engraved title page 
Sejanus  
Philippe  
UNHAPPY Prosperity Expressed in the Histories of Aelius Sejanus and Philippe the Catanian  
Written in French by P: Mathieu ❧ And Translated into English Bianca Sr. Th: Hawkins.  
Anagr: Sejanus: Es janus'.  
Es janus': qui foelix aspicis ortum Despicis Occasum miser. ❧  
Ardent adoratum populo caput, et crepat ingens SEJANUS. Iwenal.  
Printed by Io: Haviland for Godfrey Emondson. 1632.    

TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE, WILLIAM EARL OF Salisbury, Viscount Cranborne, Baron CECIL of Essendon, Knight of the Noble Order of the Garter, and one of his Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council.  
Right Honourable:  
BEhold Sejanus of Vulsinium, and Philippe the Catanian: Prodigious Examples of Ambition in either Sex: Both which having with great applause been already presented in France, by the elegant and inimitable Mathieu, clad in the rich robes of his purer language, appear now in the poor habit of an English style. Notwithstanding, encouraged by your Lordship's particular affection to this choice Piece in the Original, and obliged for noble favours conferred on some near unto me; I adventurously presume on this present address to your Honour; who I doubt not will as freely patronise this slender endeavour of a weak hand, as the more polished labours of a powerful pen. The matters herein treated are important, the Observations prudent, Maxims of State useful, and Sentences weighty, and had not our Author with Posterity, suffered in the much deplored loss of some part of Tacitus his Annals, there could not have been a work more amply, and politely furnished out, to satisfy either the most judicious, or curious His defects from that maim are unavoidable▪ mine pregnant, and (I fear) inexcusable. It rests in your Lordship's excellent Nature, as with justice to apologise for the first, so with favour sweetly to dissemble the imperfections of the latter, whilst I with due acknowledgement of much Obligation, shall to your Honour seriously devote the ever ready services of  
Th. Hawkins.   

To the King.  
SIR:  
THe Capitol began, and the Lovure hath revived this History, which I present to your Majesty, amidst public applauses for the happiness of your Monarchy. It is a Mirror that flattereth not, but rather a pure and Crystalline water, which, at the same instant it showeth the stain taketh it away. You (Sir) shall therein behold, that a Prince ought to be very careful to conserve his Authority entire: Great ones here may learn, it is not good to play with the generous Lion, though he suffer it, and that favours are precipices for such, as abuse them.  
P. MATHIEU.   

Unhappy Prosperity.  
ALthough Princes do soveraignely dispose of their own hearts; 
The heart of a Prince is free, and only dependeth on God.  impressing love, and hatred on whom, or how they list, yet ought we to wish their affections towards particular men may be very just, and regular; for if any disorder happen therein, it introduceth public ruins, rendereth them odious, and their Favourites miserable: When the play is ended, 
Excalceantur, & ad staturam suam redeunt. Sen.  the high buskins are taken off, which raised them above the rest, they are despoiled the gaudy garments of the personage represented, they return to their first form, 
Magnus videtur? Illum cum sua basi metiris. Sen.  and teach us we should not measure the Statue by the Column which supporteth it, nor judge of a man by his dignity, or fortune.  

Principum animi Deum ira in R. P. varus artibus vin ciuntur. Tac.  The Heavens incensed against the Roman Empire, permitted this exorbitancy in the soul of Tiberius, through the excess of favour he conferred on Aelius Sejanus, uniting in his person those charges, which ought to have been distributed amongst many, and making him so great, that he had much ado to unmake him. 
Pari exitio viguit ceciditque. Tac.  In the end the ruin of the state, which was the foundation of his greatness, was also the cause of his fall. He was the son of Seius Strabo, 
Si Nurcia Thusco favisset.  a Roman Knight, borne at Vulsinum in the country of Tuscany; 
The kitchen of Apicius devoured more than two millions of gold. H. S.  in his youth he served Caius Caesar, Nephew of Augustus; and was an associate in the execrable riots of Apicius the rich Prodigal, that famous Glutton, who having wasted his own estate, and finding upon account there remained no more than 200000 Crowns unspent, 
Millies in culinam congessit.  thought himself poor, and that this would not suffice to continue his intemperance: of which he had so deep an apprehension, that death seemed to him more tolerable than want, 
Illi tam pravae mentis homini, ultima potio saluberrima fuit. Sen.  and so drank down a glass of poison: Never tasted he a better draught than this last, which stayed the impetuous violence of his dissolutions.  
Sejanus having acquired some reputation in the profession of Arms, his father Strabo presenteth him to Tiberius, entreating he would be pleased he might accompany him in his charge of Colonel of the Praetorian Guards, from which time the Prince began to take delight in his vigilance and vivacity, with confidence that this man would one day with his manage, prove an instrument capable of any thing.  
He followeth the Prince Drusus, whom the Emperor had constituted General of his Army, to reduce under obedience, those who were revolted in Austria and Hungaria. 
Rector juveni, & caeteris periculorum praemiorumque ostentator.  The first testimony of the affection of Tiberius, who made choice of him to direct the youth of this Prince, and to give example of merit to others, to arrive at recompense, and of worth to attempt things perilous.  
He found out the humour of Tiberius, and so absolutely conformed his own thereunto, that it seemed both their hearts had one and the same motion. 
Tiberium obscurum adversum alios sibi uni incautum intectumque effecit.  This conformity entertaineth affection, and from affection so entire a confidence ariseth, that Tiberius trusting no man, doubted nothing in Sejanus, held nothing hidden, or concealed from him, yet never free from suspicion of others. Favour attracteth all hearts, and all eyes wait on this new light. The Senate communicateth with him their most important affairs, and receive directions from his lips. In every place troops of visitants are seen, 
Turba salutatrix.  who seek to him, or attend to offer him service: Great ones account his commands, 
There were three admissions to court him in the morning.  as honours; if he speak to them, he obligeth them; if he cast an eye on them, they are pleased: 
Such an one expected all night to have the first admittance.  They wait in the morning at his chamber door, they are ready at his uprising and down-lying, others swallow up the affronts put upon them by the Porter, whom they bribe with gifts, that they may gain the first opening or admission: 
Duras fores expers somni colit. Sen.  And when they present themselves before this Idol whom they adore, it is but the better to counterfeit words of admiration to applaud him, or slavery to flatter him. 
Loquitur ad voluntatem, assentatur, assidet, adminatur. Cic.  To speak acceptably to a great man, to consent to whatsoever he saith, to admire all he doth, to approve all he desireth, are the principal pieces of Complacence, and ever admiration executeth much of the office of flattery.  
He was desirous his power being upon the first birth thereof to have men believe, 
Incipiente potentia, bonis consiliis innotescendum. Tac.  it was supported with a firm resolution of the advancement of the Prince's service, and the good of the State, and that nothing but justice should be seen in his actions, prudence in his counsels, and modesty in his fortune. He outwardly exercised moderation, 
Palam compositus pudor intus summa adipiscendilibide. Tac.  inwardly ambition; but it was discovered in his expenses and profusions, in the magnificence of his household furnitures and pictures; in the prodigality of his feasts, sumptuous as sacrifices; in the beauty of his buildings, gilded like Temples. He seriously industrious, 
Industria ac vigilantia haud minus noxiae, quoties parando regno finguntur. Tac.  and vigilant, had a spirit prompt to discover others, and to take all sorts of forms, accommodating himself (according to occasion) either to simplicity, or pride.  
He being sole Captain of the Praetorian Guards, lodged them in a part of the City, where in time of occasion he might have them ready for his dispose; telling Tiberius, that Soldiers dispersed lived without discipline, 
Lascivit miles diductus. Tac.  and that seeing themselves daily to be assembled in one place together, number would beget confidence among them, 
Fiducia ipsis, in caeter●s metus. Tac.  and terror with others; and, that distance from riots of the City, would the better keep them in obedience.  
This agreed unto, and their lodgings appointed, 
Vallam statuatur procul urbis illecebris.  he began by little and little to infuse love, and a good opinion of himself into their hearts, visiting the Soldiers in their Court of guards, calling them by their several names, endearing the Captains and Tribunes, entertaining the one with hopes, the other with gifts, and all of them with good words, which must never be wanting.  
To fortify his faction the more, he addressed his practices and intelligences, to make himself great in the Senate, procureth his friends might be furnished with commissions, 
Neque ambitu Senatorio abstinebas clientes fuos honoribus aut provinciis ornando. Tac.  and honoured with charges and offices; supposing it was not sufficient to have authority among Soldiers, if credit and respect failed him among judges and Orators, that had reputation with the people.  
In all his Designs, he found so much facility and affection in Tiberius, 
Favour changeth requests into thankes.  that he had little else to do, but to ask, and give thanks: He denied him nothing, oft times preventing his suits, and protesting he deserved much more; calling him, not only in his Cabinet, but even in full Senate, 
Sejanus so●ius laborum Tiberii Tac.  the Companion of his labours, and commanding his Statue should be raised in public passages, 
Effigies per theatra, fora, & inter principia legionum. Tac.  reverenced in theatres, and borne in the front of the Legions. It was to destroy his own service, to court his servant: For it cannot do well, when once the people shall perceive, that favour transferreth the sovereign honours of the Superior, to the Inferior; and that a Prince admitteth a Companion to assist him in Empire. 
Firmiùs Herculea coelum cervice pependit. Claud.  Hercules was willing Atlas should aid h●m, but it must be acknowledged, Olympus standeth more firmly on his shoulders, than on any others. 
Non capit regnum duos. Sen.  The sway of a Kingdom cannot in the same instant be divided between two.  
He disposeth all the actions of Tiberius to rigour and severity; to the end he might lose the love of the people, who will not wish well to him, who doth nothing but ill for them. He had not much difficulty to persuade him to cruelty: All his inclinations rended that way; For in his first youth, Theodorus his Tutor in Rhetoric, called him, Dirt mingled with blood; so that he had nought else to do, but to find, and seek out occasion to excite his anger, which never was appeased without a sacrifice.  

That which a Prince doth for favour, aught to have merit, at least in appearance.  All honours and dignities were conferred by the recommendation of Sejanus. It was sufficient proof of merit, to allege his alliance, and protest his favour, and yet was Tiberius willing it should be thought, he considered more the one than the other, to avoid blame; so taking from Virtue to give to Fortune: He had nominated two Proconsul's of Africa, Lepidus and Blaesus, and that he might free himself from the ill opinion of him who should be excluded, he referred to the Senate the election of the most capable. The one was a man of singular worth, the other Uncle of Sejanus, and for this cause confident to carry it. 
It is a great imprudence to argue upon a charge against them who are supported by powerful favour.  Lepidus' loath to enter into competition with one much more favoured and powerful, excused it upon his own indisposition, the minority of his children, and that he had a daughter marriageable; the Senate takes him at his word, following the blast of favour: Blaesus made semblance of refusal of this charge, and all the flatterers loudly cry out, none but himself deserved it. The same favour that had raised him, maintained him, and dignified his most inferior services, with amplest recompenses. After he had, not discomfited, but rather skirmished against the forces of Tacfarinas, Tiberius commandeth the Legions to salute him as Emperor, ordaineth triumphs for him, which only appertained to an absolute victory, 
Ad confulatum non nisi per Sejanum aditus, neque Sejani voluntas nisi scelere quaerebatur. Tac.  and in all things declareth it was for the love of his nephew Sejanus. Whosoever had Sejanus for Protector, needed not to seek out honours; He that found him an enemy, 
 quisque Sejano intimus, ita ad Caesaris amicitiam validus: contra quibus infensus esset, metu, & sordibus confli●tabantur. Tac.  languished in neglect and misery. No honour was had without his favour, nor could it with innocence, and worth be acquired. He made junius Otho to come into the Senate, who never professed aught, but to teach as a Schoolmaster. He used him as his instrument to ruin C. Silanus Proconsul of Asia, he accuseth him of extortion, and that in execution of his charge, he was rather swayed by money than justice. This was somewhat, but other inquisitions were thereunto added, from which the most innocent hardly could dis-involve themselves. They opposed against him the most eminent Orators of Asia, 
Proprius metus exercitam quoque eloquentiam debilitat. Tac.  whereas he was not assisted by any, nor had been accustomed to speak in public; and Fear, which troubleth the best Speakers, and most confident eloquence, put his discourse into disorder.  
Tiberius' pressed him so potently, both with voice and gesture, and by demands so strong and powerful, 
Saepè etiam confitendum erat, ne frustra quae sivisset. Tac.  that he was (as it were) amazed, not daring to reject, that he might not incense, and saw himself enforced to confess, that the interrogation might not be rendered fruitless. What a misery is this? The awe of the Prince obligeth the accused to betray his own innocence.  
Amongst the numbers of those accusers, junius Otho a creature of Sejanus was one of the most passionate: for at his first entrance into the rank of Senators, 
Obfaura initia impudentibus ausis propolluebat. Tac.  he sought out occasions to advance the obscurity of his beginnings by the impudency and shameless boldness of his counsels, using the most audacious ways for the most wholesome.  
Silanus had more mind to have recourse to Tiberius' clemency, 
Excusatius accipiuntur quae fiunt sub exemplum. Tac.  than to confide in his own defence, he therefore presented a petition to move him: But Tiberius' desirous to destroy him, sheweth, that he in this accusation sought nothing but the intentions of laws. And because, that, which is done by precedent carrieth excuse with it, he causeth a decree to be produced out of the registers, given under Augustus, against Volesus Messalla, who had also been Proconsul of Asia: but if the qualities were alike, the lives and offices were wholly different: the one cruel, the other covetous; for this man most inhuman, walking in the Market place, where he one day had caused three hundred heads to be strucken off, termed it a royal act, 
O rem regiam. Sen.  and of much magnificence.  
It then coming to voices for a definitive sentence, Lucius Piso having cast out some specious words in commendation of the Emperor's clemency, was of opinion, 
* To praise clemency, and conclude upon rigour.  Silanus should be interdicted fire and water, and banished into the Island of Gyara. This his Council was approved by others, Lentulus addeth, 
Anteire caeteros parat, absurdum, in adulationem progressus. Tac.  the goods of the mother should be left to the Son, and Tiberius approves it. But Cornelius Dolabella, extending his flattery much farther, and sharply reprehending the actions of Silanus, saith, that hereafter the government of Provinces should be given only to such as were free from reproach, and of sound reputation in the Emperor's judgement: for although laws were only ordained to punish crimes committed, 
Legibus delicta puni●ntur quanto melius provider ne peccaretur. Tac.  yet it was undoubted, if misgovernment in the Magistrate were prevented, great benefit would redound both to those who were honoured with such charges, and to such as should be subject to their commands: for the one might conserve their innocency, the other their peace. Tiberius hereupon framed a discourse worthy of the wisdom, and reputation he had among people, who are overforward to applaud the actions of Magistrates, 
Loquax, et ingeniosa in contumeliam praefectorum: provincia in qua qui vitaverit culpam non effugit infamiam. Sen. Non ex rumore stituendum. Tac.  as was then said of Egypt, that it superabounded in pratteling, and artificyes to calumniate Governors, and that many, so they might escape punishment, cared not to free themselves from infamy; He spoke therefore in this manner.  

Affairs make men.  I am not ignorant of what hath been published against Silanus, but we ought not to resolve on any thing upon common bruit. 
Quidam ad meliora excitantur magnitudine rerum, ●ebescunt a●ii. Tac.  Many have borne themselves in their provinces, much otherwise than was either hoped, or feared: For the greatness, and difficulty of affairs presented, raiseth courage in some, dulls and debaseth it in others. Then insomuch as the knowledge of the Prince, cannot extend itself to all, nor aught to be diverted by the ambition of any, 
Leges in facto constitutae, quia futura in incerto sunt. Tac.  laws are ordained for things acted, the future being most uncertain. For which cause our predecessors have decreed, that the crime going before, the penalty should follow: you ought not to alter, that, which having been once wisely established, hath ever been approved. The provinces are surcharged with too many affairs; They have sufficient authority, Right is lessened, when power is augmented, 
Sapienter reperta, & semper placita non vertenda. Tac. Non utendum imperio, ubi legibus agi potest. Tac  and it is unfit to exercise command in matters, where laws have provided.  
This discourse was applauded, and the place of banishment changed to Cythara, Gyara being too rude and savage. Tiberius shown he was able to temper his spirit, 
Prudens moderandi animum, si propria ira non impellitur. Tac.  when he was not moved with anger.  
Sejanus alone disposed of the offices and Commissions. The people no more intermeddled with the choice of Senators, nor any longer made sale of suffrages and voices, and for the right they held over the election of Magistrates, Senate, and Legions, they contented themselves with shows, 
Insula Gyara immitis, & sine cultu hominum. Tac.  sports of the Cirque, and livery garments. There was not then a man alive, 
Qui dabat olim imperium, fasce●, legiones, etc. Tac.  who had seen the Republic, the marks of ancient liberty being wholly defaced.  

Duas tantummodo res anxius optat, pannum, & Circences luven.  The greatest ornament of the City of Rome was Pompey's Theatre, which was of such capacity, that it was able to accommodate 40000. men with seats. Fire casually happening therein, 
Pompey's theatre was dedicated to Venus, it was a Temple and a Bourdell.  Sejanus quenched it, and hindered the mischief of this accident from proceeding any further. Tiberius' purposing to re-edify it again, in full Senate commended the diligence and vigilance of Sejanus: the Senators to please him, decreed his Statue should be erected near the Theatre. 
Arx omnium turpitudinum. Tert.   

Laboreet diligentia magna vis intra unum damnum sistitur. Tac.  But as Princes do nothing without some particular end, Tiberius in favouring Sejanus had one design, and Sejanus in serving Tiberius proposed to himself another. No affection, nor fidelity cometh gratis. 
As the Prince loveth not, so he is not served but for ends.  Tiberius was desirous the love he bore to Sejanus might oblige him to serve him without condition, to secure thereby his authority; and Sejanus in serving the Emperor aspired to the Empire, yet willing to hide his own ambition. It was not affection in Tiberius, but rather necessity: 
Non tam bexevolentia provexit, quam ut esset cujus ministerio ac fraudibus liberos Germanici circumveniret. Suet.  for he was desirous to make use of the wiles, and policies of Sejanus, to ruin the house of Germanicus, and advance his own, and Sejanus purposed to climb to the Imperial throne by the fall of both. His power was not so swift, as his will, which met with many main obstacles: For the stock of Caesars was yet whole and entire, the son young, the nephews men grown: It was not in his power to ruin so many at once: 
Dolus intervalla scelerum poscebat. Tac.  For mischief required there should be distance, between such terrible counterbuffs, and that he practise the death of Drusus the son of Tiberius, at the same time that Tiberius meant to murder Germanicus: For as the heart more apprehendeth perils farther off, than the present, Tiberius saw nothing which made him jealous, but the brother, nor any thing put fear upon Sejanus ambition, but the son.  
The worst counsel he gave him, 
It is ever perilous to change the ordinance of a predecessor.  was to alter what Augustus had decreed, and hate what he loved: For the extreme malice he bore against the house of Germanicus, cooled the first affection he found (when he came to the Empire) in the hearts of the Citizens, hastening as fast as he could wish, 
R●mae ruunt in serv●●●um consuls, Patres, Equites. Tac.  to the overthrow of their liberty, and tumbling it by main force (as a rock) into the gulf of servitude, that it might never rise up again.  
Germanicus was both favoured, and beloved of the people, because he was the son of Drusus, who formerly had undertaken to reduce the ancient government of the Commonwealth, and had imparted the project to Tiberius his brother: but he betrayed him, and discovered it to Augustus. It was supposed the son would have pursued the father's plot, 
Credebatur si rerum potitus soret, libertatem redditurus. Tac.  to set liberty again on foot, and that if he should attain the sovereign authority, he would not exercise rigour like Tiberius, but reign sweetly as Augustus, 
Augustus'  rebatur misceri voluptatibus populi. Tac.  who was Prince, and seemed Citizen, disdaining not to be present in their popular recreations. For which cause Germanicus swayed in hearts, and Tiberius only in provinces: and being advertised, he had pacified Germany, and that his wife Agrippina had there done all which might be expected from the General of an army, to show her courage to the enemies, her bounty to the soldiers, her prudence in seditions, he became jealous: and jealousy degenerating into mortal hatred, made him say unto her; 
Nihil relictum Imperatoribus ubi foemina manipulos intervisat, signa adcat, largitionem tentet.  What shall the Emperors have hereafter to do, since a woman undertaketh to command over men, visit the Court of guards, oblige the soldiers with good words and large donatives?  
Sejanus, who loved not Agrippina, and well knew the humour of Tiberius, which brooked not any should trench upon his sovereign Authority, (a thing so delicate, that how tenderly soever it be touched, is always wounded) wanted not arguments and surmises to entertain his jealousy, 
O dia in longum jaciens, quae reconderet, auctaque promeret. Suet.  adding distrust to suspicion, to suspicion fear, and (as it were) a far off, preparing the hatred of this Prince to work her ruin in the end.  
Germanicus returneth from Germany; The whole City rejoiceth. Tiberius commandeth, that only two companies of the praetorian bands should march before him: all the people ran thither, 
Populus omnis usque aol vicesimum lapidem se effudit. Sue●.  the sooner to give themselves the contentment of beholding him, whom they so long had desired and expected. Tiberius grew so discontented hereupon, that he resolved to cut off this brave Prince, who was but now entering into the four and thirtieth year of his age, and had already gained as much reputation, as another perhaps could acquire in an age.  

Sceleratis ingeniis, & plusquam civilia cupientibus non dominari instar servitutis est. Calp.  This hindered Sejanus, who transported with the desire of rule, supposed this mighty power he possessed in the affairs of state, was nought else but servitude, whilst he acknowledged a superior. Tiberius by his advice sendeth Germanicus into Sclavonia, under colour of honouring him with principal charges of the Empire: giveth him for lieutenant Cneius Piso, an evil man, proud, and violent; with commission to observe his actions, and discover all his designs. It is said Sejanus gave him direction by writing, to make away this poor Prince.  
He puts this in execution, Germanicus passeth into Egypt, and being there, was desirous to see the Idol Apis, 
Apis manum Germanici Caesaris aversatus est haud multo post extincti. Plin.  to know what his fortune should be. He presented it with meat to eat. Apis would take nothing from his hand, which was interpreted for a certain sign of his death. He was surprised with a long, lingering, and painful sickness, and his opinion of being poisoned, augmented the violence thereof, 
Fama ex long inquo aucta. Tac.  so that he held it incurable. The rumour came to Rome, much greater than the malady; for distance redoubled it. 
The people ascribe to events all actions which went before.  Nothing was then heard, but tears and lamentations. And wherefore was it (saith one) that he was sent to the utmost limits of the world, that Piso was made his Lieutenant: These are the practices of the Empress with Plancina, the wife of Piso. (Poor Rome,) we cannot affect those which love thee, nor dare we murmur against such as ruin thee: adding thereunto vehement and mortal imprecations against Sejanus.  
It was reported by Merchants of Egypt, 
Latiora statim credita, statim vulgata. Tac.  that he began to recover. This news was as soon believed as published. The streets were thronged with the press of people that ran to the Temples to render thanks to the Gods. Night favoured this rumour; 
Pronior in tenebris affirmatio. Tac.  Belief seems much more easy, and is most confident in the dark. Tiberius himself is wakened in the night with the acclamations of joy: Nothing was every where heard, but these words, 
Salua Roma, salua patria, salvus est Germanicus. Suet.  Rome is delivered, our Country is freed, Germanicus is safe.  
After this poison slowly-violent, had wasted all the heat and moisture of this poor afflicted body, 
Germanicus could not endure the crowing or sight of a cock. Plut.  his Allies and friends wished it might not be irksome to him to have or see a cock, to sacrifice it to Esculapius, and that the Gods would restore him life, thereby to give liberty to the Roman Empire. In this his extreme weakness he breathed forth these last words, to impress them in the hearts of his wife, and friends, whom sorrow dissolved into tears, 
Qui praema●uro exitu rapitur illi etiam adversas deos justus dolour. Tac.  and much discomforted.  
If I should die by the course of Nature, I happily might with justice complain of the Gods, that they untimely had snatched me away from my kindred, children, and country, even in the flower of my youth. But since my career is stopped by the malignity of Piso, 
Vltimas preces pectoribus vestris relinquo. Tac.  and Plancina, I will pour into your hearts these my last petitions.  

Miserrima vita pessima morte finitur. Tac.  I conjure you to present to the Emperor my father, and my uncle, how that after I had been surcharged with cruel injuries, and afflicted with unsufferable disloyalties, I ended my deplorable life, by a death much more miserable. Those, who have followed my fortunes, and are of the same blood with myself, yea those who have maligned me when I was alive, shall sorrow to see me ruined by the treason of a woman, at the time when I most flourished, and had escaped death in so many battles: 
Erit vobis locus que rendi, apud Senatum invocandi leges. Tac.  and yourselves also shall have cause to complain to the Senate, and implore the assistance of Laws.  
The best office of friends, is, 
Non decet defunctum ignavo questu persequi. Tac.  not to follow the deceased with outcries and lamentations, which are of no effect; but to remember what he desired, and execute what he ordained. Germanicus cannot want tears; Those who are nothing to him, nor ever knew him, shall bemoan him; 
Vindicabilis vos, se me potius, quam fortunam meam fovebatis. Tac.  but you ought to revenge him, if you more affected his person, than fortune.  
Let the people of Rome behold the niece of Augustus, the wife of Germanicus, and the six children he hath left behind him. Compassion will be extended towards them, when they shall accuse the authors of my death, 
Fingentibus scelesta mandata, aut non credent homines, aut non ignoscent. Tac.  and should the accused fain, or find out execrable commandments for their purposes (this touched Sejanus, who herein had directed Piso) honest men will not believe it, nor suffer it to pass unpunished.  
All those who were present swore instantly before Germanicus, to dye, 
Magnitudinem, & gravitatem summae fortunae retinens invidiam, & a●rogantiam eff●git. Tac.  or revenge his death, every one bewailing the loss of so brave a Prince, who in his deportments shown the greatness and worth of his fortune, and in words so much sweetness and affability. He turneth himself towards his wife, conjureth her by the love he had borne her, by the memory she was willing to retain of him, 
Fortunae savienti submittendus animus. Tac.  and by their mutual children, a little to humble her spirit, to accommodate it to the times, and bend it to the rigour of her fortune, in expectation of amendment. Take heed (my Dearest) above all when you shall be at Rome, 
Aemulatione potentiae validiores haud irritandi. Tac.  not to give occasion of suspicion to those who are more powerful than yourself, and employ not the affection you shall find in the hearts of the Senate and people, to stand out in competition with their favour or ambition.  
This was the most wholesome counsel he could give her, but she held herself unworthy to be accounted the niece of Augustus, wife of Germanicus, and mother of his children, if she had set an higher price on fortune, than virtue, or sought to enter into the favour of the Emperor by the help of Sejanus.  

Quasirursum ereptum acrius doluit. Tac.  When the people of Rome understood that Germanicus was dead, their sorrow was so much the greater, as they believed he once before had been snatched from them, and nothing was now every where to be seen, but grief and affliction. It was doubted whether he were made away by poison, or witchcraft. The one was imagined, 
Crematicor inter ossa in orruptum repertum est, cujus ea natura ut tactum veneno igne confici nequ●at. Suet.  because his heart would not burn; and the other published, for that there were found about him, and in his bed, bones of the dead, characters, and charms.  
The friends of Germanicus divulged every where, that Piso had murdered him, that Agrippina would be revenged; but he hearing the news of his death in the I'll of Coos, 
Piso intemperanter accepit Germanicum excecisse, ●aedit victimas, adit templa, magis insolescente Plancina. Tac.  made many sacrifices, Plancina his wife visiteth the Temples, he neglecteth the menaces of Agrippina, and thinks on nothing but his own establishment in the government of Syria, supposing the service he had done for Tiberius would be sufficient to secure him, from the fear of this revenge, and confirm the recompense of his merit.  
Upon his determination to go into Syria, his son adviseth him to repair to Rome, without taking notice of vain rumours, 
Suspitiones imbecillae, aut inania famae non pertimi scenda. Tac.  and weak suspicions, thereby to dissolve, or prevent the designs of his enemies, and gain advantage of the first impressions: That it was not fit he so soon should think to re-establish himself in the government of Syria, since Sentius was thereunto deputed: That he could not hope great obedience from an Army, 
Apud milites recens imperatoris memoria praevalet. Tac.  which yet deplored the death of Germanicus, and resented his memory: That he would repent it, drawing upon himself the imputation of a civil war.  

Vtendum eventis. Dom. Cel.  Domitius Celer on the contrary urgeth: That he should reassume the charge had been taken from him, and replenish the place which was become void: That it would prove a point of imprudence, and peril, to arrive at Rome at the same time when Agrippina was to come thither, and that the people would be much moved with her cries and lamentations: 
Relinquendum rumoribus tempus quo senescant plaerumque innocentes recenti invidiae impares. Tac.  That it was necessary to give time to these first bruits, whereby they might wax old, and that innocence hath much ado to resist the impetuous violence of envy, when it is first enkindled: That it was convenient he should go into Syria, 
Multa quae provideri non possunt fortuitò in melius recidunt. Tac.  to undertake command in the Army, and authority in government, and that nothing was to be done, but to take arms in hand, and manifest himself in the field; and that things apprehended as perilous, oft times succeed more securely, than could be foreseen, or expected: That he need not fear any thing, since the Empress was interessed in his cause, 
Est tibi, Auguste, conscientia, est Caesaris favour, said in occulio. Tac.  and Tiberius obliged to disengage him: but rather that he favouring him in secret, would take it ill, this affair should be so precipitated, as to enforce him to maintain it in public: That it was undoubted, 
Periisse Germanicum nulli iactantiùs m●●rent, quàm qui maximà laetantur. Tac.  the most satisfied with his death would make the most show of grief.  
Piso, 
Haud magna mole Piso promptus screcibus. Tac.  whose spirit ran more willingly into dangerous resolutions with courage, than into easy with prudence, followeth this counsel, and went into Syria, but findeth Cneius Sentius there, who not enduring to have, 
The Tribunes and Captain's deploring, bare on their shoulders the vessels which held the ashes of Germanicus.  or suffer a Companion in his charge, drove him out of the Province, besiegeth him in a Fortress of Cilicia, and constraineth him to yield, and return to Rome.  
In the mean time Agrippina embarqueth on the Sea, with the ashes of her husband Germanicus; and arriving at Rome is received with many testimonies of honour, by all the Roman people, who witnessed an excessive sorrow for the death of an husband, 
Agrippinam appellant Decus patria, solum Augusti sanguinem, unicum antiquitatis specimen. Tac.  and an unspeakable joy for the return of the wife and children. The people call Agrippina the honour of the Country, the only and true blood of Augustus, 
Tiberius' atque Augusta publico abstinuere, na omnium oculis vultum eorumscrutantibus falsi intelligerentur. Tac.  the pattern of ancient glory, and add to their acclamations, vows and prayers for the safety of the widow, the infants, and ruin of their enemies.  
Tiberius was much offended with these applauses, and would not be present at this reception, fearing lest his brow should discover the joy of his heart for the death of Germanicus: 
Populus Romanus cladem exercituum, interitum ducum, funditus amissas nobiles familias constanter tulit. Tac.  he therefore commandeth the people to moderate their sorrow, and bear, as himself had done the discomfiture of his Armies, the loss of his Captains, and ruin of the noblest families.  
Presently after Piso arriveth, so much neglecting the threats of Agrippina, that Marcus Vibius a friend to Germanicus, saying to him, it was fit he went to Rome, to purge himself, 
Euidens respondet, adfaturum ubi Praetor qui de veneficus quaereret, reo atque accusateribus diem praedixisset. Tac.  he angrily answereth, as it were scoffing; You shall see me there, when the Praetor who informeth against sorceries shall have set a peremptory day to the accuser and accused.  
He entereth Rome proud and magnificent, in a glorious equipage, 
Fuit inter irritamenta invidia domus foro imminens festo ornatu. Tac.  his wife brave and cheerful, the doors of his lodgings adorned with Laurels, which much the more initated the people. The next day he is accused of the death of Gemanicus, and Tiberius demandeth trial. Piso desireth it, 
Vera, aut in deterius credita judice ab uno facilius discernuntur, odium, & invidia apud multos valent. Tac.  yet fearing the affection of the Senate, to the memory of Germanicus, and confiding the judge would be his Protector, he thought better to have recourse to the authority of one, than the passion of many.  
Tiberius seethe it was an hard task for himself to condemn the culpable, and discharge his own conscience: 
Haud fallebat Tiberium moles cognitionis quaeque ipse fama distraberetur. Tac.  for well he knew the reports, which truth had made currant every where against himself and his Mother, and that Piso had been but the instrument of his Parricide. He was willing to handle this affair with little noise, and therefore heareth the accusers in the presence of Sejanus, and some of his most confident and familiar friends; They require justice, 
Paucis familiarium adhibitis, minas accusantium, & preces audit. Tac.  and add menaces to their prayers. It is not to be doubted, but he was counselled to suffer Piso to perish, rather than suffer his own reputation to be wounded, and Princes use men no longer, than they are necessary.  
But because the History nominateth Sejanus the Inventor of all these mischiefs, 
Facinorum omnium repertor. Tac.  it passeth further, and saith the Emperor ought not to intermeddle with these affairs; for in condemning Piso, he too much should raise the pride of Agrippina, and by declaring him innocent, it would be said, Favour had so much oppressed justice, it durst not affirm the confederate should free the criminal: That it was necessary to refer it to the Senate, 
It is fit to proceed wisely, and maturely in doubtful cases, where the Prince's reputation is in hazard.  and that if there he were condemned, the judgement would be ascribed to the passion of Germanicus his Family; if absolved, the blame would be laid on the Senators.  

N● in patrocinium quidem, ne dum in gloriam est, encendium extinxisse quod feceris. Sen.  Sejanus instructeth Piso, what he should say, assureth him the impunity of all his other crimes, provided he tax not him; that the Emperor would quench the fire he had enkindled, and not suffer the sick man to dye of the malady he had caused, and that his own reputation (the only engine of his authority) obliged him rather to ruin himself, than not to save him.  

The frame of a Prince's power is wholly built upon reputation.  Piso appeareth in the Senate, Advocates are allowed to speak for the accusers, and others to defend the accused. The subject was well worthy the eloquence of the most able, and of those which sought not affairs, but were found out by affairs, and who better loved the importance, and quality of employments than their titles, and multitude. Tiberius' made an Oration with such a mixture between the accusation, and the accused, that it was verily supposed the cunning and contexture thereof, was praemeditated. 
Quanta fides amicis Germanici quae fiducia reo, satisne cohiberet ac premeret sensus suos Tiberius, anpromeret. Tac.  The whole City was attentive to hear what the opinion of the friends of Germanicus would be, the confidence of the accused, the countenance of Tiberius, and whether he were able well to conceal and bridle the sense of his passion, or would suffer it to break out. And the people, who otherwise regard not occurrents, 
Populus multum sibi occultae vocis aut suspicacis silentii permittit. Tac.  gave themselves therein much liberty against the Prince, whether in speaking they discovered detraction, or through silence bewrayed their suspicion.  
You know (Fathers) saith Tiberius, that Piso hath heretofore been a friend to Augustus my father, and his Lieutenant in the Spanish army, and that by the advice of the Senate, he was constituted an assistant to my nephew Germanicus in the manage of the Eastern affairs. 
Integris animis judicandum. Tac.  Now is the time you ought with purified and untainted consciences to judge, whether through arrogance, or presumption of authority he hath wounded the soul of this young Prince, whether he hath rejoiced at his decease, or traitorously and wickedly procured his death.  

Legatus officii terminos, & obsequium erga Imperatorem non exuit. Tac.  For if in this charge of Lieutenancy he hath exceeded the limits of duty, if he hath neglected the respect due to a General, if he hath showed any contentment in his death, and my sorrow, he can not possibly, but incur my indignation. If so, I protest I will banish him my house, and revenge my displeasure, not in the quality of a Prince, but as a private person.  

Facinus in cujuscumque mortalium niece, vindicandum. Tac.  And if you shall discover any impiety, which ought not only to be avenged, in this parricide, but in any other, I conjure you to consider therein your own sorrows, the tears of Germanicus his children, and ours his neare allies; deny us not (I pray) a just consolation.  

Quaesita per ambitionem studia multum. Tac.  Of the one part remember, how Piso hath demeaned himself in the army, whether he have raised any trouble, or sedition, whether he have endeavoured to gain the affections of men of war, to aspire to command, and whether after Germanicus took his charge from him, he have sought to re-establish himself therein by force. 
〈◊〉 majus vulcusa●o●es.  On the other side, see whether these matters, as false, and invented have been published by the accusers, for true, and be of greater consequence, 
Nimiis studiis accusatorum jure succenset p●inceps. Tac. Incerta adhuc scrutanda sunt. Tac.  than really they are.  
For my own part I cannot conceal my distaste of their passion herein: For if we be not (as yet) undoubtedly certain of the cause of his death, and that information hereof is to be made, to what purpose have they exposed his naked body in the open market place of Antiochia, 
Reus cuncta proferat, quibus innocentia ejus sublevari posset. Tac.  and suffered it to be handled, and viewed by the multitude, were it not to make a rumour run amongst strangers, 
Objecta crimina pro adprobatis non accipienda. Tac.  that he hath been poisoned, and to derive from this bruit more acerbity, than proof.  
Verily I deplore my son Germanicus, and shall all my life time bewail him, yet will not hinder the accused to produce whatsoever he can to maintain his own innocence, and to make proof of any injury Germanicus hath done him.  
For which cause I conjure you, that you receive not accusations for proofs, under colour this cause is conjoined to my grief. 
Si cui propinquu● sanguis, out fidei sua patrenos dedit, quantum quisque eloquentia, & cura valet j●vare periclitanti. Tac.  And you the rest, who by right of affinity, or friendship, have undertaken the defence of the accused, employ your best endeavour and eloquence to vindicate his innocence from peril; and I likewise exhort the accusers to show constancy in their pursuit. All the favour we can do to Germanicus beyond the laws, is, but to be informed of his death rather in the Palace, than the Marketplace, and by Senators than ordinary judges. 
In accusations where the grief of the Prince is joined to the cause his interest is not to be considered.  In every thing else equal moderation. Reflect not on the tears of my brother Drusus over his son, nor mine for my nephew, and much less on any thing that slander can feign against us.  

A strange proceeding: time is given to the accused to answer that which is within his own knowledge, and the knowledge of Orators to colour their answers.  Thereupon it was said, the accusation should be drawn within two days, the accused should have six days to prepare themselves, and in three days make answer. It was a hard matter to refel the poisoning; Confidence gave some favourable presumption for innocency, but staggered in the other crimes.  
At the first session, Vitellius and Veranius related to the Senate, the last words of Germanicus, which softened hearts to pity, as affection had already prepared them for favour. Fulcinius Trio, 
Celebre inter accusatores Trionis ingenium, avidumque famae malae. Tac.  in whom exclamation and speech were the same thing, desirous to acquire reputation by doing ill, began the accusation: but because he produced but general matters, and old inquisitions of what Piso had done, the Senate gave no regard to it: 
Vetera & inania quae neque convicta noxia reo.  For all that could not hurt the accused, although he had been convinced, nor serve for his discharge, though he were justified, if he otherwise were attainted of more enormous crimes.  

Vitellius speech.  
Vitellius accompanieth the vehemency and force of his speech with much grace, 
The consideration of the quality of accusers fortifieth the accusation.  and gravity, speaking in this manner: Although (Conscript Fathers) the quality of those who complain, deserve consideration, yet is it not available but for such as seek not support from aught else but justice, and the power of their own plea.  
This cause carrieth its own favour, 
A cause strong in itself needs no help.  nor needeth any other aid, but, that, of laws, which is not denied to the meanest. I could say, those who now presently implore it, are of such quality, that if it be denied them, 
The authority of a Prince maintaineth the state, and it cannot last when the revenge of offence is contemned.  the Empire no longer shall stand in need either of laws, or Senate. The blood of Augustus requireth vengeance, the people expect it, the judges own it, and you Caesar are obliged thereunto, both as Prince, and Parent.  
I seek not to make this accusation plausible, but in representing the crime as a prodigy, the criminal as a parricide, and the excess such, that every one hath bemoaned it; foreign nations have admired it, kindred have bewailed it: 
Ingen● luctus provinciae, & circum●acentium populerum. In doluere ext●rae nationes regesque. Tac.  This City in all things commends moderation, except in so just a resentment of sorrow as this is: Germanicus is no more; Oh what grief? We have lost him; Oh what unhappiness? Germanicus, the world's darling, the love of his Country, who had so much bounty for Citizens, 
Illi comitas in socios, manfuetudo in hosts. Tac,  so much courtesy for his allies, so much modesty for strangers, hath been traitorously and miserably murdered: And by whom? By Piso, an impious and ungrateful man; By whom also? By Plancina a fury in the shape of a woman. By what means? By charms and poisons: who are the Complices? Sorcecerers drawn out of hell: And wherefore? to revenge injury, and usurp on authority.  

