that I assault other men with a little army, and thou art called a prince, because thou subduest and signiorest with a mightic host: But if the Gods would be at peace with me, and Fortune should show herself perverse towards thee, in such sort as Dionides might he Alexander and Alexander Dionides, perhaps I should be a better prince than thou art, and thou a worse Pirate than I am.  
Stilcon for sixteen years space was a pirate in the Carpathean Sea, and executed many great robberies upon the Bactrians and highly infested Rhodes. Against whom king Demetrius levied an army, and finally took him: and calling him to his presence said unto him. Tellme Stilcon, what harm the Rhodians have done thee, that thou so much indemnifiest them? and wherein have the Bactrians defaulted, that thou haste thus ruinated their Realms? Stilcon answered, I would thou wou'dest tell me Demetrius, what harm my father did unto thee, that thou commandedst him to be beheaded? or wherein have I injured thee, that I am exiled by thy judgement? I council thee in this my last hour, and not with the least consideration, that thou persecute not, neither pursue any man as much as show mayest, because it is a matter very dangerous to deliberate with them of peace, who are desperate both of life and honour.  
Cleonides was a pirate in the days of king Ptolomey, and scoured the seas for the space of twenty and two years, and for seven of them never set foot on land from out his Galley: This Cleonides was squint cied, and crup shouldered, not unworthily in that manner marked by nature, because every way he was most tyrannously minded against every prisoner he took: he never observed promise, or pitied prisoner: but those enemies he took (amongst other millions of torments where with he tyrannised over them) he powered hot scalding oil into their fundaments, and set their feet in boiling oil, till they were burnt and scorched. Against him, Ptolomey sent out an army; and having taken him, called him before his judgement seat, and spoke unto him after this mannre: Tell me Cleonides, what barbarous inhumanity or infernal fury have instigated thee, to inflict such insufferable torments on those who as thyself are men, and being as thyself, aught to be pitied by thyself? to whom Cleonides gave this churlish answer: It sufficeth not me thou king, to execute my envy upon the bodies of those I hate, & who have persecuted me in their life times; but also I resolve to burn their bowels up, and scaled out their hearts wherewith they hated me. Prolomey wondering at his desperate inhumanity, gave him this judgement: that he should likewise by little and little be dipped in scalding oil, to the end he might taste the self same torment where with he had attempted many others.  
Chipanda the pirate was a Theban borne, and flourished in the time of Cyrus, a man of high mind, great valour, generous heart, and virtues hardiness: for he had under his conduct 130. ships, with which he brought under his subjection all the kingdoms of the Levant, and struck continual fear into all the hearts of the princes in the West. Against him Cyrus rigged out an army, by whom his ships were conquered, and himself taken captive: who coming into Cyrus' presence, was by him saluted in this manner: Tell me Chipanda, why forsookest thou my pay, and afterwards submittedst thyself to the service of the Parthian? to whom he thus answered: The laws which are made on land bind not those that serve by sea: and those also which we capitulate at Sea, are not accustonied or used on land: and I tell you this O king, because it is an ancient Custom amongst us pirates, so often to alter and change our patrons as often as you shall see the winds alter and change at the Sea.  
Millia the pirate lived in the days of Dionysius, the first tyrant in Syracuse, and both of them were highly at odds the one with the other: yet in such sort enemies, as they contended not which should exceed one another in goodness, but which of them should have the palm for ungodliness: for Dionysius ruinated all Sicily, and Milia sacked all Asia: he used this exercise of piracy more than thirty years, and at last the Rhodians arming themselves against him, took him: and afterwards they bringing him to the place of his execution, he lifted up his eyes to heaven and said thus: O Neptune god and lord of the seas, why wilt thou not help me at this hour, who have sacrificed and drowned slew hundred men in thy waves, and p●…cemeale cut them in gobbets before thy majesty? Forty thousand have I sent into the bowels of the flood, to the end they should enrich the bottom, and thirty thousand have died in my ships thorough sickness: twenty thousand have perished in my galleys manfully fight: and shall it now suffice in that here I die alone, who have glutted thy vast waters with so many carcases.  
Alcomonius was a pirate at such time as Scylla and Marius flourished (and following the faction of Scylla, was he that took Caius Caesar when he fled from Scylla, whom Caesar very often after a pleasant manner assured, that he had deliberated to hang him and all his confederates by the neck, and according to his words accomplished his promise, at such time as he came to the government of the Roman commonweal. This Alcamonius being ready to die, said; I am little grieved for that I lose, and less afflicted for the manner of death by which I die: but this is it that urgeth me, that I fallen into his hands who was once my prisoner, whom I might have hanged then, as he now hangeth me.  
There were likewise many other ancient and modern pirates, whom for that I am studious of brevity, I in this place willingly pretermit: It only sufficeth you, that you consider that no one of them died in his bed, neither made testament of his goods, but as soon as the fatal hour of their destinies was arrived, they died both defamed unto the world, and detested for their wickedness.  
The Agisincts were famous pirates in the time of Themosticles, who turned out a hundred Galleys amongst them, and took all of them: and after he had imprisoned and disarmed them, hanged them up: which act of his caused him to be favoured in Greece, and feared on the sea.  
Francis Enterolles a famous pirate was borne in Valentia of noble parents and a princely stock: This man committed mighty and many robberies at sea, and in the river of Genova: and finally, when in the year 1491. he had long time followed a chase, he was by tempest and Fortune driven upon the Island of Corsica, and those wh●… by chance escaped the danger and fury of the Seas, encountered death on the land, and were all of them with their captain Francis hanged by the neck for their piracies, the rest that were left, were made galley slaves, being by the Islanders surprised in their Galley: and this was the end of this noble Valentinian.  
Monaldo Guecca a famous pirate borne in Navarre, flourished in the year 1496. This man having occupied and strengthened himself upon the rock of Hostia, hindered all the convey of victuals to Rome after such a manner, that neither wine nor corn, neither any other march andise could be brought either from the kingdom of Naples from Corsica, or the river of Genua unto the city: Against him Pope Alexander sent the great Consaluo; who took the rock, and brought Menaldo bound to Rome upon a lean jade in manner of triumph. And it is reported that he went with so confident a countenance; that he enforced terror in all those that beheld him, Consaluo, for that he was a Spaniard, got him his pardon, and wrought the Pope to be very bountiful unto him.   