Nemo tantum a naturali lege descivit & hominem exuit, ut an●●i causa malus sit. Sen.  The souls of ill men (Father's conscript) are not instantly wicked, nor is there any man who embraceth mischief for nought, but the mere pleasure thereof. They by degrees give form to their designs, and so direct them to the utmost limits. Piso by petty crimes is mounted to the greatest, from avarice to rapine, from thence to practices, so to ambition, and from ambition, to the violation of the authority of laws, by that way to hasten to the contempt of the Gods. To Spain he hath given testimony of his avarice, to Syria of his ambition, and to the house of Germanicus of his impiety.  
So soon as you honoured him with the charge of Lieutenant to Germanicus, 
Haud invito imperatore ea fieri occultus rumor incedebat. Tac.  he dissembled not his ambition to become General, practising at Rome to make him odious to his father, and in the Army to be despised of the soldiers. He laboured to draw them to his devotion, expelled the Tribunes who would not depend on him, filled their places with persons trusty, 
Defidiae in castris, licentia in urbibus. Tac. Eousque corruptionis provectus, ut in sermone vulgi parens legionum haberetur. Tac.  and to make himself beloved by men of war, permitted sloth in the Camp, riots in the City, insolence in the field, and was then called father of the legions. On the other side, Plancina went equal with Agrippina, and undertook matters above the decorum of women, was often present in the exercises of the cavalry, and race of swift horses.  
And though this was harsh to a temper whose actions were civil, 
Secreta studia pai● non potest animus ad civilia erectus, agendique cupidu●. Sen.  yet he thought it more fit to dissemble them, than disquiet the Emperor his father with troublesome complaints. He commandeth Piso to lead one part of the Legions into Armenia, or send his son thither, he made no account of the one or the other, and lost the opportunity of a service most important for the Empire. 
Si quando adsideret a●rox ac dissentire manifestus. Tac.  When he sat in Council with Germanicus, or on a seat of justice under him, he sharply and impudently opposed all his designs.  
I will recite an incredible insolence, but so certain, that he will not dare deny it, thereby to manifest, that folly and malice were inseparable companions, and sisters in all his actions. Being present at a feast of the King of Nabathaea, seeing the golden Crowns given him were not of like lustre or weight with those of Germanicus and Agrippina, he cast them to the ground, and full as foolish as malicious, undertook to reprove the magnificence of the feast, discoursed against superfluity, and said such an expense was fit for a Roman Emperor, not the son of a King of Parthia.  

He who offendeth a Prince hath no safe●y but in absence.  Silly man, didst thou think ever after this to find confidence in the soul, or security in the friends of Germanicus, whom thou so shamelessly hadst offended, although he were condemned for being too good, 
Erat Germanicus clemens. Sen.  and for suffering too much: Couldst thou suppose, there might be any safe retreat in the world, to protect thee from the anger of a Prince extracted from the blood of Augustus? Hast thou ever heard the hearts of this line have been exasperated without ensuing punishment? And behold why Plancina, 
Nunquam erit foelix, quem torquebit. Sen.  who could not esteem herself happy, whilst Agrippina was so, told her husband he must either perish, or revenge himself, and either pull this thorn out of his own heart, or suffer another to do it.  
Admire (Conscript Fathers) the goodness and generosity of this Prince, 
Patres conscripti. Plut. It is a generous way of revenge, to let the enemy see one can be revenged.  who having so often, and so sensibly been offended by Piso, hath ever contented himself with letting him know he could have revenged, but did save when he might destroy. 
Nescius quibus insectationibus peteretur mansue●udine tamen agebat. Tac.  He came to Rhodes unto him, and was well advertised of all the practices he used against him, but bore himself with such equality and temper, that upon notice a storm had cast him on the sands, he sent vessels to disengage him, 
Potest quando●ue inte●i●● m●●ci ad casu●●●ofe ri. Tac.  although if he there had left him, only Chance could have been accused of his loss, and Fortune supposed to conspire in his revenge.  
Germanicus visiting Egypt, was curious to see the sources of Nilus, 
Nilus' cujus inenarrabilu natura est cum mundo traxit principia. Sen.  (that memorable river which began with the world,) and in his return, found Piso had changed the Decrees made at his departure, altered what he established, 
Amici accendendis offensionibus callidi. Tac.  and contemned his commands. He was much troubled herewith, his servants animated him to resent it, and he could not so dissemble it, but that choler appeared by his words, and revenge in his menaces, Piso retireth, Germanicus falls sick; Piso, who knew the force of the malady, removes not far off, and death is hastened by the violence of the poison.  
Ah, cruel man! Hear the words of this dying Prince, yea dying words which eternally shall live in the memory of the Romans: I die miserably in the flower of mine age by the treason of Piso and Plancina; 
The last words of a dying Prince fortified the complaint against the authors of his death.  I conjure you my friends, to let the people of Rome know, these wretches cut the throats of the niece of Augustus, and her six little children. Where are hearts to be found, which these words do not rend asunder? Yet thou Piso livest still, and the Sun affords thee her light; Thy conscience not knowing where to hide thee, hath brought thee hither to suffer punishment, denying thee the safety thou elsewhere hast sought. 
Tutum aliquaeres in mala conscientia praestat, nulla securum. Sen.  As it hath failed thee in deliberation on this crime, so hath it betrayed thee in leading thee to punishment: What hast thou done after this parricide? Thou didst visit the cities of Asia, and spend thy time in the fair houses of Achaia. This was done, 
Subdola mora scelerum probationet subvertit. Tac.  to the end proofs might vanish, and witnesses dye. It is needful (Father's Conscript) to set Piso in the condition of a man convict, to reduce him into the state of one accused.  
He hath not done as the good man Valerius Publicola, who being accused, 
Mihifasces, & jus Praetoris mihi legiones date.  forsook his house at Velia, and lodged in the village, to the end he might ease them of the trouble to find him out. The innocent man flieth not from judgement, but he that is culpable avoideth the judges.  
If he had been accused for taking arms, he purposed to shelter himself with the power he had in Syria under Germanicus his General; if to have laid hands on public treasures, he supposed the share which he distributed among his friends, would save the rest. He escapes for a little, who rob much.  

When great ones ar● accused, they must appear upon easy summons.  If Martina, the notorious Witch and Sorceress, a great friend of Plancina, were alive, she could declare the whole mystery of this treason. The friends of Germanicus caused her to be brought towards Rome, but when she arrived at Brindisi, she suddenly died, and the poison hid in the knots of her hair, 
V●nenum nodo crimu●● occultatum ne● ulla in corpore sign samp i●exitii res●rta. Tac. S●orum in sidiis externas inter gentes o●cidit. Tac.  appeared not on her body.  
If presumptions may assist verity, it cannot be said this Prince who found less security among his own, than with strangers, was murdered by any other than Piso. Who hath done it? He had displeased none but him, and upon the resentment of this offence, he was declared his enemy, he assaulted him in his chariot, and it is known to be a very hard matter, to separate the desire of death; from, that, of succession.  

So Leporina sued her husband Sabinus in the time of Vespasian.  We heretofore in this place have heard of one proscribed, who to enjoy the goods of his wife, told her he would kill himself, she replieth, she resolved to bear him company. He prepareth the deadly drug, but so craftily, that drinking first, he left the poison for his wife, which through the weight thereof remained in the bottom of the glass. 
Id genus veneni fuit quod pondere subsideret in imam potionem, bibi●iste usque ad venenum, uxor venenum. Sen. P.  She dieth, he was in health, and enjoyed the wealth she left him by her will. Never is that poison escaped, which is given by the next heir.  
Who rejoiceth more at a death, than he who procured it? And desires it more ardently, than he that expects it with much impatience? How did Piso entertain it? 
Luctus lato cultu mutatus. Tac.  He made sacrifices, he offered victim; Plancina is so transported with this joy, that she laid aside the mourning weeds she was putting on for the death of her sister, and attires herself with the fairest, and richest garments of her wardrobe.  
This accusation aboundeth with so much variety, and his resolution to free himself from Germanicus, is replenished with so many mischiefs, that they smother, 
Nihil ordinatum quod praecipitatur & properat. Sen.  and by heaps precipitate one another in this discourse, so that I have much ado to marshal them in order. I had forgot to tell you how Piso sent Spies to know the condition of Germanicus his sickness, and the symptoms thereof. This displeased the sick man, and much troubled his mind, not with fear; for death never terrified him; but with anger and passion, apprehending that so soon as he should expire, Piso would usurp command over his Forces, 
Flosti lenta videntur veneficia. Tac.  and his wife rest at his discretion. Piso in like manner was perplexed, the poison was so slow, that it wrought not its effect soon enough, he therefore returned into Syria, to be nearer the Legions, and upon occasion to make use of them. Which was the cause Germanicus said in his anguish of mind.  

It is a very sensible grief to dye in the sight of an enemy, and to leave a wife and children in his power.  How then? must I dye, destroyed by mine enemy, shall he see me give up the ghost? What shall become of my distressed wife, how shall she be entreated, what shall my children do, to whom tears in this calamity will not be wanting to weep for me, though words (perhaps) fail to deplore me?  
Let that happen, which Heaven will, Piso hath taken away my life, but hath left me courage; nor am I reduced to such debility, that I ever shall consent the murderer may derive reward from my death. 
When the Romans would break friendship ●ith any one, they gave them notice thereof, & forbade them their house. Tit.  Hereupon he sent him a letter written with his own hand, to this purpose, that he held him for an enemy, that he forbade him access to his house, and abode in that Province.  
But there is no doubt, but witchcraft succeeded poison, since the bones of the dead were seen torn from the members, and fastened to the walls, and roofs of the chamber, characters with charms and imprecations, the name of Germanicus engraven on plates of lead, ashes half burnt, 
Maleficiis animae numinibus inferni sacrae. Tac.  and mingled with the putrefaction of ulcers, and other incantations and impieties, with which they use to bewitch any one to death, sacrificing him to the God of hell.  
Although this Prince were dying, 
Moderatus cursus qui vult propius regredi. Tac.  and in the agonies thereof, Piso feared him, and at his command weighed anchor, and departed; but went not fare off, that his return might be speedy, when he should have notice of his death. And if all this put together serve not to convince him, where shall truth seek for proofs?  
Thus (Conscript Fathers) you behold before your eyes a man marked from his mother's womb for violence, and the spirit of rebellion; for he is son of a father, 
Ingenium violemun, obsequii ignarum. Tac.  who followed the faction of Brutus and Cassius. He not only is an extortioner, but a robber; not an entermedler, but seditious; not an enemy, but a rebel: not a murderer, but a tormentor. 
Cicero saith, the crime of Verres enforced the judges to condemn him.  Never did any Criminal more exact your justice than this man, for the execration of his crime enforceth you to condemn him: and if in despite of Gods and men you pardon him, it will be impossible to free him from the hands of the people, who expect him: and hear (Conscript Fathers) their exclamations, there is not any woman so low of stature, that promiseth not herself to tear some hair from his head.  

When the triumphant passed to the Capitol, he put his prisoners over to the Magistrates, and durst not bring them to his lodging.  Propose to yourselves, what their joy will be, when they see the heads of rebellion dragged after a triumphant chariot, and the next day executed, for satisfaction of the inhumanities', and cruelties they committed in their Provinces; yea, much more will they be pleased, when they shall behold Piso in torment.  
They lose their patience, if you do not speedily pronounce these solemn words; Take, 
I Lictor coll●ga manus, caput ob nubito, arbori infoeliti suspendito. Cic.  Executioner, this Parricide, this Thief, this Rebel, bind his hands, blindfold his eyes, and fasten them to a miserable gibbet. And who knoweth, whether the multitude transported with grief and sorrow, will rest there, whether they will be contented with the punishment of one alone, and not rush upon those who favoured this impious man, esteeming them more wicked than him.  
No, no, 
Non majus s●elus in R. P. commisit reus; quàm two qui eum à tam nefariis sceleribus sententiae sua liberant. Cic.  (Conscript Fathers) there is no dalliance herein, the matter is too important, the consequence too great, and this man of such condition, that it would be full of danger, to commit any error in his execution. 
In judgement upon men of quality, the time and reason of State are to be considered.  I beseech you (believe) that neither the accused, the time, place, reason of state, nor quality of the interessed herein, can give consent to steal him from example, to deliver him in private, and not to suffer him to dye in public.   

Lepidus his speech.  
Marcus Lepidus, 
Eloquentia nulli tota contigit. Sen. P.  who had as much eloquence as might be, (for never any man could have enough speaking for Piso) in this sort answered the accusers. It is a great calamity (Father's Conscript) for poor Piso to have been happy. 
Great honours are burdens, which oppress those who bear them.  Great honours many times serve for the felicity of those who nothing deserve them, and such as merit before they obtain them, find their ruin by a strange extravagance, 
Ludos facit fortuna. Sen.  or cozenage of Fortune, which affording content to others, hath given to this man nothing but misery.  
The great services Piso did for Augustus, obliged the Emperor to create him Germanicus his Lieutenant; but this honour was accompanied with so many disasters, that his fidelity found no favour, 
Unhappy is the dignity which hath no credit with the Prince.  nor his counsel credit in the heart of this young Prince, who nothing dismayed by the encounter of things impossible, raised his thoughts beyond duty, threatened the Sun with darkness, the Ocean with thraldom, and from thence mounted to imaginations of greatness, which troubled the Emperor.  
His affection to his Country, his loyalty to his Prince, obliged him to watch over his actions, which he ever found so bold, and vehement, that he thought this young Hercules meant not to climb up to the Stars fairly, 
Nec in astra lenta veniet via, iter ruina quaeret. Sen. T.  or peaceably, but would violently pass thorough the breach to the ruin of the Empire. These aims of an exorbitant ambition, could not happily succeed, nor was Piso amazed, when the Priest of Apollo's oracle told him at Colophon, 
Necesse est opprimant enera, quae ferento majora sunt. Sen.  this should not long continue: the charge he undertook being too heavy for his forces.  
But as Prince's better love to be soothed in their follies, than advised of their duties, he presently was distasted in that Piso rather desired to displease him with truth, 
Malo veris offendere, quàm placere adulando. Sen.  then content him with flattery. He esteemed his freedom presumption, when he shown him the way from which he wandered, and what he ought to follow, yea even then when he told him he should wrong the Majesty of the Empire, to entertain with favour men of slight condition and courteously countenance those abject Athenians who ever followed the contrary part to ours, 
Quod colluvi●m illam nationum comitate nimia coluisset. Tac.  nor have at any time been without some plot of revolt against us, formerly aiding Mithridates against Sylla, Anthony against Augustus.  
Was it (I pray) by the Council of Piso, 
Inter alia dominationis arcana Augustus vetitis seposuit Aegyptum. Tac.  that he entered into Egypt contrary to the ancient ordinance of Augustus, who recommended unto you for a secret of State, never to suffer any great man to pass into Egypt: for in revolting against us, 
Levi praesidio ingentes exercitus coercentur. Tac.  they might with a few resist a vast army, and by forbidding the trade of corn, starve Italy.  
Recall (Oh Caesar) into your memory (for nothing of worth escapeth you) the disgust you received when Piso gave advertisement that this young Prince directed all his actions to vanity, and ambition, who to gain the people's hearts, gratified them with gifts of Corn and money, 
In vulgus gratae, sine milite incedere pedibus, intectus, & pari cum Graecis amictu. Tac.  marched up and down without a guard, on foot, ill attended, and clothed like a Grecian, as heretofore Scipio did.  
All the furies of hell could never have invented a more detestable Calumny than this poison of which Piso is accused, but it is so slender, 
Tenue mendacium pellucet. Sen.  and transparent that falsehood may be seen thorough it. How is it possible that you Vitellius, who have an open eye, and a clear judgement (that I may not allege matters superfluous) should at this time fix yourself on contrarieties, 
Non minus vitandum supervacua dicere, quàm contraria. Sen. P.  what likelihood is there that Piso eating at Germanicus table, who ever narrowly observed him, could have leisure to take poison, to rub his fingers therein, and so infect the meat. Is this easy to be done in another man's house, 
Absurdum inter aliena servitia, & tot astantium visu. Tac.  in the presence of a Prince, who hath assay made unto him, and so many eyes about him which observe all?  

Qui patrem pulsaverit, manus ei praecidantur. Sen. P.  If this be true, Piso is willing, not, that the hand which perpetrated this parricide should be cut off, but the heart which imagined it, 
Offerebat familians reus, & ministers in termenta. Tac.  be torn alive out of his breast, and that this truth may be known, he offereth his whole family, and servants to be put on the rack.  
He is not without fault; what man is free? 
There is nothing so deformed as an injury which reculeth back against him who spoke it. Plut.  Diamonds have blemishes, fair faces moles, but he is neither villain, nor traitor. Those that traduce him of pride, want not arrogancy themselves, if he be hasty, they are violent: never hath he attempted on the life of his Princes.  
If he have used some severity in his charge, 
The Magistrates ought to be more tender to become feared than loved.  he did it rather out of duty, than disposition, It is for Princes to make themselves beloved, and for Magistrates to be feared. If he have failed in respect and affection towards Germanicus, 
There is nothing so natural as to hate those who have persecuted us.  it is a hard task to be enforced to love him, who resolves, & vows your ruin. Germanicus, like all great men, wrote Piso's services on the sand, and all his offences on marble, if we so may call the sincere and free counsels, which he for his better direction gave him.  
He protesteth the death of Germanicus hath drawn from his heart, a growing thorn, a continual fear, that he is glad to see his house freed from so potent an enemy, Tiberius from a nephew so ambitious, the Empire from a Prince so overdaring. Germanicus would have ruined Piso, and heaven hath destroyed Germanicus, 
The Eagle having taken away the young rabbits, the dam undermineth the tree, and throweth down the nest of the Eagle, and her young ones stand to her mercy.  and in dying made him know, there is a supreme justice above, which revengeth the violences of great ones, over inferiors. Are they permitted to spit in our faces, or to set foot on our throats, because they are above us? Nay the least creatures have questioned the Eagle. Nothing is so sweet as revenge, at what price soever; It is a viand, that is swallowed without chewing.  
But never hath Piso attempted on his life, as desirous of his death, and it being well known to have been natural, it is a great impiety to feign it was violent. 
Mala & impia consuetudo contra Deos disputandi, sive ex animo id fiat, sive simulate. Cic.  The Gods would have it so, it is not lawful either in earnest, or by way of discourse to dispute of their power.  

Prompta Pisoni legionum studia.  If he have endeavoured to gain some credit among Military men, it was but to lessen the exorbitancy of Germanicus. His ambition hastened to ruin, Piso's to conservation, the one gave cause of jealousy to Tiberius, the other of caution to Germanicus. If he have acquired good opinion in the provinces, is he forbidden to cherish it? Are not affections free, 
Amor affectus liber qui vices exigit. Plin.  what hurt is it to make them mutual?  
But he rather chose to bow under Caesar's goodness, than stiffly dispose himself to the defence of his innocency. With clasped hands therefore he imploreth this royal virtue, which abhorreth the brutish thirst of blood, and humbly beseecheth you (O great Prince) to imitate heaven, 
Ferina rabies sanguine gaudere. Sen.  which hath more thunder to affright, than lightning to punish.  
But if all prove inexorable, 
Nihil tam peri●ulesum fortunis innocentum, quàm t● cere adversarios  and that the accusers hasten to ravish and snatch away this soul which they so much have turmoiled and afflicted, he will dye with this comfort, that his innocency found no protection, and had rather perish, than offend those, who might have saved him.  
There resteth darkness in the accusation of poison; It is a Pyramid which doth not entirely discover itself, for of three sides there is always one which cannot be seen, Piso and Plancina his wife appeared, 
A Tribuno deauctus, vario rumore, custos salutis, an mortis exactor. Tac.  but the third hide Tiberius, and Tiberius, Sejanus.  
This first audience ended, Piso went out, but the people were so incensed against him, that had he not been conveyed away in a litter by the guard, he never had returned to his house, safe, and alive. That which the multitude could not do on his person, they acted on his statues, dragging them to the Gemonian stairs.  

Portia said she was not only a partaker of the bed, and table of her husband, as a Concubine, but was the Companion of his good and evil fortune, as his wife, Plut.  Plancina his wife who had promised to undergo his fortune, wholly inclined to levity (a natural vice of that sex,) and being well assured of her own life by the favour of the Empress, neglected Piso, and abandoned him, as if she had been married to participate with him only in prosperity.  
The judges for many respects were implacable to the accused, 
This opinion was common, and josephus affirms it.  Caesar was willing he should dye, because he entered with arms into the Province, the Senate constantly believed Germanicus was poisoned, and among violent deaths poisoning is abhorred with the greatest execration, 
The mad-love drink is quaffed in silver in stead of Greek wine.  because thereby persons most precious and esteemed are torn from the Common wealth, 
Life-killing Arsenic is tasted in a golden dish.  that poison more easily is mingled and compounded in golden, than earthen vessels. There is no Antidote hath more virtue, or efficacy against poison, than a private condition, which neither feareth avarice may attempt on his state, nor envy on his dignity, yet is it most certain, 
Venenicvi●●en accusatores non satis firmabans. Tac.  this poisoning was never clearly proved, nor confidently affirmed by the accusers: There was no speech hereof either in Antioch or Rome, but according to the affection men bare to the dead, or hatred against the living.  
Tacitus saith it is not certain that the marks of poison appeared on the dead: 
Praetuleritne venef●ii signa parum constitit. Tac.  Suetonius affirms he was covered all over with purple spots, that he foamed at the mouth, 
Livores totocorpo●● spumae per os fluebant, cor inter essa incorruptum. Suet.  and that his heart was found whole among the ashes: Pliny, that Vitellius pressed this very hard, that Piso retorted the arrow back, against those that shot it: and as one affirmed that Germanicus being poisoned his heart resisted the fire: so the other maintained that dying of the Cardiaque disease, his heart could not be burnt. 
Negatur corcremari posse in his, qui Cardiaco morbo obierint, & veneno interemptis. Plin.  So the Hypothesis ever rested in the question, and both the one and the other had truth on his side, it being equally true according to Pliny, that the hearts of those who die by poison, or the Cardiaque evil are not consumed by fire. But the worst passage of Piso's process, was, the extreme boldness of the people, who taking rumour for proof, cried out at the Court gate, that if justice were not executed on Piso, they would do it themselves.  
All this much amazed Piso, who on the second day appeared in Senate, to see if any change were made in this first severity. But he found the wind very contrary, Tiberius so cold, 
Nullo magis exterritus est, quàm quod Tiberium sine miseratione, sine ira obstinatum, claufumque vidit. Tac.  that for fear of discovering himself, he inclined neither to anger to ruin him, nor to pity to afford him any hope. He thereupon judged he was to have no recourse thither, either for his innocence, or truth. Yet notwithstanding Sejanus told him, Tiberius would take his opportunity when time required, and not see him lost; others terrified him saying, 
He who is convinced of one crime, is punished for many.  Although he were declared innocent for the death of Germanicus, he would be put to death for other crimes: For Tiberius was so much exasperated with his taking arms in Syria, 
In crimes against the State, there is no compensation of merit for the fault.  that he resolved to make him an example, not suffering his service to counterpoise the crime.  
Sejanus regarded not the loss of Piso, so he concealed his secret commission; but much he feared, lest seeing himself condemned, he might complain in the Senate of judgement, and at his execution, of the Emperor, and that he should speak, if not against Tiberius, at least against him. 
The interest of children transporteth Parents.  The consideration of his children choked in his soul all resentment of the injury he suffered; and seeing himself lost, would be ruined alone. And that their innocence might be distinguished from his punishment, he wrote a letter to Tiberius, beseeching him to take pity of them, and that done he resolved to dye, thrusting his sword thorough his own throat. 
It is a madness to dye for fear of death.  He died not for fear of death, but, not to satisfy his enemies in the manner. If there be any thing troublesome in a public death, it is only the grief, and shame of content thereby given to an enemy.  
When this death was related to the Senate, Tiberius shown sorrow in his face; 
Caesar flexo in maestitiam ore. Tac.  but it was feigned, and to distract the judgements made upon this occasion to his prejudice, and settle his countenance by his discourse, he among other things informed himself of that, which Piso had done the day before, and how he spent the night. 
Plaeraque sap●enter, quae dam inconsullius. Tac  Some there were who answered with discretion, others more inconsiderately, as upon the like occasions there are some, who cannot endure to be accounted so foolish, as not to know that, of which we wish they were ignorant.  
Hereupon Tiberius read the letters, which Piso had written to this purpose. Since, Caesar, I see myself oppressed by the conspiracy of mine enemies, and the violence of a false accusation, 
Conspiration inimicorum, & invid●â falsi criminis veritati, & innocentiae nusquam locum. Tac.  which affordeth no place in the Senate, either for truth, or mine innocency; the Gods are my witnesses, I have not failed in duty towards you, or reverence to your mother, for which cause I beseech you to think on my children. Cneius Piso ought to have no share in my fortune, 
Qualiscunque, fortunae meae non est adjunctus. Tac.  whatsoever it be; for he stirred not out of Rome. Marcus Piso dissuaded me from going into Syria, and I could wish the father had accommodated himself to the youth of the son, and the son not yielded to the age of the father. 
Nihi● quidquam post haec rogaturus salutem infoelicis filii rege. Tac.  This is the cause, why I with the greater instance humbly entreat, his innocence may not feel the punishment of my obstinacy: and seeing myself in a condition never to beg of you again, I conjure you by five and forty year's service, by the esteem your father Augustus had of me, 
Pravitatis p●nas innoxius non luat.  when I was his Colleague in the Consulship, and by the friendship you have professed, to preserve my poor son.  
He spoke not a word of his wife; For how could he remember her, who forgot him in this extremity, and had perhaps promised the Empress and Sejanus, to open the chamber door for murderers to kill him. Tiberius' having read these letters, said; Although Piso had deserved the misery whereinto he was fallen, yet was he moved to pity, for the respect of his house, that it was notwithstanding very reasonable, 
Ex arboribus quavontus, aut turbo evulsit soboles residua est fovenda. Sen.  to preserve the scions of the tree which was felled down, and not to lay the punishment on his guiltless children, whereof absence discharged the one, and the father's command excused the other; 
Patris jussa filius non potest detractare. Tac.  and therefore they not liable to the crime of taking arms. As for Plancina, he besought the Senate to yield her up to the prayers of his mother. The whole assembly well saw the impudency, and impiety of this request, good men murmured against this woman, as the cause of Germanicus his death, and Piso's slaughter. Shall then (say they) the Empress have the honour, to save the murderess of her grand child, to visit her, 
Fas aviae interfectricem nepotis adspicere, adloqui, eripere Senatui● Tac.  to comfort her in the death of her husband, to snatch her out of the hands of the Senate? The Laws will not allow to Germanicus, what they grant to the meanest Citizen. Vitellius and Veranius, who were nothing to Germanicus, have bitterly deplored his death, 
Venena & arts semel faeliciter expertae in alterius exitium facilè vertuntur. Tac.  and Augusta his grandmother defendeth Plancina, that hath caused it; and what may we expert from hence, but that the force of poisons, and witchcrafts, having so prosperously succeeded, she likewise will employ them against Agrippina, and her children, to allay the thirst of the Grandmother and Uncle, with the blood of this miserable family, and so satisfy the rage of Sejanus.  
The opinions summed up, Aurelius Cotta saith, the memory of Piso ought to be abolished, 
Nomina sceleratorum è fastis radenda. Tac.  and his name razed, and blotted out of the Calendars, and Annals, the moiety of his goods confiscated, the other given to his son Cneius Piso, with command to change his name; Marcus Piso deprived of office, and banished for ten years, 
Concessa Plancinae incolumitas ob preces Augustae. Tac.  and to have five hundred Sesterces for his entertainment: Life given to Plancina in consideration of the Empresses request. All consented to this opinion.  
Tiberius, who had what he desired, sweeteneth the rigour of this judgement: 
Pudore flagitii princeps placabilior fit. Tac.  for the hatred of Plancina's absolution made him less severe against the children, there being no appearance why he should pardon the mother a murderess, and condemn the innocent children. He saith the name of Piso should remain in the Annals, as well as Anthony's, 
Nomen Marci Antonii, qui bellum patriae fecit, fastis mansit. Tac.  who had invaded his own Country. Messalina saith, A golden Ensign should be raised in the Temple of Mars-Avenger, and Caecinna Severus, an Altar to Revenge. No (saith Tiberius) it is not good, 
Domestica mala tristitia operienda. Tac.  in victories achieved on strangers, domestic miseries should be covered with sadness.  
Fulcinus Trio, who so loudly had declaimed against Piso, besought the assistance of his favour, the better to charge the accused; he answered, 
Facundia non est violent a praecipitanda. Tac.  Take heed you precipitate not your eloquence by the violence of your passion. He was offended, that he too much had pressed Piso in the matter of poison; for all the words that were spoken on this subject, touched him very near. He wished him to represent the passion of Agrippina, 
Rerum humanari● ubique ludibria. Tac. Audivi ex senioribus, qui ad nostram usque juventam duraverunt. Tac.  without passion in himself. Behold the vanity of humane practices.  
Hereupon Tacitus saith; I remember I have heard it told in my youth by those of that time, That many pieces had been seen in Piso's hand, which he did not publish, but that his friends affirmed every where, they contained the commission and command, which Tiberius gave him against Germanicus, and that he resolved to produce them in Senate to convince the Prince, but that Sejanus had deceived him with fair promises, 
Elusus à Sejano per vana promissa Piso. Tac.  and that he killed not himself, but that one was sent in the night, who murdered him.  
Death delivered Piso, but Tiberius and Sejanus were not thought the more innocent, and every night these cries were heard about the Palace. 
Per noctes creberrime acclamatum est, Red Germanicum. Suet.  Give us Germanicus.  
This death, whether it were voluntary, or forced, much abated the hatred of the people against Piso, and increased it against Tiberius, the rather that he had saved the wife, and having drawn this miserable man into a precipice, would not deliver him. If Piso had permitted the Laws and justice to take their course, 
Praebe te legibus. Sen.  and suffered like a man that feared not death, his misery would have been deplored. There is no life so odious, 
Confidence lesseneth the infamy of punishment.  which ending in public with constancy and modesty, changeth not hatred into pity, and pity into favour, leaving a friendly opinion of innocence behind it.  
The death of Germanicus gave no less content to Sejanus than Tiberius, for this Prince held all their resolutions under control. Tiberius esteemed not himself Emperor, while he was alive, and Sejanus despaired ever to be so, or to dispose of the Empire so absolutely, as he afterward did, for this Prince held him short, as one may say, to a straight diet. 
Our enemies enforce us to live regularly and to preserve life irreprehensible as in a straight diet. Plut.  The good affection he possessed in the minds of all, both great, mean, and middle sort, much crossed his ambition. But after his death, fortune afforded him a prosperous gale, till pride and insolence rend the sails of his vessel, and designs.  
Tiberius' thought he had more authority, yet was not less distrustful, imagining that as many friends as Germanicus should leave, were so many conspirators. And therefore often said, he held not the Empire, 
Lupum auribus tenere.  but as a wolf by the ears, fearing he might escape, and escaping bite him. He supposed every man had a purpose to take him out of his hands: He caused the Horoscopes of the principal men of Rome to be calculated, and such as the Stars promised eminence above other, he depressed, banished, or put to death. He knew Galba might arrive to this point, 
Dion & Tacit.  so that meeting him on the day of his Marriage, he said; And thou Galba shalt one day taste what Empire is. Yet he attempted nothing against him, for this dignity seemed fatally destined unto him.  
Sejanus among the rules of his policy held this ever, to nourish distrust in the soul of Tiberius, to the end that not relying on any man he might only confide in him.  
The great houses descended from those brave and generous spirits, which had been sacrificed to preserve the liberty of their Country, were by Tiberius (who resolved to raise the absolute sway on the foundations of Augustus) suspected, and to Sejanus odious, who could not endure virtue to oppose his fortune. 
Liboni proavu● Pompeius, amita Scribonia, consobrini Caesares. Tac.  Libo Drusus, as being descended by his father from Augustus, and by his Mother from Pompey the great, was one of the principal of the Roman youth, and, as this his birth giving hope to his courage gained him respect among the greatest, so was it the cause of his fall.  

Defertur moliri res novas. Tac.  His youth prompt, and inconsiderate, transported him to thoughts more haughty, than the times would permit, for which cause he was perpetually had in jealousy by Tiberius, so that being at a sacrifice, he commanded the Master of the Ceremonies to give a leaden knife to Libo, who was one of the sacrificers, 
Pro cespita plumbeus coulter.  lest he might attempt somewhat on his person. 
The little hatchet of the sacrificer.  Another time demanding audience in secret, he caused his son Drusus to be called, and counterfeiting to stand in need of support whilst he walked, he held Libo (who spoke to him) by the right hand, carrying his eye steady to observe all his motions. 
juvenis improvidus & facilis inanibus. Tac.  This young man had a Roman Citizen whom he held his intimate friend, that conspired his ruin, supposing the shortest way to make a fortune, was to overthrow those, who gave cause of suspicion to Sejanus. He impressed in this giddy spirit, 
Hortatur ad luxum, & aes alienum socius libidinum, & necessitatum quo plurihus indiciis indagaret. Tac.  that there was some great thing designed in heaven for him, he led him out to riots, which caused excessive expenses, and those put him into inconveniences, which this wicked friend sweetened with false hopes. Necessity made him dream on his future fortunes, and that thrust him into the curiosity of knowing from Astrologers, what the Stars promised him (the ordinary retreat of minds which admit a Master.) Wherefore that he yet might understand more, his friend brought him to confer with Magicians, who ask of their spirits what they knew, and never tell truth: for a while after all his hopes were turned into despair.  

Tib. non vultu alienatus, non verbis commotior, cuncta ejus dicta factaque, cum prohibere posset scire mallebat. Tac.  The Senator discovereth all this to Tiberius, who is hearty glad to see this young man in the snare, yet desisteth not to show him a good countenance, affording him the title of Praetor, and oft calling him to his Table. Presently after he caused him to be accused in the Senate as of a matter weighty, important, and enormous; behold he is brought into the condition of one accused; he changeth his apparel, 
Keus obsoletius vestiebatur. Cic.  the principal Ladies of the City his allies, solicit for him: There was not a man to be found would speak in his defence; for when any question is made of a Conspiracy against a Prince, all intercessions are suspected, and favours held crimes. 
It was not permitted to any but the sick to go in a litter to the gate of the Senate house. Tiberius' coming thither the sick man would 〈◊〉 no train●.  He went to the Court in a litter, for this stroke not foreseen, had weakened the forces of his health, and so supported by his brother's arm, he entereth into the Senate, and a fare off beholding Tiberius, stretcheth out his hands, and imploreth mercy with much humility.  
Tiberius readeth all the points whereof he was accused, it not being preceived either by his countenance or words, that he had a purpose to sweeten, or exasperate the affair. The whole matter consisted in things rather curious, than wicked, rather vain than serious, and which more required pity, than correction.  
He had asked the Soothsayers, 
Stolida & vana, & si melius accipiantur, miserànda. Tec.  whether he should ever be so rich, as to be able to cover the Appian way to Brindisi with pieces of money. A list likewise was produced against him, by which it appeared he had made certain cyphers under the names of Caesar's, and Senators, as it were a mark upon those he meant to ruin, and the way how. He denieth all. 
Questio in caput domini. Tac.  The Senate adviseth his slavecs should be put to the torture, but Tiberius' rich in subtleties, and subtle in inventions, 
More majorum de servis in Dominum ne tormentis quidem quaeri licet. Cic.  caused them to be sold, thereby not to offend the laws, which receive them not as witnesses against their Masters.  
He returneth to his house, borne in a litter; yea rather his Coffin, for he went to death, nor was there any other difference, but that his friends denied him this last office, and no creature followed him. He sent a kinsman of his to Tiberius to implore his mercy, 
Necessarii deseraerant impie jam non r●●m, sed famam. Sen.  but his answer was, he should make his address to the Senate, he sought out his Grandmother Scribonia, and asked her counsel, whether it were best to hasten his death or expect it. 
Quid te delectat alienum negotium facere? Sen.  This courageous woman made answer; Why will you execute the office of another? Perform your own.  
She thought it a neglect of ones proper business to live at the direction of another, and that he who expecteth to be led to execution, did the work of the hangman: The condition of humane things is wrongfully accused: He that will not himself, 
Excruciant epulae in novissimam volupta●em adhibitae. Tac.  is not miserable. The only sight of viands brought for his last dainties touched his heart; he resolveth to dye, calleth one to kill him, pulleth his servants to him, puts the knife into their hands, praying them to afford him this last office. They deny him, abhorring such a commandment, not so much for pity of him, as of themselves, fearing to be punished; 
Etiam ubi remedium est mors, selves 〈◊〉 occidere. Sen. P.  for although death serve as a remedy for such as beg it, yet is it a crime in those that give it. The more he pressed and urged them to kill him, the more they retired, and stepping back overthrew the table, so that the lights which stood thereon were extinguished.  
This darkness confirming his resolution, 
Feralibus 〈…〉 remebris dues ●●●us in vist●● a 〈◊〉. Tac.  and beginning his own funerals, he gave himself two stabs with a knife in the belly, he cried out, and fell, the whole family ran up into the Chamber, the soldiers hastened thither, and seeing their work done, departed. When this passage was related to Tiberius, he counterfeited sorrow, and swore, if the dead man had let him alone, he had yet been alive, himself being resolved to have pleaded for him.  
Confiscation of goods was prosecuted, 
Adul●●● 〈◊〉 Reip. malum. Tac.  and the Senate through flattery (an ancient wound of the Republic) gave them to the accusers, abolished the name, and statues of Libo, 
Iduum Septembium dios quo se Libi occiderat festus. Tac.  and put the Ideses of September among the solemn festivals, because on that day the Emperor had been delivered from a great peril. There was also a decree made against Mathematicians, and Magicians, and Lucius Pituanius who was of this unhappy profession, was thrown headlong from the top of the Tarpeian hill. Their banishment was but renewed again; for it had before been decreed, they should forsake Italy, in that through a deceitful knowledge of stars, 
Caldaei pluribus atque ineptis ingeniis siderum fallae● interpretatione questuesam medaciis suis Caliginem injiciunt. Val.  they abused vain and idle people.  
Sejanus was freed from Princes, Praetors, and Senators, he was willing Rome should know, there was not any conditioned men exempt from fear of his fortune and power he presently lays hold on the Philosophers, as those whose lives he hated for innocence, and whose tongues he dreaded for liberty. He banisheth Attalus a Stoic Philosopher, 
Attalus stoicus solum vertit à Sejano Circumscriptus, magnae vir eloquentiae, ex Philosophis, subtillissimus. Sen. P.  a man of singular integrity of life, admirable eloquence, and incomparable learning; The sect of Stoics being a most worthy and venerable company, and as different from others as men from women, I cannot imagine wherein he erred, but in that Sejanus took to himself in particular, what he meant to all in general, 
Malitia maximam partem sui veneni bibit.  when he said, that he who offended others, first displeased himself, and that the wicked man taketh the first draught of his own poison; was not this to tell Sejanus, that all his violences returned on himself, as rivers to their source? 
Quicquid expectantibus fortuna projecit id fine ●lla voluptate dimittmus, statim ad rapinam alterius erecti, & attenti. Sen.  When he said men were unsatiable, and that having received some benefits from fortune they presently beg others, as dogs, who no sooner swallow one morsel, but they instantly gape for another, discovered not he this gulf of greediness, who having ruined one family, threatened another?  
This Tiger shown his hatred against the choice wits of his time: A Poet having written some few free words against him, was put to death, not for that, but because in a Tragedy he had injured Agamemnon, 
Quod in tragedia Agamemnonem probis lacessisset. Suet.  and spoken against the honour of Kings: Tiberius punished the offences committed against Sejanus, as rigorously as those that concerned himself, he was persuaded he himself received the counterbuff of all that, which wounded him. Princes are offended, when their Favourites are blamed, because it seems to them the weakness of their judgement is condemned, 
He who blameth the favour of a Prince condemneth his judgement.  in the election of a subject unworthy of their favour. The workman is bound to defend his workmanship. The Painter is troubled, if dirt be cast on the picture he hath drawn. Old faults are sought out, to make new examples of severity. The Senate decreed the Statue of Sejanus should be erected in Pompey's Theatre, which Tiberius had re-edified. Cremutius Cordus vexed with this injury done to the memory of Pompey, 
Quis nen rumperetur supra cineres Gn. Pompey constitute Sejanum? Sen.  cried out aloud, It was not to re-edify, but to destroy, thus to set Sejanus above the heads of the Romans, to raise a mean Soldier upon the monument of a prime Captain. He spoke truth, but Verity excuseth not the imprudence of those, who inconsiderately are transported into the censure of great ones. Sejanus beareth this in mind, 
Novam, ac primum auditum crimen. Tac.  and accuseth him not thereof at all, but disposeth Tiberius to inquire into his life, all the parts of which were found innocent and commendable. But his writings were examined, and an History he composed of Augustus, and which Augustus himself had read. He was accused not to have sufficiently honoured Caesar, 
P●ul.  and Augu\stus; too much praised Brutus, and called Cassius the last of the Romans.  