A true and famous History of Partaritus king of Lombardie, who being pursued by Grimaldo, fled first of all to Cucano king of the Auarior Huns, and then into France, and finally after many travails was restored to his kingdom with much majesty, wherein the worthy memory of two faithful servants is happily registered.  
PArtaritus was the son of Albert king of Lombardie, who after the death of his father reigned himself in Milan, and Gundibert his brother in Pavia. Betwixt these two there grew a mortal dissension, for which cause Gundibert sent Caribald Duke of Turinge to Grimoald duke of Benivent a most worthy and valiant captain, requesting his assistance in arms against his Brother, and promising him in reward thereof, to bestow his sister upon him in marriage. But Garibald used Treason against his Lord, animating Grimoald to the enterprise not as an a better, but a conqueror. For (said he) you may easily occupy the kingdom, by reason of the two brethren, who through their dissensions have almost ruinated the same. Grimoald asserteined her of, made his son Duke of Beneuent: and levying a mighty power, set onwards on his way to Pavia, and through every City that he passed, he drew friends unto him, and won the better sort with benefits, to the end they should assist him toward the attainment of the kingdom: and coming to parley with Gundibert who (little suspecting the treacheries which Garibald had complotted, came slenderly and courtly accompanied to entertain him) he on sudden slew him, and occupied the kingdom. Partaritus ascertained hereof, abandoned Rhodeline his wife and his little son, and fled to Cucano king of the Auarior Huns: Grimoald confirmed in the kingdom of Pavia, understanding that Partharithus was entertained by Cucano; sent ambassadors unto him, threatening him, that if he retained Partharithus his enemy in his kingdom, he should be assured to purchase of him a mighty enemy, and more, to occasion a present and dangerous war.  
The king of the Hunns ascertained hereof, called Partarithus unto him, and said thus: I pray thee, gentle friend, depart into some other place: for if thou be here resident, my good will towards thee will occasion great wars against myself. Partharitus understanding the king's mind, returning into Italy, went and sought out Grimoald, reposing his life upon the good dispositions of his enemy: And drawing near the City of Lodi, he sent before him one of his faithful servants called Vnulfe, who might make manifest to Grimoald, both how much he trusted him, and what he required at his hands. Vnulfe presenting himself before the kings Majesty, told him that Partaritus his master had recourse unto his clemency, and sought succour in his court: Grimoald admiring his confidence, faithfully promised him that he might repair unto him, upon the faith of a prince assuring him, that before he should be harmed, he would hazard his own heart.  
A little while after when Partharitus presented himself before Grimoald, and humbly kneeling on his knees be sought his favour, the king piteously and graciously entertained and kissed him, whom in humble manner Partharitus saluted thus: mighty Sovereign, I am thy servant, who knowing that thou art a Christian, doubt not of thy compassion. I might (as thou knowest O king) have lived among Pagans: but what life were that? and how base confidence were I in rather to trust the faithless, then humble myself to the faithful? I beseech thee of mercy, and kissing thy feet crave maintenance. The king according to his manner swearing a solemn oath, promised him saying: By him that begat me, since thou hast recourse unto my faith, I will never forsake thee; but I will take order for thee in such manner, that thou mayest both honestly and honourably live in this country. Whereupon he commanded him to be worthily lodged, giving charge that he should be furnished of all necessaries whatsoever, upon his treasury.  
It chanced that Partaritus departing from the king, and repairing to his lodging, was suddenly encountered with a whole troup of Citizens of Pavia, who came to see him and salute him, as their sorestemed friend. But see what great mischief proceedeth from an evil and detracting tongue? For some malignant flatterers beholding the same, sought out the king, and gave him to understand, that if he made not Partaritus suddenly out of the way, himself without all doubt should lose both his kingdom and life: swearing to him, that all the city was already addicted to take his part.  
Grimoald considering these thoughts, and by his overmuch credulity suspecting more than he needed, suddenly resolved on the death of miserable Partharitus: and calling his council unto him ceased not to contrive the means how the innocent might be made away. They seeing that day far spent resolved the deed should be done, the next morrow animating the king by good words, who otherwise through fear was almost out of his wits: notwithstanding thorough their persuasions gathering to himself more confidence, the better to colour his intention, he sent unto him that night many excellent dishes and strong wines, purposing (if it were possible) to make him drunk: assuring himself that by the means thereof he for that night should have more care of his sleep than regard of his safety.  
But see how God helpeth the innocent: for a certain gentleman who before time had been a servitor in Partharithus father's court, presenting him with a mess of meat from the king, and leaning downward as if intending reverence to his Majesty, told him secretly how the king the next day had resolved to put him to death. For which cause Partaritus suddenly called his squire, willing him for that night to give him no other drink but a little water in a silver cup: knowing this, that if those who presented him in the king's behalf would request him to carouse to his health, he might easily do without intoxicating his brains, drinking only water. Those that served him at the table, seeing Partaritus take his liquor so lively, certified the king thereof: who with much joyfulness said, let the drunkard drink his fill for this night: but to morrow yet ever he suspect the banquet, I mean to feast him with his own blood.  
This said, he caused his guard to be set the house, fearing and suspecting, lest Partaritus should escape him in any sort. The supper being ended, and every one having taken his leave, Partharitus thus left alone with Vnulfe his trusty servant and the Page who ordinarily attended on him to bed, he discovered unto them how the king had resolved to kill him: for which cause Vnulfe winding him about the neck with the sheeets of the bed and laying the coverlet and a bears skin upon his back, leaving him without cap, as if he were some rustic or common drudging fellow, began to drive him out of the chamber, doing him many injuries and villannies, so that he very oftentimes fell to the ground.  
Grimoalds guard, who were appointed unto the watch, seeing all these outrages, asked Vnulfe what he meant. Why said he, my masters, this rascal slavehath made me my bed in the chamber of that drunken palliard Partharithus, which is so full of wine, that he sleepeth as if he were dead without stirring: and this is the cause why I beat him, and I pray you doth he not deserve it? They hearing these words, and believing them to be true, did all of them laugh very heartily to hear the tidings, and giving both of them licence to departed Partaritus hasted to the city of Hasti, and from thence went into France, praising God for his happy delivery.  
As soon as they were got away, the faithful page locked the door very diligently, remaining all that night alone in the chamber: and when the messengers of the king came with commission to bring Partaritus to the palace the next day, they knocked at the door, whom the page in humble manner saluted, praying them to have patience for a while: for (saith he) my Lord being weary of his last journey, sleepeth now very soundly: The messengers returning to Grimoald, told him the pages answer: who all enraged, charged them presently to bring him to his presence: who repairing again to the chamber door, were in like sort once more solicited by the page to use forbearance: but they admitting no delays, cried out hastily and heartily, tut, tut, the droonkard hath now slept enough, and thereupon bearing the door of the hinges they forcibly entered the chamber, and sought Partaritus in his bed, but found him not: whereupon they asked the page what was become of him, who answered them that he was fled: The messengers all amazed herewith, furiously laying hands on the child's bushy lock, and buffeting him piteously, brought him to the palace: and conducting him to the presence of the king, said, Mighty Prince, Partharitus is fled, and this caitiff boy helped to convey him: and for that cause meriteth death: Grimoald commanded them to lay hands off him, and willed him with a friendly countenance to discover unto him the manner and means how his master had escaped away: The page told him every thing as it had past; whose faithfulness when the king had considered upon, he royally offered him to make him one of his pages, assuring the lad that if he would be as faithful to him as he had showed himself towards his old master, he should both be rewarded and regarded.  
After this, he made search for Vnulfe, who being brought before his presence, was pardoned by him, and not only pardoned, but commended. But as where affection is rooted, there no favours can supplant it, nor promises suppress it: so these two loving their master Partarithus very dearly, took no delight but only in desire they had to see and serve him: for which cause a few days after they repaired to Grimoald, beseeching him of licence to seek out their master. Why my friends (quoth he) had you rather seek out your necessities, then live with me here in all pleasures? By God replied Vnulfe, I had rather die with Partharithus, than live in all other worldly contents and delights. What (said the king to the page) wilt thou also rather seek out a banished man, then serve a king? I my Lord, said he: for they are bad servants that will leave their masters in misery. Grimoald wondering at their confidence, & praising both their faiths, dismissed both of them with all favour, giving them both horse and money to furnish and further them on their journey.  
The two faithful servants humbly thanking the king, took their way into France, hoping to find their master in that place according as was appointed. But Partaritus fearing lest by reason of a peace lately capitulated betwixt Dogobert king of France and Grimoald, he should be there surprised suddenly by some sinister subtlety, took shipping for England: and having already sailed from the shore, the voice of a man was heard among the rocks, which asked for Partaritus and whither he were in that ship. Whereto when answer was made that there he was, the voice replied, Then will him presently repair unto his country: for Grimoald a three days hence is departed this life: Partaritus suddenly returned back, commanding the mariners to re-enter the harbour: and as soon as he was landed, he diligently sought out the messenger that had thus informed him: but finding him by no means possible, he supposed it to be some messsage sent from God. For which cause, posting towards his country, and arriving amongst the confines of Italy, he found there a great number of Lombard's who expected him, with whom he entered Pavia, and driving out a little son of Grimoalds from the kingdom; he was by general consent created king of Lombardie three months after the death of Grimoald. For which cause he presently sent unto Beneuent for his wife Rhodolinde, and his son Cunibert: And being a godly Catholic and just man, a liberal patron of the poor, and father of the innocent: as soon as he had quiet possession of the kingdom; in that place from whence he fled, which is on the other side of of Tesinus, he builded a monastery to the honour and glory of God his saviour and only defender, wherein there were divers Nuns enclosed, whom he always enriched with many very goodly possessions.  
The Queen likewise builded a church in honour of our Lady without the city walls, adorning it with marvelous rich ornaments: his page and trusty servant returning to his court, as soon as they had tidings of his establishment, were by him favourably entertained and richly rewarded. Finally, after he had reigned eighteen years, he departed this life not without the general lament and tears of the whole inhabitants of Lombardie.   

The wonderful dream of Aspasia the daughter of Hermotimus the Phocencian a very poor man, who afterwards thorough her wonderful virtues, became the wife of Cyrus' king of Percia and was afterwards married to Artaxerxes.  
ASpatia was the daughter of Hermotimus of Phocis, who after the death of her mother, was brought up and nourished in great poverty: yet was not her poverty so grievous, as her continency was gracious: in her infan●…ie she had under her chin a great swelling, which dis●…igured her face, and was a great disgrace to her fairness. For which cause her father desirous to have her cured, carried her to a physician, who promised to heal her for a certain sum of money. The good old man having no money, told the Physician of his little means, beseeching him to stand favourable unto his child: but the greedy wretch which was too well learned in no penny no Pater noster, told him, that then he had no medicine for him: for which cause the poor Hermotimus and his sickly daughter repaired home without succours. Aspasia being thus ill bestead, entered her chamber, and setting her glass between her legs, she gazed so long intentively on her imperfection, and with so many tender tears bemoaned her wants, till at last she fell asleep, where upon a sudden she behold a dove changed suddenly into a woman, which said unto her, Be of good cheer, and leave these drug-maisters, and go unto the dried crown of Roses upon Venus' head, and taking some of them beat thou them to powder, and then do thou but strew them upon thy grievous sore.  
Aspasia having performed no less than was commanded her in her vision, was healed and 〈◊〉 ●…ie fair, and so many were the graces ●…erwith ●…he ●…hed, that no man could either compare or equal them. She had her hairs glorious and goldlike golden, somewhat daintily curled, her eyes fiery and crystalline, her nose hooked, her ears little, and the colour of her face like unto Roses washed in milk, her lips crimson, her teeth more white than snow, her voice was delicious sweet and musical, her delights were estranged from all effemina●…e newfangleness: she studied not to be rich in apparel (which is but the very surfeit of substanc●…) b●…cause being nourished in poverty, she could not nor would not in any wise yield any art to her beauty, wanting both the means and the manner.  
It chanced that this maiden amongst a great many others was bought by a Baron, who belonged to king Cyrus, who seeing that she was beautiful and fair, brought her (after a very solemn and sumptuous supper) into the presence of Cyrus, accompanied with three other Grecian maids, who were tricked and attired by courtly dames before h●…ide, to the end they might know how to entertain and delight the king; only Aspasia would not admit any foil for her fair, but after many refusals, at last consented to put on a sumptuous habit, wherein she st●…de so melancholy and blushingly, as if she thought all lookers on unworthy to behold her beauty: and firing her fiery eyes upon the ground, she wept bitterly before Cyrus, who commanded the three other Virgins to sit down by him, who were obsequious to his will: but Aspasia feigned as though she heard him not when he called her, until the Baron who bought her, enforced her to sit by his majesty.  