The credit of accusers is the despair of the accused. Sejani clientes perniciabiles reo. Tac.  His accusers were Satrius, Secundus, and Pinarius Natta, creatures of Sejanus, and this quality made the ruin of this man accused most infallible, and thrust his innocence into desperation. Yea, the judge himself made him perceive by his stern countenance, and words of reproof, that he sat there, not to hear, but to condemn him; not to arraign, but to appoint his execution: 
Innocence of actions should excuse the folly of words.  Cordus likewise came not thither to save his own life, for he was certain to lose it, but for the honour of truth, and the glory of his writings. He spoke in this manner.  
My actions are so fare innocent, 
Verba mea a●g●untur, adeo sum factorum innocent. Tac  that nothing is questioned, but my words, and yet they offend neither the Emperor, nor his Mother, who only are comprised in the Law of Majesty. It is said I praised Brutus, and Cassius, whose actions are registered by many, nor is there any one hath mentioned them, but to their honour. Titus Livius, 
There is not an Historian, which becomes not passionate on one side, or other.  to whom the prize of eloquence, and truth is attributed, hath so highly commended Pompey, that Augustus called him the Pompeyan: which never impaired the friendship contracted between them.  
He useth not these names of Thiefs and Parricides, 
Scipio, a man worthy of all warlike commendation. Plut. Afranius, Lieutenant of Pompey against the Parthians and Arabians. Plut. Cassius, an enemy of Tyrants from his infancy. Plu●  which now are imposed on Scipio and Afranius, on Brutus, and Cassius; but often styles them brave, and excellent men. The History of Asinius Pollio makes an honourable mention of them: Mesalla Corvinus extolled Cassius as his General, yet both the one and other have been powerful in riches, and honours. Caesar the Dictator was pleased to answer in an Oration by writing (as before his judges) to a book, which Cicero made, to raise Cato his enemy as high as Heaven. The Epistles of Anthony, 
Brutus well wished by the people, beloved of his own, esteemed of honest men, and hated by none. See the Epigram 30. of Catullus.  the speeches of Brutus object to Augustus' things false, and relate them with much sharpness and animosity. Men spare not to read the verse of Bibaculus, and Catullus, though farced with injuries against the Caesars. julius and Augustus have permitted, and scorned them. And I cannot well tell, whether they have showed more moderation, than wisdom therein. For slanders pass away, if they be despised; and seem avowed, if resented. I speak not at all of the Grecians, for not only their liberty, but temereity also hath been unpunished, and if any one hath blamed it, words have revenged words. But it always hath been a matter of freedom, and without reprehension to speak of those, whom death hath enfranchised from hate, 
Convitia spreta ex●lescunt, si irascare agnita vidantur. Tac.  or favour. Can any man say, that I with my Orations excite the people to rebel, and take arms for civil war while Brutus, and Cassius are armed in the the Philipicke fields? It is now threescore and sixteen years, since they died: As they are known by the Statues, which their victorious selves erected, so writings have preserved their memory's Posterity rendereth every one the honour, which belongs to him, and if I be condemned, there may those be found, who will not only remember Brutus, and Cassius, but me also.  
He had reason to adorn his discourse with examples of Caesar and Augustus. For the world hath never seen any thing equal to this their generous bounty in pardoning slanders. Calvus the Orator, 
Caio Calvo post samosa Epigr. de reconciliatione per amicos agenti ultro ac prior scripsit. Suet.  and Catullus the Poet, desperately detracted Caesar: Truth settled shamefastness on their foreheads, and repentance in their consciences. Caesar was satisfied with it, and seeing Calvus desired his friendship, and durst not entreat it, in an express letter he offered it himself: 
Valerius Catullus perpetua stigmata suis versiculis imposuit Caesari. Suet.  As for Catullus, he invited him to supper the same day he published his Poem against him.  
For Augustus, I find none to parallel him: Timagenes, a noble Historian, wrote against him, his wife, daughters, and all his family. He adviseth him to use his pen and tongue with more moderation, 
Timagenem Caesar monuit, ut moderativa lingua uteretur, perseveranti, domo sua interdixit: post ea in contubernio Pollionis consenuit. Sen.  especially concerning his house and friends: for Augustus had bred him up. O extreme ingratitude! He persevers. Augustus' enforced to take notice hereof, wisheth him to retire. Asinius Pollio, esteeming more the promptness of this wit, than his duty to the Emperor, lodgeth, and entertaineth him. Timagenes absolutely declares himself an enemy of Augustus, burneth that notable History, which he had composed of his reign, affirming he deserved not to be remembered at all, and that the good he had delivered of him, was altogether false. Augustus' swallowed all this, and was pleased to say to Pollio; You nourish a Serpent. But Pollio desirous to reply in his excuse: He stopped his mouth, 
Fruere mi Pollio fruere.  saying, My friend keep him, make use of him. Is it possible, that Rome should grieve to lose her liberty under such a Prince? She afterward found by dear experience what she lost in the change: It was the same flock, but not the same Shepherd.  
We may well say Sejanus had strangely corrupted the nature of Tiberius, making him so severe in the punishment of injuries done to his Predecessors, who took so small account of his own, and who often said, that in free Cities tongues should not be restrained. 
Subinde jactat in civitate libera linguam mentomque liberas esse debere. Suet.  Augustus gave him this counsel; for upon the point of blaming his dissimulation in the matter of unbridled liberty, used in depraving of him, he wrote these words: Son Tiberius, flatter herein neither your youth, nor anger, to believe that any man speaks ill of me: 
Satis est si hoc habemus ne quis nobis malè facere possit. D. Aug.  It is enough we can so handle the matter, they shall do us no hurt.  
As for himself, he slighted the Satyrs, and bitter jests were divulged of him; and when hereupon the Senate would give information, he said, We have not so much spare time, 
Non tantum habimus otii P. C. ut implicare nos pluribus negotiis debeamus: si hanc fenestram aperueritis nihil aliud agi sinetis. D. Tib.  as to trouble ourselves with these trifles, and if we shall open this window, we need to do nothing else, and you shall be perpetually importuned with an infinite number of particular complaints.  
Cordus then having spoken so boldly and elegantly, retired to his house much unresolved what he should do. If he would live, 
Si vivere vellet, Sejanus rogandus erat; si mori, filia; uterque inexorabilis; constituit filiam fallere. Sen.  he must beg of Sejanus; if die, of his daughter: Both are inexorable. His courage not suffering him to prostrate himself to the one, he resolved to deceive the other. And that he might not discover his purpose, he for certain days taketh the bath, 
At the coming out of a bath, they brought to their chambers sweet wine with new laid eggs.  and the better to beguile his daughter, he afterward withdraws into his chamber to take his refection, and sending his servants away, throws out of the window some part of that which was brought him, 
Quaedam per fenestram ut videretur edisse projecit à coena, deinde quasi jam satis in cubiculo edisset abstinuit. Sen.  to make them believe it was the remainder of what he had eaten. The hour of supper arrived, he telleth his daughter he had no appetite to eat, that his former collation served him for a supper; she urgeth him no further, supposing it true, and little imagining the thing she approved for his health, should hasten his death.  
He continueth this rigorous deceit until the fourth day, that his own weakness discovered it. 
Homini non anie septimum diem laetalis inedia: durasse, & ultra undecimum plaerosque ●ertum est. Plin.  Extreme sorrow conspired with his abstinence, which had not otherwise power sufficient to overthrow him in so few days; for hunger will not kill a man in so short a space.  
His daughter thus deceived, conjureth him by her prayers and tears, to live both for her and himself. 
The last hour causeth not death, but finisheth it.  This prayer came too late. His life was now almost wholly wasted, he is upon the last hour: at which time embracing his daughter, 
Iter mortis ingressus sum, & jam medium fere teneo; revocare me, nec debes, nec potes. Sen.  he said: Martia, I am too fare onward in the way of death, to retire back; I have gone almost the one half of it: you neither aught, nor can withhold me.  
Which spoken, he caused the lights to be put out that he might the more quietly hide himself, and creep away in the dark. His servants seeing his resolution so absolute and forward, were no whit sorry, 
Et faucibus avidissimorum luporum educitur praeda. Sen.  the wolves had failed of their prey At which time the accusers ran by the commandment of Sejanus to the Consuls to tell them that Cordus had killed himself, to wit, had escaped them. 
Magna res erat in quaestione, an mortis rei perderentur: dum deliberatur, dum accusatores iterum adeunt, ille se absolverat. Sen.  This question was then debated, Whether one might hinder the accused to make themselves away? but whilst this was disputed to resolve it, and condemn him, he freeth himself.  
His books were burnt by the Aediles, 
Scripta autoris. calamitate. Dio.  the calamity of the Author, and excellency of the style rendered them the more illustrious, and made them sought after, and studied with the more curiosity. Martia preserveth, 
Vir Romanus qui subactis jam cervicibus omnium, & ad Sejani jugum abactis indomitus sit, homo ingenio, animo, manu liber. Tac.  and presents them to the world to renew the memory of her father, who had written them in his own blood, had stood firm and invincible, when every man else offered his head under the yoke of Sejanus, and had with hand, discourse and judgement, 
Praesenti potentia non extinguitur sequentis aevi memoria. Tac.  maintained ancient liberty. Princes deceive themselves when they grow passionate to abolish books which displease them, prohibition adds desire, and difficulty maketh good the curiosity. 
Punitis ingeniis gliscit authoritas. Tac.  If fear suppress them during their life, they appear more confident, when they themselves are no more. The affliction of writers augmenteth the reputation of their labours: punishment is odious; he that inflicteth it, is blamed, and who suffers it, receiveth honour.  
And it is well for us this fury against books, began not till under Tiberius, for what would it have been, if the Triumvirs had proscribed or burnt those of Cicero? 
R P. interest, ut facta quoeque posteritati tradantur. Suet.  Caligula caused the works of Cordus to be revived, and thought himself interessed, that posterity might know the lives and gests of his predecessors. What a contentment is it, to read the History of so worthy a pen, written with a courage so free, and confident, and in such a manner as he offered it to the Senate, not unlike the scantling which Seneca observed upon the death of Cicero, in these terms.  
Anthony received much satisfaction when Cicero's head was brought him, and said his proscription was at an end, for he was not only glutted, 
Non satiatus modo cadendis civibus sed defectus. Sen. P.  but tired with the massacres of so many men. He commanded it to be exposed to the view of the people in their Rostra, 
Piis concionibus multorum capita fervarat. Sen. P.  in the same place where they, drawn by the reputation of his excellency, thronged to follow him, and where they had heard his elaborate discourses, which saved so many heads. He is now at this present beheld by his fellow Citizens, neither in the joy, nor manner as they admired him heretofore (alive and) entire, but with blood, which all embrued his head, 
Manus dextera eloquentiae ministra. Sen. P.  and disfigured his countenance. This head which of late swayed in Senate, and was the ornament of the Roman name, serves as a recompense for him, who dissevered it from his body. All hearts were melted into tears and sighs, when his right hand was beheld (the instrument of his divine eloquence) fastened to this head. 
Caeterorum caedes privatorum luctus excitaverunt, illa una commonem. Sen. P.  The death of others was not bewailed but by particulars: The sorrow for this man was general. We ought not only to believe the greatness, but admire the infinite number of his virtues. He lived as Brutus, Cassius, and Sextus Pompeius, saying: All things displease me, but death alone.  
Cordus wrote the history of his time, and perhaps seeing the truth most pure for posterity, had spoken for the honour of those, 
Opti●●e meruit de postery ad quos ventet in corruptae rerum fid●s. Sen.  who died for the defence of ancient liberty; for (verily) the fear of death excuseth not him, who offendeth truth to flatter fortune. To publish lying histories, or give false instructions to those that writ them, is to rob passengers on the high way in good earnest. He retaining the same liberty in his discourses he had done in his writings, contemned the pride of Sejanus, and to free himself from the hands of a man so potent, made it appear he was real, and exempt from the number of the miserable.  
This Calamity was not so frequent among the Romans when Germanicus lived; these two Lions did (as yet) restrain their paws, fear tempered the actions of Tiberius, and necessity withheld the insolence of Sejanus. 
Dion saith that opinions often passed currant against his, he not therewith offended.  Dion saith whilst Germanicus lived, Tiberius did nothing at any time of his own head. He referred all manner of affairs to the Senate, he ministered justice by the advice of those who assisted him, allowed every one should deliver his opinion, endured contradiction, and sometime suffered to be cut off in his opinions.  

Tiberius said I am Lord of slaves, Emperor of soldiers, and over the rest a Prince.  He would not be called Lord, but by slaves, nor Emperor but of soldiers, he absolutely refused the name of father of the Country, he gave way in discourse, and petitions to the title of Augustus, used it in the dispatches he made to Kings, and in all occasions else was contented with the name of Caesar, and Prince of the Senate: His ordinary wish was, that heaven would grant him life so long, as the common wealth should stand in need of his service.  
Whilst Germanicus lived, 
All that was done during the life of Germanicus, but after his death all was changed.  the day of his birth was not solemnised, no man swore by his fortune, no statue nor Temple was erected to him. When he went thorough the City, he desired not to be attended either by Senator, Patrician, or Roman Knight, or any man of quality, in all things demeaning himself, as if he lived under a popular government, yea he descended even to the making of funeral orations for particular men.  
If he exercised any violence, 
Ambition for a long time makes itself little to become great.  it was cloaked and coloured with semblances of reason, or necessity, or if it were secret, it appeared not at all. 
The Emperor Augustus to please Livia banished him to the I'll of Planasia.  Clemens a famous impostor had slain his Master Agrippa Posthumus, the grandchild of Augustus, and because he was much of his age, and stature, 
Veritas visu, & morâ, falsa; festinatione incer, 'tis volescunt. Tac.  he caused the bruit thereof privately to run as a thing dangerous, and afterward publicly (as a matter acceptable) that Agrippa was alive: for it was true, the Mother of the Emperor, had made him away presently after the death of Augustus, whose memory was so precious and venerable, that under this name he found friends in Gallia, succours in Italy, and credit in Rome, the people proclaiming and believing the Gods had reserved him for the good of the Empire.  
Tiberius' considering that rumour, and his levity gave countenance to this fiction, and that it could not so slenderly be believed, but it would prejudice his affairs, commanded him to be attached by those who feigned to be of his faction. 
Percunctanti Tiberio quomodo Agrippa factus esset respondisse fertur? Quo modo tu Caesar. Tac.  Being brought before him, he wondered he so cunningly had managed this imposture, demanding of him, by what title art thou made Agrippa? The gallant answereth by the same thou hast made thyself Caesar. Torments could not evict from him the names of his complices, 
Inanis credulitas tempore ipso vanescit. Tac.  and although Tiberius knew he had been assisted both with money and counsel by the greatest, he enquired no further of them. But caused him to be put to death without further noise,  
Tiberius then had reason to account the death of Germanicus amongst the best days of his own life, and Sejanus reckoned it one of the greatest steps to his fortune, but the same malice they bore to the father continued against the children, yet endeavouring all they could possibly to dissemble it, to the end it might seasonably appear, in the mean time covering it with large demonstrations of affection towards them. 
Neronem e liberis Germanici jam ingressum juventam commendavit Patribus non sinc risu audientium. Tac.  Tiberius prayeth the Senate to give Nero a dispensation of age that he might enter into public offices, and be able at fifteen years to become Questor, which is not granted but at two and twenty. He was also created Pontifex, and the day he entered into this dignity, 
Congiarium pleb. Tac.  he made a donative of provisions to the people, who much rejoiceth to behold the children of Germanicus in a flourishing state of youth. For full accomplishment of alacrity, he espouseth julia the daughter of Drusus. 
ut illa secundis, ita hoc adversis animis acceptum. Tac.   
But she grew disdainful when she heard the daughter of Sejanus was promised to Drusus the son of Claudius; esteeming this noble family was dishonoured by such an alliance, and that it gave but too much hope to a man, who already had overmuch power, and who accounted himself unhappy if he commanded not, impatient to live as a private person. The heavens unwilling to derive fruit from so bad a tree, disposed thereof otherwise. Drusus sporting in the City of Pompey threw a pear up into the air, 
jason the Tyrant of Pherez said, he died for hunger, if he arrived not at Tyranny, for he could not live a fool, that is to say a private man.  and receiving it again with open mouth was strangled, and this daughter participating in the disastrous end of her father, made her wedding song, at the foot of the gallows, as in his due place shall be seen. The hatred was so enraged against Sejanus, that some said he made this marriage to destroy his son in law,  

Miror fuisse qui traderenta a Sejano necatum Suet.  This opinion could have no other foundation, but that this young Prince discovered too much contempt of this alliance, or too much scorn to be the son in law of a man so odious, who had no honour in him; his ancestors or himself, 
Vain is the praise which comes not from a praise worthy man.  having acquired nothing, he could leave nought to his children, and received praise but only from those, whom he himself durst not commend.  
Drusus could not brook this insolence, nor that his father Tiberius should prefer Counsels and foreign affections before natural. 
Secreta viri, corrupta uxore produntur. Tac.  He spared not to say to his wife, who betrayed him, and to his friends, who deceived him, that Sejanus was almost become a Colleague, as he hath hither to been a Coadjutor of Tiberius, and his children the allies of Drusus: That his ambition hath deep aims, that he will not rest there: For, 
Prima dominandi spes in arduo, ubi fis ingressus adsunt studia, & ministri, Tac.  The first hopes of predominance are difficult, but when one is arrived thither, means to maintain it will never be wanting. He often spoke this, and unto many; they were his ordinary complaints. A mind perplexed ceaseth not to expostulate, and ever lays the hand upon the wound.  
He conceived an extreme hatred against Sejanus: He was so ready to strike, that they surnamed him Castor, 
Surnames are given according to natures, for which cause Dion saith, Drusus was surnamed Castor, and keen swords were called Drusians.  and not being able any longer to endure this man, who made himself his companion, he lifted up his hand with threats, and the other disposing himself to defence, presented his to stay the blow, whereupon Drusus struck him on the cheek. Dion and Zonaras write, that Sejanus smote Drusus, but there is no appearance he used this hardiness against the son of the Emperor, young, courageous, associated to the Empire, and holding the tribunitial power, 
Tribunitia potestas summi fastigii vocabatur. Tac.  the greatest next the Sovereign.  
A blow should be answered with a poniard, but strokes which come from the hand of a Prince ought to be received with patience and humility. He that can kill, obligeth when he only woundeth. This disgust so fresh reneweth those, which by process of time were (as I may say) withered in the soul of Sejanus. Yet the History relateth not he made any complaint, or that Tiberius reproved his son, 
Tiberius' S●●●num singularem principalium onerum ad jutorem in omnia habuit. Vell.  so to have injured him whom he had selected above all, for assistance to support the principal burdens of Empire: For it is ever an ill way to seek out occasions, which may irritate the Emperor against the Prince.  
Not daring to complain, he resolved to be revenged, and as revenge is ever witty, to lay hold of the means how to satisfy the offended, he could find no fit wedge to cleave this knot, but to make it of the same wood, and gain the wife to ruin the husband. 
Ra●a est concordia formae, atque pudicitiae. Inven.  She was fair, but her beauty accorded not well with her honour. She consenteth to the earnest solicitations of Sejanus, to whom none denied any thing, because Tiberius gave him all. Familiarity drew on affection, that which at first was nought else but love, becomes adultery, and adultery witchcraft. A most strange blindness: The niece of Augustus, daughter in law of Tiberius, daughter of Drusus, sister of Germanicus, wife of the Emperor's son, 
See, ac majores, & pas●cros municipali adultere foedabat. Tac.  mother of two Princes, in possibility of Empire, blemisheth her honour, disgraceth her house, to consent to the lusts of an ordinary Citizen. But glorious beauties will be admired, and powerful favours sought unto. Sejanus could do all by his favour, Livia was beloved of all for her beauty. 
Upon the demand made unto Aristotle, why we love that which is fair, he answered, It is a blind man's question.  To ask why that which is beautiful is affected, Is the question of a blind man: but it is to have eyes no where but in the head, to wish great men may not do what they please.  
Having then the body at his dispose, he managed the heart as he list: The first crime made way for all the rest. 
Foemina amissa pudicitia, alia flagitia non abnuit. Tac.  When a woman hath forsaken her chastity, she hath nothing left either to lose, or deny. Love made her an adulteress, ambition a murderess, and the passage is confident from the one to the other. Sejanus infuseth into her mind a desire to become the Emperor's wife, she believes he is able to make good what he says; for Tiberius reigned not, but in his person, and at his pleasure. She heareth, and tasteth it, and the delight she showeth therein by her attention, is not fare distant from her consent. 
The Fort which parleyes, is half renured.  Their like concurring for love, unite for marriage, and for that purpose they conspire to dissolve all obstacles: Sejanus, by the divorce of Apicata, and Livia by the death of Drusus.  

Magnitudo facino●is metum, prolatio, interdum diversa consilia adf●rt. Tac.  But as Great mischiefs cannot so quickly be hatched (for fear draweth on irresolution, affrightment invites slackness, and distance of time augmenteth difficulties) they had not so much trouble to resolve on the act, as to find out the means, and manner. Order, and secrecy, which ought to be exactly observed in matters important were not omitted in this wicked plot. They resolved to poison him: and weighing with themselves, if the poison were given in his meat, some others (perhaps) might be surprised, and deceived therewith, they advised to give it in some medicine which he was to take, and that it should have so slow operation, that death would be imputed to nature, or accident, and not to treason, and violence.  

Eudemus amicus, ac medicus Liviae, specie artis frequens secretis. Tac.  Livia therein employed Eudemus her Physician, who for his quality, and by the favour of his profession, had ordinary access to her cabinet. 
Adulteria etiam in principum domibus, ut Eudemi in Liviae Drusi Caesaris. Plin.  Tacitus saith he was her friend, Pliny her adulterer. Sejanus gaineth Lygdus the Eunuch, one of the chiefest and most trusty household servants of Drusus, and to tie his heart more straightly to him, 
Rumour Sejanum Lygdi spadonis animum stupro vicisse.  villainously abuseth his body, he being both young, and handsome. The wretches conspire in this execrable attempt: The murderous Sejanus plotteth it, Livia the Adulteress gives consent, Eudemus the Ruffian compoundeth the drug, and Lygdus the Catamite presenteth it. Four creatures, 
jupiter saith to Prometheus, he deserved to have his heart, and liver devoured.  who deserve their hearts which form, and conceived this prodigious assassinate on the sole son of the Prince, should everlastingly be devoured by gnawing Vultures. They all miserably perished, and so may all those Furies, who traitorously attempt on Princes.  
Drusus, without distrust, takes this deadly poison from the hand of Lygdus his Eunuch, and that which he thought would have confirmed health, hastens death: but so slowly, that the languishment, and length took away the suspicion of poison. Time, 
Ordo sceleris per Apicatam Sejano proditus tormentis Eudemi, as Lygdi patefactus est. Tac.  which in the end discovereth all things, drew truth out of darkness, and Apicata the wife of Sejanus, eight years after gave the first notice. It is an admirable thing, that a woman of a great spirit wounded in her honour, and banished shed from the company of her husband by an Adulteress, could so long be silent, but this discourse shall not be ended, till this wonder be satisfied.  

Sejanus facinorum amnium repertor habehatur ex nimia caritate in eum Caesaris. Tac.  The actions of Sejanus were so exploded, and Tiberius for favouring him so hated, that already being branded with so remarkable, and notorious villainies, it was thought he had put Drusus to death by the hand of Tiberius, suggesting that his son out of desire to rule, had resolved on his death, and that it were fit he took heed, when he dined at his table, not to drink the first draught, which should be presented unto him: 
Druso ignaro, & juveniliter hauriente poculum; cunctis suspitio tanquam metu, & pudore sibimet arrogaret patri finxerat. Tac.  that Tiberius taking the cup from the Taster's hand, offered it to Drusus, and that shame and fear not suffering him to refuse it, he swallowed down the poison prepared for his Father: An imposture without appearance, or foundation.  

He who made assay was called in ancient inscriptions Apotione, or Praegustator, by Xenophon, Oinoch●●s. Tac.  This impious act could not so easily have been perpetrated by Drusus, for the Father tasted nothing without assay, which custom was brought from the Persian Court, into the Palaces of the Roman Emperors, since Augustus his time. Make Tiberius as cruel as you will, yet cannot the honour of a wise, cunning, and wary Prince be taken from him, and well he might have been condemned of much imprudence, if he had plotted to make his son away, by the mere advice of Sejanus, and before he were exactly informed of the cause, and confederates of this conspiracy.  
This only proceedeth from the malignity of rumours, 
Atrocior semper fama erga dominantium exitus. Tac.  little favourable to the actions of Princes. All which Tiberius hath done, is curiously collected, and published; but never hath there been creature so transported with hatred, and passion, to dishonour his memory, as to reproach him with Parricide. 
Divulgata atque incredibilia avidè accepta, non sunt antehabenda veris, neque in miraculum corruptis. Tac.  We ought not to receive all which bruit approveth, without suspicion, nor to prefer things incredible, (although divulged, and greedily entertained) before real truth, though oft times disguised with apparent semblances, and frivolous wonders, to impress amazement on minds.  
This death once again restored the hope of succession to the children of Germanicus; 
Simulatio habitum, ac voces d●lentium induit. Tac.  and though the Senate for their love to Tiberius deplored this accident, yet were their tears feigned, and passion without sorrow. There was not a man but was well pleased to see, that by this death the house of Augustus began to reflourish. Drusus likewise was not beloved, but for the inveterate hatred they bore to his Father; 
A segelflatos cay omotatoes. Dion.  for he was much debaushed, and as the vice of another displeaseth even the vicious, his Father oft chid him for these insolent, and haughty humours, which made him to be most quarrelsome, 
Solus, & nullis voluptatibus avocatus, moestam vigilantiam & malas curas exercet. Tac.  and cruel. But the people excused all that, saying, It were better he should pass the night in feasts, the day in theatres, than to languish in the melancholy of solitude, pensive vigils, and pernicious amusements.  
Presently the tears of Tiberius being dried up, 
Negotia pro solatiis.  he went to the Senate to seek out consolation in affairs, 
The Consuls sat on their Sellae curules, and the Senators low, and after them the Praetors, and Tribunes.  and seeing the Senators sit low, he caused them to ascend, putting them in mind of the reverence of the place, and the dignity of their charges, and used his speech to raise up their spirits, which sorrow had dejected.  

The custom of mourning was, not to stir out of the house, nor behold day light. Vix dies à plaerisque lugentium adspicitur. Tac.  Sirs, I may perhaps be condemned, that in so fresh a sorrow, I here am present, and well I wots, that those who are in grief brook not daylight, nor condolement of their friends most near: But as I ascribe not this to weakness of heart, so I desire to let you know, that I have not sought out a greater ease in mine affliction, than the embraces of the common wealth.  
He also said, that the decrepit age of the Empress, took from him the hope of her assistance, that his grandchilds were in their minority, that he already had passed more than the moiety of the course of his life, that he prayed them the children of Germanicus might be admitted, the only remedy, 
Germanici siberi unica praesentium malorum levamenta. Tac.  and consolation of the evils which at this time afflicted him. Nero and Drusus were sent for: 
Egressi consules firmatos eloquio adolescentulos, deductosque ante Caesarem statuunt. Tac.  The Consuls went out of the Senate house to receive them, and after some words spoken to encourage them, they were conducted to the Emperor, who taking them by the hand said.  
(Sirs) when these children lost their father, I committed them to the charge of Drusus my son, and their Cousin, and prayed him, although he had children, to take as much care of them, as of his own proper blood, educate, and preserve them for himself, and posterity: But now that Drusus is taken from them, I address my prayers to you, and conjure you before the Gods, and our Country, that undergoing the performance of my obligation, and yours, you take upon you the breedding, and care of the nephews of Augustus, descended from eminent, and illustrious Personages.  
Afterward casting his eyes on the young Princes, he says to them.  
(Nero my darling, and you Drusus) these Lords, whom you here behold, are your Fathers: The condition of your birth is such, 
●●a nat●a●tis, ut bona maloque vostra ad Remp. Tac.  that the state hath much interest in the good, or evil you shall do.  

In these ocasions they had words proper; of joy, and desire, among the Grecians Agathetuche, and the Latins Quod saustum selixque sit.  The Senate answered not, but with tears, vows, and prayers, and this discourse of Tiberius had served for his honour, had he not thereunto added the same promises, which so often were exploded heretofore, and which much it would have troubled him to keep.  
I protest unto you (Father's Conscript) saith he) I have no other ambition, but to restore Rome to her ancient liberty, and leave the government, either to the Consuls, or some other. These last words were so fare from the intention of him who spoke them, 
Vana, & irrisa, vero, & honesto fidem adimuni. Tac.  and the belief of his auditory, that they took from the first, all the estimation which truth, and honesty might give them.  
All that was nought but mere deceit: This evil Prince thought of nothing but the utter extirpation of Germanicus his family, which the death of Drusus brought into grace. The funerals were prepared in the same equipage, as those of Germanicus, and thereunto many other magnificences were added; 
Addit semper ali quid posterior adulatio. Tac.  For the last adulation is ever most costly. Tiberius' made the funeral oration, as Augustus had done for Agrippa his son in law.  
There was placed a veil between him and the dead body, to the end he might not behold the corpse: for the office of the Pontifex being sacred, it was not lawful for him to look on any thing, dead. The Statues likewise of the Gods were vailed, or transferred from places, where punishments were inflicted: 
So Philo saith, that the high Priest of the jews for that his soul was ever pure saw nothing direful.  Yea Claudius caused, that, of Augustus to be taken from the Theatre of the Gladiators, that it might not ever be present at murder, or be always scarved. Every one bewailed him, who wept not himself: For an object so sad, 
Flente populo non flexit vult●m. Sen.  and apprehensible as this, could not bend his gravity, beholding without passion in himself, how sensible his loss was to others, whilst he would make it appear, he had no sense at all.  
Sejanus standing by his side admired his constancy, but made no profit thereof: For this act taught him of what temper his heart was, 
Sejano ad latus s●●ti experiendum se dedit quam patienter possit suos perdere. Sen.  since he so patiently bore the loss of one so beloved. Can he think, that a Prince who had so little resentment in the death of a son, would care for the loss of his servants. He must learn to be more subtle to know the humour of his Master, who made use of him, as of a felt cloak or gaberdine during the storm; to cast it off when it ceased. Sejanus thought on nothing, but the ruin of Germanicus his house, and when that were done Tiberius would ruin him, for than he should have no further need of him. He dealt presently as with a good horse, when the rider sees him of gentle manage, he makes much of him, and lets him go at pleasure where he list, but in the end Masters him.  
It was not only violence which guided this excessive power of Sejanus, but avarice also bare a part, making him believe all he possessed not, 
Quicquid non acquiritur, damnum est. Sen.  was wholly lost. Dion saith, he was heir of all those, who died without children, This exorbitant covetousness caused the death of Lepida a noble Roman Lady, and Suetonius saying, that Tiberius made Lentulus the Augur dye with grief, to the end he might have no other heir than himself, 
In gratiam Quirini consularis pradivitu, & orbi. Tac.  addeth the process framed against Lepida, was only to gratify Quirinus her husband, who was rich, and without issue.  
The proceeding related by Tacitus is very strange, it was full twenty years she had lived from her husband, 
Exemit Drusum dicenda primo loco Sententia, n●caeteris assentiendi necessitas fieret. Tac.  when he accused her of adultery, poison, and a supposititious child. Tiberius affirmed she had consulted with Chaldeans concerning his house and person. He would not suffer Drusus to deliver his opinion (first) in judgement, that he might leave the opinions free, & not oblige them to follow his.  
There were sports exercised during this process, Lepida went thither with many great and eminent Ladies of the City, and enjoying the privilege of Romans, who never were imprisoned during their accusation, nor after judgement, unless the offence were capital, as she entered into Pompey's Theatre, 
Ammian Marcolputs Pompey's Theatre Inter decora urbis aeternae.  she turned her eyes on the statues which stood there in many places, and implored aid of him from whom she was descended. This was done with much exclamation, and abundance of tears, that it moved the people, but especially the women, to pity her, and to cry out against Quirinus, 
Adstantes effusi in lachrimas, saeva, et detestanda Quirino clamitant. Tac.  calling him wicked creature, for that he so inhumanely had used a wife who having been promised to Lucius Caesar the son of Augustus, had by this marriage much honoured him, as if they would have said, that by reason he was old, 
Lepida cui super Emiliorum decus L. Silla, ac Cu. Pompeius proavi erant. Tac.  and without children, & beside of mean condition, his wife should do well to make him wear the horn.  
The process coming to trial, verdicts propended to the commiseration of a woman extracted from noble blood, sequestered twenty years from her husband, and where the accusations were only proved by slaves: But Rubellius Blandus concludes for banishment, 
Adsensit Drusus, quamvis alii mitiares, censuissent. Tac.  Drusus was of his opinion, and he drew those to him, who stood not so much for rigour. The Prince ought not to deliver his opinion first, 
Quo loco censebis Caesar? si primus, habebo quod sequar, si post omnes vercor ne imprudent dissentiam. Tac.  nor last, it is for him to conclude, and decree, Piso confidently said the same to Tiberius in the beginning of his Empire. In what rank (O Caesar) would you deliver your opinion? if in the first, I were bound to follow you, if in the last, our opinions may happen to differ, & so I might commit a fault against my will.  
Dion observeth another mean, to get the inheritance of a rich man. Sextus Marius had a daughter young and beautiful, Tiberius affecteth her, the father removes her to a country house. To enforce their return, they are accused of incest. 
He lives too long, who survives his own honour.  The daughter says to the father: Let us not afford them the content to dispose of us at their pleasure, nor so fare to prevail, as to hinder us from dying honestly. I have not used to pray to any, but the Gods; and to Sejanus I will never be beholding for my life, upon the price of that, which is more dear to me, than a thousand lives. Marius' ashamed to see his courage stand in need of his daughter's example, slew himself first, and she after did the like.  
This death much benefited Tiberius and Sejanus: For they were the heirs of Marius, 
The same hand which doth the injury maketh amends.  a man so rich, that being offended with a neighbour of his, he invited him to his house, made him good cheer for two days together. On the first he pulled down his house, on the second he re-edified it again more fair and large. The owner thereof returning on the third day, was amazed at this alteration; Marius said to him, I have done the one as thy enemy to be revenged on thee, and the other as thy friend, for the good I wish thee. 
Delatores genu● hominum publico exitio repertum, & paenu quidem nunquam satis coercitum, per praemia eliciebantur. Tac.   
There was then no safety in Rome, but for Informers, a pernicious sort of people, whom disorder had put into credit, to ruin & overthrow all, and who were so countenanced, that their calumny was not only unpunished, but recompensed. The more implacable, & stiff they were to maintain a falsehood, and outbrave truth, the more they were rewarded, nor was it a less offence to displease them, than things holy and sacred. 
 quis districtior accusator velut sacro sanctus erat, lo ves ignobiles paenis afficiebantur. Tac.  Others who would not belie their own consciences, nor deliver their opinions contrary to truth, were despised and punished.  
Vibius Serenus proconsul of the lower Spain, was accused by his own son to have conspired against the Emperor, and to have sent men into Gallia to incite, 
Miseriarum, ac saevitiae exemplum atrox, reus pater, accusator filius. Tac.  and stir up the people. He appeareth in the nasty, and dirty frock of his voyage, (for he was but now freshly returned from banishment) and though he saw his life in imminent peril, yet had he a firm countenance before the judges, and with an eye of indignation and menace beheld his son jocund and merry. Stamping with his feet up and down for anger, and making a noise with his chains (for he was brought thither by the soldiers that guarded him) he lifted his hands to heaven, prayed the Gods to send him back to the place from whence he came, and to punish the ingratitude, and impiety of his son. Nature so unworthily outraged, 
How soe'er the matter go with the son: the father should despoil himself of the office of a father, to play the part of a judge.  prompted him these imprecations, not suffering he should show himself as a father, to this wicked villain, who had revolted from the duty of a son. A father should content himself with a light punishment, for a heavy fault: but this disloyalty was so prodigious, 
Pro peceato magno paululum supplicii satu est patri.  that it drew from his heart this prayer to the Gods for his chastisement: whersoever monsters are found they are strangled, without consideration of whence they are: Birds are fed, which come from forests, 
In silvis ortas aviculas pascitis, & domi natos scorpionesoc ciditis. Petr.  and scorpions killed which are bred in the house.  
This countenance so confident impressed in the minds of the judges an opinion of the innocency of the father, and made the wickedness of the son appear, who was so terrified with remorse of conscience, and the murmur of people threatening him prison, stoning to death, and the punishment of parricides, that he fled to Ravenna, 
Exequi accusationem adigitur. Tac.  from whence Tiberius recalled him, enforcing him to pursue his accusation, for he by all means desired to be rid of Serenus, having upon his stomach the distaste of a letter which he had written eight years before, 
Haud tutum contumacius loqui apud aures superbas, & offensioni proniores. Tac.  in terms more arrogant than ears, proud, and curious to resent offences, could suffer. The Senators gave their opinions hereupon. Gallus Asinius advised he should be banished to the Lands of Gyara, or Donusa: which Tiberius disliked, because there was no water either in the one, 
Dandus vita usus, cui vita conceditur Tac.  or other, saying it was but reason, to give those men means of life, who were suffered to live, Cruel pity! He was willing the commodities of life should serve for the continuance, and entertainment of the miseries of affliction.  
It was permitted to the most wicked to accuse the most honest, to revile them with injuries, and give affronts: Masters durst not threaten servants either with word or finger. There was no exorbitancy, 
Religion gave to the Temples of the God's liberty, and flattery to the statues of Princes.  which was not dissembled for those, who could shelter themselves under Caesar's Image. The same liberty which encouraged the criminal, gave also confidence and occasion to commit the crime. 
The custom was thereof in Rome from the time of julius Caesar.  This great reverence done to Tiberius, was showed in other places as well as Rome, his statues being had in as much veneration, as Olympic jupiter: 
Capital circa Augusti simulacrum servum occidisse.  in such sort that a master was condemned of impiety, because he had strucken his servant, bearing a piece of coin ensculpted with the image of Caesar.  
Annia Rufillia had been falsely condemned by the Senate at the suit of Cestius. She vexed thereat, expected him at the Palace gate, near unto Tiberius' statue, from whence as a place of malediction, she thundered against him all manner of calumnies, which are the weapons of weak spirits. 
The place where Theseus cursed the Athenians, in the Burg of Gargettus, was called Araterion, the place of malediction. Plut.  Cestius durst not demand reparation, because she had reproached him through favour, and near the statue of Tiberius. He made complaint, and spoke in full Senate these memorable words.  
Princes possess the place of Gods, 
Principes instar deorum suut, sed noque à diis, nisi justae supplicum preces audiuntur. Tac.  but the Gods hear none, but just prayers of suppliants. There is not any one hath recourse to the Capitol, or the other Temples of the City, as to a Sanctuary to commit an outrage: but thy Laws are abolished, & turned up-side down, since in a public place, at the entrance of the Palace we are enforced to suffer wrongs, 
Non licet jus experiri ob effigiem Imperatoris oppositam. Tac.  to hear menaces without hope of justice, for respect given to the Emperor's statue.  
Had the History said nothing else, to represent the state of the miserable reign of Tiberius, this would be enough to manifest violence and disorder, and who understandeth the carriage of Sejanus, cannot be ignorant, how the State was governed. Pitiful then was the condition of a Roman Citizen: it was dangerous to speak, 
Crimen ex silentio, ex voce. Tac.  or to be silent, only thoughts passed without mulct, or peril, so that the countenance made not appear, either joy for Agrippina, or malice against Sejanus. This absolute power which he had over the wealth of the Romans, made some say, it were good to dwell in Rome, and have their estate out of the extent of the Roman Empire.  

Vacia nulla re alia quam otio notua consenuit, & ob hoc unum foelix habebatur. Sen.  Vacia, a wealthy man, and who had been Praetor, retired to his Country house, finding no freedom against violence, but solitude. It was a difficult matter for men of these times, to make any resolution; for it was supposed, who di● so of his own accord, was so fare alienated from nature, that he stood exalted above it with the Gods, or was cast under it among bruit beasts. As often as the friendship of Asinius Gallus, a kinsman of Agrippina's, or the malice of Sejanus had ruined any, the men of this age cried loudly our, 
O Vacia, solus scis v●vere. Sen.  O Vacia, there is none but thou, who knows how to live.  
The solitary life was the most secure, 
Vita ruftica parsimoniae, jus●itiae, ac diligentiae magistra-Cic.  the civil most perilous, and the rustic most acceptable, so is it likewise the mistress of frugality, diligence, integrity, and simplicity. It was not attended with so much honour, nor gave such contentment as heretofore, when the great Captains went from Triumph to the Cart, from Tillage to Arms, 
Attilii manus rustico opere attritae salutem publicam stabilicrunt. Vol.  and from Harvest to the Senate. The earth in those times took delight to yield fruits in abundance, 
Gaudebattellus vomere laurea to. Plin.  and acknowledge the labour of those victorious hands, which tilled her with a Coulter, crowned with Laurel.  
Sejanus, this torrent of pride and insolency, overflowed all: There was not a creature stayed him, all be encountered were utterly ruined. 
It is not safe to commit so many, and so great charges, to the fortune of one. Par. de Fab.  Tiberius was blamed for submitting the fortune of the Empire to the discretion of one sole man, and his will to the power of his servant.  
Ambition is oft times put blind, 
Evil enterprises succeed against the undertakers.  when it should be clear sighted, and thinking to walk the right way, wanders: It ruined Sejanus, and caused his designs to succeed otherwise than he hoped. He promised himself, that Germanicus being dead, nothing could hinder him but Drusus, he poisoneth him, and behold the succession (doubtless) stands for Germanicus his children. It is necessary for establishment of his tyranny, that he overthrew it, which he undertakes, and that the more boldly, 
Ferox scelerum, quia prima provenerant. Tac.  because his precedent outrages succeeded so prosperously, that the father neglecteth to revenge the death of his son.  
He makes him believe his enemies will derive profit from this loss, that Agrippina is resolved to reign. He needeth no great art to persuade him; 
Nun dubia Germanici liberorum successio. Tac.  for he saw the succession open, and this woman thoroughly resolved to bite the apple. He is determined to cause the mother and her children to perish, Sejanus herein finds himself much perplexed: For to think to corrupt Agrippina, as he had done Livia, there was no likelihood, she being of a chastity invincible, 
Sparga venenum in tres non poterat, egregiâ custodum fide, & pudicitiâ Agrippinae impenetrabili. Tac.  and impenetrable: To give poison unto three at once was impossible; and severally, difficult; so great was the fidelity, and vigilance of their servants.  
Besides, this Lady could not be treated withal, as other women: All the City was for her, the most confident and shameless calumny durst not seize on her, she walked firmly between the jealousy of Tiberius, and ambition of Sejanus, who found no shorter way to ruin her, than to animate the Emperor against her, by causing him to observe her courage, and her hopes.  
He lost no time herein, but in a short space met with a fit occasion, to make his wicked design break into action. In the beginning of the year, 
Solennia vota pro incolumitate tuâ, quá salus publica continetur, & suscipimus, & solvimus. Plin.  they used to sacrifice to jupiter an Ox with gilded bornes, for the Safety of the Prince, (which is the weal of the State:) The Pontiffes, and other Priests, by their example recommended to the same Gods, Nero and Drusus, sons of Germanicus, not so much for the love of them, as to please Tiberius, thereby to let him know how much they desired to perpetuate the Empire in his house. Good manners were so much forgotten, 
Adulatio moribus corruptis perinde ancepa, si nulla, & ubi nimia est. Tac.  that it was not more dangerous to flatter too much, than not at all.  
Tiberius was perplexed to see their youth hold way with his age, 
Primores modicè perstringendi. Tac.  for which cause he asked the Pontiffes, whether they had done it at the instant entreaties, or threats of Agrippina, and they answering no, he rebuked them, but temperately; for they were for the most part, either Allies of Agrippina, or of the prime men of the City. He hastens presently to the Senate on this occasion, frames a large discourse, to show them that henceforward, The minds of weak and mutable young men should not be thrust into pride, 
Mobiles adolescentium animi, praematuris honoribus ad superbiam non extollendi. Tac.  by honours immaturely conferred upon them.  
Yea, Sejanus made more noise hereupon than Tiberius, saying; All would run to ruin, since no more difference was made between the Prince, and his kinsmen; That the City of Rome would fall into division, as in the civil broils, 
Facta tribu● dominis communis Roma. Lucan.  when it had three Lords, Caesar, Pompey, and Crassus; That the authority of the Emperor would be the least; That the desire of ancient liberty was awakened; That the faction of Agrippina would be set up, which not resisted, their number would be the greater; 
Nullum aliud gliscentis discordiae remedium, si unus alterve maximè prompti subvertantur. Tac.  That no other remedy could be found for the discord which began to advance, and multiply, but by causing one or two of them presently to be put to death.  