Cyrus' dallying and beholding the three other virgins, commended their countenances, and condemned not their behaviour. But having but touched Aspasia with the the tip of his finger, she suddenly cried out, telling him that she should be punished if she used such licentiousness. This her behaviour pleased the king, who afterward offered to dally with her paps, she presently fling from him and offered to departed: for which cause Cyrus marveling at the great mind of Aspasia far against the custom of Percia, said unto him that had bought her, Thou hast only brought this maiden unto me free, sincere, and without spot: these others are but counterfeits in their customs, and their beauties are but borrowed not natural.  
Here upon Cyrus affected by this means, and earnestly fixed his love upon Aspasia so that he forgot all other fancies, addicting himself only to her bed and beauty. Not long after, Aspasia called to her mind the doom she had seen in her dream, and the speeches which were used, and in regard of those benefits she had received, she erected a ●…atue of gold in honour of Venus, and annexed thereunto a dove beawtified with costly gems, offering daily sacri●…ces to remunerate the Goddess kindness. She likewise sent unto her father many rich jewels, and made him a man of great authority. A few days after a fair and curious Carcanet was sent out of Theslaly in present to king Cyrus, who rejoicing greatly at the same, and finding his Aspasia one day asleep, laid him down by her, and (after some amorous embracings) drew the carcanet out of a casket and said unto her. How sayest thou my love, doth not this jewel become either the daughter or mother of a king? yes my liege said she: why then my love; it shall be thine quoth he: discover therefore thy neck, and put it on.  
Aspasia little respecting the rich gift, reverently & sagely replied thus, how should I be so bold to submit my neck unto that gift, which is a present more convenient for Parisatides thy mother? Give it her my Lord, and I am ready to show you my neck without any such ornaments. Cyrus' rejoicing at her answer, kissed her, and having written all the manner of discourse which had passed twixt him and Aspasia, he sent the same with the carcanet unto his mother. Parisatide no less delighted with the letter than the carcanet, renumerated Aspasia with rich gifts and royal presents, and conceiving a gracious opinion in that Aspasia gave her place, she ever after loved her and presented her both with the carcanet and much other treasure. Aspasia humbly receiving her inestimable courtesies, sent both the jewel and treasure to Cyrus with this message: These for a time will help thee, and for that thou art mine ornament, meseeme●…h I have obtained a great gift, if as I both should and would, I heartily love thee.  
Cyrus was amazed at this deed, and not without reason, because this woman had no mean mind, but the courage of a great and magnificent princess. But when Cyrus was slain in the war which he waged against his brother, Aspasia remained prisoner: notwithstanding sought out, and at the last found by the noble Artaxerxes, she was delivered of her bonds, & such as had captivated her, were committed themselves. Finally, being richly appareled like a Princess (although by reason of the death of Cyrus she made great resistance, Artaxerxes being vehemently enamoured of her beauty, after long entreaty and comforts, at last won her consent and married her: yet as some writers testify, the entire affection she bore her last husband, was never extinguished until she died.   

A wondrous revenge executed by Megallo Lercato of Genova upon the mighty Emperor of Trabisonda.  
AT such time as the Genoese wear Lords of certain cities in the Levamt it chanced that amongst other Citizens who trafficked in Caffa, & were most familiar with the Emperor of Trabisond, there was one called Megollo Lercato, who by reason of his rare qualities, was exceedingly favoured by him: for which cause he was grievously envied, and hated by the principal courteors, who ceased not continually to invent new means & ways whereby they might bring him in disgrace. It fortuned that sporting himself one day at the game of chess with a young Noble man who was greatly beloved by the Emperor, they fell at words and bitter upbraids: amongst all others, the young Noble uttering certain speeches in contempt of the name of Genoese, Megollo was enforced to give him the lie: but seeth other little moved herewith, his country dishonoured, and the court laughing at him, he sought his remedy at the Emperor's hands, from whom he could get no redress in repair of his honour.  
For which cause Megollo hotly discontent (though for a purpose he smothered his displeasures a space) a few days after upon a lawful cause took occasion to crave the emperors licence, and departing to Genua altogether inflamed to revenge, he furnished himself by means of some parents and friends, and rigging out two warlike Galleys, he sailed with them into the great sea, and there endeavoured himself to spoil all the coast and ransack every ship belonging to the Emperor: whomsoever he took, in way of great disdain he cut off their noses and ears, and though there were many ships set out against him, yet in spite of all he never desisted from endangering him: and this might he the better perform, in that his ships were very swift: and when he found himself at any disadvantage, he could both leave and take how and when it pleased him. It chanced amongst many other preparations that were set out to entrap him; four stout. Galleys were rigged, who upon consultation as soon as they had discovered him, divided themselves apart, thinking to enclose him in the midst of them, & so all at once to assail him. Megollo that quickly perceived their policy, suddenly feigned to fly: whom when their swiftest Galley had long time pursued, and overwrought all her consorts, Megollo made head against them, and slew them, and served them all after the same sauce, to the wonderful amaze and discontent of the Emperor.  
Amongst one of these Galleys, there was an old man wish his two sons, who fearing the like fortune which had befallen others, should light on him and his sons, humbly prostrating himself at Megollos' feet, he humbly entreated him for mercy: The old man's tears were gracious, and had such power over the generous mind of Megollo; that he forgave both him and his sons with the rest that were alive in his Galley, and sent him back unto the Emperor with a vessel full of Ears and Noses, willing the old man to let the Emperor understand that he would never cease to indemnify him, until such time as he had sent unto him the man who had so disdainfully and dishonourably injured him in his court.  
The Emperor asserteined hereof, determined with himself as the lesser evil, to go himself in person unto the sea, and carry with him (as he did) the young man, who had occasioned all this trouble: Megollo hearing thereof, thrust his Galleys nearer the shore: when as the Emperor presently in a light boat sent him the young Noble with a rope about his neck: who having his eyes proud with tears, humbled himself at Megollos' feet, beseeching mercy: Megollo compassionate therewith, bade him get him thence, telling him that it was not the fashion of the Genoese to tyrannize over effeminate milksops.  
The parents of the young man seeing him return again beyond their expectation, received him wish great joy: divers offers were made by the Emperor to Megollo, who refusing them all returned this answer: That he came thither not for desire of riches but for honours sake, and to eternize the name of the Genoese, admitting no other covenants but this, that in memory of those his actions, a palace should be reared in Trabisond for the commodity of the Genoese, wherein he would that by a curious hand and cunning work man those his actions should be eternised: which being afterwards fully observed by the Emperor, they who trafficked there follow their merchandise with more honour than they were accustomed. Megollo after this worthy act returned home to Genova, where he was received and gratified with great honours by the Citizens.   

The memorable deeds of Ualasca a Lady of Bohemia, who causing all other Ladies to kill their husbands, Brethren, and sons, reigned seven years in Bohemia.  
I Read in the Bohemian history written by Pope Pius, that this Valasca of whom I here mean to entreat, was a woman of great mind, bold in all attempts, and highly favoured by Fortune: and to the end you may the better understand her history, I will first of all begin with her cause of hatred. You have therefore to consider, that Crocus second Duke of Bohemia dying without issue male, his daughter Libussa (held in those days in as great account as one of the Sibyls) with the favour of the people, and good liking of the better sort, was placed in her father's seat, and governed that Province many years, with the general good liking of all men. Finally, having given a just sentence in right of certain possessions against a mighty man in that country, he being there with incensed, provoked up the people against her, saying that it was an opprobrious & scandalous thing for such a people as they were, and so great a Nobility as was resident in that place, to suffer the kingdom & causes of justice to be under a woman.  
Libussa having entreated silence at their hands for a time, said unto them that she knew their new desire, and was not ignorant of their firm determination, disabling herself to satisfy their expectations, praying them to assemble the next day; which, according as she willed them they performed. The morning began no sooner to push forth his blushing beauties, but the people repaired to the judgement seat in great multitudes: and as soon as the palace was filled every ways by them, Libussa began to speak unto them on this manner: You know (Bohemians) that to this present day I have been your peaceable and bountiful Lady according to women's custom, who are audacious in nothing but in offering courtesies. Hitherto have I not been offensive to any of you, either chargeable by reason of Pomp, showing myself rather a mother unto you, than a mistress: but ingratefully, unkind men as you are, requite you my govern meant. But at these your actions wonder not I at all, because you accustom yourselves to the common fashions of men, who are never content, but are more skilful to desire a just and merciful Lord, then having him they have knowledge to keep him.  
As touching mine own title, I wholly surrender it into your hands: and as you have desired one who shall govern you, and order your laws as he list; so am I contented you shall have him. Therefore go ye and take me a white horse, and bridle him with all his other apparel and ornaments, and afterwards lead him to such a plain where he may take that way which best likes him. Which done, let him troth as he list, and follow you him by his footsteps: as he turns, so turn you: and as he returneth, so return you: finally, when you shall see him stay before a man that foede●…h at an iron table, then assure yourselves he is the man forpointed to be my husband, and your prince. This his speech pleased them all: so that taking with them the horsie as Libussa had instructed them, they let him freely go and followed him. But scarcely had they traveled ten miles, when as the horse stayed at a river called Bieli, and arrested himself before a country fellow called Primislaus: showing many signs of humanity and observance toward him.  
The Bohemians, as well the nobles as commons, beholding this, ran with all haste unto him, and after their salutations said thus unto him: Mount upon this horse, and go with us: Libussa hath chosen thee for his husband, and the Bohemians admit thee for their prince: Primislaus, although he were a poor country clown, not incapable of the general desire of rule which attainteth all men, gave unto them a homely salutation after his manner, and told them that he was addressed to do whatsoever pleased them: and under standing that he was to go to Libussa (as if he had a long voyage to make, he fastened his bottle to his saddle bow, and grasping his bread and cheese in his hand he road on feeding like a rustic king, which was a very sufficient evidence of that which Libussa before time had declared and told unto them.  
As soon as his guts were full and his bottle emptied, he mended his pace, and they conducted him with great pomp and honour into the city, where he took Libussa to wife, and during all his life time was wholly ruled and governed by her counsels and persuasions. But after she had submitted herself to the destinies, the government remained wholly in Primislaus hands, and the authority of Ladies ceased, which even unto that hour was both maintained and augmented by Libussa. After this, Valasca (which whilst Libussa lived was her secretary) being a Lady of great valour and no less resolution than an Amazon, not enduring or abiding that the authority of women should be thus annihilated, assembling one day in a privy place all those that were of her faction, she said thus unto them:  
My sisters, we have lost our good Lady, who always defended us from the outrages of men, neither could she ever endure that we should be over borne by them, so that she herself h●…ld the Empery, and we wish her were in respect held and accounted for Queens. You see now, how enforced we endure a hard and miserable servitude, living under the government of our husbands after the manner of slaves, except of ourselves we shall gather head and courage to recover our former liberties. Wherefore, if your thoughts be as mine is, let us join like heroic Ladies, and we will easily recover our estates. I (as you know) was secretary unto Libussa, of whom I learned that which she knew: I am skilful in enchantments, and the nature of herbs is not unknown untome: if therefore you have any meaning or will to follow me, assure yourselves, that you shall be once again lords over men.  
Upon these words, the whole assembly of women condescended to Valascas words, and mutually conspired against men. During this time, Primislaus dreamt one night, that a virgin gave him blood to drink: for which cause he being a notable soothsayer, and willing to prevent a mischief which (as he imagined) might very easily be impugned, he convocated all the chief nobles of his Province, under intention to prohibit the overgreat licence and liberty which women had in the common weal: namely, the women were accustomed to ride and run the race on horseback, to tourney, shoot, and follow the chase, and briefly to exercise themselves in all warlike discipline, which (as he thought) were matters manageable by men, and unfit tasks for women. But the Barons scoffed at him when he told them there of, and said, that they rather deserved love and reverence for their agility and hardiness, than reproof and dishonour.  