Amicitia Germanici pernitiosa utrique. Tac.  He threatened only two, and aimed at many, but he supposed, that these two C. Silius, and T. Sabinus should fall from so high an eminence, that all the rest would be warned by their ruin. Their noble affection to the house of Germanicus, had in no degree degenerated from the nature of true friendship, although it were not only barren, but unfortunate to them. 
Turpe aliis gratificari per deed cousin proprium. Tac.  Varro the Consul wickedly accommodating his conscience, and honour to the passion of Sejanus, accuseth Caius Silius, and Sosia Galla his wife, T. Sabinus was reserved for another time, and although they made it appear this pursuit was violent, and that Varro ought to stay till he were out of his Consulship, yet process was framed as in case of treason, though they were accused for nothing but to have converted the moneys of the common wealth to their own use, and of which sums no man required restitution: 
Proprium Tiberio scelera nuper reperta priscis verbis obtegere. Tac.  But Tiberius was so wary, that he gave the titles of most odious crimes to the slightest faults. Silius seeing that, makes no defence, and when ●e speaks, it is but to show the pursuit is too potent; but foreseeing it was not in his power to save himself, 
Immineus damnatio voluntario fine praevertitur. Tac.  his courage counselleth him to prevent a necessary death by a voluntary. Sosia was sent into banishment.  
His imprudence, and vanity hastened his ruin, for he forbore not to boast that Tiberius was bound to him for the Empire, and that if the Legions which he commanded in Germany had revolted as the rest, he had not long held out. This reproach touched the soul of Tiberius to the quick; 
Clitus was undone for saying Alexander was Master over the lives of the Macedonians Plut.  For it destroyed his fortune, gave him no share in the prosperous success of affairs, and made it known it was not in his power to free himself from this obligation. 
Beneficia co usque laeta sunt dum videntur solvi posse, ubi multum antevenere, pro gratia odium redditur. Tac.  When the service is so great that it cannot condignly be rewarded, Princes account it not only as nothing, but as an offence, hatred possessing the place of recompense, and disgrace of thankes.  
It is a safer way to be obliged to a Master, than to oblige, and the service which cannot be recompensed, makes the servant troublesome.  
In the midst of all this Sejanus sees himself so fare removed from his hopes, that he redoubleth his speed to arrive thither, and by a blind imprudence gives notice thereof to Tiberius. It is true he was forced thereunto by the ordinary exclamations of Livia, who ceaseth not to challenge him of his promise to legitimate their loves, and to change the title of a Mistress, into, that, of a wife. Sejanus gives her words for effects, she grows angry, 
Reason should say to choler, what the nurse doth to the child, cry not, and you shall have it. Plut. Sejanus nimia fortunâ secors, & muliebri cupidine incensus. Tac.  he appeaseth her, she weeps, be flatters, & although reason tells her, as Nurses do children, Cry not, and you shall have it; yet patience is forgotten, her heart is like a mine which breaketh with so much the more ruin, and noise, as it is restrained and enforced. He suffers himself to be transported by the ambition of this woman, who thought to marry the title of Augusta with this husband, and so he to please her discovereth her purpose to the Emperor, entreating him to give way to this marriage. He presenteth his suit, and although infinitely favoured, broke not the custom to treat with the Prince by writing.  
Caesar paused, to the end he might have time to consider of that which was demanded, and what he should answer, and to make the expedition of affairs more easy: for the affluence of them was so great, and the City of such extent, that it was impossible to satisfy all in an instant. Augustus wrote all his answers, 
Serm●n●s èlibello habuit, ne plus minusve loqueretur. Suet.  that he might speak neither more nor less, than what he had premeditated. The subject of his request being bold, he presented it with much presumption: A fearful suppliant is the more confidently denied: 
Qui timidè ragat, negare docet.  to beg softly and negligently is to doubt either of the merit of your request, or the power of him whom you petition. He useth a compliment of gratitude, and acknowledgement, for this good Courtier never began by way of supplication, and he thereunto addeth a pernicious flattery, protesting he taketh this course, to treat of his affairs, rather with his Masters than the Gods. It was delivered in these terms.  

Spes, & vota non prius ad principum aures, quàm ad Deos. Tac.  The good which Augustus hath wished me, and that you have done for me in many occasions (O Caesar) oblige me, not, to address my vows and hopes to the ears of the Gods, 
Qui excubias & labores ut unus militum pro incolumitate principis mavult, haud unquam honorum fulgorem precatur. Tac.  before I first offer them to yours, which importeth thus much as to tell you, though I never sought the eminent splendour of honours, and that my ambition hath wholly been to watch, and toil, even as the meanest gregarian soldier for your safeguard and weal; yet I notwithstanding enjoy this comfort, (which I value above all the rest) to have been reputed not unworthy the alliance of Caesar's, by the marriage of my daughter with the son of Claudius. This is the foundation of my hope, 
Augustus in collocanda filiâ nonnihil de equitibus Romanis consultavit. Tac.  and forasmuch as I have heard, Augustus purposing to marry his daughter, had an intention to make choice of a Roman Knight, I humbly entreat, if you seek out one for Livia the widow of your son, you would be pleased to remember him, whom you ever have loved, and who therein hath no other aim, but the honour of your alliance, and not te leave those offices wherewith you have dignified him. 
Satis vixit, qui vitam cum principe explevit. Tac.  It sufficeth me my house may have a support against the malice of Agrippina, besides what I do is merely for affection to my children: As for myself I rest contented with life, since I have wholly passed it hitherto in the service of such a Prince.  
Tiberius' having praised the good nature of Sejanus, and remembered in few words the gratitude he returned, answereth, 
Tempus ad integram consultationem necessarium. Tac.  this affair required time for a full resolution, and spoke in this manner.  
The undertake of ordinary men willingly rest upon profit, but the condition of Princes is quite otherwise: 
Praecipua rerum ad famam dirigenda. Tac.  For they should direct the principal scope of their ends to reputation, wherefore I will not reply to your demand so fully as I could. Livia may dispose of herself, if she resolve to marry, or patiently abide in the house of my son Drusus, 
Matris & aviae propi●ra consilia. Tac.  in which point she may have counsel much nearer, than mine; of her Grandmother, and her mother: But as for myself, I will freely give you my advice. And first concerning the enmities of Agrippina it is undoubted, they will more ardently be inflamed, if the marriage of Livia should divide the family of the Caesars into diverse factions. Thereupon jealousies of women will break forth, 
Quid s●intendatur certamen?  and by this discord my nephews will enter into contestation, and what will you say, if you must fight for this alliance?  

What will become of thee if thou be'st called?  Thou deceivest thyself (Sejanus) if thou thinkest still to continue in the same state, or that Livia is of such a disposition, as to be willing to live with a Roman Knight, 
Vix cum equity Romano senes●et que nupsit Caesari. Tac.  having espoused Caesar, and after him Drusus: and though I give my consent dost thou believe, they, who have seen her Brother, Father, and our ancestors in sovereign dignities, will endure I should suffer it? Resolve thyself to live as thou art. 
There is no desire so regular, which stays where it gins.  But the magistrates and prime men of state, who visit thee to disease thee, and ask counsel of thee upon all occasions, know well thou wilt not rest there, that thou hast raised thyself above the quality of a Knight, and that I have much exceeded the limits of the love my Father bore thee. In public they dissemble it, but in private blame my affection for their hatred of thee. 
Excessit equestre fastigiam Sejanus. Tac.  You will say Augustus purposed to bestow his daughter upon a Roman Knight verily it is strange, that he (having a mind rectified to think of all, and foreseeing even to what degree of power that man might climb, whom he, by this alliance should prefer before others) never spoke of Caius Proculeius, 
Augusti animus in omnes oras distrahitur. Tac.  and some others of remarkable tranquillity of life, who never in any kind intermeddled in state affairs. 
Insignis vitae tranquillitas nullis R. P. negotiis permixta. Tac.  But if we be amazed at his irresolution, yea, even in the advancement of these; How much more may we wonder, that he married his daughter first to Agrippa, and afterward to me? This is it which my friendship will not suffer me to conceal, and as for the other faction I do assure thee I will never prefer it before thy designs, nor those of Livia. I will not at this present tell thee what I resolve to do before the year be passed, 
Nihil tam excelsum, quod non mereantur virtutes. Tac.  nor by what alliance I desire to link thee unto me: I will only give thee assurance, there is nothing so eminent to which thy virtues, and the affection thou bearest me may not arrive, and when occasion of speech shall be offered, either to the Senate, or people, I will not therein be silent. 
In the commerce of love, and ambition; reason is a coin nothing currant.  But Sejanus more trusted his own thoughts than Tiberius his words, and his soul frantic with this ambition, no longer was capable of reason. Much ado hath he had to come hither, there is no way to pass any further. The Ascent hath been difficult, slippery, and craggy, when he shall arrive on the top, he shall find nothing but danger, and round about him a gaping precipice.  
Tiberius not willing to ruin him, made it appear his course was dangerous, which he would rectify. He that showeth the place, where one hath miss the ready way, obligeth no less, than he who directeth which way to go. He lets him know that this marriage will be a perpetual source of discord, in the house of the Caesars, and that those things which serve for Cement, 
Vincula charitatis apud concords, sunt incitamenta irarum apud infensos. Tac.  among such as well accord, cause hatred in the minds of those, who are already moved.  
But Sejanus is not so much troubled with the success of his marriage, as with suspicions which began to be hatched in Tiberius his brain against this mighty and puissant authority, he usurped over affairs, which in short time make confidence degenerate into fear, affection into jealousy, and liberty into necessity.  

Praecipuum indicium magni principis, magni liberti.  When servants are too great, it is no good sign of the greatness of a Prince; yet is it a thing proper to great Princes, to raise merits, and recompense services: for, 
Incujus●unque animo virtus sit, ei plurimum tribu●ndum. Vell.  Wheresoever virtue is found, it will be honoured: More it considereth the person than nation; industry, than birth. In all times Rome hath beheld new men raised to mighty honours. T. Coruncanus chief Pontifex, Sp. Carvillius Consul, M. Cato Censor, Mummius triumphant, and Marius six times Consul.  
It is a madness to oppose the pleasure of a Prince; when he saith, I will, he gives an account what he doth. 
Conse●ratus est vivens senti●nsque Euthymus, nihilque adeo mirum aliud, quam hoc; placuisse Diis. Plin.  We wonder that Euthymus was put into the number of Gods, before his death, and that in his life, he received sacrifices: but we are paid with this only reason, jupiter will have it so.  
To take the power from a Prince, to raise inferiors, and to humble the greatest, is to snatch the sceptre out of his hand, to make his authority a scarecrow, and extinguish the radiant light of Majesty. It concerneth the State, 
Interest reipubli●ae quod usu necessarium, & dignitate eminere, utilitatemque authoritate munir. V●ll. Dub u● an fato principum inclinatio in hos, offensio in illos, an sit aliquid in nostris consiliis. Tac.  that liberality acknowledge desert; and affection support service. The condition of a Prince would be very hard, if he might not choose amongst the infinite number of his servants, some one worthy of a nearer trust, according to the happiness of election, or strength of merit.  
It importeth not, whether favour cause jealousy in great ones, envy in equals, hatred in inferiors, so it disturb not the course of affairs, and that particular interest swallow not up the public; 
 pauci illustrentur mundus evertitur: unius honour, orbis excidium est. Sal.  for when this happeneth, and that to enrich a few Favourites, the State must be empoverished, all runs to confusion: the Prince so ill disposing of his favours, is despised, as having neither judgement, nor justice in his election, and the Favourite findeth, 
Nullum gravius suppli●ium odio pullico. Sen. Fluxa fama potentiae non suis viribus nixa. Tac.  there is no heavier punishment, than public hate.  
If the Prince please, he casteth him as low, as he raised him high, and there needeth but a blast to overthrow a power, which cannot subsist by its own forces. Tiberius (truly) hath some cause of suspicion, upon this excessive power of Sejanus, but the affection the people bear to the house of Germanicus vexeth him more: and Sejanus, who saw his imagination wounded upon this point, representeth the peril greater than it is, awakeneth in the heart of the Empress, the old rancours she had conceived against Agrippina; 
Choler is appointed as a companion for reason: and S. Basil calleth it, The sinnew of the soul.  this remembrance moves choler in her, and anger, which is the sinnew that giveth the sprightliest motion's to the soul, makes her consider she shall be nothing, if her enemy be aught.  
To cause this apprehension to penetrate more sensibly into her mind, he employeth Mutilia Prisca, her trusty friend, and more to gain her, practiseth upon julius Posthumus, who made love to her. 
Regibus aequa, nedum infirma insolita sunt. Tac.  The Empress instantly was stirred with hopes to supplant Agrippina, and the fear not only to go below, but equal with her, furnished her with sufficient cunning, to make her more odious to Tiberius, than (as yet) she was. Besides, Sejanus had suborned men, 
Facilis foeminarum credulitas ad gaudia. Tac.  who entertained Agrippina with vanities, and breathed into her soul the sweet hopes of government; and as things pleasing easily enter into the belief of women, she rendered herself more prompt, to minister matter of suspicion to Tiberius, and of contentment to the people.  
But the age being so corrupted, that although it was held a virtue, 
Tiberii saeculo magna pietas fuit nihil impie sacere. Sen.  not to do a mischief, and piety to do nothing wickedly; yet Tiberius resolving to do no good for Agrippina, feared to be condemned of impiety and ingratitude, if he did her any injury. His indignation therefore not daring to fall directly upon her, assaulted first her friends and allies. Claudia Pulchra her cousin, was accused of adultery with Furnius, of charms and poison against Tiberius.  

Domitius Afer quoque crimine clarescere propensus. Tac.  Domitius Afer, who at any rate would make a fortune, was the accuser: He was in the list of those whom Sejanus entertained, and used as an inferior instrument to remove great engines. On this accusation, Agrippina wholly inflamed with anger, both for the injury done to her, and the peril of her kinswoman, seeketh out Tiberius, and finding him, offering sacrifice for his father, saith;  
It is disproportionable to sacrifice victims to Augustus, and persecute his posterity. The spirit of this great Prince is not confined to his dumb statues, 
Non in effigies mutas divinas spiritus transfusus. Tac.  but his true image, (which is sprung from his celestial blood) Well knoweth the difference, by the evil usage is done him, he being reduced to the miserable condition of the accused. 
Pulchrae sola exitii causa, quod Agrippinam stultè prorsus ad cultum dilexerit. Tac.  It is not Pulchra is aimed at, but myself, I am the only cause of her ruin, she hath done no ill, but in showing to have no other affection, but for the service of Agrippina, and that imprudently: For she ought to have remembered, that Sofia Galla was banished for the same.  
This discourse so galled Tiberius, that he could no further dissemble, but drew from the bottom of his heart a word sharp and strange, for his humour, who accustomed not to be so clear: For after he had told her she must moderate her passion, he addeth a Greek verse to this purpose. Daughter, you think you have wrong, if you command not. If Agrippina understood Greeke, this speech could not pass without an answer; and it is most certain, Ladies of this quality were learned, Agrippina her daughter wrote an History, Augustus commended her wit, 
Augustus' quadam epistola Agrippinae neptis ingenium collandavit, & scripta. Suet.  as one who long time had lived in Athens, and other Cities of Greece with Germanicus her husband, to understand certain graces of speech.  
And it is without doubt, that this word touching his ambition to the quick, and heating her choler, she could not hold from saying this, either in the place, or in her retirement.  
Now, I pray, behold in what case we are, since the hope of a woman causeth jealousy in Tiberius, and fear in Sejanus. If I have been ambitious, it is not for myself, 
Mihi nunquam persuadebunt, ut meos amari à mo nimis, unquam putem. Plin.  my sex wrongs my courage: If I desire to reign, it is but among children. What reason is there I should love mine own less than I do? I have ashare in that which Heaven allots them, and I would have them know, if I desire not their advancement, I cannot be a mother; and if I wish them not that, which belongs to their father, I cannot be the daughter of Augustus. 
Agrippina semper atrox, pervicax irae. aequi impaticus. Tac.  Let him call me haughty, proud, and impatient, as long as he will, I cannot be other towards that insolent man, whom he entitleth his companion, and who will be such with my children, who hath allied himself with the Claudii, thrust in his images among the Caesars, thrown down the Pompey's, extendeth his authority above the Senate, was the death of my husband, hath ruined his family, persecuted my friends and allies. Yes (truly) I am angry I command not; But I should be ashamed to command so impiously, and unjustly.  
But to what purpose are menaces used, where power is wanting? 
Weakness and choler ill match together.  There is nothing more unequal than to be weak, and quickly moved with choler. This mood of Agrippina profited her nothing, and advanced the condemnation of Furnius, and Pulchra. Domitius Afer, who had showed himself eloquent in their accusation, was commended by Tiberius, and put in the rank of the prime Orators, but with more reputation of speaking, 
Prosperior Afro eloquentiae, quàm morum fama. Tac.  than doing well. The decrepitness of his age, cut off much of the estimation of his eloquence: For his spirits being grown weary and faint, he could not maintain his speech.  
It was doubted whether the condemnation of these two Lovers were according to the julian Law, ordained by Augustus against Adulterers, for that was too mild to content the cruelty of Tiberius, and boldness of Sejanus, which being rather shamefast than severe, 
Relegation more gentle than banishment. Namque religatus, non exul dicor. Ovid.  did only banish Delinquents out of the city of Rome.  
Number moderated the rigour of the punishment: for had it been capital, families had become deserts. Seneca saith, this excess was so common in his time, 
Argumentum est deformitatis pudicitia: nunquam invenies tam miseram, tam sordidam, ut illi satis sit unum adulterorum par, nisi singulis dividat horas, & non sufficit dies omnibus. Sen.  that chastity was a note of deformity; for to be wise, there was no need of beauty: That there was not a woman so miserable and contemptible, who contented herself with a couple of servants, gave not to each one his hour, and to whom the longest day seemed not too short. It was by Law decreed, that she who had a Roman Knight, for grandfather, father, or husband, might not be a Prostitute. Vistilia extracted from a family of Praetors, declared before the Aediles, she desired her youth might not be barren, nor her beauty unknowen; in a word that she was a Courtesan. 
Satis poenarum adversum impudicas in ipsa professione flagiti●. Tac.  This was all the penalty, which custom imposed upon these vicious women, that the ignominious declaration of one so wretched and infamous, might serve for a punishment. Tiberius' commanded her to be shut up in the Island of Seriphos. We must believe Sejanus rendered him not more merciful towards the kinswoman of Agrippina his enemy; for exceeding the severity of his Predecessors, he already had caused Aquilia to be condemned to banishment, 
Aquiliam quanquam Consul lege Iulia damnasset, exilio punivit. Tac.  although the Consul only did it by virtue of the julian Law.  
Agrippina was so incensed to see her kinswoman thus unworthily used, that she thereupon sickened. Tiberius visiteth her, and after compliments of good wishes for her health, sorrow instantly drew sighs from the heart, and tears from the eyes of the sick, when having deplored the misery, and ruin of her house, she besought the Emperor to ease her afflictions, give her leave to marry, her youth being unable to continue in this solitude; nor any other contentment remaining among honest women of this her age, but wedlock, 
Non aliud probis, quam ex matrimonio solatium. Tac.  as also that he would be pleased seriously to embrace the protection of the widow and children of Germanicus.  
This request which I (O Father) make to you is not because I am either troubled at my solitariness, or that there is any thing in the world can re-enkindle my love, the first being raked up in the ashes of Germanicus, and which shall never be revived.  
This is not a matter to give me content, there is none left for me: But if the Gods have (as yet) decreed any favour for me, they must afford me a new heart to entertain it: For they never hitherto have allowed any to mine, but acerbities, it not being able to hold, or retain pleasures. I stand in need of one who may comfort, not my courage, but cherish my patience against mine enemies. 
Reason of state is a contravention against common Reason in respect of one reason, or one benefit much greater and more universal.   
State rules, which transcend all the reasons of ordinary laws, could not approve this her demand, because being a woman as well praised for chastity, as fruitfulness, she would have filled a house with grandchildren of Augustus, who all one day might pretend to the succession of the Empire.  
For which cause Tiberius considering the prejudice the state was like to receive thereby, made her no answer, and that he might give her no further notice, either of his distaste or fear, he slightly retired, not speaking one word. 
An advised answer neither discovers the offence nor fear. Ne offensio, aut metus prodatur. Tac.  This silence, and slackness the more inflamed Agrippina, but since the first arrows of revenge are injuries, and what cannot be done through want of power, is in heat of anger wished, 
Prima semper irarum tela maledicta sunt & quicquid non possumus imbecilli, optamus irati. Salu.  she vomited all out, which lay on her heart. Sejanus who knew how to take his time, ponders all this, and by an officious disloyalty causeth to be said to this Lady, that the designs which Tiberius hath concealed in his heart against her, are now on the point to break forth, that he is resolved to poison her, and therefore wished her to take nothing, either from his hand, 
Solum insidiarum remedium, si non intelligantur. Tac.  or of his meat. Agrippina who out of her wisdom was not to make show of this counsel, for the danger might ensue in taking notice to know the purposes of the Prince, presently bore her heart on her forehead, & being at his table, stiffly resolved on silence and abstinence. When he saw, she had not tasted of an apple, which he presented her with his own hand, and that she gave it to those who waited at the table, he turned to his mother, and said in her ear. It is not to be wondered at, 
Non mirum si princeps quid severius statuit in eum a quo veneficii insimulatur. Tac.  if I heretofore have decreed any harsh thing against this woman, since she accounts me a poisoner.  
Where distrust gins, friendship ends: From this instant their spirits became irreconciliable, and the rumour ran thorough Rome, Tiberius would put Agrippina to death, either in private, or public.  
Thereupon Tiberius makes a voyage to Naples, the design whereof had often been resolved, set on foot again, and broken of. 
Certus procul urbe degere. Tac.  He said it was to dedicate a Temple to jupiter at Capua, and another to Augustus at Nola, 
Augustus' died at Nola. Cum saevitiam, ac libidinem factis promoret, locis occultabat. Tac.  where he died, but his intention was to absent himself from the City. It is certain that Sejanus knowing his humour, advised this retirement that he might have opportunity at his pleasure to rule him: but because he remained there five years after his death, I suppose, he chose this place to cover the exorbitances of his life. 
Weak old age makes a Prince to be despised. Dion speaks it of Tiberius and Nerva. Dia togeras cataphronoumenon.   
There are some hold opinion; it was also to conceal his old age which made him contemptible, and that he might not expose his body to public view, which was ready to fall in pieces, and his spirit to issue our, as it were from a building the walls whereof are ruinated, and planchers rotten. This ill habit of body, made him ashamed: he was tall of stature, meager and thin, his shoulders crooked and hollow, his head bald, and void of hair, his face overrun with bushes, and mattery botches, 
Adrian was the first Emperor who let his beard grow to cover his scars.  and always spotted and disfigured with plasters: The hair of his beard covered not his deformities, for the Emperors ware none. His nature was pleased with solitariness, and used it much at Rhodes, where he fled from company, to hide the shame of his own excesses, and those of his wife.  

Sovereign authority is incapable of company.  One of the most apparent reasons was his impatience, not being any longer able to endure near his mother, who would do all, nor could he take the authority out of her hands, he having received the Empire from her. 
Matrem dominationis sociam aspernabatur. Tac.  Upon all occasions she upbraided him, that he teigned not but by her means, that he was no less obliged to her for his fortune, than his birth. Nor is it to be doubted; for Livia perceiving Augustus would declare Germanicus his successor, upon the conceit this election would be acceptable to the people, (who loved and applauded him) obtained so much by her prayers, and conjurations, that Tiberius was assured of Empire, after Augustus, and Germanicus after Tiberius. Livia put him in mind hereof, The memory was a reproach, 
Qui exprobrat, reposcit. Tac.  the reproach a summons of acknowledgement, and the failing herein, Ingraritude.  
He then undertook this journey to absent himself from his Mother, and was attended by very few, 
Martino participe Sejanus Curtium Atticum oppressit. Tac.  One Senator Cocceius Nerva skilful in the laws, Sejanus, one Knight, and Curtius Atticus whom Sejanus ruined. The other were men of learning, and for the most part Grecians; For he entertained himself with their discourses, was delighted with the riches and elegance of this language, and spoke it distinctly, properly, and eloquently, which is not done without the help of nature, art, and propriety. Many can speak, few express themselves, for to express well it is requisite the discourse be ever to the purpose, the words good, the consequence without confusion. 
He that meddleth in many matters gives fortune much power over him.   
Besides the contentment Sejanus received in wholly possessing his Master, he managed his affairs with more safety, and less envy: but ever gave fortune much advantage over himself. 
Qui assiduos in domum cetus arcet, in●ringit potentiam: qui recipit, facultatem criminantibus praebet. Tac.  His abode in Rome was not so proper, for dismissing the ordinary companies from his house, he lost his friends, in entertaining them, he made the number to be known, and gave suspicion to the Master. He also had another benefit; for receiving the packets which the soldiers of the guard brought, he became sole arbitrator of dispatches.  

Soldiers carried packets of letters and were called Spies.  All the functions of Tiberius his soul were depraved in this ill leisure, and all the faculties he had were dissolved into delights, which Sejanus perpetually seasoned with some notable example, because this Prince thought his authority weakened, if severity maintained not his reputation. 
Hinc metus in omnes, & fuga eorum, qui convivium celebrabant. Tac.  This retirement afforded him one occasion, which greatly confirmed the proof of his fidelity; for Tiberius dining in a vault, the roof thereof fell down, slew some of his officers, 
Qui non sui, sed principis est anxius, cum fide auditur quanquam exitio suo suadeat. Tac.  and had overwhelmed him, without the help of Sejanus, who covered him with his head and hands, the safety of his Prince being more dear to him than his own. From that time forward he gave ear to his counsels, although dangerous, not considering the motives or sequels, as proceeding from one who protested to have no other interest, but his authority.  
He persuaded him to quit himself of Nero, the nearest to the succession, whose hopes much disturbed his repose, and entertained desires of change in the minds of the people. He played the judge himself, his creatures were the accusers, and they condemned him as criminal. 
Nero quanquam modesta juventa tamen quid impraesentiarum conduceret oblitus. Tac.  This young Prince had modesty enough in his condition, but little judgement to resolve on the sudden, and to consider the counsels of his servants, who ceased not to tell him, that his birth designed him for Empire, that the people desired it, the Legions required it, that Sejanus was wicked enough, not to wish it, but not sufficiently powerful to hinder him. 
Nihil quidem pravae cogitationis, sed interdum voces contumaces & inconsultaes. Tac.  These words put no ill thoughts into his mind, but drew from his lips inconsiderate speeches, which being reported to Sejanus, and from thence to Tiberius, were taken for conspiracies. When he is at Court, great observation is used over his actions: Crime in words, crime in silence: all his ways are looked into: there is no retreat, nor safety in his house, night itself hath no coverture, 
A Roman Senator tried the discretion of his wife, as a vessel ill hooped; He neither poured oil nor vinegar into it, but only water and satisfied her with toys he invented. Plut. Ne nox quidem secura, eum uxor vigilias, somnia, suspiria matri Liviae atque illa Sejano patefaceret. Tac.  nor secret place for him: If he repose in his wife's bosom, he there findeth treachery; for as a vessel ill hooped, suffers all that is poured in, to run out, she relateth to Livia, the Emperor's mother, his watchings, dreams, yea even his very sighs. Livia recounteth them to Sejanus, who bandieth his brother Drusus against him, giving him hope of the first place, when his elder brother, whom the hate of Tiberius made already infinitely to stagger, should be overthrown. The spirit of Drusus was eager, for besides the desire of command, and emulations which ordinarily are among brothers, he was very suspicious, his mother Agrippina loved Nero better than himself. 
jam diusopita fratrum odia accenduntur. Tac.  Sejanus was no otherwise affected, nor were his intentions better rectified for Drusus: but knowing he was courageous, and bore himself boldly in perils, he supposed it would be very easy to prepare an Ambuscado, and so utterly ruin him.  
All the friends of Germanicus were sought out and persecuted: friends deceived friends, The most established amity went not so fare as to the Altar, but covered under it inhuman disloyalties, which shown how dangerous it was for man to confide in man, 
Multis simulati●num involucris tegitur notura uniuscujusque: frons, oculi, vultus persaepe montiuntur. Cic.  whose forehead was a liar, eye a traitor, and countenance unfaithful. Sabinus accused by Silius stayed not long to see him in the same precipice, wherein himself had been cast; but it was done by a notable treason.  
Four Preters affected the Consulship, 
Si consulem vide o, aut praetorem, onnia quibus honor haberi solet faciam, equo desiliam, capui aperiam, semitâ ●edam. Sen.  the highest honour of Roman ambition. Twelve Ushers marched before the Consul; As he passed along, he that was sitting rose up to him, and he who was on horseback, or in Coach alighted, every one veiled bonnet, and many laid down their swords for reverence.  
These Honours being not to be acquired but by the favour of Sejanus he that could not attain aught by just and honourable means, knew not on what to resolve. Give him money? He careth not for it, he disposeth of the riches of the Empire, and treasure of the Emperor, which consisted of more than threescore, and twelve millions of gold: Pleasures? Nature violateth herself, turning all upside down to furnish him: Titles? He is more than the Emperor; for his will giveth law to his, 
Sejuni voluntas non nisi soclere quaerebatur. Tac.  his statues are erected, as high as those of the Caesars. To gain the favour of the Oracle, the heads of his enemies must be sacrificed to him  
Of this number was Titus Sabinus a Roman Knight, 
Friendship which ends, was never friendship.  who being of opinion that a friend which ceased so to be, had never been such, continued his affection after the death of Germanicus to his wife and children, assisting them in their household affairs, 
Sectator domi, ●omes in publico, post rot clientes unus. Tac.  accompanying them in the City, boasting the constancy of his fidelity, even in the time when their faithfullest friends grew timorous, and the most obliged ungrateful.  

Eo apud bonos laudatus, gravis iniquis. Tac.  That which pleased honest men, and incensed the wicked, fell right within the compass of Sejanus aim, who held it for a bravado and a contempt, that a man of this quality, made so small account of his power, as to declare himself openly for his enemies. These men knew the wound in his heart: And undertook to pull away the steel that stuck therein. Latiaris was made the spy to betray Sabinus, and the rest were witnesses. 
Compositum inter ipsos, ut Latiaris strueret dolum, caeteri testes adessent. Tac.  He had some acquaintance with him, which he renews, cherisheth, and establisheth by a more strait familiarity, 
Florentis domus amici, afflictan deser●nt. Tac.  and gins to applaud him for his constancy in friendship towards Germanicus his family, when others failed, speaketh of this Prince with honour, of his wife with pity, of his children with hope, Sabinus believing he had found a man truly faithful to pour his complaints into his breast, 
Molles in calamitate mortalium animi Tac.  and (hearts being ever tender in the ressentment of calamities) he set his tears at liberty, than his plaints followed, and after, reproaches, 
Effudit lachrimas, junxit questus, audentius onerat Sejanum, saevitiam, superbiam, spes ejus. Tac.  and opprobries against Sejanus, speaking of his cruelties, pride, and plots, and it being a hard matter to bridle discourse, when anger and passion have taken their scope, many free words escaped him against Tiberius.  
This secret passion so breathed forth, 
Species arctae amicitiae inter eos, qui sermonibus votita miscuere. Tac.  and his heart thus freely disburdened, he imagined he might build upon the amity, and freedom of Latiaris, because they had so interchangeably mixed together bold complaints, and words both dangerous, and unlawful.  
And as discontented spirits penetrate and search into each other, 
Dolores quasi ad sidissimum deferuntur. Tac.  Sabinus every day repaired to Latiaris to discover to him some new wound of his heart, and that, so much the more confidently, as be reputed him for a most faithful friend, and that he (poor man) might employ the more time and judgement to make trial of him.  
Latiaris relateth to the other three Senators the discourse which he held with Sabinus: but because the testimony of one single man was not sufficient to convince him; they advised to hide themselves, between the feeling and the boards, 
Tarpis latebra, detestanda fraus. Tac.  to hearken, whilst Latiaris should continue, and renew this conference. He findeth him in the street, brings him to his house, saying, he had news to tell him, and being shut up together in the chamber he representeth to him the perils passed, and the miseries present, 
Praeterita, & instantia quorum affatim copia, novos terrores cumulat. Tac.  whereof these times were too fruitful, and redoubled new horrors upon old grievances, not so much thereby to let him know, that all was naught, as to give him occasion to talk and prattle in his former guise. Sabinus, who was still very confident, said to him, Matters were now reduced to such terms, that one could neither speak, nor presage any thing but ill, that no good was to be expected in so tyrannical, and insolent a government, and, 
Moesta ubi semel prorupere, difficilius reticentur. Tac.  for that griefs and injuries are hardly forborn, when they have once had a vent (it being painful to hide a wound) he makes Sejanus author of all these miseries, private and public. With much difficulty conceal we our hurts.  
All this conference ascended by the holes in the feeling, to the ears of the three Senators, who so soon as Sabinus retired, accomplished their treason. Tacitus affirmeth, they in the same instant, by express letters, 
Missis ad Caesarem literis ordinem fraudis suumque ipsi dedecus narravere. Tac.  let Tiberius understand all, representing the treason, and their own infamy; and Dion saith, it was to please Sejanus. He might have added, it so behoved them: for besides the recompense they would draw from this disloyalty, and to arrive to the honour of Consulship, by thus dishonouring themselves, if one of these should have betrayed his companion, they had been all utterly undone.  
The bruit of this mischief brought to Capri, instantly returned to Rome, where it marvellously disturbed minds, put every one upon his guard, 
Notae ignotaeque aures vitantur, muta, atque inanima, iectum & parietes circumspectantur. Tac.  ears known and unknowen were suspected, walls were mistrusted, and things inanimate feared: there was every where silence, perplexity, and amazement.  
Sabinus on the first day of the year was imprisoned: Is the new year (saith he to those who apprehended him) thus begun? Must Sejanus have sacrifices of this quality? What safety then is there for a Roman Citizen, seeing among vows and holy ceremonies, 
Inter sacra, & vota, verbis etiam profanis abstineri mos. Tac.  even where profane words are forborn, cords and halters are used, both to bind and strangle, yea even Temples are turned into prisons?  
He presently was put to death, having no leisure given to defend, and justify himself. His dog stayed still near the dead body, 
Cum quidam eu corona circumstante cani cibum objecisset ad os defuncti tulit. Innatavit idem in Tyburim cadavere abjecto sustentare conatus. Plin.  laid the bread to his master's mouth which was given him; and when the corpse was thrown into Tiber, leapt after to support it, that it might not sink to the bottom: whilst the whole City stood amazed to see such thankfulness in a beast, amongst so many ingratitudes, and inhumanities' which dishonoured men. All the accusers died miserably: and as Princes abhor Traitors after they have drawn profit out of their treason, 
Tiberius' scelerum ministros, ut perverti ab aliis nolebat, ita plerumque satiatus, & oblatis in eandem operam recentibus; veteres, & praegraves affixit Tac.  Tiberius rid himself of them: for when he had made use of these evil instruments, he discarded them to take new.  
The Emperor gave thanks to the Senate, they had delivered the Commonwealth from such an enemy, and added, he passed his life in fear and terror. That the conspiracies of his enemies much disquieted him, and though he named them not, it well appeared it was meant by Agrippina, and her children. Asinius Gallus speaking according to his liberty, and usual plainness, said, the Emperor must be entreated to discover his fears, 
Qui metus fatetur, eos & amoveri sinat. Tac.  and suffer they may be removed from his mind. 
Aegrius accipit princeps ea quae recludit, quam qua promit. Tac. Tiberius lentus in meditando, ubi praerupisset tristioribus dictis atrocia scelera conjungebat. Tac.  Tiberius' thought this speech overbold, for it carried the lamp into the bottom of his heart, which he would not discover. Sejanus sweetened it, not for the love of Gallus, but that his choler being the more slow, the fall might be the more precipitate, and impetuous: having ever found, that the more he thought upon his revenge, time rendered it the more violent, & the more distantly he menaced, the more heavy was the blow.  
Asinius Gallus had much credit in the Commonwealth, but no favour from Tiberius, who feared his courage, hated his virtues, and said, Pride was in him an hereditary disease, blaming Asinius Pollio his father, 
Asinius Pollio wrote a Tragedy of civil wars.  a brave Captain, a vehement Orator, an excellent Poet, and a friend of truth in a time when it was most hateful.  
Tiberius (who ever bore in mind the bitter words, which Asinius spoke to him at his coming to the Empire, when confessing himself incapable to hold any more than one part thereof, 
Interrogo Caesar quam partem reipublicae tibi mandarivelis. Tac.  he readily asked him, which he would have) cast him into prison, where for three years he languished: Death dis-engaged him; but it is not known whether it were natural, or violent. Prince's will not thus be dallied with, 
Speaking to a Prince, we are not so much to consider whether that which is spoken be true, as whether they be fit to hear a truth.  we must speak to them by way of supplication, or remonstrance: we are not to correct them; to tell them their errors, is to offend them.  
About this time the Emperor's mother died, fourscore and six years old, according to Dion, 
julia Augusta Lxxxij annos viti Pucino retulit acceptos, non aliovino usa. Plin.  or fourscore and two, as Pliny affirmeth, who ascribeth the length of her life to the quality of a wine she drank. The Senate decreed large honours for her: But her son, not through modesty, but envy, cut away part thereof, and by his letters dissembled not, to be distasted with the graces done to his mother, taxing the Consul Fusius, whom the Empress had loved, a man very comely to attract the affections of women, and who had a grace in speaking witty conceits, and jesting at Tiberius with taunts, which touched the quick. Great men do not so soon forget, yea even that, 
Facetiarum apud praepotente● in longum memoria est, dum acerba sunt. Tac.  which is spoken in merriment.  
The hairs of Tiberius were grown white under the obedience of this mother. Neither age, nor majesty dispensed with his duty. The sage Roman heretofore in his time said, that he who loveth not those who brought him into the world, is impious, 
Parents non amare impietas est, non agnoscere insania. Sen.  he that acknowledgeth them not is mad. But this respect grounded upon the duties of nature, hindereth not the liberty of State-rule, which is jealous of any thing that trencheth upon their authority. He was offended his mother dedicating a statue to Augustus, near to Marcellus his Theatre, 
julia Tiberii nomen suo post scripsit, Tiberius, ut inferius majestate principis dissimulatum gravi offensione abdidit. Tac.  had set the name of Livia, before that of Tiberius, he thought Majesty was wronged herein, and that a Prince should not consent to be touched by any.  
She had been married to Tiberius Nero, father of the Emperor Tiberius; and Augustus, becoming extremely passionate for her love, took her from her husband, and that so suddenly, that he gave her not time to lay her great belly, 
Penatibus gravidam induxit. Tac.  and to leave in her lodging what she there had taken. It is not known, whether she consented to this change, or whether her ignorance gave some colour hereunto. Fair women, who have done amiss at the suit of a Prince, 
Virium autore redemit. Ovid. Matris in admisso falsâ sub imagine ●usae, Error inest pluvia tectus adulter erat. Ovid.  think authority will excuse them. Helena said, her mother erred not, having jupiter for the warrant of her fault.  
Scribonia the wife of Augustus was rejected, because she too liberally had complained of the immoderate power of this new Mistress; her fall established Livia, and her error taught her, that to gain the heart of her husband, she must comply with his humour, which was the cause she being asked what she had done to govern him so absolutely, answered, By not prying into his actions, and dissembling his loves.  
Never any woman gave her husband better counsel. For seeing Augustus having reigned severely, lived not safely, and that Cinna had attempted to kill him in a city of Gaul, as he was sacrificing, with intent to offer him as a victim for the public good: Augustus was much displeased, 
Quid vivii si perire te tam multorum interest, quis finis erit suppliciorum? quis sanguinis? D. Aug.  when he was advised hereof, and desired death, since so many were interessed therein, and that a man of quality, nephew to Pompey, undertook to bereave him of his life. In this perplexity, Livia his wife spoke these memorable words: 
Severitate nihil adhuc profecisti, tenta quomodo tibi cedat clementia: Ignosce Cinnae, deprehensus est, jam nocere tibi non potest, prodesse famae tuae potest. D. Liv.  The remedies you have used have been to no purpose, take the contrary way, severity hitherto hath nothing profited, try the effect of clemency: pardon Cinna, his plot is discovered, he cannot prejudice your life, and may much benefit your reputation.  
Augustus' believed her, sends for Cinna, and telling him he was well informed of his design, said: I heretofore gave thee life, as mine Enemy and a Rebel; now I will grant at thee, as a Traitor and a Parricide: Let us speak no more of it, but be friends, 
Contendamus utrùm ego meliore fide vitam tibi dederim, antu debeas. Sen.  and make it appear which of us two hath done best, either I in pardoning, or thou in repenting.  
As Tiberius had his confident friend, so Livia had hers. To obtain any suit from Tiberius, way must be made by Sejanus; He that would gain the favour of Livia, must sacrifice to Vrgulania, 
Amicitia Augusta Vrgulaniam extulerat supra leges. Tac.  whose power in the City was so great, that no man durst enterprise any thing contrary to her liking, how just so ever it were: For she had raised herself above the Laws; beside, she was a woman so haughty and arrogant, that being called to the Senate, she refused to appear, although none were dispensed with herein, no not the Vestal Virgins themselves. 
Vestales in foro, & judicio audiri qunties testimonium dicerent, vetus mos fuit. Tac.  Tiberius' enforced through duty to his mother, became passionate in her causes; in such sort, that her nephew having thrown his wife out at a window, 
Vrgulania monitu principis pugionem nepoti misit. Tac.  he went presently to view the chamber, and saw this woman had not cast herself down of her own accord, as her husband affirmed: for the signs were yet to be seen, of the violence used to thrust her out, and of her resistance to hinder it.  
While this Lady was alive, he moderated his affections, submitting himself through duty to her counsels, and Sejanus for reverence humbled his designs under her commands, not daring to contradict them: But after her death, 
Tunc veluti fraenis exeluti proruperunt. Tac.  all was at liberty, and in confusion, nor was there any farther hope or refuge for innocency.  
Caius Caesar who succeeded to the Empire, publicly praised her before the Palace, that she most religiously had governed her house after the ancient manner, not permitting time should introduce the vanities and curiosities, which so much had wasted the former simplicity. A Princess most affable, and courteous beyond the carriage of women of passed times. As a mother, she could not suffer, As a wife, nothing was insupportable, yea, was so wary, that she prudently accommodated herself to the wisdom of Augustus, and the dissimulation of Tiberius.  
The Senate received letters from Tiberius against Agrippina, and her children: It was thought along time since they were written, but that the Empress had detained them, 
There is nothing but ambition which never waxeth old in man. Thucyd. and Plut.  foreseeing they would give occasion of trouble, and although her ambition waxed not old, yet desired she to end the small remainder of her life in repose.  
They accused neither Nero nor Drusus of treason, nor of Levies of soldiers, nor to have plotted innovations, only that they were debaushed. 
Queis nulla ex honesto spes, publicamala in occasionem gratiae trahuntur. Tac.  There was not any thing offended the mother herein, but the imputation of pride and obstinacy. The letters being read, it was moved deliberation should be used, but as opinions are delivered more, or less rigorous, according to the disposition of their nature who give judgement, certain Senators, whose hopes could not be grounded upon honour, yet sought out occasions of grace, and favour, in public calamities, advised contrary to the most ancient, and sage, and making their own desires mount much higher than other, found there is not any spirit so strong or firm, which ought not to be very reserved either in giving counsel or judgement upon the liberty, or life of him, who may succeed the Prince.  
Tiberius had bestowed the office of the acts and registers of the Senate on junius Rusticus, who having not given before any proof of constancy, or fortitude, yet shown it was good to proceed gently in this affair, 
Dandum interstitium paenitentiae. Tac.  that the accused might have time allowed him to repent, and frustrate this commandment: for the most important things are altered in a moment. 
Brevibus momentis summa verti possunt. Tac.  Besides nature, in the house of Germanicus was vigorous and flourishing; and in that of Tiberius' weary, spent, and frail.  
Upon this difference the people who could not endure these Princes should be used as criminals, detest this injustice, and lay the blame on Sejanus, 
Ferebantur sub nominibus consulariam fictae in Sejanum sententiae. Tac  carry the figures of Agrippina, and Nero up and down the City, assemble daily about the palace, cry out the letters were false and forged, make process against Sejanus, and counterfeiting the resolutions of the Senators, the stoutest man amongst them having collected them from this company, pronounceth judgement of death against him. And to this, 
Per occultum libido ingeniorum exercetur procacius. Tac.  Satirical invectives are not wanting, so much the more confident, as the authors were concealed, and gathered and sought out so much the more greedily, as they in them contained quick and ingenious conceits.  
Sejanus who should have avoided these blows by contempt of them, gave satisfaction to his enemies, by letting them know these things much troubled him, and informing the Emperor, his Majesty suffered in his suffering; That the people gathering assemblies, and making decrees, there remained nothing for them to do, but to take arms, and choose him Emperor, whose Images they bore for ensigns.  
Tiberius wrote other letters, 
Facile populus duces, Imperatoresq, deligit, quorum imagines pro vexillis sequitur. Tac.  and continueth his complaints against Agrippina, and her children, against the timerity, and insolence of the popular multitude, and against the Senate, who more weighed the cunning practices of one Senator, than the reverence of his Commands, in contempt of his will, and scorn of his authority: but addeth, that he to himself reserveth the judgement hereof. The Senators excuse themselves, and protest they resolved on punishment, 
Integra sibi cuncta postulavit. Tac.  and extremest rigour if his commandment had not stayed them.  

The ●se of Tacitus Annals is inestimable, not of some pages, but of all which passed from the year 782. to 785.  In this point all the world bewaileth the inestimable loss of Tacitus his books, which recorded the rest of Agrippina's fortune, the conspiracy of Sejanus, leading us along with the torch of truth through the mists of conjectures. Libraries have preserved many books, which we willingly would restore to them again, for that which wanteth of this excellent author, who described all that was requisite to be known of the world's affairs.  
Now Tiberius ceased not, till the Senate had satisfied him, and that all his violences were authorized by their judgement. Nothing so much urged the condemnation of Agrippina, 
Novissime calumniata, modo ad statuam Augusti, modo ad exercitus confugere vellet. Suet.  and her children, as the information Sejanus gave to Tiberius, that she was resolved to pass through the temples of Rome, to embrace the statues of Augustus, thereby to stir the people, and if that took not effect to hasten with her children to Germany to seize on the Legions.  
Agrippina was used no better than her children, and we must understand, that of her, 
Accusavit per literas amarissimas, longestis etiam probris, & judicatos homines same necavit. Suet.  which Suetonius saith of them, that he caused them to be declared enemies, and dye with hunger. Nero was banished into the Island of Pontia, Drusus immured in the base Court of the palace: the rumour was, that Nero seeing the executioner who brought the halter, and hook for him to make his choice, slew himself with his own hand, and that food being denied to Drusus, 
Druso adeo alimenta subducta, ut tomentum è culcitra t●ntaverit mandere. Suet.  he eat the flocks of his matteresse; but the death of these two Princes was not so sudden, nor in this manner. Suetonius wrote it upon bruit, who makes his freight up, as well of lies, as verities.  
The worst was done that might be against Agrippina, & her extremity was to be exiled into the Island of Pandatria in the Tyrrhene sea, 
Pandatriam relegavit. Suet.  where she hourly might expect, when they would come to strangle her, or being asleep, cause death and sleep to meet together. 
Somnum mort● jungere. Petr.  But Tiberius desired life should be her punishment, and, As injuries are worse borne by those, who think they have not deserved them, 
Odiorum causae graviores, quia iniquae. Tac.  and whose cause is just: so this poor Princess ceased not to complain, and lament the inhumanity of Tiberius. Seeing then we know the wrong she suffered, 
The pen is cold in comparison of the tongue, when the ardent passion of a woman courageous, and incensed is to be expressed.  we may well conjecture what the complaints were she made. Her ordinary discourse was to this purpose, but it is not heightened with that grace she gave it from her gravity, nor with that fervour wherewith she enkindled it by her passion.   

Agrippina's speech.  

Fuerim tantum nihil amplius deleturae domus piamentum. Sen.  Will the cruel Tyrant be satisfied, seeing he may now with full draught quench that ardent thirst in the blood of Augustus, which so long hath tormented him? And will this disloyal Sejanus any more complain of fortune, who hath brought under his own power those three heads, which stopped his passage to Tyranny?  
The Gods have singled me out to bear alone all the miseries of my house, and the expiation of the rest. I ask them but one favour, which is death; Is it possible they should deny it to the miserable? And who is more miserable in life than he who desireth to dye; 
Quid miserius in vita quam velle mori? Quid in morte quam sepeliri non posse? Sen. P.  or in death, than he that is denied burial?  
Complaints, not forbidden to the wretched, and which afford some ease to misery, are denied me; Nay, I this instant know not, whether spies may be set upon me to relate all I say. And I wish it so. It is an argument of fear and pusillanimity, not to dare to tell our grievances. 
Augustus communicateth this secret to Fulvius, who discovered it to his wife, she to Livia. Augustus is displeased with Fulvius w●●●r grief killed himself, and his wise followed him. Plut.  I will complain to heaven and earth of the inhumanities' practised by Tiberius on the living, and dead. He put my uncles to death who resisted his hopes. Augustus' my grandfather not long after discovered to Fulvius his intention of repealing Agrippa. This poor Agrippa was the first victim sacrificed at his entrance into Empire▪ My Mother julia, who for her last misfortune, and third husband, married this cruel man, presently followed her son. Germanicus was poisoned, his widow banished, Nero exiled, Drusus a prisoner, Caligula in their power: what would they more?  
I was married; he hath taken my husband from me, I found another among the prime families of Rome; he hath hindered it; I was a Mother, he hath taken away my children; I was free, he useth me as a slave; Nothing is left me but honour, and he indevoureth by impudent calumnies to traduce it: His slander being unable to fasten on me, he hath invented a new imposture, which scenteth of the pollution of the place, 
Tiberius' foedissimis criminationibus exarsit, impudicitiam arguens, & Asimum Gallum adulterum. Tac.  from whence it proceedeth, in saying Asinius Gallus hath love in store for me. I cannot but think well to be loved by a man, whom Augustus held worthy of the Empire: beside he was my brother in law, nor have I so little respected my sister Vipsania, as to rob her of the heart of her husband.  

It is not fit the wife seek particular friends, but think well of the g●●●ll friends of her husband. Plut.  Let my former actions answer for my present; Never have I known whom to affect, but the friends of my husband, nor have I ever transferred my eyes, or thoughts upon any other. If I have been mistress of some beauty, I have not been proud of it, nor suffered others to talk of it, or esteemed it at all but for decency.  
They have reason indeed to say I have been too haughty; It is true my disdains have served my purposes: For scornful beauties entrap not hearts: I must affirm the passion of love in my soul hath given way to ambition, and I have taken more pleasure in employments, which only appertain to masculine minds, 
Agrippina aequi impatiens, dominandi avida, virilibus curis faeminarum vitia exuerat. Tac.  than to vanities, which satisfy none but the effeminate, and I may truly say, it is long since I forsook all the imperfections of my sex, to put on manly, and generous resolutions.  
But these impostures, are nought else, than smokes proceeding from the ardent desires of Sejanus to arrive at the Empire: For he seeing Rome affecteth me, and that this well-wishing is supported by the opinion of some merit, hath proclaimed me a wicked woman, 
It is the fashion of good men to do well, and of bad to speak ill, and do worse.  but as he exceeds me in speaking ill, I have ever surpassed him in well-doing.  
Let him please himself to have cast me into a condition, that I may no longer be able to give him occasion of fear, I on the other side comfort myself, he hath reduced me to such a state that he can do no worse by me, for I shall esteem the greatest ill he may work, the greatest good he can do me; Let him not fear I will oppose his ambition, he ought to dread fortune more than me, I suppose she cannot be more favourable to a mischievous plot, than she hath appeared unequal in the protection of a just and lawful cause.  
His ambition hath no limit, 
The appetite of ambition increaseth with satiety.  satiety in him procureth appetite, he in the beginning protested, the Colonelship of the Guards should content him, he desired nought else; and now, 
Tiberius' said, a man who had passed threescore years should not stretch out his hand to the people, to have their voice, or suffrage. Plut.  when he through age should not stretch out his hand to any, but the Physician, he will grasp the tribunitial staff, to be in the nearest degree to sovereign command. Hath he asked counsel of his courage, whether he be capable? He never hath seen a battle, but in picture, nor ever drawn his sword, but to show the blade.  
After all this, he would have me live, that death may serve me for a punishment, and will not suffer me to let it appear a woman knows, how to conquer the fear of death, which terrifieth the most daring. Since then all the passages to arrive at death, or draw it upon me are stopped up, I must seek it in mine affliction, 
Vici, quem vicerium quaeris? metum mortis, qui victores gentium vicit. Sen.  and my courage must yield thereunto; It shall not resist these violences, consolations would redouble it, which I will refuse, on what side soever they come; Those my friends afford shall in them be commendable, 
Officium pium, sed mutile. Ovid.  but for me unprofitable.  
If abstinence, affliction, melancholy, and sorrow cannot vindicate me from this misery, and that needs I must live dying, and dye living, I will expect which way the Gods will have me finish my days, 
Expectandus exitus, quem natura decrevit. Sen.  and hap what hap will, as I have lived Agrippina, I will dye Agrippina.  

He who is in the power of another, impairs his condition by his impatience, and the liberty of his compalints.  The dolour of her wounds daily increasing, she continually laid her hand on the sore, and without ceasing renewed the complaints, which so excessive a sorrow was unable to moderate. Her words were related to Tiberius, who was well pleased, that she perpetually gave him cause, why to augment her ill usage, for it would have vexed him, her patience should oblige him to any courtesy. He commanded the Captain who had her in charge, not to let the ill language she used pass without reply. This cruel man well knowing; the way to please Tiberius, was to injure her, 
Convitianti oculum per Centuriones verberibus excussit. Suet.  and hearing her continue frequent complaints and reproaches, so barbarously and brutishly beat her, that therewith one of her eyes started out of her head.  
After this cruel outrage, she would no longer live, 
Mori inedia destinanti, per vim ore diducto infulciri cibum jussit. Suet.  and being resolved no farther to expect death, but to prevent it, she remained some days without food; but the Soldiers opening her mouth by force, constrained her to swallow nourishment. She therein being more miserable than others, who die when they list, 
Admoriendum nihil aliud in mora, quam velle. Sen.  and have nothing but their own wills to hinder them; but she was willing to dye, and is enforced to live. Death is the only remedy for evils, and she may not use it. 
Non magis crudeles sunt, qui volentem vivere occidunt, quam qui mori volentes non sinunt. Sen. P.  They are no less cruel, who kill those that would live, than such as force them to live, that desire to dye.  
Yet is not Sejanus arrived to that he aimed at, all he hath done to advance his purposes, prospers not; for Tiberius, who was no longer distrustful of Germanicus, nor jealous of Drusus, and is revenged of the pride of Agrippina, and her children, imagineth nothing can further disturb him, but the arrogance and immeasurable power of Sejanus. Which is the cause he addeth new jealousies to old fears, and revolves in his brain, that he dreameth of Empire.  

Quos diu fortuna secuta est, eos repente velut fatigata destituit. Q. Curt.  Besides, Fortune began to grow weary of waiting on him, for he went too fast, she forsaketh his insolence, and ill carriage, as if she had not raised him, but to make him fall from such an height, that there should not be a creature found durst lend him an arm, or offer a bosom to receive him. 
Dion saith, Tiberius seeing Sejanus was waited on, and feared by the Senators, doubted they would make him Emperor.  Tiberius, who loved him, began now to fear him, and seeing the Senate more esteemed of Sejanus than himself, he entered into an apprehension they would make him Emperor, from that time he resolved to draw this thorn out of his heart; but did nothing rashly: For it was not only dangerous to enterprise his ruin, but even to make semblance thereof. He proceeded very slowly, and contrary to the advice of the Sages, who council, matters important should rather be acted, than consulted on.  
This delay proceeded both from prudence, and affection; for it troubled him to ruin a man, who began to serve him, before he to reign.  
Yet I notwithstanding suppose, 
A wise Courtier ought to know the complexion of his Prince. Behold upon th● an excellent Treatise of the Court, written by M. de Refuges, a Councillor of State.  had this been all, he would have dissembled it, nor ever had rid his hands of him; for he was apt for his humours, knew them perfectly, consented to his pleasures, corresponded with his opinions, had readily preserved him from an ill accident, and disengaged him from his perplexities. He overthrew all the principal men which ministered matter of fear, or jealousy, reposing himself on the watchful heed of a servant so faithful and approved, intermeddled not but with occurrents of most moment, and lived peaceably in his Island.  
And though it be a matter very difficult, to sound the heart of a Prince, 
Rationem foelicitatis nemo reddit. Auson.  and the causes of sudden prosperities, yet doubtless there is no way so short to merit his good opinion, as to serve him in matters which are either pleasing, 
To be loved of a Prince, he must be observed in his pleasures.  or profitable, dispose of his delights, and manage his purse. All which is honest and profitable should give content. But the passion of pleasure transporteth the consideration, both of honour and profit. Sejanus had all which might serve to entertain the Prince in repose, and banish the necessity of affairs; and such power over his heart, that he gave it what motion he would, either of love, fear, or hatred.  

A Prince ought to take notice of services, that he may be the better served.  He had done many great services for him, and although this consideration is not always plausible in the minds of Princes, (for there are some, who the more they are obliged, the less do love.) Yet would Tiberius have great ones know, what they (in serving him well) might expect. But there is no likelihood, if he had not been endowed with excellent parts, and of courage undaunted, he so long had continued in the favour of Tiberius, a sour, severe, prudent, and suspicious Prince. The History sets before us two diverse Pourtraits; the one under Tacitus his pencil, who representeth him, as wicked; the other from the hand of Velleius Paterculus, who flatters, and affords him all the lustre of a perfect Courtier, 
Sejanus laboris, & fidei capacissimus, sufficient vigore animi, compage corporis, & actu otiosis simillimus. Vell.  he says: The vigour of his body was answerable to the force of his spirit, that he traveled without pain, acted all, as if he did nothing, and in his greatest employments seemed at rest, neither showing himself troubled, nor turmoiled: That he hunted not after occasions, nor gave himself the honour of it: That he had his desires in all, and ever placed himself beneath the esteem was had of him: 
Infra aliorum aestimationes se motions, vultu, vitaque tranquillus, animo exsomnis. Vell.  There could never be observed, or found any alteration in his countenance, his spirit always awakened, and he ever active.  
Howsoever it be, Sejanus to all purposes was an able man, and having lasted almost as long as Tiberius, we must think, if Fortune had not turned herself against his counsels, he had enforced her to subscribe to his wisdom. Only I much wonder, that having made so many friends, he wanted friends: That among so many heads tied (as it were) to his, and which could not stand firm on their shoulders, were his taken off, there was not one spoke freely and faithfully, 
To speak sweetly and graciously to great men. Athenaeys' calleth it, Eouglottein Acelyse, choriglotein.  to advise him to prevent his ruin. It is the common calamity of great ones: it is necessary all discourses addressed to them be of grace, and sweetness: They believe truth oweth them all that, which complacence affordeth. Were there judges appointed for adulation, they would have little to do, for no man complaineth, he is flattered.  
Sejanus had this unhappiness, not to have a creature, who sincerely and ingenuously at any time said.  
Temper your spirit, provoke not your fortune, abuse not your favour. Dally not with your Master, This time will not always last, Patience offended turns into fury. 
Dion saith, If any God were descended, and had assured the ruin of Sejanus, it would not have been believed; for at that time every one swore by his fortune.  And should any one have said this, he would not have believed it. Pride dazzled his eyes, whilst he boasted to hold fire, and water in his hands, and meant to make use of them when he pleased.  
Tiberius then (though tardily) perceiving Sejanus built his hopes on his tomb, and that he not only dreamt, 
Not only to attempt, yea think, nay dream against the State, is a crime.  but plotted, yea attempted on Empire, he resolved to quench the fire of this ambition, in the blood of the ambitious. 
Summum ad gradum claritus cum veneris, aegre consists. Laber.  The first suspicion he conceived, was upon his marriage with Livia the widow of Drusus: The second, that the house of Germanicus being overthrown, there appeared no obstacle for his insolence, which was mounted to such a height, it no longer could rest in any consistence: The third on the excess of his power in the affairs of the Senate, treasures and commands: The fourth on his great retinue of servants, who too much presumed upon him: The fifth that he held Drusus prisoner, and Caius Caesar at his dispose, 
Improba blanditia, non quae amiciorem, sed quae deteriorem facit assentando. Alc.  to produce them when need were, and continue under their names the supreme government: The sixth upon the cunning he used to withdraw him from his abode in the City, and detain him as a captive; under pretext of absence, and old age: The seventh upon the strong, and violent means he made to have the power of a Tribune, which was so great, that the Emperors annexed it to their own persons: The eighth, that Sejanus spoke words he should rather have concealed than expressed. And if upon all this he had had but this one suspicion of his aspiring to the state, there needed no pains to be taken to find out a greater crime.  
But Tiberius is condemned of two acts of pusillanimity, The first to have suffered the increase of this excessive power, which could not be acquired without extreme industry, nor lessened but with over much severity. 
Blood drawn abundantly from the best vein is well employed to defend or acquire one lest mite of authority.  The tree, which was in the beginning but a little plant, beareth his head and branches so high, that it giveth a most dangerous shadow. That which he might have drawn forth with one hand, when it did but prick, taketh such deep roots, that it afterward is very hardly pulled up with both. The Prince who hindereth not increase of ambition, when it first groweth, deriveth no other profit from hit sufferance, but loss and repentance. A State will no more tolerate two Kings, 
When authority is once cracked it is ruined.  than the world two Suns, or the Temple two deities. Sovereign authority is a strong sea-wall, not so soon overborne by the impetuous violence of the tide, or weight of the water it resisteth, as by a slight rift, or cranny, which gives passage to the torrent of waves.  
The second is to have used so much ceremony in so pressing an occasion, so much policy in so great a power, so much fear in so undoubted security. Not to be separated from him, he made him his colleague in the consulship, to whom no man had been associated without unhappiness.  

Quintilius varus, ●n. Piso. Germanicus and Drusus who had been Consuls with Tiberius died of a violent death. Dius.  When Tiberius wrote to the Senate, he stuffed his letters with nothing but the deserts of Sejanus, and the services he had done the Empire: These words are many times inculcated, Sejanus my friend, my Sejanus, I say my Sejanus. It seemeth he confined not the glory of the Empire, but within the compass of his life. His statues were to be seen every where, every one raiseth them as to their Guardian-God. Who will refuse to yield him honour, on whom the Emperor so profusely confers it?  
This five year's Consulship, 
Vino debemus homines, quod soli animantium non fitientes bibimus. Plin.  intoxicated him, and as the excellency of wine invites a man to drink beyond thirst, so this sweetness of prosperities inebriated and transported him to more, than he wished. He that is embarked on this Ocean, where there are so many perils, ought never to confide in the Calm, but rather turn his eyes towards heaven, to direct his hopes to a good haven.  
The solitary, and voluptuous life of Tiberius, was the ladder of his ambition: For like another Sardanapalus, he vaunted nothing but his riots. Sejanus entertained him in this shameful idleness, spitefully accustoming him to prefer things sensual, before serious. He, who neglecteth the office of a Master, findeth servants audacious enough to command him: And who acteth the Prince but in a chamber, runs the hazard to find a companion in the field.  
Impudence accompanying his pride, drew these words from his mouth, which ought never to have proceeded so much as from his thoughts: I am Emperor of Rome, and Tiberius is Prince of the Island. He caused sports to be presented afore him by bald men, who were brought back again to the entrance of the Theatre, by five thousand shaved youths, therewith to flout at Tiberius his bald Crown. This number will not be strange to those, 
Athaeneus reckoneth 20000. and calls them Sum proyontas, Anteam bulones.  who know the Romans had troops, and Legions, and such there have been who have had more than twenty thousand of those marching before them; but it was much to shave them, for then great care was used in frizeling, and curling their hair.  
Tiberius was instantly advertised of this mockery, 
Familias calamistratas. Apul.  and made show not to know it, although he ressented it to the quick, but was willing ignorance dissembled should excuse the slackness of undoubted revenge. Besides, there is not any thing which more galleth the heart of a Prince, 
Praecincti pueri, comptique. Hor.  than to see himself braved by a man, whom he hath raised from the contempt and misery of a mean condition. 
Aram clementiae, aram amicitiae, effigiesque circum Caesaris, ac Sejani coluere: cr●brisque precibus efflagitabant, visendi sui copiam facerent. Tac.  It is no less troublesome to be exposed to the derision of servants, than to the discretion of enemies.  
Upon the news, that the Frisons, a people of Rhine had broken the peace, and in battle defeated the armies, so great was the terror in Rome, that every one ran to the Altars of clemency, and amity, adoring the statues of Tiberius and Sejanus, which stood round about, humbly beseeching them to return again to Rome. Tiberius, and Sejanus were willing the Romans by their absence should judge of the benefit, their residence in Court brought them: Nor indeed is it fit a Prince should still abide in one place: If the Sun stepped not out of one of his twelve houses, all would run to ruin. Tiberius not withstanding drawn near, and because he sometimes approached even to the suburbs, not entering into the City, 
Breve confinium artis, & falsi. Tac.  many thought the limits of Astrology, and lying, stood not so near one another as it was said: For the Astrologers affirmed, Tiberius went out of Rome under such a constellation, that he should never return again; and there is great appearance, if this fear had not seized on his imagination, he had not resided eleven years out of Rome.  
These predictions animated the complices of Sejanus, soliciting him to temporise no longer, since the stars conspired with his purposes. On the other side Tiberius, would not be surprised, and as the fear of evil which he apprehended much urged him, so the peril of remedy restrained him: but imagining he should be prevented, if Sejanus had the wind of him, he durst ask counsel of none but himself, what resolution was fittest to be taken.  
Sejanus (as yet) disinherited nothing, prosperity had seeled up his eyes, he thought Tiberius meant no other, but to pass his time in Capri; it was now five years he had been there, at Rome there was no speech of him, but as of a Prince who reigned not, and lived but at the devotion of others; that he neither saw, 
The Kings of Persia had servants called the eyes and ears of the King and by them he understood all that was done or spoken every where. Apul.  nor heard, but through Sejanus, who alone was his eyes, and ears, and took no contentment, but in pleasure, and ease, which was the cause Sejanus put forward and advanced his design of the Empire the more violently; what blindness is this; He is not to live one month, and plotteth designs for an age?  
It was very strange he had not some suspicion of the Emperor's purposes. All intelligences which went to Capri, or came to Rome passed thorough his hands, and he harkened to them all; For it is behooveful those who are engaged in important affairs, should slight nothing, and though oft times tales are brought, yet some truth is ever stirring; they make use of all, 
There is no man so great a liar, who speaks not some truth.  and are well paid for it, when of an hundred informations given, one proveth true.  
He held all dispositions at his discretion, 
Hearts are gained by hope, fear, or benefits.  either by fear, hope, or benefits. Those who served Tiberius, depended on Sejanus, and such as served Sejanus, swore by no other name, but, that, of their Master. Tiberius did nothing which was not related to Sejanus, nor was advertised of any thing Sejanus acted contrary to his service. He had men for all sorts of employments; Seneca calls them his dogs, who were only tractable, and tame to himself, and barked at all others; for he maintained them with the blood of his enemies. 
Acerrimi caenes, quos Sejanus ut sibi uni mansuetos omnibus faros haberet, sanguine humano pascebat. Sen.  Tiberius not able to lay hold on him in the face, sets on his sides, and embraceth him to strangle him: He caused a rumour to be divulged, he would make him Tribune, and wrote to the Senate, that without him this vast body of Empire would fall in pieces; in all his letters he signifies Sejanus was the Oracle of his designs, the companion of his thoughts.  
The Senate who observed, not, that Tiberius dissembled, seeketh out all sorts of honours, wherewith to dignify Sejanus, decreeth both their names should be set in the self same line in patents, and inscriptions, their chairs in the same rank in theatres, and Temples, their statues every where erected, and that coming to Rome one only should go before another  

He who will ruin one is well pleased with his evil carriage.  Tiberius is not offended the Senate cherisheth the pride of Sejanus, to the end that vanity rendering him more insolent, his deportments might become the more odious In the mean time to let Tiberius know his designs aim not beyond his life, he caused Germinius to be accused, that he had attempted on the person of Caesar, this man for his fuller justification brought his will into the Senate house, where he made the Prince his heir, a proof of his affection, and desire not to survive him. But that being not sufficient to save him, 
He who will make one his heir thinks to dye before him.  when he saw the Questor coming to execute him, he thrust a knife into his own belly, saying, Go tell the Senate, I die, as a man ought to do. Publica Prisca his wife, being in the palace, did the like. I much wonder among so many, who died thus courageously, 
Nullum magis adversarium timeas, quam qui vivere non potest, accidere potest. Sen. P.  there was none enterprised the death either of Tiberius, or Sejanus: For he who is careless of his own life is master of another's.  
This so fervent favour of Tiberius, cooled not at the first occasion, it grew lukewarm, and then wholly congealed into Ice. He to day strikes one blow for Sejanus, and to morrow another against him, he assigneth the dignity of the Pontifex to his son, and though he hated Caligula, 
Tiberius' said, beholding Caligula, I breed up a Serpent for the people of Rome, and a Phaeton for the rest of the world. Suet.  he gave him the same honour, and that only because he was an enemy to Sejanus. At this instant he gratified him, in granting what he demanded, and presently revoketh what he had given him, and held his spirit so suspended between hope and fear, that he knew not where he was, and did nothing but like a man amazed. He commandeth the Senate to free a Proconsul, whom Sejanus had accused. Tiberius' publicly praiseth Caligula, & lets it be known, 
Tiberius desired all might perish after him, and thought Priamus happy, in that he ended his reign and life together. Dion.  he resolved to declare him his Successor, not so much for affection, as to make the world grieve at his Successor, being indeed more cruel, and wicked than himself. He writing to the Senate, says no more but this only, Sejanus is my friend, his name was found in his letters single, and alone, adding no more the titles, and recommendations he accustomed. As soon as the affection of a Prince takes air, it vapours away, and it is an hard matter to conserve it still in the same degree of heat.  
The people were well pleased, that Tiberius began to affect Caligula, not so much for the love of him, who was naturally violent and inhuman, 
Caligula seeing many Senators at his table, laughed at a sudden, and it being asked, what he meant by it? he answered, for that it is in my power to cause you to be strangled one after another. Suet.  taking no delight, but in the sight of blood. As for honour to the memory of Germanicus his father, and the desire of Sejanus his ruin, of whose tyranny they were apprehensive.  
Tiberius, who had pondered and digested this design in his heart, thought there was no further danger for him to declare himself, and leave the way of dissimulation, to pursue the track of fortitude. He sent an Edict to the Senate, prohibiting the offer of sacrifice to any man living, and the ordaining of any kind of honour to Sejanus, it being a matter by him not approved, to see the reverence conferred on a Subject, which he accounted disproportionable for the Prince.  
Then was the time when such as were but friends of his fortune, 
Tamdiu placebit, quamdiu utilis. Sen.  declared themselves enemies to his designs. (Temporary friends) who come but to drink, and return back again when the bottles are empty. But as thunder roareth when the air is brightest, Sejanus beheld himself surprised with a storm, in the clearest serenity of fortune. Many presages he had of his fall. The Theatre where he received salutations on the Calends broke, and a Cat crossed him. 
Ancient superstition took the crossing of a Cat for an ill presage.  Coming from the Capitol, the Guard thronging thorough the press to follow him, and get before, fell from the top of the stairs, from which criminals were headlong thrown. Sejanus consulted with Soothsayers, to know what that presaged. Luckie birds appeared not; 
Tiberius Gracchus going to the Capitol, three Ravens flew about him, and he was there slain. Val. Vidimus non semel flammam ingentis pilae specie, quae tamen in ipso cursu suo dissipata est. Vidimus circa divi Augusti excessum, simile prodigium, vidimus cum de Sejano actum est. Sen.  He saw none but a great flight of Ravens, ill boding birds, Nightingales of Hell, which flew, and croaked round about him. There was seen in the air a globe of fire, such an one as was beheld at the death of Augustus, and Germanicus: but there was not a man, who in this his most flourishing state, imagined he was so near his end. Yet desisted they not to style him the companion of Tiberius, not only in the Consulship, but in the Empire of the world.  
Tiberius, to discover dispositions and affections, wrote often to Sejanus, and to the Senate, sometime that he was in good health, sometime at the point of death; other while that his strength was come to him again, and that he hoped very shortly to see them, and return to Rome. These dissimulations availed him; for according as the news brought either joy, or sorrow, hope, or fear, he distinguished between such as depended on him, or Sejanus. He also besought the Senate, to send him one of the two Consuls with a Guard, to conduct him safely.  

Pudenda miserandaque oratione P.C. precabatur mitterent alterum è Consulibus, qui senem se, & solum, in conspectum eorum ● cum aliquo militari praesidio perduceret. Suet.  He thought the conspiracy was so powerful against him, he could not withstand it, and had already for the purpose prepared ships for flight, and caused Sentinels to be set on the rocks, who by fires were to give signal of what they discovered. Needs must the conspiracy be great, and near at hand, or Tiberius very timorous and wretched, so to manifest the anguish of his mind, For never should fear lodge in the heart, or appear on the forehead of a Prince, who maketh his complaint, when those who ought to fear him, terrify him.  

We must not proudly despise prodigies. This contempt undid Alexander. App.  But Sejanus beginneth to be perplexed, when he heard it reported, the head of one of his statues was seen to smoke. He commanded it to be broken to know the cause, and there issued from thence an huge serpent. He despised not this Prodigy, 
Perseus. justin. Crassus. D. Halic.  but made a sacrifice to himself; for so he was accustomed, there also was found about the neck of the same statue a little cord.  
Tiberius' judged, the Destinies conspired with his revenge to ruin him, and therefore continued his subtleties, 
Dion saith, Tiberius to surprise and entrap Sejanus, caused the Senate to be told, he would give him the power of a Tribune.  causing a bruit to be spread, he would raise him to the principal charge of the Empire. Yet at the same time dispatched Nevius Sertorius Macro, with commission to present his letters to the Senate, to seize on the person of Sejanus, to set Drusus, who was in prison at liberty, that he might rally together all his friends against the common enemy, if opposition were made.  
The place of Colonel of the Guard, which Tiberius had given to Macro, encouraged this execution. Princes who desire to be well served, 
Nihil non aggressuri sunt homines, si magnis conatibus magna praemia proponantur. Liv.  ought ever to make the quality of the service appear by the recompense. He came secretly to Rome, communicateth the cause of his arrival to Consul Memmius Regulus, and not to his Colleague (for he was a creature of Sejanus) and to Gracinus Laco Captain of the watch. He found them all very ready, to sacrifice this wretch to public hatred.  
The Consul summoned the Senate for the next day to the Temple of Apollo, 
The Senate stayed in the Temples, or holy places.  and caused this scroll to be affixed to one of the pillars of the Gallery.  

The word was, Bonum factum, Well befall it.  In an happy hour. Memmius Regulus shall assemble the Senate to morrow early in the morning in the Temple of Apollo, there we Conscript Fathers are to be, and there matters important shall be treated. Penalty for the absent, inexcusable.  

Prima luce. Cic.  To give example to others, he was one of the first, he entereth in with the Ensigns of his dignity, the purple robe, twelve Lictors marching before him, making way. Being entered, he sacrificeth wine and honey, takes his place in the Ivory Chair, the other Senators do the like, ranking themselves in their several seats.  
Macro encountered Sejanus, who (as yet) was scarcely entered, and seeing him somewhat troubled that he brought him no letters from Tiberius, said in his ear: There is better news, I bring you the power of a Tribune. 
Qualem quisque sortem, statumque habeat in mea manu positum est, quod cuique mortalium fortuna datum velit, meo ore pronunciat. Sen.  This satisfied him: his friends were quickly made acquainted with it, and much rejoiced saying to themselves, hereafter all which fortune would grant to the Romans, should pass thorough their hands, or be pronounced by the mouth of their Master.  
Macro presenteth his letters and retireth, causeth the soldiers to assemble, under colour he was to give them notice of the Emperor's commands: and by this means left those of the watch, for the guard of the Temple, and the other who followed Sejanus, repaired to the field and ensign. Being there he assured them the Emperor's favour to acknowledge their services, and gratify them with a donative. There was not a man, 
Those presents were armours, pikes, ensigns, scarves, chains, and Crowns.  who lent not an open ear to this speech, and promised not to be ready. He chose a good number to guard the passages, and the Temple of Apollo: That done he presenteth his letters to the Senate, opens his Commission, retireth, leaves Laco there, and hasteneth to give direction in the other parts of the City.  

The authority of a Prince cannot descend more low, than when he dare not speak plainly to his subjects, u●on any thing which displeaseth him.  These letters are read, which expressed an afflicted and trembling spirit, that durst not unfold, but in broken words, what he had upon his heart, against the ingratitude and treachery of his servant, they were confused by diverse affairs and out of order; the beginning upon things indifferent, the sequel of other matters more important, Pursued with many complaints of the immeasurable power of Sejanus. 
The tragical end of Sejanus is well expressed in the french. Tiberius of M. le Mastre the chief Physician of monsieur.  Afterward he fell upon other occurrents, entreating the Senate to grant out process against two Senators, familiar friends of Sejanus, and lastly commanded, but as between both, that they should vigilantly observe the actions of Sejanus. There was not a word of putting him to death, so much did he fear, lest the great reputation he had in every place might oppose him, & that in case matters succeeded not  to his desire, he might ever reserve a liberty to declare himself.  

Aliquisque pavendo Dat vires fama nullo que antore malorum. Quoe finxere timent. Lucan.  But as fear believes all it imagineth, so the friends of Sejanus finding not in this letter what they expected, shrunk from him, as from a place threatened with thunder. When the favour of a Prince forsaketh one, it is dangerous to come near him, disfavour is infectious.  
Here Dion observeth how variable the minds of men are, saying, before the Emperor's letters were read, there was not a Senator, 
Cicero chargeth Catiline with the like.  who offered not his service to Sejanus, and asked not how he pleased to employ him. 
Adventu tuo ista subsellia vacua facta sunt. Cic.  But perceiving the mind of Tiberius altered, they changed in an instant. Those which stood fare from him, looked scornfully on him, such as were near, removed farther off, they who before accounted it an honour to wait on him, 
Every one avoided a traitor.  now held themselves disgraced to sit near him. And where are men to be found who in adversity remember benefits? 
Quis in adversis beneficiorum servat memoriam? aut quis ullam calami tosis deberi putat gratiam? quando fortuna non mutet fidem. Vell.  or think themselves bound to the miserable? Great amities are not to be sought in Court, nor are petty enmities there to be found, and that is the cause why wise men break with none. Ill will, and hatred are harsh plants, the fruits they bear are always four, there is no sweetness nor profit, but in amendment of manners, 
Vsque quaque sapere oportet, id erit telum acerrimum. Cic.  that the enemy may not lay hold on the life, or fortune of him, whose fall or ruin he thirsteth.  
Sejanus did ill to come into the Senate, when he saw Macro brought him no letters. Providence which turneth her eye on every side, and is a strong buckler against fortune, failed him. Nay he should have gone out when he understood the jealousies, which Tiberius let fall in this letter, and had he been followed by those of his faction, the rest would have censured his power by his courage. 
Presumption contemneth safety.  But seeing nothing very express against himself, he thought they were vapours of his melancholy, and certain inequalities, and that there was not any so hardy, as to disgust him.  

Words of command are harsh to those, who have never obeyed.  The Consul Regulus called him, he sitteth still; but not out of arrogance, for he was much humbled, rather indeed because he was not accustomed to obey, or be commanded. He called him the first and second time, and stretching out his hand, saith, Sejanus come hither. Sejanus answereth. Do you call me? (Sr.) Yea, saith the Consul, Sejanus steps forward, and in an instant Laco captain of the watch stood before him, and all the Tribunes round about, that he might not go out.  