Valasca mean while desisied not neither day nor night to exhort her confederates, and often with drinks & inchatments turned away their affections from the love of men, and day by day drew more and more into this her League of conspiracy. Finally, when she perceived that she had gathered a sufficient power both of married wives & maids, in one night she caused every one of her faction to kill their fathers, husbands, brethren, and sons in their beds, and afterwards taking arms, with great expedition, they all of them marched together to a place appointed them by Velasca, not far distant from prague, and subduing some that had them in chase, they made a road to Vissigrade whereas Primislaus abode, intending there to surprise him: but seeing they could not take the fortress, they retired themselves into a mountain, a place naturally impregnable, and there building a castle, they called it Deivizo that is, the place of virgins, because that in their tongue a virgin is called Deivize.  
This action of theirs seemed abominable to all the inhabitants of the country, as well in respect of the great slaughter they had made, as also because they had a great suspicion of further mischief, for which cause they generally gave Primislaus to understand, that they were addressed to bid these new Amazons battle, and that, if it pleased him to march forward with his host, they also were in a readiness to follow him. The K. certified them, that at that present he could not come, by reason that the Gods had admonished him, that all those who were addicted to indemnify the virgins, were to die; certifying them that it was behoveful to go another time. But they, who set light by his counsel, levying by themselves a great army, marched toward Deivizo and striking battle with Valasco, were ignominiously overthrown and put to flight with the slaughter of the greater part of the army: and whereas in this service Malada, Nodea, Sua●…acia, Vorasta, Ragda, Zastana and Tristana, had behaved themselves valiantly; in reward of their service they had co●…ars and chains of gold given them: and amidst that unmeasurable pray which they had, every one was rewarded according to their desert.  
Valasca slew with her own hand seven of her enemies, and after that time was held and esteemed for a goddess, so that never a●…ter that time the Bohemians had the courage to trouble or molest them: But they every day ranged about the confines, spoiling, robbing, and burning, and day by day enforced greater dread and fear in the hearts of their enemies: and being now Ladies and sovereigns of the better part of Bohemia, they were constrained to have the company of men, by reason that other wise by course of time and wars they were likely to be reduced and brought to nothing: for which cause, marrying themselves they made a law, that those maidens who were borne by them should with all diligence be tenderly and carefully brought up: as for the males, they commanded that their right eyes should be pulled out, and their middle fingers cut off, to the end, that having attained Man's estate they should be disabled to shoot in the bow, or to handle warlike weapons.  
Finally, Velasca having afflicted Bohemia for the space of seven years, and made them altogether tributary, was deceived by Primislaus, who wrote her a letter that the Barons against his will had attempted her with war, and that he was greatly pleased that they had ●…ceiued condign punishment for their in solence: assuring her, that he had always held her in place of his daughter, not only for that she had been secretary to his wife, and well thought of by her, but for that she knew so well to govern so great a state as Bohemia was for the space of seven years. And moreover, that now since he felt himself old and unable to govern his subjects; on the other side, his son too young in years for so weighty a credit, that his will was to render into her hands the fortresses, so that by this means at one time he would yield all Bohemia into her hands, referring the estate of his son and heir, to her kindness and courtesy, contenting himself to return unto his first estate, and live satisfied in the town from whence perforce they had taken him, and afterward unwillingly crowned him. And him seemed as he wrote, that it should so be, that as from a lady's hands he received the thre●…e, so to a lady's hands he might return the title. This letter written and sent unto her, won such credit with her, that presently she sent before her a squadron of her best Amazons to receive the fortresses, who were brought into the land with great solemnity, and entertained in the Dukes own palace: but whilst thee were at the table, they were all slain by a troup of armed men, who were hidden for that purpose. They having slain these, ran to Deivizo with a great army, & Valasca having notice of the strange accident, issued herself smally unattended and closed in glittering arms, and mounted upon a very brave and lusty courser, that lightened fire from his nostrils, she was followed by some few a far off, whilst herself solely encountered the whole host that came against her, and without any word speaking she laid about her like a Lioness or a Libyan Tiger in his great fury. Finally, failing in the midst and thickest of her enemies, she died valiantly.  
Her companions a far of as soon as they understood of the death of their princess, not under any hope to conquer, but stimulated to work revenge, fell to arms: betwixt whom and the Bohemians was a most bloody and desperate fight: but the Ladies at last having the worst, were enforced to fly, whom the Vissegradians following, entered together with them into their Castle, and having caused the gates to be shut, and being Lords of the fortress, they cut all the poor women to pieces. And thus was Bohemia delivered from the tyranny and thraldom of women: And Velasca, being worthy to be eternised amongst the Ladies of most famous memory, lay unburied, and served for a prey for birds and beasts to feed upon.   

An excellent example of continence in Francis Sforza.  
AMongst all other I will not pretermit a singular example of continence in Francis Sforza, who deserved in this action of his to be compared with Alexander the great, and Scipio the noble: Cassanova a castle of Luke being forcibly surprised by earl Francis. There were certain soldiers who took a fair and tender young damosel prisoner, who whilst they forcibly drew her from out the house, wéepingly besought them to present her to the earl Francis Sforza and to no other, so that they who had outraged her, fearing the displeasure of the county; suddenly presented her unto him.  
At that time Francis by reason of his young years, and the sound complexion of his body, was very prone and addicted to wanton and effeminate pastimes: and although he were inveigled by the tender years and exceeding beauty of the maiden, notwithstanding he inquired of her whither she had rather consent unto every pleasure wherein he might employ her, or remain in their hands who had first taken her. Whom she thus answered, that she would be always ready to obey him, so that it might please him to set her free from the hands of base injury. Where upon Francis presently commanded that she should be conducted unto his pavilion. When night came, and before he entered the bed, he asked the maiden again, if she were of the same mind, or whether she had changed her purpose. Who answered him that she continued resolved, than he willed that she should disrobe and unclothe her body, and so to lay herself down by him.  
But no sooner was she entered bed, but she espied the picture of our Lady painted after the manner, whereon turning towards the Earl she wept and with all reverence & shamefastness she said unto him: O my Lord I pray thee for that unspotted virgins sake, whose image is in our sight, vouchsafe to be the protector of my virginity, and through thy clemency grant that without stain or dishonour I may return unto my betrothed spouse, who liveth a desperate and desolate life amongst the other captives. And whereas I promised thee to submit myself to thy will, no other thing moved me there unto, than the desire I had to deliver myself from the hands of those who ravished me: and not that alone, but the justice and piety I have heard of thee, made me conceive a great hope to submit to him who had so great virtues to command.  