Dacretum ut ●v. Cal. utriusque necis dies per omnes unnos donum jovi sacraretur.  The day of this memorable act, was the 18th. of October, which is known, because Tiberius ordained the 15th. of the Calends of November, should be solemnised at Rome, both for the death of Sejanus, and of Agrippina. And if the year likewise be observed, it was of Rome's foundation the 785. and of the reign of Tiberius, the 18th. and from the birth of Christ the 34. There was no danger of hastening his judgement, or of commencing process for his execution. 
S.C. actum ut paena damnatorum, in decimum semper diem deferreretur. Suet.  The law of ten days was not (as yet) made. All his life was a stream of insolence, pride, violence, and fury.  
Dion affirms, that in one day he was arrested, condemned, and executed, and by the shortness of time, we may guess at the facility of proceed, which were arbitrary, wherein such retardation, or expedition might be used, as they listed. Process against Lentulus, one of Catiline's confederates was made in two days; That, of Clentius continued long; This, of Sejanus was dispatched in a morning. The task of things serious ending at noon, 
Aristotle gave the morning to Philosophy, it was Ergon, afternoon to eloquence, Parergon.  that which is done after dinner, was (as it were) out of time, as well in matters most pleasing and facile, as important and painful, and now the Trumpet which served as a clock among the Romans having sounded the hour of ten, no man expected any new relation.  
Memmius did not put the Emperor's letters into consultation, and that deceived Sejanus, who trusted to his friends had he so done, the diversity of opinions would have marred the matter: For the length of discourses had wasted time, which he was to gain, to the end Sejanus his faction might not stir. But to avoid the blame of doing all on his own head, 
The Consul ask advice of a Senator spoke this word. Dion.  he commanded a Senator whom he knew to be a good Citizen, and well affected to Tiberius, to speak his opinion. Dion nameth him not. This man said.  

A Magistrate who hath discovered a conspiracy, and seems fearful to remedy it, is as faulty as the Conspirator himself. Sal.  The affair here presented (Fathers Conscript) is of so great consequence, that according as you hereon shall make resolution, the weal-public is either shaken, or confirmed, and we shall be traitors to our Country, ingrateful towards the Prince, unjust to ourselves, if we exercise not therein all sincerity, and fidelity. Caesar with one hand showeth the mischief unto us, with the other the remedy; The mischief, the conspiracy of Sejanus; The remedy, the imprisonment of Sejanus. I doubt not, but the evil is greater in his knowledge, than he expresseth in his letters, yet hold I the remedy more extreme than he supposeth, We cannot be assured of the person of Scianus in delivering it up to a Magistrate: 
Eminent persons were put into the custody of Magistrates.  Who will take this charge upon him? Nor may we do it by the Guard; he commandeth them; 
Lentulus was committed to Lent. Spinth. Cethegus to Q. Cornificiu●, Statilius to C Caesar, Cepar. to ●n. Terentius.  nor by committing him to any private house, he will not abide there long: Nor can it be done by his cautions; what assurance is there in state affairs, as they now stand? We cannot answer it, but in detaining him prisoner. The prison is but for slaves; There is not any for the Roman Citizen, the Consul, or Senator, much less for him who hath commanded over people, Senate, 
The first prison was built by A●ecus Martius, or Tarquin.  and Consuls. Our predecessors will rise out of their graves to defend this privilege, (the only mark of our ancient liberty) for they thought, to bind a Citizen of Rome was a great offence; to strike him a crime, to kill him, a Parricide. 
Facinus vinciri civem Romanum, scelus verberari, parricidiam necari. Cic.  The prison is the place of punishment among the Romans, and of custody among Barbarians.  
There is none, but those who know not Scianus, or are ignorant of Tiberius can doubt the necessity of proceeding further: It would be a great wonder, if he should prove innocent, and an unspeakable unhappiness, if he escape us He must be made an example, and to the end he may not take from the public, let us deal surely; 
Diogenes said, there had been some who slew themselves in the tempest before the vessel was drowned.  He would have courage enough to drown himself in the storm, and not expect the shipwreck of the vessel. Our Ancestors have beheld, how Caius Licinius Macer, seeing himself lost, and the judges ready to give sentence against him, got up to the top of the house, and thence threw himself headlong, 
Licinius Macer said to Cicero, Non damnatus, sed reus pereo. Val.  to have the honour to dye uncondemned, though accused. He was willing to prevent his judgement, and make himself his own Executioner.  

Alienae crudelitatis procurationem suscipere. Sen.  The Weal-public is here in question, the safety of the Prince, the preservation of the State, our Altars, our Laws. I am ashamed to prefer our own interests before the commands of Caesar. 
In deliberations you must always incline rather to that which is safe, than to that which is convenient, or profitable. Dion. Hal.  The securest way ought to be the most just. We are to prefer our safeties before our honours. There is no means to stop this evil, but by arresting Sejanus, and no course to stay him, but by imprisonmenu. The Person, Time, and Crime oblige you to make yourselves sure of him, and to chase away the evil, by the evil itself. Sejanus is raised upon the ruins of the State, it is fit the State repair itself on the ruins of Sejanus. It is a great sloth in the Senate, to have tolerated so much; Caesar doth an infinite favour to the people of Rome, to free them from this tyranny; Let us not lose the honour to have seconded his piety; It shall be more glorious to follow Sejanus to prison, than to serve him at liberty. If he be innocent, the Gods are unjust.  
What terror soever possessed the Assembly, the resolution was hazardous, 
Prava consilia in incerto sunt. Tac.  and this counsel being approved, every one judged it reasonable to execute, not examine the will of the Emperor. He was led to prison, and the Consul would trust none but himself with the adventure of this conduct, lest he might escape, or be rescued from him. Thus the same Senators, which an hour before accompanied him to the Senate, now led him to prison. Those who offered sacrifices to him, 
Cui genua flexerunt, ac ut Deo sacrifica verant. Dio.  as to their Gods, who prostrately bowed their knees to adore him, now jested at him, when they beheld him dragged from the Temple to the Gaol, from supreme honours to the lowest shame.  
Yea, some there were so transported with fury against him, 
Pallio coccinio adrasum oceluserat caput. Petr.  that seeing him to cover his eyes with the skirt of his robe, with which he veiled his head (for the Romans ware no hats, but in the wars, or time of sickness, nor caps but in a voyage) they pulled it away, despoiling him thereof for the greater disgrace, and with their fifts giving him many blows on the face.  
The people flouted at his fall, detested his life, reproached his insolence, cried out on the Traitor, and had they been suffered, he had not come unmaimed to the prison; for they at that instant would have dragged him to Sestertium, 
Plutarch saith, the head of Galba was cast into Sestertium.  the most infamous place about Rome, and where the bodies of slaves were thrown. But supposing he was not imprisoned to preserve his life, they flew upon his statues. 
Upon this Dion maketh a notable observation of human inconstancy.  Those in a moment were overthrown, and were seen to be drawn up and down with ropes, to be melted in the fire. Pieces of that head, 
Ex facie toto orbe secunda, fiunt urceoli, peives, sartago, patellae, juven.  which was adored as the second in the whole world, and which made the Senate tremble, were converted to mean moveables of the kitchen.  
There was so little space between his glory and his fall, that he was so soon strucken, as threatened. 
Dion noteth that Sejanus saw his statues to be broken, and from it perceived what happened to himself.  He beholding at the entrance of the Palace, what was done to the statues, imagined the principal would be ill entreated: but his greatest misery was, to have been no better prepared for this calamity. The ordinary error of those who are lifted to great dignities, 
A man must be seasonably prepared for a fall, and rather to go out, than expect to be expelled.  is, not to be wise, till after their falls, and having the means to descend at their ease, expect till they are forced to leap down the stairs.  
After Sejanus had passed the wicket: the Consul, that he might not lose time, returneth to the Temple of Apollo, enters into, that, of Concord, which was near unto it, to grant process against the prisoner; for it were a wrong to the reputation of the great justice of the Senate, to think it forgot any thing of form, 
Necessary forms. Accusatio crimen desiderat, rem ut definiat, hominem ut notet, argumento probet, teste confirmet. Cic.  in an affair of so remarkable importance, where it was necessary the authority of justice should cover the defects, might happen in the proceeding, the process being begun by imprisonment:  
The Accusers, Witnesses, Complices, were all heard in full Senate: For the instruction was public, 
Populus Romanus circum suosellia coronam facit. Cic.  and the people had (as it were) environed the seats of the judges. In it there was much authority, for the Majesty of the Senate was exposed to the view of all, nothing covered it but Heaven, there was much sincerity, so many eyes, so many judges, great example, all acted with order and discipline.  
It is not to be doubted, 
Antigonus being entreated to judge a cause in private, answered: It is better in the Palace, unless we should be unjust. Plut.  but some excellent Orator was allowed him, more for ceremony of defence, than opinion of innocence, and that performance of duty was recommended unto him; for the more vigorously his cause were maintained, the more would be the triumph of truth. 
Timor, perturbatio, suspensus, incertus vultus, crebra coloris mutatio, quae fuerant antea suspiciosa, aperta, atque manifesta faciunt. Cic.  Thereupon the judges watchfully observed the countenance of the accused, and satisfied themselves often in doubts of intention by troubles of the countenance; the air of which many times possesseth the place of words.  
Besides, Macro had given the word Consul, It is Tiberius will he dye: They were not to expect any other commandment, 
Many times the Senate related to the Prince what they had decreed.  nor to send him the opinion of the Senate. It was necessary for the State; and though he entered not culpable into prison, his quality permitted him not to go out innocent. The judges could not err, when they obeyed the directions of the Prince, who beholdeth his own affairs with an eye different from that of his Officers.  

Damnaturi jurant nihil se precibus dare. Sen. P.  The judges make oath to give sentence according to conscience. Neither Consul, nor Praetor deliver opinions, but take verdicts, The number of Senators was great, 
An expectem dum te septuaginta quinque tabellae diripiant. Cic.  Cicero reckoneth threescore and fifteen against Piso. It was lessened under the Emperors, and there were to be forty by Augustus his Edict, to make a Decree. Sentence was given either by discourse, or writing, by a little Tablet put into a box, or by silence and gesture, as at this day by veiling bonner, a sign of consent, or by the pace, when those who were of one part, ranked themselves together against the contrary: This was called going on foot. 
Many times in notorious crimes they cried out, Host, Hostis.  There was here but one voice to be heard; Let Sejanus dye, let his posterity dye, let his memory dye, and be all his goods confiscated.  
The Senators were so animated, that it is certain those, who knew the advantage they had above the rest (as Albutius the loudest in speaking) were not silent, 
Albutius in altercatione vires suas noverat. Sen. P.  to gain thereby the gracious favour of the Prince, yea, even they who chief depended on the will of Sejanus: And doubt you not, 
Nunquam si quis mihi credit amavi, Hunc hominum. juven.  but what was spoken among the people, who had nothing to lose, was also said by the Senators, who accounted all them lost, which had been his friends.  
These men were the bitterest, and said; 
The friends of Sejanus shown themselves very passionate against him.  If Caesar would extend clemency, it ought to be conferred on men, not monsters. If the Senate had not been careful to conserve the glory of their mildness, in the detestation of horrible punishments, he had suffered as a Parricide, his mouth had been stopped with weeds, wooden slippers had been fastened to his feet, he had been sowed up in a sack with a Dog, a Cock, an Ape, and a Viper, (impious creatures, companions for a wretched man) lastly had been sent to the river upon a cart drawn by two black Oxen, for a mark of the enormity, and hideousness of the crime.  

In aliis gloriari licet nulli gentium minores placuisse ●enis. T. Liv.  But never hath any Commonwealth been more curious than the Roman, to preserve this ancient reputation of humanity and courtesy. Metius Suffetius for his treason, was drawn in pieces by four horses; all the people turned their eyes from a spectacle of such horror. This was the first and last punishment in this kind of rigour, which had made the judges forget, that Laws and penalties were ordained, not for Tigers, or Ounces, but for men.  

In an arrest it is observed, Quo referente, Quo decernente, & Quo primum, assentiente.  It was expedient the execution of Sejanus his sentence should be shown, as in other men's cases, but that herein more pomp for the occasion, and example was to be used, and more diligence and power for safety, and for that in this many Magistrates were employed. Here is briefly delivered all which must be sought in many places, and which confusedly, and variously is related.  
judgement being signed by him, who registers the Acts, and Letters of the Emperor, 
Carnifex non modo foro, sed et am caelo hoc, ac spiritu prohibetur. Cic.  by him who first delivered his opinion which was followed by the rest, and by the Consul, who decreed what was resolved on: the executioner was sent for, whose abode by the law of the Censors might not be in the City.  
The Trumpet assembled the people, sounding before the gates of the Temple, before the house of the man condemned, 
Inversam induit Magistratus vestem Sen.  and in public places. The Consul or Praetor mounteth up to his throne, puts off his purple robe, or turneth the wrong side outward, or else taketh one of black, as a sad and dismal habit, yet not disposing his countenance to anger, or Melancholy, but retaining the comeliness, 
Lex non irascitur, sed constituit. Sen.  and gravity of the law, which is not angry with any man.  
The condemned is led forth, the Ushers command silence, the Consul pronounceth sentence, which is written in a Tablet, 
Fit a praecone silentium. Sen. P.  and turning himself towards the executioner, 
Quibus animadvertere in damnatos necisse est, non dicunt occide, non morere, sedlege, age.  says, Do according to law, or more plainly, pass on. They abstain from the harsh words, kill, hang, knock him down, as if one should command a servant to crush a scorpion, or a Caterpillar.  
The executioner bound his hands behind him, the Trumpets sounded whilst he prepared for execution, and the condemned disposed himself to death. 
Crudelitatem imperii verbo miliore subducunt. Sen. P.  Time was not at discretion: Nero never gave more than an hour for one to make himself ready for the mortal blow. 
Noxio post tergaligantur manus. Sen. P.  As in funerals, there were instruments, which sounded sad and mournful airs, with Cornets for great men, 
Adbibentur legitima verba, canitur ex altera parte classicum. Sen. P.  or with the flute for inferiors, which was called Symphony, So likewise at executions the trumpets sounded an alarm, 
Quis nam Delator? quibus indiciis? quo teste probavit? Nihil horum, verbosa, & grandis epistola venit. A Capreis: bene habet, nil plus interrogo juven.  as it were a charge, or an onset, to march on to death.  
In the mean space the people amazed at so sudden a judgement, ask the cause thereof, one says for what offence is he condemned? who was his accuser, what confederates, what witnesses, Is there nothing of all this? Another replieth. A large and long letter is come from Capri, And a third says it is sufficient, we need know no more, All is well.  
The form is no other wise expressed, than as Dion hath set it down, and the words he useth signify, he was condemned and executed.  
It is certain there was no rumour concerning his punishment. When any one among the ancients was condemned as a delinquent, it was to banishment (the civil death of a Roman ●Citizen.) The gibbet, empaling, 
Supplicium more majorum. Tac.  the gallows, wild beasts, the halter, the hangman were for slaves, and the base sort of people. It is long ago, said Paetus Thrasaeas to Nero, 
Sunt paenae legibus constitutae quibus sine judicum saevitia, & temporum infamia supplicia decern●ntur. Tac  since there was any speech at Rome of the hangman, or the cord; the laws have ordained punishments which correct the crimes without infamy in respect of time, without cruelty in regard of the judges. Traitors, Rebels, enemies of the common wealth, leapt headlong from the Tarpeian Monte 
Tarpeio pr●ditores, hostesve publici imponantur. Sen.  Manlius was thrown from the top of the hill athwart the Rocks, and he had as Plutarch saith, The Capitol for witness of his most fortunate Acts, and greatest Calamity; 
Locus idem in uno homine, & eximia gloriae monimentum & pana ultima fuit. T. Liv.  This punishment was inflicted upon him for having enterprised upon the government of the commonwealth. A punishment of all the most dreadful, for the rock was rough, of an admirable height, the middle and sides bordered (as it were) with sharp points like tainter hooks, and if the body fell upon them, 
Mo●es abscissa in profundum, frequen tibus exasperata saxis. Sen.  it was either broken, or more violently cast off. The very sight of it had horror, and who once fetched this leap, was sure enough never to make another.  

Nondum caput ●nse rotare. Lucan.  The heads also of offenders after the civil war were cut off, not with an axe (as anciently) but with a sword, and this punishment was so new, that a Courtesane at the Table of Proconsul Flaminius, saying she never had seen it, he caused the head of a prisoner, to be chopped off by the hangman. 
 iste cum amica caenaret jucundius, homo occisus est. Sen. P.  Valerius Antius gave the like satisfaction to a Lady whom he loved. Behold here goodly Magistrates, who play with the lives of men, and the authority of laws, to content the cruel curiosity, the one of a Citizen's wife of Placentia, the other of a trull, whose name was so odious, that if the Usher meeting her in the Consul's passage, had not chased her away, the dignity of the office had suffered. 
Majestas laesa, fi, exeunti proconsuli meretrix non summovetur. Sen. P.   
Sejanus had not his head strucken off, the punishment was too mild, in so violent and public fury. 
Sejanus ducitur unco spectandus, gaudent omnes, quae labra, quis illi vultus erat? juven.  juvenal saith, that being dragged thorough the City with a hook, the people admired at the greatness of his head, and large size of his lips. I suppose he was strangled in prison, 
jactavit Caesar quod non laque● strangulata, nequ● in Gemonias projecta foret. Tac.  for it was the most ordinary punishment, and Tiberius used it. After he had caused Agrippina to be put to death at Pandarr i, he boasted what favour he had done in not commanding her to be strangled, and would have the Senate to thank him for it.  
His three poor children were carried to prison, his daughter promised to the son of Claudius was deflowered near to the gallows by the Hangman, because it was not permitted to put a Virgin to death by torment. Dion saith she was slain by the people. 
Puella a carnifice juxta laqueum. compressa. Tac.  Tacitus thinks his son knew what they would do and the hazard he did incur. There was a daughter of his so young, and of so little understanding, that the ceased not to cry out, 
Puella adeo nescia, ut crebro interrogaret quod ob delictum, & q●o traheretur neque facturam ultra, & possess puerili verbere ●oneri. Tac.  What have I done? whether will they lead me? If I may be forgiven, I will do so no more; There needeth nothing but a rod to correct me. The hangman took these two by the throat and strangled them both. The bodies thus slain were fastened to the Gemonian stairs, 
The Gemonian stairs in the third station of Rome, which was mount Aventine.  which bore this name, either from the inventor, or from the groans which there were heard It was as the pillory, the open place of executions, there the statues, and pourtraits of the condemned were set. The Gaol, the Court where they pleaded, & the Rolls where they registered decrees, were built near together; the stairs were in the same place at the foot of Tiber, whereinto they cast the bodies.  

Quo die illum Senatus d● duxerat populus in frusta divisit. Sen.  Seneca and Dion differ, the one sayeth they dragged his body three whole days, the other that the same day the Senate accompanied him to the Senate house, the people hewed him in pieces, and that of a man, on whom Gods and men had accumulated all that which might make him great and glorious, 
Ex eo nihil superfuit, quod carnifex traheret. Sen.  there was nothing left for the hangman to tie to his hook, and cast into Tiber. To reconcile them I suppose, 
You must look on P. victor of the 14. stations of Rome and what they contain.  after he was executed, they set him on those stairs, that the people might see him, and that in this fury they dragged him from thence in an instant, and having distended him on the bank of Tiber, they cut him in pieces, or perhaps in fourteen quarters, as many as the City had wards, and that these pieces were drawn three days together about the City.  
All sorts of outrages were done to this miserable body, some through inhumanity, others for revenge, many for example, and all to the end, it might not be thought, they had either loved, or known him. juvenal relateth the discourse, which then was frequent at Rome, for every one gave liberty to his tongue according to his opinion. Behold the prose of his verse.  
I perceive it is best to dye; 
Perituros audio multos, nil dubium magna est f●rnacula ut male defensua etc. Qum atim●●. etc. curramus precipites, & dum jacet in ripa calcemus. Caesaris hostem etc. & pavidum in jus cervice astricta dominam trabat. etc. visne salutari, sicut Sejanus? habere. Tantundem, atque illi sellas don●●● curules. Illum exercitibus prapa●ere? ●●tor haberi.  There is no doubt to be made of it: The furnace wherein they are to be cast is very large: I met my poor friend Brutidius last day, near Mars his Temple, he was very pale, and much astonished. I fear lest being called Ajax he kill himself with his own hand. But that we may not be taken for friends to Sejanus, and perish without defence, let us run to this body, whilst it lieth on Tiber's bank, and cry out aloud, We trample under foot the enemy of Caesar.  
He who is a servant let him renounce, and forsake his Master, let him take him by the throat, writh his neck, and drag him all trembling before the Commissaries. This is the way to save himself, and be rewarded.  
The people than made this discourse of Sejanus in secret. wouldst thou be followed and courted like Sejanus, have as much wealth as he, dispose of dignities, give the Ivory chairs, command over armies, be accounted the Governor of the Prince, dispatch his businesses, whilst he is in the straightened Grot of Capri, 
Principis angusta Caprearum in rupe sedentis, cum grege Chaldaeo.  with his troup of Chaldeans, and Astrologers?  
wouldst tbou have command over the company which carrieth the dart, or three pointed javelin? wouldst thou command over the Cavalry, over those bands, which abide in the palace to guard the Prince?  

Quinolunt occidere quenquam posse volunt; ut rebus letu par sit mensura malorum.  Why dost thou not desire it? They that will kill no man, wish to have the power. Every one affecteth honours, and riches, which are notwithstanding such, that the measure of their evils, who pursue them, equalleth the contentment they bring.  
Love you better to wear the robe of Sejanus, whom you see dragged in the streets; than to be a Magistrate in the forsaken villages of Fidenae, Gabijs, 
An Fidenarum, Gabiorumque esse potestis: Et de mensura vis dicere:  or be the Aedile of Vlubris, which is almost desolate, and give judgement on measures, and weights, and cause those to be broken which are not lawful? 
Numerosa parabat. Excelsa ●urri tabulata unde altior esset.  you must then confess, that Sejanus hath never known what is to be desired; For in pursuing great honours and riches, he did nothing but prepare a scaffold for himself on a high Turret to fall down, and cast himself headlong from the top thereof. What overthrew the Crassis, the Pompeyeses, and him, that conquered the Quirites, and scourged them like slaves? Truly, 
Summus nempè locus: Magnaque numinibus vota exaudita malignis. juven.  elevated fortunes, to which men mount by wiles and ambitious desires, such as malign stars raise to ruin those that built them.  
Few Tyrants have descended to the son in law of Ceres, and a natural death: Their end was not dry, nor hath blood been spared to moisten it.  
Seneca saw this execution, and yet wrote nothing thereof, though he were then of an age to observe it: for he was in Rome fifteen years before the death of Augustus. He much wondereth, that of the body of a man of such eminency and magnificence, nothing remained for burial.  
If excessive joy killed a mother, 
Si ad mortem agit matres magnum gaudium? quid magnus dolour? Sen.  what may extreme sorrow? Apicata was assailed with an incredible grief, when she saw her children on the Gemonian steps. Cratesiclea, 
Cratesiclea begged she might be put to death before her children, but the Hangman slew them before her face. Plut.  mother of Cleomenes King of Sparta, whose head Ptolemy cut off, and hanged his body on a pair of gallows, seeing her children slain before her eyes, said; Out alas, my children, whither are you gone? Apicata spoke to these innocents, which she beheld on this infamous place, Poor Infants, where are you now? In this anguish she retired to her house, where she wrote a discourse of Drusus his death, sent it to Tiberius, which done, she slew herself.  

Ordo sceleris per Apicatam Sejano proditus tormentis Eudemi, ac Lygdi patefactus est. Tac.  She had not stayed so long before she discovered it, had not the love of her children withheld her; for well she knew, that in crimes of treason, they should suffer the like punishment with the father. She accuseth Sejanus, Livilla, Lygdus, and Eudemus, these put upon the wheel, (which was the torture) confessed all. Tiberius caused diverse to be racked, to discover the complices. It was told him there was one arrived, who came from Rhodes, and forgetting he was a creature of his own, whom he had sent, he presently caused him to be put to the torture, and having found his own error, 
Errore detecto, occidi jussit ne divulgaret injuriam.  commanded he should be killed, that he might not divulge the wrong he had sustained. This was to preserve the reputation of a just Prince, by a notable injustice.  
The death of Sejanus gave confidence, and safety to Tiberius, and when he was moved to choose twenty Senators, to be always near about him with swords by their sides, he answered; 
Mibi vita tanti n●n est ut armis tegenda sit. Tac.  Life was not so dear to him, that he would submit himself to preserve it by arms. But vicious and exorbitant habits pass not away: And he, not causing his vices to dye before his death, had not the pleasure of seeing his enemies dye before himself. He so sensibly resented the remorse of this, that he protested to the Senate he daily died. 
Tandem facinora, & flagitia in supplicium vertuntur. Tac.  His condition was not subject to the judgement of men, but he was convinced in his own conscience, which accused, condemned, and executed him. Whereupon a wise man, who lived in that time, said; 
 corpora verberibus, ita saevitia, ac libidine Tyrannorum animus dilaceratur. Tac.  If the souls of Tyrants might be seen, more ulcers would appear through lust, than they made wounds on bodies murdered by their cruelty. Of all his violences, the most execrable was the death of the Architect, 
Ferunt Tiberio principe excogitatum vitri temperamentum ut flexibile esset, & totam artificis officinam abolitam, ne aeris, argenti, auri, metalli pretia detraherentur. Plin.  who skilfully re-edified, and repaired the great portal of Rome, and presented a glass unto him, broke it, and gathering the pieces together, instantly made it up again, having found out the secret that this substance obeyed the last office of fire, and became malleable. Pliny says, he abolished it, lest gold, silver, and brass should be the less esteemed. What an ornament had it been, if from an herb, which hath neither beauty, sent, nor is good or tasteful for man, or beast, a substance should be derived, hard, solid, and transparent?  

Priscis temporibus summum certamen inter homines ne quid profuturum saeculu, diu lateret. Petr.  An invention notwithstanding, which the precedent ages were ignorant of, his admired, and ours ever may deplore; for we shall no more have men, who in this kind will be grieved, that, that, which may benefit posterity should long be concealed. Tiberius intermitted none of his profuse, 
Malus Imperator qui ex visceribus, provincialium homines non necessarios, nec reipublicae utiles aluit. Lampr.  voluptuous, and superfluous expenses: He entertained from the sweat and labours of people, infinite numbers, not only unprofitable, but pernicious to the Commonwealth: and caused those to be put to death, whose industry might bring ornament and utility. Oh! what disorder in the times, and men? The reward of an admirable invention is denied, and Sejanus selleth one of his Eunuches for 3500. Sesterces. But that was during the calamity of the Empire, and when no man was suffered to reprove his profusions.  

Injuriam lueri fecit in luctu civilatis, quoniam arguere nulli vacabat. Plin.  The reign of Tiberius was much more terrible and cruel after Sejanus, than it had been before. He would not have the people repair by his death, the evils he had done in his life. Augustus' ordained a military treasury, which he filled with three tributes, as with three living sources: 
The most pleasing tribute was the twentieth, which is taken upon inheritances, legacies kindred, and exempt poor.  from the twentieth part of inheritances, from the twentie-fifth upon the sale of slaves, from the hundreth of all that which was in trade. Tiberius' having reduced the kingdom of Cappadocia into a province, thought by the increase of this revenue, the people should be discharged of so much; and therefore in stead of an hundred, 
Extrancis facile, domesticis grave. Plin.  he decreed they should pay but the two hundreth part. But after the death of Sejanus, as repenting himself of this favour, he reduced it to the hundreth again. Necessity of affairs excused it, which suffers not tributes to be denied, it is a fury that catcheth the State by the throat, if not appeased. Those who are constituted, to stand in the front of employment, aught to render the people capable of this verity. 
Da operam, ut omnes intelligant si salvi esse velint, necessitati esse parendum. Cic. M. Ant. in Asia after the battle of Philippi. So Themistocles demanding money of the Andrians, said to them▪ he was accompanied with two Goddesses, Persuasion and Constraint. Plut.  If you will in peace possess particular benefits▪ needs must you secure public necessities. When Anthony the Triumvir was sent into Asia, to draw aid from thence, he gave no other reason, but this, Necessity will have it so.  
Thus (saith he) that you may not be expelled from your Towns and Territories, it is fit you give money for the entertainment of Soldiers. There is not so much required, but that you may freely part with it. You gave in two years, to Brutus and Cassius our enemies, the tributes of ten; we need no more to be freed from affairs, so you this one time grant it.  

By the quality of tribute, we may judge of the power of the tribute giver.  He drew from them 200000. talents, which was 20000. yearly, amounting in all to twelve millions.  

Nec quies gentium fine armis, nec arma sine stipendio, nec stipendia sine tributis haberi queunt. Tac.  A Commonwealth cannot maintain itself in peace, if it be feeble, nor be fortified without arms: arms are not entertained without money, and money is not derived, but from tributes. But moderation is therein to be used, and the Prince imitating Tiberius, 
Malo tondere pecus, quàm deglubere. D. Tib.  should shear the sheep, not flay it, and render the disposure thereof chaste, sincere, and pure, as drawn from the blood, sweat, and tears of his people, for expenses profitable, necessary, and glorious, not for profusions, which neither afford contentment, nor reputation.  
Happy is the Prince, who findeth honest men, whom he may trust with the care of his Exchequers, whereon dependeth the honour of his designs, the Majesty of his Crown, the tranquillity of his State: For they are, both the nerves which give motion, and the veins which entertain life; and as by the resolution, and shrinking of nerves, the physical body is many times deprived of motion and sense: So the politic without money cannot stir, nor support itself: In a word, with revenues one accomplisheth, and comes to the end of all. He that hath the last Crown gains the triumph. They are sacred, the charge of them is given to Saturn, or to his Temple. 
Tunc conditus im● eruitur Templo, multis intactus ab annis Romani census populi. Luc.  Caesar had not known how to ruin liberty, if he had not begun by this sacrilege, robbing the treasury of the Republic, which was filled with all the spoils of the Orient, and that which the Fabricii, the Scipio's, the Cato's, the Pompey's had by their victories acquired. The first note of the desolation of a State is drawn from the unjust, and irregular administration of revenues.  
It is not enough, that such as have the charge thereof be vigilant, to make the expense not exceed the receipt, but it much importeth the State the means of particulars be husbanded without excess, 
Res familiaris iis rebus quaeratur à qu bus est turpitudo. Cic.  with order and modesty, as they ought to be acquired with honesty and justice. The disorders which are observed in apparel, diet, buildings, curiosities, and superfluity of private houses, 
Conviviorun luxuria, & vestium, aegrae civitatis indicia sunt. Sen.  are symptoms not only of a sick, but a dying State. Troubles and seditions are commonly supported by the despair of forlorn people, and such as have nothing to lose, of which condition were those, 
Hoc in Republica seminarium Catilinarium. Cic.  who entered into conspiracy with Catiline. Great and excessive were the confusions during the reign of Tiberius; but such as were derived from former times; for he was wont to say, The Romans learned to dispend their own means in civil wars, and the wealth of others among strangers. It is an admirable thing, that having provided against so many other exorbitancies, he would not correct the riot and dissolution, which overflowed through the contempt of Somptuarie Laws. 
Non sum offenfionum avidus, pro Rep. suspicio; inanes & irritas jure deprecor. Tac.  Was not this because he would not begin the example of reformation in his own house, surfeited with superfluities, or by reason disorder was grown into custom, and discipline; or that he would not unprofitably, and without effect, draw public disaffection upon himself. His greatest reason was, not, to expose his commands to contempt, nor open the vein, before he had the fillet ready to staunch the blood.  
These remarkable words which he spoke to the Senate on this occasion, should be represented to Kings, as often as they institute laws, the effects whereof were difficult and doubtful. 
Omittenda potius praevalida & adulta uttia, quam hoc adsequi ut palam fiat, quibus flagitin impares simus. Tac.  A Prince ought rather to dissemble an inveterate disorder, and which is of much consequence, than to put his authority in hazard, and suffer his weakness publicly to appear, especially when they are matters, which he cannot remedy.  
After the execution of Sejanus, the Senate commanded the statue of liberty to be erected in the open market place, and that every year on the same day Sejanus was put to death, a Combat on horseback should be exhibited, and many beasts there slain. A thing never done before. They likewise prohibited excessive honours to be conferred on any man, or to swear by other name, than that of the Emperor.  
All the friends of Sejanus ran his fortune, and received what they expected. 
Quam male est extra legem viventibus: quicquid meruerunt semper expectant. Petr.  The prisons were filled, some condemned to death, others banished, all deprived of their offices. The City seemed a field, where nothing was to be seen but mangled bodies, or Ravens which rend them.  

jacuit immensa strages, omnis sexus, omnis etas, ●ust●es ignobites. Tac.  Tiberius was so accustomed to executions, that he caused all those to be put to death, who in prison were accused to have any intelligence with Sejanus: 
Faeminae quia occupandae re●pub. argui non poterant ob lachrimas ivensabantur. Tac.  there were laid on the pavement an infinite number of dead men of all ages and conditions, eminent, noble, plebeian: It not being permitted any man to stand still to behold them, nor retire to bewail them, for both the one and the other were reputed a crime. Vitia was punished with death, for having lamented her son Geminus: and because women were not to be accused for attempting on the state, their tears were accounted criminal.  

Interciderat fortis humanae commercium, ut metus quantumque saevitiae glisceret, miseratione arcebatur. Tac.  Sorrow was judged by the countenance, and grief by the vehemency of passion, in such sort, that the bodies which Tiber cast up to the shore, remained there without burial: so much had fear dissolved commerce between nature, and compassion.  

Ausus est amplecti amicitiam, quam caeteri falso exuerant. Tac.  There was not a man which disavowed not the friendship of Sejanus. One only Roman Knight, Marcus Terentius accused to have been his friend, freely protested it, when the rest made semblance to renounce it. 
Minus expedit agnoscere crimen, quam abnuere.  And thus he spoke before the Senate.  
It were perhaps more expedient for my fortune to deny the crime, whereof I am accused, than confess it, But hap what will I profess to have been Sejanus his friend, I desire to be so, and much rejoice to have gained his favour. 
There were 4 in the City, 3. in the garrisons. Cunctos, qui novissimi consilu experti fuimus, non uniu● discrimine defendam. Tac.  I saw him a Colleague with his father in the charge of the Praetorian Cohorts, and that he in one and the same time managed the affairs both of peace and war: That those who were his most intimates, were powerful in the Emperor's grace, and the rest perpetually in terror, and the miserable condition of men accused.  
I will not here produce any man for an example, but with the sole hazard of my life defend all those, who have had no part in his last designs. For we did not our service to Sejanus of Vulsinium, but we followed the fortune of the house of Claudius, whereof he by alliance, was become the head. We (Caesar) honoured your son in Law, 
Non est nostrum astimare quem supra caeteros, & quibus de causis extollas. Tibi summum rerum judicium dii dedere: nobis obsequii gloria relicta est. Tac.  your associate in the Consulship, and him who exercised your commands in the common wealth.  
It is not for us to judge, what he ought to be, nor for what cause you raised him above others. The Gods have given you the sovereign dispose of affairs: Nothing remaineth for us herein, but the only glory of obedience. We consider what we see, on whom you confer riches, and honours; and who can hurt or advantage us, and no man can deny, 
Abditos principis sensus, & si quid occultius parat, exquirere illicitum. Tac.  but Sejanus was all this. It is not lawful to penetrate the deep intentions of the Prince, nor what in secret he aimeth at: That is, doubtful, we therefore attempt it not. Think not on this last day of Sejanus, but the sixteen years of his prosperity. In that time we honoured Satrius and Pomponius, his freed men: and it was thought a glorious thing to be known by his servants, yea, his Porter. What then shall we make no difference between those who have served Sejanus, as the Emperor's creature, and such as followed him in his designs, as an enemy of the Empire?  

Insidia in remp., concilia caedis adversum imperatorem puniautur, de amicitia, & officiis, Idem, & te Caesar, & nos absoluerit. Tac.  It is necessary this distinction be reduced into its just limits, to the end the treasons and conspiracies against the state, and plots concerning the Emperor's life may be punished, but for the friendship you have borne him, and the obserevances we afforded him, one and the same reason ought (oh Caesar) to discharge both you and us.  
The boldness, and constancy of his speech which contained the thoughts of others, was of so great force, that such as were accused as friends to Sejanus, were distinguished from his Confederates; and Caesar applauded to have confirmed the decree of the Senate, for the innocency of Terentius, 
Scipio said the worst word might be encountered in friendship was that, which would have a friend love, as if he should hate. Cic.  who loved not his friend to hate, or disavow him.  
Lentulus Getulicus took a clean contrary course from Varro. Abudius Rufus accused him to have treated the marriage of his daughter with the son of Sejanus, this man was in Germany in great esteem, and authority for his mildness and modesty. He spoke a far off on horseback, and in arms, for which cause Tiberius condemned and exiled his accuser, an act of the wisdom of a Prince, never to threaten him, who is out of his danger.  
Getulicus was hereof advertised, 
Getulicus effusae clementia, modicus severitate, m●rum amorem adsecutus. Tac.  and knowing the humour of Tiberius, (who when he fell upon a resolution, seldom flew from it, but according to the temper of his anger pressed, or retarded his revenge) let him know, he was in such a state, 
Confidence doth not always proceed from courage, but from place and caution  he would not forget his own safety for another's, and so sent him this letter, as insolent, as confident.  
Caesar, the alliance I contracted with Sejanus, 
Idem error principis sine fraude ali●s exitio non est habendus. Tac.  hath not been upon my own motion, but your advice: It may be I am deceived as well as you: but one, and the same fault ought not to discharge one, and ruin another. My loyalty hath hitherto been untainted, 
Successorem non aliter quam indicium mortis acceptum. Tac.  nor ever shall change, if some faction be not prepared against me, and whosoever shall succeed me in my charge, I will receive him as one, who attempteth on my life. Let us accord as by way of treaty; 
Princeps caeterarum rerum potiatur, ipse provinciam retineam. Tac.  Take you the rest of the Empire, I my government.  
Nothing but distance excused the incivility of this letter. He was the only man among the friends of Sejanus, that escaped. Tiberius' cast his eyes downward, 
Publico odio & extrema aetate res principis stant magis fama, quam vi. Tac.  and shrugged his shoulder, for his affairs were more maintained by reputation, than power. His frail decrepit age cut off his hopes, and public hatred augmented his jealousies.  

Haud minus validum ad exitia Macronis odium qui easdem artes occultius exercebat.  Mamercus Scaurus was likewise one of Sejanus his friends, but this amity had not so much power to ruin him, as the malice of Macro, who was no less violent, than the other to rid himself of his enemies, but he therein proceeded with more cunning, and secrecy. He was worthy of the friendship of Sejanus, 
Mamercus Scaurus ancillarum menstruamore hianta exceptabat. Sen.  for the conformity of his humours, to the others lusts, which Seneca representeth to be so brutish, that the only thought of them, polluteth the mind; he stayed not till condemnation, but followed the advice of Sextia his wife, who persuaded him to kill himself.  
P. Vitellius, 
P. Vitellius aerarii praefectus militarem pecuniam rebus novis obtulerat. Tac.  who stoutly had supported the cause of Germanicus against Piso, was accused to have delivered to Sejanus the treasure of the common wealth, for he was one of the overseers of the Exchequer. His brothers answered for him, 
Crebris prolationibus spe●, & metum juxta gravatus. Tac.  but seeing his process continued long, he was much perplexed to languish between hope and fear, and so opened a vein with a bodkin. His friends staunched the blood and stayed the spirits in their passage, much troubled to remain in a body, which pleasing itself in turmoils, was resigned to sorrow, and heaviness.  
Pomponius was sick, 
In custodia mort● periit. S●et. Vitam aegritudine animi finivit. Tac.  in the same hospital with the rest, but his patience made him survive Tiberius, who would have put him to death, because Velius Gallus had retired into his garden, when they dragged Sejanus.  
Tiberius' bewailed Sejanus, 
Honoribus functus es? Numquid aut tam magnis, aut tam universis, quam Sejanus? Sen.  not for the loss of him, but his own interest, for whilst he lived all the blame was laid on him, whatsoever he did either of injustice or cruelty, and after his death no man shared with him, in the general hatred.  
As much as the prosperity of Sejanus was admired, so much his fall bred terror, and amazement. Never any man before him, received greater Honours, more universal, more unexpected, and all the favours, and dignities, which the Kings of Europe could heap together, to raise a man, might not be compared with these. 
Diu multumque singulis q●id posset, ostendit. Sen.  He made all men know fare and near, what he was able to do. He sixteen years possessed the Sovereign power of an Empire, that commanded the whole world, and which had the rising and setting Sun, for limit. 
Clausum mari aut fluminibus longinquis imperi●m.  Euphrates confined its frontier towards the East, Mount Atlas, the Cataracts of Nilus, the Deserts of Africa towards the South; the Ocean in the West; Danubius in the North: so that, as far as the Sun progressed, his commands went. What glory ever mounted so high, or fell so low.  
He that should see a lofty mountain, commanding over a goodly plain to be swallowed up, to sink, and be ingulfed in a moment, would be amazed, yet were not that more strange, than to behold these great Colossuses, 
To see great men fall is to behold mountains made level.  overthrown in an instant. This breedeth astonishment, yet is the example neglected. Every one trusteth his own judgement, thinking to walk the same way, but with another pace, and more securely than others. One ship alone, which shall happily return from a long navigation, 
Every one thinks to do the best, and to carry himself more wisely, than they who are undone.  is able to encourage an hundred men to attempt the like voyage; and the shipwreck of an hundred vessels, is not of power to divert one alone: For, no man believes ill luck is ordained for him.  
Macro Captain of the Guard, and Laco Master of the watch, were much better advised, the Senate decreed large honours to them, for this their good service. 
Great services for the State ought to be paid with honour, not money.  To the first the office of Praetor, with power to sit in the rank of Senators, with a purple robe in sports, and public assemblies; and to the second, the office of Questor: They refused them, and Dion findeth out the reason of their denial, upon the terror of an example so fresh.  
They thought it would be a great imprudence, to fall upon the same shelf, 
Optimum est aliena insania frui. Pliu.  whereon Sejanus was shipwracked. 
There are some can never be wise by any example, but their own ruin.  It is better to be taught by the mishap of another, than our own. Wise men make use of the disgrace and detriment, which they see others suffer. And as treacle is compounded of vipers, and wholesome remedies are drawn from poison; so from the ruins and miseries of the wicked, honest men may derive precepts for direction.  
Sejanus shall always be alleged for a prodigious example of extreme insolence, and unfortunate ambition: 
Nemo unquam ìmperium flagitio acquisitum, bonis artibus exercu●t. Tac. Alvarus de Luna said to those who admired his fortune with the King of Castille, You do ill to praise the building before it be finished.  and his tragical end will instruct us, that, Power ill gotten, is never well used: That we must not judge of felicity, till death; nor of the day, before night; nor of the building, till it be finished.  
Death, Fortune, Time, and the Course thereof, change in a moment. Favour acquired by merit, or good fortune, is lost by insolence, and the most secure cannot subsist, but by support of the Prince.   
FINIS.   

Unhappy Prosperity: Or, Philippe the Catanian.  
Written in French by P. Mathieu; And Translated into English Bianca Sr. TH. HAWKINS.  
Second History:  JUVENAL. 
— Optata exegit gloria poenas.  
LONDON, Printed by John Haviland for Godfrey Emondson, 1632.   

To the King:  
Sir,  
FAvour raised this Catanian from dust to glory, and pride threw her headlong from glory into dust again. I present this History to your Majesty, as of a Monster of fortune, which you may peruse for Curiosity, others for Instruction: For (verily) it is a Model, which figureth the shipwreck of those, who strike not sail to decline the Tempest.  
P. Mathieu.   

Advertisement.  
BOccace, the Florentine is the Author of this History, in his last book, De casibus virorum illustrium, & he relateth it upon the credit of his own eyes, and of two old Captains, Marinus of Bulgaria, and Constantino de la Rocca, who knew her in the Court of Robert King of Naples. I conferred it, upon the first impression in France, with an ancient Manuscript, & with that which john Ant. Summoto wrote of it.  
It is a tragical effect of the inconstancy of Fortune no less cunning in her Deceits, than giddy in her Favours. She could not raise this woman from a more despicable degree, nor precipitate her from an higher, To show, The Ascent to great Prosperities is of Glass, the Top a Terror, and Descent a Precipice.   

Unhappy Prosperity.  
states are as soon ruined by weak instruments, 
The ruin of States proceedeth from hidden causes, much more dangerous than the apparanr.  as violent attempts; and when the just anger of God will overthrow them; he doth not always make use of his three-forked thunder, he therein employs nought else, 
By feeble means God confoundeth proud power.  but rats, frogs, and flies.  
This truth affords more proofs and examples in the history of the Kings of Naples of the royal house of Anjou, than any other of that time, where may be seen what abject persons have made the prosperity of this flourishing Kingdom to totter, which was maligned by the most warlike people of the earth.  

The Kingdom of Naples possessed by Grecians, Saracens, Normans, Almans, French, and Arragonians.  The Pope gave the title of it to Charles Earl of Anjou, and Province: brother of St. Lewis, but his valour alone got the possession thereof, which never was disturbed in his royal posterity, but thorough desperate counsels. That this History may be well understood, we must unfold the memorial of the wars of Sicily, between the Kings of Naples, 
Massacre of the French in Sicily on Easter Tuesday. 29. of March. 1282.  and Arragon.  
After the barbarous and inhuman Vespres of Sicily, Peter King of Arragon who was much blamed to have counselled and countenanced this cruelty, drew a powerful army together, dissembling his design so covertly, that the Pope careful to preserve public tranquillity, demanding of him what he would do with it? 
All warlike preparation of a Prince is suspected by neighbours.  he answered that should his shirt know his secret, he would burn it, yet notwithstanding suffered the bruit to run currant, it was to pass into Africa.  
Charles believed it, not imagining he had any plot upon Sicily, or that he would hinder him from chasticing the Sicilians, who had added exorbitant cruelty to furious rebellion. 
It is an ill example to hinder a Prince in the chastisement of his rebellious subjects.  He besiegeth the City of Messina, which turning its defence into submission and humility, begged pardon: but he still persisting in the impetuous thirst of revenge, grants them nothing at all, but the same conditions they had afforded the French. 
No motion in the soul is more active, than anger, more violent than revenge.  The Pope's Legate entreats him to rest satisfied with their repentance, and to consider, that extreme rigour is a cure unseasonable; he will understand nothing contrary to his resolution, lest hope of impunity might cherish rebellion. 
In what manner soever a subject repenteth, clemency ought to be preferred before Rigour.  Besides he promised himself that by humbling this City, all the rest were conquered, and peradventure he was well enough pleased to have pretence to punish their faults, so to take away the privileges they enjoyed, which verily were sharp thorns in the eyes of the Kings of Sicily, 
Princes many times are glad that subjects rebel, that so they may give them fortresses to bridle them and take away their privileges.  they paying no other tribute, but what they accustomed under William the first, King of Sicily, In matter of popular commotion among those who are absolutely subject, you must go before the offence, and hinder them from doing amiss, but in others who live between servitude and liberty, you were better expect a revolt than prevent it, that you may have just occasion to despoil them of their privileges. The Pope pitied the Messinians, and Charles, not to render himself implacable, sweetened his anger. He pardoned them on condition the besieged should send him 800. men to dispose of them at his discretion. This article was so harsh amongst them, that they protested they would rather eat their wives, and children, burn them as the people of Araspus', 
The Araspians being besieged by the Romans burned their wives, their children, and their goods, then desperately fell upon the assailants, that themselves might be killed in killing their enemies.  and throw themselves into the flames after them, than give consent thereunto. The wives to encourage the husbands to a common defence, presented their children, conjuring them not to leave them to the inhumanities' wherewith they were threatened, They speak of nothing but stones, and spared not to carry many to the top of the walls, to knock down the approachers.  
Peter of Arragon entereth into Sicily under the title of occasion and opportunity. For he had not any but, that, of Constantia his wife, who had the title of Manfredus her father, and Manfredus, 
Private houses only think how to preserve their own, Princely how to invade others.  of invasion. Private thefts are punished; It is a Kingly work to invade another, and in great power, strength usurps the place of reason. Messina is succoured. Charles enforced to retire with much sorrow, not to have tempered his anger, & accepted the offer, which had assured him of the whole Island without a blow strucken. Then was the time his tongue did him ill service, for had it not discovered his heart, all Sicily would have stooped to his obedience. 
The Sicilians found the Catalonians harsh, proud, and untractable.  Other Cities fearing the like punishment having done the same fault, followed the resolution of the Messinians, and opened the gates to the Arragonians, who presently handled these people so harshly and haughtily that they wished for the French again. 
gualtier of Calatagirona declares against the Arragonians, who took him, and hanged him.  Those of Calatagirona, took arms against them, and Alaimus Leontinus chief justice wrote to Charles, that if he sent him but ten Galleys, he would restore Sicily unto him: but he would not trust them, who were dishonoured with so notorious a treachery.  
Charles seeing Fortune with one so violent a kick of her foot had thrown down all his designs, sought pretence of reason, 
He who will not be angry for the loss of a Crown, will not be troubled at any thing.  and finding no cause of anger, or quarrel more just than the invasion of a Kingdom, besought the Pope to admit he might combat with Peter of Arragon in single Duel, to determine by the death of one, a difference, which might be the death of many. The Pope seeing Peter of Arragon would not submit to reason, left him to the hazard of arms. 
Simon Leontinus a Dominican Friar carried the letter of challenge.  Charles sent him the lie and defiance. Peter refused not to measure his sword with Charles. They agree to take Bourdeaux for the place of Combat, and the King of England for judge, an hundred Captains of either part for spectators, and Sicily for Trophy of victory. 
The King of England at that time held Guienne.  Charles testified his courage by showing himself twice in the field, and Peter his prudence by accepting the combat to withdraw his enemy, 
The Combat appointed in the month of May in the year. 1283 Charles retireth out of the field upon notice, that Peter was so fare off he could not come the next day, yet arrived the same day, and put his army, and lance into the hands of the English Marshal.  who in Sicily drew near unto him. He came to Tours, but it was after he knew Charles was departed, leaving registered with the Marshal of England, that he had expected his enemy from morning until night.  
He complaineth to the Pope, that Peter of Arragon put a scorn upon him and that he will neither plead, nor restore. The Pope excommunicateth him as an Usurper upon the rights of the Church, gives his Kingdom to Charles, proclaims open wars against him, and gins it with more reputation, than prosperity. Peter of Arragon surpriseth the I'll of Malta, and his Admiral the Galleys of Naples, with Charles Prince of Salerno the King's son, whom he sends prisoner to Barcellon, draws near to Naples, terrifies, and amuseth minds so much, that if Cbarles had not speedily hastened thither, the gates had been opened to him, His presence gives confidence to honest men, 
The defeat, and taking of Charles on the fifth of August. 1284.  and terror to the seditious, he caused a hundred and fifty of them to be hanged, and had he not considered that there is not any man so miserable who is not a member of the State, 
It is written that he in his anger commanded to put fire amongst the Neapolitans, Gerrard of Parma the Pope's Legate appeased him, and shown that how much the more faults were great, so much the more clemency is commendable.  punishment had taken away a much greater number, which had he omitted, he should have made a new world through the difficulty of distinction between good subjects & rebels, & children from servants: for as those are not chastised by blows, so are the other so refractory they cannot be appeased with sweetness.  
Fortune being now wholly turned against him, his army was discomfited before Rheggio, and he raising another to recover Sicily, the sorrow of his forepast losses stayed him, dissolved his design, and ended his life.  
Fortune exacted so rough interests from the contentments she had given him, that in these his last agonies, seeing the precipice inevitable, 
If I must needs fall (said Charles) I pray God it may be handsomely.  he sought nothing but to descend into it after his own manner without either being urged, or forced. He (as having wilfully concurred to his own unhappiness, 
He who is the cause of his own suffering may only thank himself. ) endeavoured not to seek out elsewhere, than in himself, the causes of his suffering.  
It is impossible to live in the world without adversity, but it much importeth to understand for what cause we suffer, 
In the same army died Pope Martin the fourth, Charles the first King of Naples, Peter of Arragon, Philip the Hardy.  what the expectation is, and to what purpose we endure, for if it be not innocently, patience is difficult, and comforts are superfluous. He died at Foggia the seventh of january 1284. 
Charles the first King of Naples caused the head of Conradinus grandchild of the Emperor Frederick to be cut off, on the 26. of October. 1269.  Charles the second losing the King his father, must of necessity part both with life and Kingdom. The Queen Constantia was counselled to let him dye under the hands of an executioner to revenge the death of her Nephew; so that upon this advice, she on a Friday sent him word he must prepare himself to the same punishment, which his father had inflicted on Conradinus: He answered, I am most ready to dye for the love of him, who upon the same day suffered for me. This generous, and Christian answer touched the Queen's heart, who replied: For the same respect he would dye, I will have him live. But to qualify this inveterate choler, and violent thirst to revenge the death of Conradinus, 
Cruelty is an inveterate anger.  she commanded the heads of two hundred gentlemen prisoners to be cut off.  
At four year's end he was freed from captivity, & left there three of his children, Lewis, Robert, and john, for hostages, and regaining with his liberty one Kingdom (accounted as lost) he found another which he expected not. 
Hungary was miserable under Ladislaus, and the Nobility enforced to till the ground.  The Hungarians having put Ladislaus their King to death for his libidinous life, and cruelties, Charles Martell was crowned King of Hungaria, as son of Mary, sister of Ladislaus.  
But because the sweetest contentments are steeped in the roughest acerbities, 
Charles Martell son of Charles the 2. King of Naples and Mary daughter of Stephen King of Hungary.  and for that strange accidents succeed unexpected events, a Neapolitan Gentleman named Faelix, the only Privado in the secrets, & favours of Charles, undertook, not, to share with him, Sovereign authority, which is not divisible; 
All ambition is insatiable, for it gins where it should end.  but to bereave him both of Crown, and life to possess it himself wholly; so hard a thing it is for a great fortune to contain itself within the limits of reason, and to find contentment in ambition. 
An attempt upon the King of Hungary at Villegrad on Easter day.  pressed on by this fury, he assaileth the King on an Easter day, sets his sword to his throat, and wounds him in the arm; 
Clementia Queen of Hungary daughter of the Emperor Rodolphus the first, and mother of Clementia married to Lewis Hutin.  his courageous wife, daughter of the Emperor Rodolphus, diverting the blow, had four of her fingers cut, his children were saved, for the conspiracy was to raise a new house. This miserable creature is punished with his complices, children, and allies, in the detestation of so execrable an impiety. There cannot too many tortures, nor tormentors be mustered up together to punish these horrible assassinates: 
Rigour of punishment in ruining the wicked should terrify others.  It is fit the punishment be such, that in ruinating the culpable by strokes, it may humble the rest by astonishment.  
After the death of Alfonsus' King of Arragon james and Frederick his brothers sought peace with the Church by the mediation of Charles King of Naples, 
Martin the fourth excommunicateth Peter of Arragon, and gives his Kingdom to Charles of Valois  offering the confirmation of former treaties. They could not make choice of a more powerful intercession, for all the Counsels of Charles were much esteemed at Rome, and his advices honoured: yea, even in the election of Popes. He laboured their absolution, 
It is much more easy to treat with a simple, and ignorant man, than a wise, and a wary  and proposed it to Pope Celestine the fifth, who hearing speech of absolving an enemy of the Church, refused it as a great scandal, because indeed it was a long time since this thunder stroke fell upon the house of Arragon. 
Election of Calestine in a conclave at Peruge, in the year 1294.  He so much feared to err, that he acted nothing but in fear, which proceeded from his disproportion to affairs: For the truth is, the most feasible, and facile, ever present themselves as rough and obscure to such as understand them not.  
It was the blessed man Petrus Moronus, whom Charles had drawn from the Cell, 
He accepteth it by the solicitation of Charles King of Naples.  to replenish the vacant See, the Cardinals having been two years unable to fall upon an accord in the election. But he better understood himself, than they who had chosen him: 
God requires the greatest account of him, to whom he gives the greatest charge.  For being much troubled with the care of his own soul, and unwilling to undergo the charge of others, he took his profession into consideration, weighed his own duty, and represented the justice of his Master, who being offended, is not more sharply displeased with any, than him to whom he committeth the manage of his affairs, and of whom he requires a most strict account. 
This Example is single. There is none but Celestine hath forsaken that which so many thirst after.  For which cause he pulled off the Mitre, and threw himself into his Hermitage. He had been haled from the port into the storm, and now returns out of the tempest, into the haven. He who cannot live in the day light, must abide in the shadow. Charles caused him to come to Naples, to divert him from this retirement, but could not: For Cardinal Cajetan, of a more unresistable and prevailing spirit, making him believe he incurred the hazard of his own salvation, to entertain a charge any longer, whereof he found himself uncapable, thrust himself into his place, 
Cardinal Benedict of Anagnia deceived Pope Celestine, and put himself into his place at Naples, and fearing he would reassume it again deprived him of life in prison.  possessed the See a whole year at Naples, where during his abode, Charles accomplished his negotiation of restoring james and Frederick into the communion of the Church; Pope Boniface the eighth consented unto it, so they would wholly, and without hope of regaining, forsake Sicily. 
Prince's leave, but it is ever with a purpose to have again.  They thereunto accorded, upon promise made by Charles, that he should procure the Count of Valois to renounce the right he had to the Kingdom of Arragon. The fruit of this treaty was the restitution of Sicily, the return of three Princes left Hostages, and the marriage of Blanch Princess of Naples, to james King of Arragon. King Charles conducted his daughter to Barcellon, there to behold her husband, and to take his three sons away with him; but of three he had but two; 
Prince Lewis taketh the habit of Saint Francis at Barcellon.  for the eldest being of the age of one and twenty, forsook both the world and Court, and in the midst of the universal joy for peace, and solemnities of marriage, took the habit of Saint Francis, in the presence of the King of Naples his father, the King of Arragon his father in law, Queens and Princesses. It was impossible to divert him from this resolution, and that he might not be charmed by the Sirens of Court, 
Seneca saith, that voice must be avoided, which Ulysses would not hear, but whilst he was fastened to the mast of a ship.  he affixed himself to the Standard of the Cross. Every one was much amazed at this alteration, for he was the eldest of his brothers, the Crown of Naples infallibly belonged to him, they would have married him to the Princess of Majorica, he left Roses to make a conserve of I horns, Delights for Austerity, and the Court for a Cloister. He raised his heart to God upon two wings, Simplicity, and Purity; the one is in the intention, the other in affection, Simplicity seeketh for God, purity findeth him. In this habit, 
After the year of probation, he presented himself to the Convent of Mompelier, who refused him, lest they might offend the King his father.  he on the feast of all Saints made a Sermon, showing all prosperities of the world were but trifles, and counterfeit gems, compared with eternal felicity. He died at the age of four and twenty, on his birth day, being the nineteenth of August, in the year 1293, and was canonised by Pope john the 22th. in the year 1316.  
This peace, which had cost much blood, 
Treaties drawn on by necessity last not long.  money, and time, lasted but a little while; For seeing, that, which is done by force continueth no longer, but during the space we cannot resist necessity, Frederick thirsting after Sicily, which he had left, began the war afresh upon the first occasion, 
Repentance waiteth on headlong counsels.  but shame and loss (undoubted fruits of rash counsels) recompensed the breach of the treaty with punishment.  

The King of Arragon summoned to constrain his brother to observe the treaty.  The King of Arragon is summoned to join his forces with Charles, to constrain his brother to observe it. Frederick lost twenty five galleys, six thousand men, and had there left his liberty, if the Catalonians had not afforded him passage for his safety, 
Auxiliaries soon revolt.  thinking they were more obliged to the blood of one of their Princes, than to the succour of the King of Naples. It is no act of providence to employ those against an enemy, who are of the same Nation; for in times of necessity they set upon him, whom they should defend.  
Frederick haughty and young, whose courage could never despair of victory, nor ever fear death, unwilling to retire upon his discomfiture, prepareth a fresh Army, and returns into Sicily. Charles the second sent Robert his son Duke of Calabria, to encounter with him on the Frontiers. He transported with an overweening opinion of victory, which easily deceiveth young Soldiers, imagined that going about to fight with those whom his father had vanquished, 
It is a great advantage to fight with an enemy, whom he hath once before vanquished. That is it, which Scipio said to the Romans on the day of battle against Annibal. Philip Prince of Tarentum, prisoner at Panormo in the year 1299.  he had not to do with enemies, but with the relics of their defeature. He enters into Sicily, encourageth his troops to march, fight, and vanquish, but is overthrown, Philip Prince of Tarentum his brother taken prisoner, and Calabria lost.  
Robert gathering the rest of his forces together, beleaguers Drepany, and in this siege it was, where God offended with this house, began to give way to the ruin of it, by means which testify the most feeble Instruments are in his hands, powerful Engines to demolish the greatest States.  
Violante Duchess of Calabria was in the field to bear her husband company, 
So Agrippina accompanied Germanicus into Almaigne, and in occasions encouraged Soldiers by her valour.  and to give example to the Soldiers by her constancy and courage, suffering even in the time of her being with child, the solicitudes and toils of a siege. She was there delivered of her second son named Lewis, and the immutable decree of humane accidents, which depend on a superior Law, would needs have it for the much greater unhappiness of this flourishing Kingdom, that there could not be found any woman fit to breed this Prince, but a creature so despicable, as that she got her living by being a Laundress, 
Fishing is an abject condition, the Grecians call it a miserable error in the sea.  and her husband daily stood upon the promontory of a rock, to catch fish with an angling rod.  
She was young, her countenance sweet, which made all the rest amiable, her proportion strong and vigorous, 
The less delicate nourishment is, the more vigorous is the nourishment.  and stature little inferior to a tall stripling. Besides, poverty added some favour to her election; for it is thought, her manner of living free from excess and curiosity, rendered her complexion much stronger, and her conscience the more simple. Having derived no name from the place of her birth, she took that of Catania, her country, 
For being near the proud Typhaeus. Carthaneen hath the sulphur, and drinks the smoke of it. Stat.  and was called Philippe the Catanian; and as this City is unhappily situated near Mount Aetna, which vomiteth fire and sulphur upon its neighbours, so her greatest infelicity was to have approached this fire of favour, which in the end turned her into ashes. But so soon as she bade drunk in the enchanted cup of the Court, her primitive innocence degenerated into an ardent thirst of greatness, in such sort, that in stead of suffering the incommodities of want in the abject condition of her state, 
A poor man suddenly enriched, hath much ado to govern himself in riches.  she knew not how to bear the affluence of happiness in this her first fortune: For it is not so hard a matter for the rich to endure poverty, as for the penurious to accord with riches.  
The siege of Drepany having continued some time, 
The King of Arragon took Sicily from King Charles the first, had his son prisoner, and his grand child the Prince of Tarentum.  the besieged were succoured by Frederick, and Robert constrained to return to Naples, with a smaller company, and much less contentment than he marched forth withal, whereat King Charles his father became greatly displeased, and sad: and seeing injuries are weighed according to the quality of the persons, who either do, or receive them, it was a very distasteful thing with Charles, to see that a King of Arragon had put such harsh affronts upon the Kings of Naples, boasting to have furnished out the triumphs both of their Crowns, and Princes. And although the war was between King and King, 
The Arragonians chose Peter Tarres for their King, and took the Crown from him to give it to Ramirez.  he notwithstanding thought a King of Arragon could not enter into comparison with him, either as King of Naples, or as issued from an house, which had not begun to reign like his; for the Crown had stood fully nine hundred years on the heads of his Ancestors, 
Ramirez bastard of Sanchez King of Castille, began to reign in the year 1017.  and the Arragonians had not known above three hundred years, what a royal Sceptre meant.  
The Monarchy of France was founded upon the ruins of an Empire, which swayed the whole world, and amongst the Gauls, the most warlike province of Europe, (a people so daring as to advance their Standards on the highest top of the Capitol.) The Arragonians made a Kingdom of a County, choosing a Monk for Founder, whom they took out of a Cloister, that they might have a King extracted from the Gothish race.  

After he had reigned some time, he retired into his Monastery, and recommended his daughter to Alphonsus the seventh, King of Castille.  He was so simple and doltish, that mounting on horseback to wage war against the Moors, and they putting a lance into one hand, and a target into the other, he took the bridle between his teeth. He quickly shaken off his sottishness: For employments make men: So that putting on the Majesty of a King, he caused the heads of eleven of his greatest to be cut off, who mocked at him, and for a satisfactory reason, only said this, Foxes know not with whom they dally.  
King Charles to exact an account for these last bravadoes, in the 1311. year raised a great army, and entreated his Cousin Charles, Count of Valois, 
Discipline is hard in armies of diverse Nations.  whom King Philip le Bel sent into Tuscany for aid of the Florentines, to lend him his troops to chase Frederick out of Sicily. 
Wise Princes appease enmities among houses from whence they sprang, and those whereinto they are married.  The forces being joined and nothing wanting among them but discipline, they entered into Calabria, and there exercised violences so exorbitant, that Violante Duchess of Calabria, sister of Frederick abhorred it, and having showed her courage in waging war, made her wisdom appear in treaty of peace, persuading Frederick to require it, 
Peace between the King of Naples, and Frederick of Arragon in the year. 1302.  and not to expect, till he were in a condition not to obtain it. Frederick gave ear to her, and the doubt of the future evil being worse than the pain of the present, disposed him to peace, and conjured his sister to mediate.  
She had the honour both to propose, and conclude it. Sicily rested in Frederick for his life only, without any other title, than King of Trinacria, leaving all he held elsewhere, and to confirm amity, married Leonora the daughter of Charles the second.  
But as there is no charm more powerful to gain the good opinion of the people, than to afford them peace, and oppose any thing which may disturb their repose; Violante was honoured by all as the foundress and raiser of this Temple of peace. It was proclaimed every where, 
Martial said the name of the Emperor Domitian sprang amongst Roses, and violets  Long live Violante, no other title contented their thoughts than Violante, and it was much more truly said of her name than of the Emperors, that it grew amongst roses, and violets. This public well wishing spread itself over all, whatsoever had relation to Violante: but the best part was for the Catanian, who alone possessed her soul, nor could any other deserve her favours; which she cherished, not only by the care of the education of the young Prince, but with great vigilance, ardent assiduity, 
Favours of great ones are merited by assiduity, affection, and fidelity.  lively affection, and a judicious complacence practised in the Mother's service, in such sort that she alone was the oracle of her will. But death which searcheth into all the corners of the earth, and from which no one Country is more distant than another, 
In all parts of the world man is in equal distance from death.  took away the Duchess Violante, even in the sweetness of this good work of peace. This death undermining the fortune of the Catanian astonished her, but it was but for a little while. For Robert remarrying with Sancha daughter of the King of Maiorica well remembered Violante had recommended her to him, 
Affection borne to the dead, appeared in the remembrance of what they recommended.  and offered her as a present, she loved her no less than her Cousin Violante had done, and this woman observing her Mistress, did wholly addict herself to devotion, and took not delight in any thing but to speak with God by prayer, 
To pray, that is to speak to God, and to understand his word is to hear him speak.  or to hear God speaking to her in the reading of pious books, played the hypocrite, and scrupulous holy one, only to please her. Much ado had she to strain for it, For devotion is so clear & impolluted, you cannot confound it; sooner will water commix with oil, than Piety with Hypocrisy. 
Examples do not rectify depraved spirits.  I wonder how she grew so wicked among so many examples of piety and virtue: but she came to the Court, not to settle her conscience, but to raise a fortune. Sancha Duchess of Calabria who loved her, 
Affection produceth affection.  because she had the breeding of the young Prince, being most affectionate, and vigilant for her good, let no fair occasion slip in her advancement.  
Her Husband died, 
Sudden favour makes spirits revive and flourish again, which seemed dejected, and faint.  and she was instantly Courted. For who ever should marry her was sure to sleep between the arms of Fortune, so supereminent was her power in Court. This serpent, which during the winter of her wretchedness lay stark, and benumbed with cold, no sooner felt the heat of the Sun of favour, but she stirred and high-reared her crest.  

The Saracens for a long time held Sicily, Frederick the 2. gave them the City of Laceria.  Charles had set out an edict against the Saracens that resided in Sicily, and who 70 years together possessed Luceria, giving leave to the Christians to kill them, if they abjured not the Koran.  
Some forsook the Country, others were baptised, and there were seen many to be new Christians in appearance, and inveterate Saracens in their consciences: 
Forced conversions make Atheists  for it was impossible to root this pestilent seed out of their hearts, 
Boccace saith he bought it not.  and those who returned to their old vomit, were called Marrans. Never was good Moor a good Christian. In the general expulsion of this scummy people, Raimond of Cabanes, Master of the King's household took to him a young Sarrazen, and noting in him much affection toward his service, 
A heart which is disposed to do well is quickly seen in its courage.  and withal a dextrous and ready wit, gave him his own name in baptism, the knowledge of his friends in Court, and lastly his proper charge. But as there is not any mean in the Courts of Princes, & since the slenderest fortunes require a whole man, he so well managed his, 
There is no fortune so mean, which requireth, not all the industry of a man.  that of little he made much, and became so acceptable to Charles the second, and to Duke Robert his son that he created him master of his Wardrobe. Time cooperateth with his industry, & fortune suits to his vigilance; Labours, which are punishments to the sluggish, and delights to the diligent, trouble not him at all. He acquired great wealth which he exposed, 
He who doth any thing willingly, his travel costeth him nothing.  neither to Ostentation nor envy. Gratuities fell into his purse without noise, and by ways unperceiveable, and although there is not any condition in Court free from taxations, nor wisdom so absolute, and judicious, as to make itself a Master over accidents, 
The wise man exposeth not his fortune to envy.  yet met he with none, who might reproach him to have used therein either indiscretion, or imprudence. He brought not his wax wings of conferred favours so near to the Sun, 
There is no providence so certain that it can assure things future.  nor at first flight soars up to heaven by strength of wing, he abides within the knowledge of what he is, and what he hath been, is contented with what befalls him, and not scorning any man despiseth himself, and prizeth those who disesteem him  
He shows humility towards the great, Courtesy to others, never enters into competition with any who may hurt him, never embroiles himself with partialities, nor accounts his fortune by desert, 
Fortune many times possesseth the place of merit.  he repairs all manner of defects by his modesty: for the truth is modest ignorance is much more tolerable, than proud ability.  
Modesty alone is the assured guide of prosperity, from whence a man never wanders, who loseth not himself. 
It is hard to join modesty and felicity together.  It is an especial favour from heaven, when they for some good space walk both together, It is the first piece which is wanting in the equipage of those, who suddenly rise to great Fortunes. Prosperity causeth Pride, Pride Insolence, Insolence Folly, and Folly headlong ruin. There are not any but such as get riches with innocency who possess them with modesty. The Duchess of Calabria thought the fortune of the Morisco was the Catanoises real act, 
Peleus, and Anchises enjoyed (as saith Plutarch) wedlock with Goddesses.  wherefore she resolved to marry them together, Raymond Cabanes might hit upon a better, but he was nothing nice, protesting that were he honoured with this favour he would compare with those, who had married Goddesses.  
To make this alliance the more noble, and to cover the shame of both their births, this good Lady gave the Duke of Calabria her husband to understand; 
Great wealth shows ill without honours.  and he the King his father, that they wanted nought but honour, and that their great possessions well deserved to afford them distinction from the multitude The Catanian willing enough to oblige her husband to acknowledge her, as the sole cause of Nobility, laboureth hard to get him a Title. As she was importunate in begging benefits, so she became impudent in the pursuit of honours, and never gave over till Sancha made him a Knight, before he was a Gentleman. All the Court murmured against the King, as too liberal of the ensigns of honour, whereof a wise Prince is so sparing, that he never makes use of them, but to recompense merit, and great services: 
Nature, Folly, and Fortune give sometimes the ambition of a Prince to the courage of a groom.  Every one complained of Nature, which gave the high soaring affections of a Prince to abject souls, and put noble thoughts into hearts inferior.  
The King granted him the order of Knighthood, and he received it according to the form of the institution thereof, made by Charles his father. Information being given of his military achievements, and dexterity in arms, upon the witness of those, who bent their consciences to favour, 
Conscience is accommodated to time and favour.  giving assurance of that which was not, nor ever had been. (For the truth is Raymond never handled Iron, but in a kitchen, or at the Oar among galley-slaves) there was a day appointed for the Ceremony in the great Church.  

The History of Provence saith the Knight was caused to sit on a chair of silver, covered with green velvet.  The King seated on his royal Throne, under him the King of Hungary his son, who with a great train came to see him, Queen Mary his wife, the Duchess of Calabria his daughter, Princes and Princesses, his children. Raymond presenteth himself, the Archbishop of Barri made a discourse upon the nobleness of the act, than gave an oath to bind him, not to ride upon an Ass, or Mule like the Knights of the scarf, but to serve the King, defend Ladies wronged in their honour, 
Alphonsus' instituted the order of the scarf and band.  and to enter into the lists of Combat for them, if he were entreated.  
After the oath given, two ancient Knights presented him at the feet of the King, who striking him on the head or shoulder With his sword, solemnly pronounced these solemn words, 
The sword put on by Virgins, bound him not to use it in any wicked act.  God make thee a good Knight.  
Seven well attired Damsels girted him with a sword, and four Knights put on his spurs. The Queen and Duchess of Calabria led him into his rank, and the Knights embraced him; but discontentedly, because he had obtained without merit, or service, through favour and intercession, the honours which were only ordained for singular, 
Knighthood was established to recompense worth, and virtue.  and excellent rewards of virtue. It is the only advantage, which worth yields to one man above another, if it be not seldom, it is contemptible.  
Music, Balls, Tournaments conclude the feast, and the next is the wedding. Raymond marrieth the Catanian, and with her, Insolence, Ingratitude, and Pride. In the Kitchen his thoughts transported him to arms, 
Desire which aspireth beyond things to be desired, is no desire, but a disease.  now when he is in the midst of them, he aspires to an higher pitch, and his desires extend much farther than his hopes.  
This extraordinary greatness takes his very countenance away from him, he is altogether astonished at it, as a Kite on the fist, 
So Coprous hath Greek attire, and barbarous hands.  or a Monkey in scarlet. Dignities and new riches breed some thing sottish in the minds of those, who are accustomed to possess, and enjoy them for a long time. His first modesty broke company with prosperity; Pride makes him glitter every where, his Riot throws him into all superfluities and profusions, wherein it may be showed, 
Excessive riches are garments too long and troublesome.  and he stands perplexed and cumbered in great riches, as with garments too long and heavy.  
Charles in the mean time sought the peace of the Church, which at that time was much turmoiled, and felt strange revolutions. Boniface the eighth died a prisoner, Benedict the eleventh of the order of Saint Dominicke, 
Bernard Archbishop of Bou●deaux chosen Pope.  succeeded him for eight months, and seventeen days; and Clement the fifth chosen after him, came to Philip le Bel, and Charles Count of Valois. His coronation was performed with great solemnity, but much disturbed by the death of the Duke of Britain, 
john Duke of Brettaigne slain by the fall of a wall at Lions 1306. The holy See transferred from Rome to Avignon, in the year 1307. The abolishing of the Templars in the Council of Vienne, in the year 1309.  slain by the ruin of a wall. The Pope from thence went to Avignon, and there established his See, setting the Crown of Sicily upon the head of Robert Duke of Calabria.  
Charles began in Provence the terrible persecution against the Templars, and being at Marseilles in the year 1307, commanded the imprisonment of many of them, & seizure of their goods, and his will was executed with such order and diligence, that on one and the same day, being the four and twentieth of januarie, by one same signal given, they were all cast into prison, and few days after executed. Their goods were given to the Knights of the order of Saint john of jerusalem, who at that time possessed themselves of Rhodes by a pretty stratagem, 
Taking of Rhodes by the Knights of Saint john of jerusalem, in the year 1309.  causing certain Soldiers to creep into the City in sheepskins amongst a flock of sheep, and the Captains disguised like Shepherds. Charles died a while after, in the year 1309, threescore years of age. God blessed this Prince with a plentiful posterity, to afford him alliance with the best and chiefest houses of Christendom. The first, Charles Martell King of Hungary. Secondly, Lewis, a religious man of the Order of Saint Francis, and Bishop of Tholouse. Thirdly, Robert Duke of Calabria, who succeeded his father. 
Philip Prince of Tarentum married Catharine Empress of Constantinople, daughter to Philip son of Baldwin, Emperor of Constantinople, and Beatrice of Sicily, daughter of Charles the first, king of Naples.  Fourthly, Philip Prince of Tarentum, Emperor of Greece. Fifthly, john Prince of Achaia, or Morea. Sixthly, Raymond Berenguer Count of Andria. Seventhly, Tristram, borne during the imprisonment of his father. Eighthly, Lewis of Duras. Ninthly, Peter surnamed Tempest, Count of Gravina. The eldest daughter Margarite, married to Charles Count of Valois, and mother of Philip of Valois: Blanch married to james of Arragon: Eleonor, to Frederick King of Sicily: Marry, to james King of Majorica: Beatrice, to the marquis of Este, afterward to Bertrand of Baux, Prince of Orange, & Humbert Dauphin of Vienne.  
Wits are purified in adversity, and Princes who have exercised theirs in the calamities of fortune and necessity, have had better success than others, 
T●●otheus, a more fortunate than able man, was painted sleeping, and Cities which of themselves were taken in an heap.  on whom Crowns have fallen without labour, and Cities even sleeping. As Charles the first got not the Crown of Naples without pain, nor preserved it without peril, his reputation being raised upon glorious actions of his virtue, and constancy: So Charles the second maintained not his, but by wrestling with Fortune, which to ruin him, cast him four years into the power of his enemies. Italy afforded him the glory of its repose, and to have preserved it from sinking under the desperate and furious factions of Gwelphes, and Gibel●es. He lived so well that he died willingly; 
That you may die contentedly, you must not deplore the actions of life.  There was not any Nation, which admired him not, nor shall any age fail to record him.  
Robert his third son succeeded him, by exclusion of the children of his eldest, Charles Martell King of Hungary. 
The disputation of the Uncle's precedency before the Nephews, was treated by Baldus.  The question whether the Uncle should be preferred before the Nephew was disputed before the Pope at Avignon, who more considered the age, experience, and merit of Robert, than the right of those in minority. At his entrance into rule, 
Lewis, the second son of Robert, dieth at nine years of age.  death took Lewis his second son from him, whom the Catanois had bred, whereat he conceived such sorrow, as we may of a fruit pulled off before maturity; 
The death of an Infant is a fruit not fallen off, but pulled from the tree before the time.  so that seeing all the hope of his succession rested on the Duke of Calabria his only son, he desired in good time to see him a father, and for that purpose sought out a wife for him. 
Henry of Luxenbourg the Emperor, offers his daughter to the son of the King of Sicily, in the year 1312.  Henry the seventh offered him his daughter, but he married one of those, which the Emperor Albert left, and that no man may enter into this History, who confirms not the example of the unhappiness of prosperity, he may observe his fortune to be remarkable.  
Having gotten the Empire, 
Battle of Worms, where Adolphus of Nassau was slain, the eight and twentieth of june, 1308.  not only by right of election, but by arms (for he discomfited, and slew in battle Adolphus of Nassau, his Rival, ten years after, in the year 1308,) he was slain by his Cousin German near the City of Bruch, and as it were in the sight of the Castle of Habspurg, the Cradle which bred the first Princes of the house of Austria. This young Prince fell into despair, because the Emperor who had many children to provide for, denied to restore him the Signiory of Kiburg, which was his mothers. 
Necessity is witty in ill counsels.  A Prince young and needy, is apt to enter into ill counsels, against him who withholds that, which would suffice to preserve him from necessity.  

Three little Cantons revolted against their Governors, in the year 1308. The first league of three Cantons of the Swissers, was made at Brilan the seventh of Decemb. 1325.  He died in the time of his purpose, to chastise rigorously the three Towns of the Swissers, which revolted against those who governed them, as subjects of the Empire. Three Peasants, who had no other use of iron, but to prick forward their Oxen, and cleave wood, employed it to raise a warlike Commonwealth, which hath an hand in all the wars of Christendom, draws money from the most powerful Christian Princes, and hath fought nine battles to secure their liberty. He left two and twenty children by Elizabeth of Carinthia, 
Albert had two and twenty children by his wife Elizabeth of Carinthia.  and although he had great possessions in Austria, Bohemia, Alsatia, Swevia, and Suitzerland, there was not enough to afford a Principality to each one, yet they were all well provided for, and the daughters required in marriage by the best Families of Christendom. Robert preferred this alliance before, that, of the Emperor Henry the seventh, and gave to his son Charles Duke of Calabria, Catharine Princess of Austria.  
This Prelation offended the Emperor, and began their enmity, which was exasperated by the aid Robert gave to the Gwelphes, 
Robert succoureth the Florentines against the Emperor. Henry of Luxenbourg the Emperor, condemneth Robert King of Naples to lose his head, 1318.  and Florentines. The Emperor vexed hereat published a Ban, declared him a Rebel against the holy Empire, condemns him to lose his head, and the Crown of Naples. The condemned only appeals to his Sword, made his judgement be revoked, pursued the Emperor, who retired into Piedmont, and pressed him so hard, that he repent to have incensed a brave and masculine courage, 
Never injure him, who can take revenge.  which accounted not the suffering of injuries laudable, nor the forgetfulness of them profitable. The Florentines afterwards, to free themselves from such an enemy, who never appeared amongst them, but for their ruin, caused him to be poisoned at Bonconvent, 
Henry the seventh was poisoned at Bonconvent in an Host, others say, he was hurt with a fall from on horse.  the fifteenth of August 1312.  
Death dissolved the marriage of the Duke of Calabria with Catherine of Austria, and she died without children. Robert, who had but only this son, presently sought out another wife for him, entreating King Philip the Fair, he would be pleased the house of Valois might restore to the Crown of Naples, what it had thence borrowed. Charles the second his father, had married Margarite his daughter to Charles Count of Valois, and Robert desired Grafts for his Son of this royal Stock, which had never been tainted with the least suspicion of impurity. 
She is not chaste enough, who by the least suspicion makes her chastity to be doubted.  It is said of this Lady, that the Ambassadors of France, having required her for the King's brother, besought her they might see, whether she were touched with her father's natural imperfections, 
In the choice of Princesses, to be wives for Kings, the stature, and grace of body was considered.  who was crooked, she unclothed herself even to her smock, made of so fine Holland, that one might easily behold her shape, and withal replying, that Never would she for a Crown make any scruple to pull it off.  
King Robert desirous to see his son, the Duke of Calabria, fully accomplished in all virtues, gave him for Tutor the Count of Elzear a kinsman of the Earls of Provence, 
Saint Elzear Earl of Arrian of the house of Sabran.  every where renowned for admirable purity of life.  
Kings that neglect the education of those who are to succeed them, little regard their own states, 
Good government cannot be expected from a Prince ill bred.  the safety whereof depends on the good education of the Prince: Wars are not the cause of so many miseries, as ill managed education. For such calamities are but temporary, but disorder lasteth, whilst the sceptre swayeth. By the fruits of justice, and piety which this tree bare, it may be understood it was well manured.  
The intended marriage being resolved on, 
It is a great trial of courage to abstain from that, which is both desired, and permitted.  he sent his Governor to Paris to negotiate it. He could not make choice of a more unspotted Orator, as one who had lived three and twenty years with Delphina his wife in voluntary and secret chastity, preserving devotion amidst the vanities of Court. Humility in greatness, natural frailty among pleasures, and single life in marriage. 
Charles Duke of Calabria marrieth Mary daughter of Charles Count of Valois. 1324.  Scoffers will make sport hereat for the danger there is in placing powder near unto fire: But the actions of Saints should be considered, not with discourse of nature, but effects of grace.  
The Marriage of the lady Mary was the raising of the Catanians fortune, whom King Robert gave to his daughter in law, as a woman, that had seen the birth and education of all the children of the royal family; she having served Queen Mary daughter of the King of Hungary, 
Length of service gaineth trust for servants.  the Duchess' Violante, Sancha, Catherine▪ she was an aged Oak, a worn Medaile, only honoured for her antiquity, every one made address to her, as to the register of household government.  
She was beloved by this Lady, more than by all the rest, and being an understanding woman, presently perceived, the delights, and inclinations of her Mistress propended to pretty conceits, neat curiosities, and acquaint ornaments. 
The Queens of Persia had provinces named from rheir dress, one was termed the Queen's girdle, another he● Head tyre.  There was not any thing either rare, or excellent thorough all Europe which she sought not out to please her, that one would have thought, whole provinces stood affected to her accommodation.  
Robert had other contentments, which nearly followed the marriage of his son with Mary of Valois; the City of Genova rendered itself up to him, and he had possession of it full eighteen years; The Church gave him the guardianship and government of Ferrara, Florence ressented it. 
Robert is made Vicar for the Church at Ferrara.  It is a thing very natural for people to submit themselves voluntarily under the rule of good and wise Princes  
The first year of the marriage of his son brought forth a daughter whom he named jane, 
It is a rule in nature, that the best command.  and he appointed the Catanian to be her governess; and made Raymond Cabanes her husband superintendent of his household. 
Catherine of Austria died on the 15. of jan 1323. and Mary of Hungary on the 25. of March▪ 1323.  To preserve the good intelligence he held with the Pope, he often visited him at Avignon, and was there, whilst in less than two months he received news of the death of his daughter in law Catherine of Austria, and his Mother Mary of Hungary. To understand the like grief, one must have such a daughter, and such a Mother. He there also saw the death of one of his dearest friends Amedeus the fourth, Duke of Savoy. 
Pope Benedict would not enrich his parents with the goods of the Church.  Pope Benedict the twelfth died a while after leaving the continuation of the sumptuous palace of Avignon imperfect. Flesh and blood had not any power over him. Some Courtiers brought his father before him clothed otherwise than beseemed his condition, he would not acknowledge him until he had reassumed the habit of a Miller, nor give him any thing but wherewithal to buy a Mill. He often said Popes should neither have kindred nor allies, and that they were not administrators of Church-livings to enrich their own kindred.  