These words had so great power in the merciful and generous mind of the Captain, that they extinguished in him all heat of vain desires, so that of his own proper charges he rescued the husband and redeemed him from shraldome, restoring the young virgin unto him as soon as he came in to his presence. Her spouse kneeling upon his knees, and sighing bitterly, said; My Lord thou doest fully answer the great expectation and fame which through every part is dispersed by thee, so that there is no land nor no peer in the world that either may match thee for humanity, or conquer thee in clemency. Almighty God, who may requite thee in our behalf, yield thee condign favours for thy virtue: The County would have given him many things of that pray that he had taken, but the young maiden would accept nothing, saying that the neighbours seeing such gifts, would think and imagine that it were the price of her virginity that she had lost, and so by that means she should fall into very great infamy, which she ever rather chose to fly than death, whereupon Francis Sforze dismissing them, they joy fully returned into their country.   

Of many learned men ancient and modern, who violently and unfortunately ended their days.  
THemostocles the Athenian slew himself. Lucretius the Philosopher died the self-same death, and Gallus (as learned as both they) was murdered by his own hands: Pliny was smothered by fire in the mountain Aetna. Besides all these, many other never seconded in science perished sinisterly. Thales the Milesian died for thirst, Zeno was slain by the commandment of the Tyrant Phalaris. Anaxarchus by the judgement of Nicocreon finished his life with many tortures. Archimedes the Philosopher an excellent Mathematisian was slain by Marcellus soldiers: Pythagoras with his threescore scholars was put to the sword. Anacharsis died suddenly. Diodorus burst through heart's grief, by reason he could not answer a question which Stilbo the Philosopher had propounded him. Aristotle after he had lost the favour of Alexander, being in Calcide, drowned himself in the flood Euripus. Calistines his scholar was cast headlong out of a window. Marcus Tullius had his ears and hands cut off, and set up in the public place where the Drators declaimed.  
Seneca was put to death by his scholar Nero, who had first caused his veins to be opened in a bathe of hot water. johannes Scotus reading in England, by a sudden conspiracy of his scholars was with his best favourites put to death, but if I should undertake to repeat all the hapless ends of these ancients who were excellent in learning, it were too long for me to write, or you to read. For which cause I will begin to let you understand the death of some modern learned. Petrarch died suddenly, Domitius Caldarinus perished through the sickness of the plague. conciliator was burned alive. Angelus Politianus finished his days by having his brains dashed out against a wall. Peter Leo of Spoletum was drowned in a ditch, the Lord Francis Pico was slain by his tenants. Fisher and Thomas Moor were beheaded, Cranmer and Latimer burned, the rest since fresh in memory I need not to trouble you with: I only set these down for the learned to consider upon and examine themselves by circumstances, & cunningly canvas in their conscience an argument a comparatis.   

How king Rodorigo the last of the Royal house of the Goths, lost his kingdom and life through his incontinence.  
IN the year 712. Roderigo reigned in Spain, who earnestly enamoured of a daughter of julians' County of Cantabre, and desirous to gather the fruit of his love because otherwise he might not in that the maiden was very honest and virtuous, he sent her father ambassador into France, & by that opportunity enforcing her, he satisfied his lewd and dissolute lust. julian returning into Spain, and understanding the heavy case and estate of his daughter, made show before the king that he was utterly ignorant thereof, and after a few days he fled into Africa with all his family: taking up his house in the city of leaped: and seeking out Muca the governor of Africa he told him of the outrage done him by the king, and how for that cause he was come unto him. First to offer him a great rich, and fair empire: next, to proffer him his service: and moreover said he, the time is come to revenge the Arabians which were slain a few years passed in the host of king Bamba. To the performance whereof I will back you with the greater part of the Lords of Spain, who will be ready to assist you in this enterprise, because the king is deadly hated of them, both for his cruelty and lawless corruption.  
Muca sent him unto king Mulit in Arabia, who hearing julianos purpose, dispatched him with letters to Muca where in he wrote that he should favour him with all reasonable helps. Muca gave him an hundredth horse and four hundredth men on foot, under the conduct of a famous captain called Tariffe: with this power they passed the Seas, & landed in Spain: and to the end they might the more securely beard the enemy, they builded a city which they called by the name of Tariffe captain of the Barbarians. And assoon as julio had given notice to his confederates for what occasion he was come, & what desire he had to revenge him of the injury done unto him by the king, many of them united themselves with the Arabians, and overran all the country of Algazera which the said juliano had in government under the said king.  
The Arabians of Africa seeing the great progress and fortune the county had, and assured of his faith, sent him twelve thousand horse, and a great multitude of footmen, by reason that they had intelligence that the king had sent against him his cousin Ignicus with a huge host, who fight many times unhappily with the Moors, at the last was himself slain, & all his followers cut in pieces: whereupon the Moors being rid of this impediment, overran and spoiled a great part of Spain. For which cause the king levied a greater army than the first, and coming himself to wage the fight with the Moors, there fell a terrible and dreadful battle between both the armies, which continued eight continual days, save only the intermission of night, but by reason of the rebellion of the two late kings sons called Detifa the king had the worst and perished in the field with many other valiant persons: and the Moors like courageous victors possessed the spoils. This defeat was on sunday being the xi. of September in the year 719 The Moors attaining victory, had the dominion of Spain.   

Of many famous men who leaving the government of the Commonweal gave themselves over to a private life.  
CAto the Censor was the most virtuous and best reputed Roman that flourished in that time: for during all the days of his life, there was never man that saw him commit any light action, neither lose or diminish any one inch of his severe gravity. This man after he had lived fifty and eight years, leaving the travails of the common wealth, went and spent the remnant of his life in the kingdom of Naples in a village called at that day Picenio, and in this time Pozzuolo living upon his own livelihoods and revenues: And whilst thus this good and virtuous Cato lived sequestered from all others, sometimes reading his books, some other times trimming his vines, there was one of his neighbours who wrote upon his gate with a coal, O fortunate Cato thou only amongst all others know'st how to live in this world. Lucullus the Consul and Roman captain remained in the Parthian wars, and continued the same for the term of sixteen years: in which he acquired much honour to Rome, many laudes for the common weal, much fame for himself, and as great riches for his house. This man, after he returned from Asia to Rome, and found the commonweal altogether swarming with dissensions by reason of the factions of Scylla and Marius, purposed with himself to leave Rome and to build him a certain place of pleasure near Naples, upon the river of the sea at this day called Castello di Lupo, in which place he reposed ten years: entitled to all kind of pleasures and quietness of mind, free from all travails and troubles, till such time as he finished his wearied age with a contented and worthy death.  
Dioclesian, after he had governed Rome and the empery for the space of eighteen years, utterly refusing all the Empire, departed Rome, and repaired to Salona in Dalmatia where he was borne. But two years after that he had refused the Roman empire, an honourable embassage was sent by the Senate unto him, praying him earnestly that he would have pity on the commons, and content himself to return to Rome. It chanced that at such time as the said Ambassadors came into his poor and homely cottage, he himself was in a little garden he had, setting of Lettises and divers other herbs; and assoon as he had heard the discourse of that they were to deliver him, he returned them this answer: Seemeth it a requisite matter unto you my friends, that he who hath planted, cut, and watered lettuce as these be, should leave them to seek royalties, and not to eat them in repose and quiet in his own house? yes my friends, it is better eating these in quiet, then governing of Rome with care.  
Moreover he said unto them, Now have I proved how much it availeth to command, and how healthful it is to plough and dig. Leave me therefore, I pray you, in my house: for why, I rather desire to get my living in this village with my hands, than to have the charge of the Roman empire accompanied with hate. Porides the Athenian having in great justice governed his common weal for the space of six and thirty years, at last growing old and fatiate of public affairs, departing Athens he went unto a certain Lordship of his left him by his ancestors in a certain village without the city; in which plying his book by night, and labouring his fields by day he lived fifteen years more; Above the doors of his house these words were written. 
In veni portum: spes & fortuna, valet  
Nil mihi vobiscum est, ludite nunc alios.   
Scipio the African was one of the best beloved and honoured captains that ever Rome had: for in the space of six and twenty years wherein he continued war in Spain, in Africa and Asia, he never committed any dishonost action, neither lost any battle: he never denied any man justice, neither was there ever one obscure or base thought known in him: he subingated Africa, ruinated Carthage, overcame Hannibal, destroyed Nununtia, and also restored Rome, which after the battle of Cannae was almost forsaken and abandoned. This man in the two and fifty year of his age departed Rome, and retired himself unto a little farm of his which was betwixt Pozzuolo and Capua, in which (as Seneca witnesseth) he had no other revenues but certain fields wherein he lived, a house wherein he ledged, a barn wherein he bathed, and one of his Nephews who served him: And with so great affection retired he himself to the farm house, that for eleven years space which he lives, he went not once to Capua or set foot towards Rome. All these excellent men of whom we have spoken, with many infinite others also, left their kingdoms, Consulships, governments, cities, palaces, favourites, cares and riches for no other intent, but a quiet life: intending after worldly affairs to reconcile themselves to a more strait order, having respect to that which ensueth after death.   

A most subtle dispute made in Antioch in the presence of king Ptolomey, by seven several Ambassadors which of their Commonweals had the best laws and most notable Customs.  
PLutarch writeth in his book De exilio, that king Ptolomey being in Antiochus, there were upon an appointed day at dinner with him many ambassadors from the Romans', Carthagenians, Scicilians, Rhodians, Athenians, Lacedæmonians, and Scicilians: who falling into disputation amongst themselves, every one began to praise and extol their country's Laws and customs, as the best and most exquisite.  
The dispute was handled with great fervency between them, and with many reasons each one endeavoured himself to dignify his state: for which cause Ptolomey desirous to know the truth, and to bring all contentions and discords to an exigent, commanded them that every one should write or speak their customs or perfect Laws which they had in their common weals: for by that means it might be easily judged, which province best deserved the Palm of justice.  
The Ambassadors of Rome began and said, We hold our Temples in wondrous great honour and reverence, we yield great observance to our governors and rulers, we grievously punish the wicked offenders and malefactors.  
The Ambassadors of Carthage said, in the Commonweal of Carthage, the nobles cease not to fight, the commons and mechanical persons to labour, the philosophers and learned to instruct.  
They of Sicily said, In our land we observe entire justice, we traffic with upright conscience, and generally embrace equality.  
They of Rhodes said, In our common weal the old people are honest, the younger sort shamefast, the Ladies and women solitary and silent.  
The Athenian Ambassadors said: In our common weal the rich are not permitted nor allowed to be partial; the poor to be idle; neither those that govern, are suffered to be ignorant.  
The Lacedæmonians said, in our State, envy reigneth not, because all are equal: nor avarice because our goods are in common: nor any suffered to be idle, but every one doth labour.  
The Scicionians said, In our common weal, we permit nor maintain any travailer, least returning home again he should bring us matters of novelty, neither admit we Physicians, who spoil and kill the whole nor Orators, who maintain public contentions.  
Assoon as Ptolomey had heard all the seven Ambassadors, he praised all their common weals, saying: that they were justly and worthily governed, commending their customs and holding their laws praise worthy: where upon with great honours every one returned to his lodging, glorifying and rejoicing in their credit, and satisfied in his justice.   

Strange Laws of Tirzus the Tyrant wherethrough he withstood Conspiracies.  
TRizus the Tyrant endeavouring to prevent the conjurations and treasons which might be imagined and wrought against him by his citizens: forbade them by an especial and prescript law, to surcease their private and public conferences, tyrannizing aswell over their tongues as their treasure. But his citizens envying and hating this his commandments, kept their consultations by becks, gestures, and eager countenances when they were aggrieved, and smiling and pleasant looks when they were contented: if dangers threatened them they frowned, if Fortune fawned they were not froward: by this means expressing and showing the affections of their minds, and deluding the policy of the tyrant.  
Tirzus seeing and beholding this variety in the faces of his citizens, began to fear, and for that cause forbade them such like significative and mute consult: whereupon, one of his citizens amongst the rest, repining at his tyranny invented a new means: and entering the palace with other friends, wept and cried out very bitterly. The Tyrant understanding hereof, hasted him with some of his guard, to deprive the eyes of their natural liberty, in like manner as he had reduced the tongue and gestures into servitude, but the people amazedlie hating his insolence, drew the weapons out of the hands of his guard, and murdered both him and all his followres.  
FINIS.