A Prince should consider those treaties, which oblige him.  The great reverence he bore to the Pope was a notable proof of his wisdom, for he well knew, whilst the Kings his predecessors held good correspondence with the Popes (having ever before their eyes the treaties, 
Philip King of Macedon caused the articles he agreed on with the Romans to be read unto him.  and capitulations between the See Apostolic, and their Crown, the more exactly to observe them) the peace of their state had been invincible, nor had the Princes of the house of Swevia, who banded against them, derived any other profit, than loss both of the Empire of Almaigne, and Kingdom of Naples. Never should we quarrel with those, who may more endamage, 
In the investiture of the Kings of Naples, it is said they will not accept the election of the Emperor Charles Duke of Calabria, as head of the Florentine Commonwealth nor their army with 200000. ducats rend by the year.  than profit us.  
To quiet the spirit of the Pope he promised him by oath never to accept the Imperial Crown, nor title of King of Lombardy as Prince of Tuscany under the penalty of losing the rights of Sicily.  
The Florentines notwithstanding so well liked his government, that they demanded his son, and chose him their Prince for ten years. Whilst they expected his coming, he sent them the Count Brennus his kinsman, & shortly after went thither with his wife, who was there delivered of a son, whom the Signory of Florence named Charles Martel in memory of the brother of King Robert of Hungary. But the joy of this birth lasted but eight days: For the child died on the ninth. She had yet another daugther named Mary; the abode he made at Florence much availed the Catanian who grew dexterous by conversation with the subtle, and wary wits of Italy. 
Lewis of Bavare entereth into Italy, causeth himself to be crowned at Rome the 17. of jan. 1328. deposeth john the 22. who was at Avignon, and putteth into his place a Cordelier, called Peter Corbieres.  He remained there about some three years, but hearing the Emperor Lewis of Bavare entered into Italy, and had a plot upon the territories of King Robert his father, he departed from Florence, and went to Naples, where he soon after deceased. His government was so just and temperate, 
Death of Charles Duke of Calabria in the year 1328. No justice, but for them who have money.  that the Florentines never bewailed those that went before. Such care he had of justice, & to have it exercised towards all his subjects, that (perceiving the difficulty of access of the poor to him) he caused a bell to be hanged at the gate of his palace, so that he who rung it was sure in that instant to be brought before the Prince, or to have some officer sent out to hear him.  

King Robert undertook the ruin of the Duke of Athens, because he began to alter and trouble the government of the City.  The Florentines unable to agree in their government, had likewise recourse to King Robert, who assigned them the Duke of Athens, but he thought not long to continue there, upon notice given, he had put the Signory out of the Palace where they usually assemble, so that he sent him word, if he could not content himself with his son's lodging, he should not make any long abode in the City.  

gualtier Duke of Athens Count of Brenne enterpriseth upon the liberty of Florence  He gave up an unfortunate account of his fidelity, & reputation, in going about to make that power perpetual, which was given him but limited, he seized on the forces of the City, and such as might hinder his plot. Those who conspired against the common wealth to raise him, had a new plot to ruin him, and seeing it was discovered, not willing to expect till punishment should be inflicted, 
He who is discovered casts himself into despair.  took arms. The design which was but of some particulars, caused a general insurrection against him, to enforce him to forsake the Fortress, & to put into the hands of the executioner those who had assisted him in his Tyranny, which lasted but nine months. 
It were ill with the common wealth if the wicked should always prosper. King Robert deploring the death of his son spoke these words; Cecidit Corona capitis mei: vae mihi, vae vobis.  It is the interest both of the particular, and public, that the wicked perish, and the good prosper.  
Nothing could happen to King Robert, which more sharply afflicted him, than the death of his son, he incessantly said: The Crown is fallen from my head, woe be to me, woe be to you. If sorrow had power enough to kill, it had thrown him into his grave, his courage made resistance, and although grief had banished vivacity of Spirit from his heart, Constancy in an instant made it return again, but the evil was reiterated with it.  
He found no comfort but in his little Inheritrix, 
He sadly prunes the tree, from which no fruit can be expected.  the precious pledge of the Kingdom's hope, who was in the hands of her governess, omitting nothing in the solicitous care of exact education, by manuring her as a plant, that was to perpetuate her house, but with this grief, that he could not have the contentment to see the fruit she should bring forth; To oblige her governess to be careful in the service of this Princess, 
O ridiculum vidisse ex ergastulo servili, ac nidore popinae Aethiopem Roberto Regi regalia obsequia exhibentem.  he created her husband great steward of Naples, and thereupon Boccace, who relateth this story, cryeth out aloud; What a mockery is it to see a Moor drawn from the misery of a galleyslave, and smoke of the kitchen, to supply with King Robert the prime services of the Crown, to take place of the greatest Lords, to become a Precedent in the Court, and to administer justice to Suitors: but what shall we say? Fortune raiseth whom she list. So inconstant is she, that she suffered Marius to beg his bread at Carthage in his sixth Consulship, and created him chief general in the seventh.  

The liberty of a Prince in the choice of servants is absolute.  The choice a Prince makes of men, whom he advanceth to great employments, is not subject to any man's censure: and were it bad, yet ought it to be approved, lest his judgement be questioned, and reputation wounded; But it is a hard matter to be silent therein: 
The Roman● permitted not new purchasers of noble houses to change the Images, or furnitures, which upbraided their unworthiness.  For honours weep over those who have not deserved them, and the Images of Noble houses upbraid the slender merit of the new purchasers.  
Raymond Cabanes continued not long in this charge, for death freed him from the envy and hatred she would have cast upon him, had he lived any longer. King Robert witnessed in his death the account he made of his life, appointing funeral obsequies for him, as for a Prince of his own blood, and protesting he had long time made use of his favour, 
Wise men make use of favour, and abuse it not.  but never abused it: It is true, Fortune raised his house, but virtue had a share in it, and prudence furnished out the Oeconomie. It was as great a glory for him to have raised it, 
It is better to begin, than end an house.  as it is a disgrace for others to ruin what they find already framed. Some, through their own errors, deface the images of their Ancestors, others transmit theirs over to posterity with admiration. Those not having preserved what was given them are despicable, these having out of themselves framed that, which they received not from any man, deserve to be honoured. 
Agathocles King of Sicily had a Potter to his father; justinian, a Shepherd; Gratian, a Rope-maker.  There is a beginning in every thing: the greatest houses were heretofore but Cabarets, the Capitol was at first covered with thatch: There are diverse things very great, which would not so have been, had they not been little, and might the condition of man's extraction depend on his own choice, eureie one would be borne great; there is not a creature, 
joane, eldest daughter of the Duke of Calabria, is declared Heir of the Crown of Sicily, in the month of june, and year 1330.  but would be derived from a noble house.  
joane was about four years and an half old, when her father died, and when she was in the beginning of the seventh, King Robert, who desired nothing more than to establish her, declared her his heir, the Subjects of the Kingdom of Naples, and the County of Provence acknowledged her, did her homage, and promised, if God disposed of Mary before she were a mother, they would confess her sister joane for their Queen. Besides, Philip Prince of Tarentum said, that he would have no other heir, if he died without issue.  
As power increased for joane, favour augmented for her Governess, who had a hand in every thing, 
Ambition covereth itself with any thing it finds.  causing her ambition to pass under the specious pretext of her Pupils service, and as if all had conspired to her greatness, 
Loseth the best and most assured guide of her life.  the Duchess of Calabria, who alone held her designs under control, died shortly after this declaration. Had she lived, she never would have suffered her to extend the charge of the Princess' person, over the government of the State. The good education of Infancy was but as a dew, which is exhaled by the first fervours of youth.  
She was a Princess, whose life was truly innocent, as being endued with the humility of an Handmaid towards God, the goodness of a Mother towards her Subjects, and the severity of a judge towards herself. Her mother Margarite Duchess of Valois, and sister of King Robert, a Princess incomparable for her chastity, first bred her. She lived in a Court, which was a Temple of purity; 
The Court hath long tasted the fruit of those virtues, which Saint Lewis sowed in it.  for the good odours Saint Lewis, and Queen Blanch left behind them, were not as yet dispersed; and it is observed for proof of unspeakable modesty, and goodness, that King Philip the Hardy ordained, no Noble man should lie in the Queen's Palace with his own wife. Greatness excused nor vice, 
Calisto daughter of Lycaon, mother of Arc●●, deceived by jupiter under the form of Di●na, was turned into a Bear by juno.  nor could it preserve the fair Calisto (losing her chastity) from being reputed as ugly as a Bear.  
The Duchess Marie deceasing, gave her daughter what she esteemed most precious, the richest of her Crowns, and the dowry of three score thousand pounds, which King Philip le Bel had designed her.  
The Declaration King Robert made, 
Who retaineth another's, keeps not his own conscience in quiet.  that he might not leave the succession of his Crown doubtful, drew not out the thorn that stuck in his heart, nor could his conscience any longer suffer it. He enjoyed the Crown of Naples by exclusion of his elder brother's children. To extinguish these pretensions, and to make but one house of two, he treated the marriage of his grandchild joane, 
When Andrew was brought to Naples, he was but seven years old, and his wife was then nine.  with Andrew second son of the King of Hungary, and that of Marie with Lewis already the declared King of Hungary. Upon this resolution Charles his father departed from Buda, and came to Naples; Robert received this Prince with incredible joy, and thought his arrival might repair the loss of the Duke of Calabria his son.  
The impediments of consanguinity taken away by the Pope's dispensation, the marriage was solemnised at Naples with extraordinary pomp and magnificence, on the eighteenth of September 1323. But dispositions were so contrary, 
Forced and constrained marriages have unfortunate events.  and unequally suited, that there was no other success expected from this Match, but misery. Thinking to bring concord into his house, he introduced trouble, left disturbance in his soul, and seeking to sail at the same instant, and with the same wind into two sundry Ports, saw himself carried away, both from the one and other. 
Amity's, or enmities contracted in the first education, are not easily dissolved.  He thought, that by the breeding and education of them together, the love which might be enkindled in this first acquaintance, would increase with age; but the designs of men oft times succeeding much otherwise than they project; 
Life is divided between cares and contentments, as between day and night.  this long conversation bred contempt in those young hearts, who being (as yet) uncapable of amorous flames, were so accustomed to neglects and disdains, that when youth would enkindle affection, it found nothing therein but Ice, and although bodies were joined together to obey the King, yet their hearts were everlastingly separated.  
Anxieties for the present, sorrow for the passed, and fear for the future, oppressed the soul of Robert, who divided all the days of his life between grief and watching. In the end, pensiveness called him to yield himself up to the lodging, which old age had appointed him. He entered thereunto in the 64th year of his age, 1342, the fifteenth of january.  
He loved choice wits, (so were the Poets, 
Poetry was in great esteem under the Earls of Provence.  & Provence Bards of his time called.) He had in his Library the works of fourscore famous Poets, the greatest part of them Gentlemen; for it was the most generous exercise of the Nobility of Provence, in the sweet tranquillity of peace.  

Petrarch made use of the inventions, and conceits of the Provence-Poets.  He took delight to read the writings, and hear the discourses of Petrarch, he spent three days in conference with him, so much esteeming his doctrine, as to compare it to the pearls of his Crown. He wrote letters to Rome in his behalf. Whilst Princes patronise learning, we shall ever have knowing men. It is not so necessary they have propension to Sciences, as affection to understanding men, for by cherishing, and giving care to such, they learn much of them. As Alexander was praised, 
A Prince, who esteems knowing men, cannot be ignorant.  for having enforced Sparta to serve, and Athens to be silent, so had he the honour to reduce Genoa to constancy, and Florence to obedience. But he is not in this History to appear so free and exempt from the strokes of Fortune, as not to meet with disasters in the midst of his prosperities. After the death of so many dear friends, and sorrow for the confusion he was to leave in his house, he observed on the backside of his bright days, 
Battle of Mount Catin the thirtieth of August, 1315.  the loss of the battle of Mount Catin, where Charles of Tarentum was slain, Philip of Tarentum his brother taken prisoner, and the Count of Gravines retiring, lost in a Marish. Frederick of Arragon twice attempted on his life, and Castruccio had a purpose to burn him in his galleys, returning from Aix to Naples.  
He loved justice, and hated rigour, 
Rigour loseth its authority, by the renewing of punishments.  experience having taught him, that under a cruel Prince, cruelty takes place of justice, and many so much accustom themselves to severity, that the most tractable become thereby inhuman.  
He loved the Mathematics, 
Robert did believe the prediction of Astrologers, concerning the renewing of the wars, in the year 1350.  gave credit to Astrologers, and having heard from them, France and England should arm one against another, he went from Naples to Avignon, humbly to solicit the Pope to prevent the storm; so passionate was he in all the interests of France: Provence gave him the surname of Good, during his life, and after his decease. joane and Andrew succeeded him, and nothing wanted in them, but concord and wisdom; they were only unhappy, 
It is a great unhappiness, to be ignorant of your own happiness.  in that they neither understood their own good, nor knew how to enjoy it. King Robert left them a flourishing estate, huge treasures, an assured peace, powerful alliances, a people rich and peaceable, and although they bore not the titles of great Kings, as the Persian, they had estates which afforded the more contentment; 
The Kings of Persia passed the spring at Susa, winter in Babylon, and summer in Media.  Naples was their Babylon for winter, Avignon their Susa for the spring. What Province is there in the world, which envieth not the affluence of Campania, and the pleasures of Provence, which happily superaboundeth in so many rarities that others want.  
Necessity sweetened, and moderated the harshness and discontent grown between his son in Law, and daughter; but after his death, respect vanished, and hatred succeeded, so much the more violent, as the current thereof had been hindered. 
Little friend ship in contrary dispositions.  It was impossible to mix two metals so contrary. The Swallow told her mother, she had found out a jolly husband, it was the Starling, to which she replied; Daughter, you will not long live together, for he loves winter, thou the spring. The nature of Andrew was rough, and untractable, 
Seneca saith, Cato called them Antipodes, who lived in this manner.  his spirit dull and heavy, not regarding the delights and exercises of any, but his own Nation, who never saw the Sun, either setting or rising: For they went to supper before it sat, and rose after it was up.  
This young Prince, but nineteen years of age, suffered himself to fall into the contempt of his wife, 
Michael Montagne saith Queen joane loved not her husband, because in marriage rights he answered not her expectation.  and barrenness of her affections, who in the way of her most private familiarities, entertained more pleasing Imaginations.  
She was little more than eighteen years of age, when she began her reign, at which time youth, and love entered in with her. Liberty consented with her beauty, and power with her desires to give her leave to taste all kind of contentments, 
Darius had for the taster of his bed a vine whereof the leaves were of gold, and the grapes, diamonds, and rubies.  and all whatsoever was not proper for her Majesty, was proportionable to her youth. Splendour, curiosities, and costly Pompes of her Court, her diet, her Cabinet, her Chamber surpassed the Kings of Persia.  
She was bred in the voluptuous pleasures of Italy, the acquaint entertainments and gentile courtesies of the Court of Naples. Her picture to be seen at Fontaine-bleau representeth under a lustrous and sprightly beauty, 
Thalestria Queen of the Amazons coming before Alexander, prayed him to lie with her, that some notable thing might spring from them  a regal stature, a strong wit; lust sparkles thorough all, and it well appears this Amazon seeks for an Alexander.  
Her governess who had no desire, but to humour her, rather added increase, than moderation to her appetites, thinking on nothing but to reign in the Kingdom, whilst love swayed in the thoughts of her Mistress, and considering, if Andrew had the authority, she no longer should be favoured, she imprinted in her heart thoughts haughty, 
joane would not admit Andrew to carry the title of King.  and proud, thereby intimating he should content himself to be the Queen's husband, and not to think to have any share in the Kingdom, or carry the title of King.  

There is difference between actual judgement and intention.  She is not crossed in any of her designs, but by those of Robert the Franciscan Friar, whom Charles King of Hungary had appointed to be the governor of his son Andrew an able man, and well knowing how to draw the quintessence out of businesses, but raw in Court affairs: for seeking the way of order, he for want of experience pursued the paths of subversion, 
The Lion's skin covereth the Ass, but his voice betrays him.  yet (as the Ass of Cuma, seeing himself clothed with a Lion's skin,) put himself in the rank of the principal Lords of the Counsel. The Catanian likewise practising her deepest plots, stirred like a Mastiff at all that came near her, 
The first note of disorder in government is when old servants are taken from employment.  barking at the least noise, though ignorant from whence it came.  
That she might the more absolutely reign over the person of the Queen, she sequestered all the Hungarians from the knowledge of affairs, sent old servitor's home to their houses, gave their offices to others. She made Protonotary, and principal secretary of state Roger Archbishop of Barry, Philip Bishop of Cavaillon Chancellor, 
A great courage tied to the rock of necessity cannot do its best.  Bertrand de Baux Lord chief justice, Thomas Earl of Saint Severine Constable, Robert Cabanes her son high Steward, Charles Artus Chamberlain, jeffry Earl of Mursan her son in law high Admiral. She counselled the Queen ever to keep the Princes of the blood in want, 
Inheritance of the Prince of Tarentum cut off.  so that taken by the beak, the wings of their courage might be useless. She caused the County of Ebula, which had been the inheritance of the Count of Gravine King Robert's son, to be given to Robert Cabanes her son, to her daughter Sancha the County of Mursan, and to another, Terlice. There was no hope of honour, recompense, justice, or favour, but from her hand. Heaven was of Brass, if she made it not shower liberality; 
A tree which affordeth drink to the inhabitants of the I'll of Ferro one of the seven Canary Lands.  She seemed the tree that watereth the I'll of Ferro; All which her favour refresheth not, becomes dry, and withered.  
What extravagancy, & giddiness of Fortune! A Laundress swayeth a kingdom composed of so many mighty, rich, and Noble families. A wretched woman forceth the soul of a great Queen, & curbs it as if it were interdicted or charmed. What can we say, nay what say we not, when we behold the brats of the Scullion of a kitchen raised to the prime dignities of a kingdom? 
They who were of the race of Seems bare the figure of a Lance on their bodies.  They who descended from the first founders of Thebes bore from their birth the mark of the burr of a lance on their thighs.  
The race of Raymond Cabanes should bear the leg of a beef pot for a note of their extraction, and shall women that are borne long time after bring forth Moores, 
A Grecian woman having brought forth a black child, was accused of adultery with a Moor, but it was found she in a fourth degree descended from an Ethiopian.  they will renew the birth of Raymond the Moor.  
And because Andrew had received a Brief from the Pope wherein he was named King, she made the Queen imagine, that how little authority soever she left to her husband, it would be sufficient to hold her under command. If the Queen at any time told her she was too violent, that she could not continue, that every one murmured against the excess of her power, she made her believe it was not her they meant, but that they thereby invaded her Princely authority, & that such as are desirous to trouble a state, ever use to disgrace the government. This Princess committed no other fault but in too much giving way to the imperious and violent passions of her Governess, preferring her contentment before her own, or the weal of the state. 
Ambition ever takes for pretext disorder in government.  Private errors bore their excuses, the Infant finds his, in his childhood, the woman in her sex, the thief in the occasion, the rebel in his defence▪ 
Secret faults of Princes have their excuses, the public have none.  but the offence of the public hath none for particular affections, and although she may allege, the same thing hath been done, yet cannot her innocency be pleaded upon the example of another's folly.  
Had nothing been irregular but in the youth of this Princess, it might have been tolerable, 
The imitation of another's vice is not innocent.  for we willingly excuse imperfections, which call in, age or nature for warrant, the people had only murmured, for of necessity this Raven mustincessantly croak against the Eagle; 
Anger must be moderately exercised in faults which have nature for warrant.  Temerity thrusts its censure even into the Cabinets of Kings: but when the affairs appear thereby ruined, Counsels weakened, the reputation of the State decayed, every one began to exclaim against the Queen, 
It is not lawful for the subject to censure the life, or pleasures of his Prince.  who suffered herself to be transported by the Torrent of the passions of the Catanian, and honest men grieving to see her so deceived by such impostures, and illusions, sent of times these plaints to heaven.  

One ever complains of heaven for disorders on earth.  Oh God, where is now thy Territory? Where thy justice? Where thy Thunders? Why sufferest thou a woman, which is come of nothing, which hopeth all, and for whom all is too little, to abuse thy patience? Thou wilt have her live, that we may perish. The evil were supportable, if it would have an end, but time aggravates it, and our patience increaseth it. 
When the treasure of a Prince is exhausted, ill ways are invented to fill it again.  The coffers of the State are empty, they must be filled with our blood and tears, all the members wax meager to puff up this spleen, and if heaven afford not a helping hand, we soon shall see more evils than remedies.  
The Pope advertised of this wicked government, commanded Bulls to be pronounced by publications of Churches, and parishes, revoking all whatsoever she had done without advice of those whom King Robert had ordained to assist her. 
The affection of the Catanian withstands the Pope's Legate.  He sent a Legate to set affairs into order, but finding the fever changed into frenzy, and the storm much greater than his wisdom, he returneth much displeased that the faction of the Catanian had seditiously banded against his legation. The Queen also complaineth, that the Pope useth her like a child, seeking to put her into pupillage. Friar Robert soliciteth the Pope for the crowning of Andrew, 
Elizabeth Queen of Hungary, mother of Andrew, offereth to defray the charge of the Coronation, which was great.  Queen Elizabeth comes expressly from Avignon to entreat her, joane is earnest to the contrary, and would be crowned alone. The Pope sends her word he cannot crown her without her husband, she consents thereunto, provided it may not give him more right, than he ought to have in her Kingdom.  
The Catanian, her son, her son in law, 
In vain men oppose the will of heaven.  and friends conspire together to hinder this Coronation, but her faction proveth too weak, God had otherwise appointed. Frogs must be silent when heaven thunders. The Pope sends Cardinals to Cajetta to crown Andrew, and joane. 
That which many do to advance themselves, pulls them back.  This Coronation gave authority to Andrew, but hastened his ruin: For those who had conjured to hinder it, fearing to be punished for it, let the Catanian know they were ready for any thing. A crime which despair proposeth, is quickly resolved on. 
The greater share one hath in the ship, the more he wisheth the safety of it.  The Princes and Lords distasted they had no share in steering the Vessel, wherein their fortunes were embarked, they retire from the Court, Queen Sancha went out of this Egypt, and shut herself up in a Monastery of our Lady of Cross, which she had built, and there took the habit of Saint Francis. The more speedily to attain the prize of the Goal, she despoiled herself of all worldly greatness, & had no other aim but humility, well knowing the gate of heaven is low, and strait, and we must stoop to pass thorough it.  

Nothing can happen more dangerous to a young Prince than to love none and to do all upon his own head,  It is no wonder if joane so speedily hastened to evil Counsels, which ruined her, since she used neither rule, nor moderation: For all whatsoever she feared, or reverenced, was gone, her Grandfather dead, her mother dead, there was not any left but this good old woman, who with the wink of an eye censured her actions, and even by silence reprehended them. She saw herself in a worse condition than a young Princess might be, who hath nothing to fear, nor sees any, who may teach her how to rectify her actions.  

Themistocles said that in public fights, they that were hindmost were never crowned.  Friar Robert who had much ado to enkindle the courage of Andrew, to take the Crown, (For his nature cold and remiss, ever hung back,) had likewise much business to make him keep it on his head, and resist this Catanian, so powerful to do all, that she commanded Devils, sent them with her packets like Posts, and held them to the chain, as slaves. He changeth the battery, 
Evil counsel, to stay the fire by burning; and ruin, by destruction.  sends word to Lewis King of Hungary, the Crown of Naples is lost to Andrew, and that it is in him to preserve the inheritance of his Ancestors; and for that purpose it was fit he married Marie, sister of joane, according to King Robert's intention, and that coming with good troops to marry her, he may also gain the Crown.  
Had this religious man, and the Catanian, 
Ambition will see nothing, which exceedeth, or equalleth it.  well understood one another, the State being at their discretion, they had done at Naples, what Cleon and Clitophon did at Athens, 
Cleon and Clitophon ruined, and overthrew the State of Athens.  to manage a Kingdom at their pleasures; but both of them sought to have superiority. Rome will rather suffer two Masters, than either Pompey or Caesar endure a Rival.  
Charles of Durazzo, 
A plot discovered is easily dissolved.  eldest son of john Prince of Morea, eighth son of Charles the second, smelled out this plot, and was too hard for the Friar: For he entered into Castle d'Ovo, by intelligence of the household servants, he seized on the Princess Marie, carried her away to his own house, and married her in his garden, on the last day of April, 1343.  
He did not discover his purpose to any man, nor asked the Queen's consent, who was infinitely distasted therewith, very well perceiving this Match was made upon her Tomb. 
The actions of him who is to succeed, are suspected by him that reigneth.  As the hope of succession makes him impatient who pretends, so it ever keeps his heart full of jealousies and distrusts, who is in possession. Ambition thinks Nature is too slow in her career.  

This is he shall cause joane to be strangled, in the year 1382.  At the same time his younger brother, Lewis Count of Gravine married Margarite daughter of Robert of St. Severine, Count of Cavillan, and from this marriage came Charles the third King of Naples, Duke of Durazzo, who seized on the Kingdom.  
Charles of Durazzo, and Marie his wife, took such content in fomenting this violent enmity between the Queen and her Husband, and blew with all the strength of their lungs that fire, from whence they expected their light: 
Who profiteth by ruin, counselleth it confidently.  For it cannot go ill with the Queen, but it must be well with them, and should the Crown fall from her head, they are ready at hand to gather up the pieces.  
The Catanian walks by the same path to another plot, 
Conspiracies are encouraged by hatred, interest, or revenge.  and meets with them in the resolution, to vindicate the Queen from captivity, and the Kingdom from confusion, by the banishment and extirpation of Foreigners. The most trusty servants of the Queen consent thereto. Those who fear to be looked after in the matter of conspiracy against the crowning of Andrew pressed her to resolve, and execute in an instant. 
An execrable crime ever disguiseth itself, when one proposeth it, who if he should see it in his manner, would abhor it.  The Catanian spoke of ridding her of the Hungarians, yet only meant the King: But the most notorious mischiefs are never so plainly proposed; they are disguised, and the intelligent understand with half a word.  
About this time the Queen is with child, and that which should reunite her heart with her Husbands, augmenteth the dis-union; for the Catanian, supposing the King might be the more authorized, by seeing himself a father, and that Friar Robert might procure his resolution, to banish all those who abused the youth and goodness of the Queen, 
To take ill counsel upon fair shows, is to drink poison in a golden cup.  caused her to swallow the poison of an horrid counsel, in the sweetness of her liberty, saying; Heaven would do her a great favour, if he made her a widow, before she were a mother.  
In mine opinion this Lady was too well borne, and her courage too noble, to consent to the death of her Husband. But perhaps she let the Catanian do what she would, who had wholly ruled her from her Cradle: For indeed, her soul darkened with the fogs of hatred she bore towards Andrew, no more served her, than her eyes, which passion had blinded. 
Who resisteth not evil, consents thereto; and who hinders it not, countenanceth it.  She was advised to suffer herself to be led by Fortune, which rather favoured great confidence than virtue that preached cowardly patience.  
The resolution of killing the King is undertaken between the Catanian, the High Steward her Son, her Daughter, her Son in Law, Charles Duke of Durazzo, and the Duchess Marie his wife, all who agreed upon this point, that their own safety, the Queen's contentment, and the good of the Kingdom depended upon this act. Some Cabinet Lords participated therein, 
It is a great unhappiness for a stranger, to be prosperous in a foreign Country.  not being able any longer to endure the harsh and proud predominance of the Hungarians. It is a great unhappiness for a stranger to be in grace out of his Country, for he is enforced, 
Envy must be tamed, or you must suffer yourself to be mastered by the envious.  either to suffer himself to be oppressed by en vie, or commit unspeakable outrages to free himself from the envious.  
There was no great distance of time between the plot and the execution. The night which preceded it (thus says Collenutius, but affirms it not) the Queen twisted a cord of gold, and silk; Andrew asked her, what she meant to do with it; she answered, It is to hang thee. It may be hate suggested such a thought to this woman, but there is little probability that she spoke it. 
Many things come into the thought, which the tongue uttereth not.  For either she had no part in the plot of her Husband's death, (and this word made her culpable) or she was in the conspiracy, and that sufficed to discover, and convince her at that time, of an execrable wickedness, having undertaken it; and of extreme impudence, having pronounced it. But we must speak no more of it, lest we thrust suspicion into an heart less sensible and distrustful than Andrew's was. It would not have been forgotten in the letters, and declarations, the King of Hungary his brother, wrote to the Pope, and Christian Princes.  
Many had knowledge of this impious complot; 
The discovery of the conspiracy advanceth the effect: Macrinus finding himself to be discovered by Maternianus, executeth by Martialis what he had conceived against Antony.  But a secret is not long concealed, when a third man knows it: Those who were embarked therein, fearing to be discovered, hastened execution, saying, In matters of such importance, nothing must be done to halves. Great crimes never ought to enter into the imagination; but when they are resolved on, they must be acted. 
There is more peril to resolve, than execute a conspiracy.  They are not unlike certain viands, of which if we eat little they are poison, and nutriment, if plentifully.  
The resolution being made to put Andrew to death, a silken cord was chosen to be the instrument; the time, night; Executioner Charles Artus, whom the Catanian had created Lord Chamberlain: the place, the Queen's withdrawing room. What monster of cruelty! What monstrous cruelty! A King unsafe in the company of his wife, 
The house of a Prince is sacred, every one ought to be safe there, as in a Temple.  and her Cabinet become a place of execution. The Palace of Kings is holy, the Mount Palatine was sacred, and venerable, only because the Emperor there made his abode.  
At the time of this hideous, and damnable conspiracy, Andrew is called from his chamber, to come unto the Queen's lodging; others say, that being in bed with her, he was awakened, as upon some matter of much importance: but in one kind, or other, putting his head out of the chamber door, either to go in, or out, the murderers cast a cord about his neck, strangled him, and tied him to the bars of the window.  
All the City was in an uproar at so execrable an act, and so cruel a spectacle; Can the people have had means to force the Castle, they had not sought for the murderers any where, but in the Queen's company. They fell upon certain Portuguese Grooms of the Chamber, who died innocent. The Actors saved themselves at Constantinople, many were taken, but the Catanian caused some to be strangled, and others to have their tongues cut out, who might discover her wickedness; the punishment whereof she already felt in her soul, by the torment of her conscience, and imagination, 
Thyestes, after his in●est fled from the earth, and hell, and said, his presence slackened the Sun, not willing to pollute his rays with so wicked a man.  that all aimed at her, that her shadow accuseth her, that Executioners torture her, that the Sun denyeth her his beams, that her presence slackneth his rising that he may not pollute his bright rays with an object so detestable.  
Friar Robert, after this miserable fact, shut himself up, 
An evil man feareth his own shadow.  there was no way of safety for him, he beheld nothing round about him but precipices. I know not what became of him. The History speaking of his authority, threatneth him with ruin, but tells not how it happened. 
A religious man from his rule and monastery, is out of his element.  Questionless, it was not without repentance to have been in the Court, as out of his Element, and led a life quite contrary to his Profession. Good religious men rest in the discipline of the Cloister, seldom stir abroad, live strictly, pray and meditate incessantly, study when they can, persever in all purity, and have more care to do well, than speak well. For at the day of judgement good deeds shall be weighed, not smooth words. joane was delivered on Christmas day of a Son, 
Birth of Carobert Posthumus, son of Andrew, the five and twentieth of December 1346.  and the joy of this birth was troubled with the news, that Lewis King of Hungary came with an huge Army, to revenge his brother's death. Her Council besought her to marry, that she might have some one, to entrust with the manage of her Arms. She matched with Lewis of Tarentum, son of the brother of King Robert, one of the goodliest Princse of that age.  
The marriage consummate, she thereon asks counsel and dispensation of the Pope, 
Youth and solitude incompatible throughout the world.  declaring unto him, herage permitted not solitude, nor could her Counsel endure to see her deprived the comfort of a husband, that many Princes sued to her, that the affection she bore to her own house fixed her thoughts upon the Prince of Tarentum. 
Scandalous marriage with adultery, and the murder of a husband.  The Pope hereof advertised the King of Hungary brother of Andrew, showing it would be scandalous to Christianity to see a wife marry again after she had killed her husband, and match with him who was suspected to have been both an adulterer and murderer. 
So the condemned make sport whilst the judges give sentence for their condemnation.  In the mean time they lived contentedly, regarded not rumours which sought to offend them, nor resisted them but with stopping their ears, and made fair weather, not imagining what the eternal justice had ordained for them. But the Queen understanding the King of Hungary marched with a huge army to revenge the death of his brother, sent a Gentleman to him with a letter to this effect.  
Brother, were I able to express my sorrow unto you, I should not feel the violence thereof, 
Great griefs are dumb, and little, speak.  which exceedeth my force, and your imagination. This Gentleman will show you it to be such, that nothing can ease it but revenge upon that which is the cause thereof: For which purpose, and for the good of my kingdom, I sought not out a second husband any where but in mine own house, and have freed myself from the solicitations of other Princes, 
The inheritance is better loved than the heir.  who more loved my state than me. With his valour and my courage I hope to derive light out of darkness, and to make truth triumph over calumny. Much may you fortify my hope, if you entertain as much affection for the innocence of the son, and protection of the mother, as I hdve to tell you, that I am  
your dear sister, JOAN.  
The answer of Lewis was very rough, and couched in few words:  
The lose life you have lead heretofore, the absolute power you have taken upon you, the neglect of revenge, your second marriage, and the excuse you make to punish the fault, are sufficient to convince you had a share, or gave consent to the massacre of your husband: for which cause you ought not to expect to have either friend, or brother,  
LEWIS.  

The people is the Barb● is Planet which hearing a trumpet sound, forgot all she had learned before.  This Letter ran every where up and down, was favourably read by turbulent & calumnious spirits, and the people who overprise bruits, and who upon the first mention of evil against any, forget all the good had been done, scandalised the life & honour of the Queen.  
But as truths commonly pass amongst impostures, 
No man is so great a liar, who speaks not some truth.  it was said throughout the City of Naples, the Catanian had perpetrated this horrible parricide, and that the Count Ebule her son, high Steward of Naples, had hastened execution, 
Exaltationes tam egregiae non absque macula pudicitiae labefactate concedemis in Aethiopas devenere. Name & si fas credere non sit, non defuere qui dicerent lenocinio Philippae, joannam ad amplexus devenisse Roberti.  that he might the more freely enjoy the Queen's affection.  
The many benefits (saith Boccace) she had conferred on Robert Cabanes, son of Philippe, and the Count Mursan husband of Sancha her daughter, made it be thought, this liberality was rather a reward for love, than merit, and that it could not be done, but with loss of the honour, and chastity of the Queen: nay although we should not think so, yet were there many who said Philippe was the secret instrument of love, and familiarity, between the Queen and her son. This mischief is credible enough, for nothing important was either treated, or deliberated, but in the presence of Philippe, Robert, and Sancha, nor was the Cabinet open to any other. But he thereupon concludes we must slip over these suspicions: For the least familiarities of men wound the reputation of the most honest women.  

She is not fully chaste, who occasioneth the doubt of her chastity.  Ladies, who will secure their honour from the arrows of slander, must not give any occasion of suspicion, their chastity is as a Diamond, which for one slight blemish loseth much of its value, and although it somewhat exceed the ordinary size, the worth doth not therewith proportionably increase. This Princess was nothing careful to disapprove in public, by actions, pure, and sincere the evil judgements, which were made of her secret deportments.  

Life must be changed, to alter the language of slanderers.  Domestic examples perverting more than foreign, had fixed upon her heart some disposition to voluptuous pleasures, King Robert had had by a fair mistress of his a fair daughter named Mary, 
Plutarch saith the land should not be tilled, the fruit whereof must of necessity be hidden.  wanton, & much beloved of Boccace; but such thefts in these times were covered: no man durst publicly till the lands, the fruits whereof might not be reaped, but by stealth. 
joane had four husbands, Andrew P. of Hungary, Lewis of Turentum, james son of the King of Majorica, Otho Duke of Brunswick.  Night and secrecy were then the Curtains of love, nor ever did the Sun surprise Mars with Venus. This Princess hath been condemned for great incontinence, yet do I find things in her, which seldom happen in those who are more curious to preserve their beauty perfect, than their consciences undefiled.  
All the choice wits of that time, praised her; she was infinitely beloved by her people of Italy, and Provence; she had three husbands after Andrew; the bravest Princes of that time, and as it is not likely their birth disposed them to a life disgraceful, 
There are injuries, which pull patience out of the most tender and peaceable natures.  or a servitude shameful, so there is not any appearance their courage consented to dissemble offences so palpable and pregnant, which no man, how good, or patiented soever, could tolerate.  
But admit she entertained affection for others, 
Cratis fell in love with a goat, the male goat for jealousy butted his head against Cratis, and slew him.  why sought she out so curiously youth, beauty, strength in her husbands, did she not well know that dishonouring them, she put herself into hazard of the frenzies of jealousy, which transporteth even bruit beasts to ressentment.  
Had she been foolish as they make her, 
Poppea married to Otho, would not have Nero for a husband, Plutarch gives a reason: because she was wanton.  she had chosen out husbands who durst not murmur against her pleasures. Poppea Sabina desired Nero for a friend, not a husband, doubting lest the quality of an Emperor, might cut off her liberty, and Otho her husband tolerated from Nero, what he would not endure in another. Princes do not long suffer these flies about their noses, they quickly free themselves from their very shadows, and in matter of jealousy of state, 
Great men think all true, which they believe.  or love, suspicion creates a certainty.  
And although she strayed a little from the rules, which they hold who are, or would seem chaste, and that her affability ever cast some blemish upon her modesty, she recompensed this levity, with so many other great, and noble virtues, that calumny was strucken dumb, meeting with an incomparable bounty, a royal magnificence, piety without scruple, liberality without choice or limit. There was at Naples, 
A hideous tempest at Naples the 25. of Nou. in the year. 1343.  so huge, and dreadful a Tempest, that it was thought the Sea would swallow up the City, nothing was to be heard every where, but lamentations, or rather yell; She went barefoot with all her Ladies to the Churches, to implore the mercy of God; Ships in the Haven were wracked, a Galley wherein were four hundred malefactors, was saved.  
The Pope exhorted her to execute justice upon the parricide. The Nobility of the Kingdom besought her, showing how she stood therein engaged to them, to herself, & her son; Nothing so much blemished her reputation, 
A meeting by the advice of the Prince of Orange.  as the delay of this duty, so that being no longer able to refuse them, she proclaimed a great meeting, appeared there in a Throne of Majesty, 
The presence of the Prince works great effect in the hearts of his subjects.  and easily found the power which the presence of a Prince hath over subjects. The dumb eloquence of her eyes which reflected no less fear, when they were incensed, than comfort when pleased, effectually served her intention, she spoke in this manner.  
I neither wish myself so much ill, 
Beauty is a dumb eloquence. Though a Prince need not give an account of his actions but to God, yet he is bound for his reputation sake to public satisfaction.  nor desire such contentment to mine enemies, as to let them think I covet to derive from this assembly any approbation of my actions: I am not to give account thereof to any but God; Princes may on earth call together arbitrators of their quarrels, but must seek out their judge in heaven.  
The afflictions which God lays on me exceed the strength of my youth to bear, and my wisdom to remedy, but not my courage to tolerate.  
I take them, as he gives them, and expect the good he will derive from my evil. But it is my comfort, that not depending on any thing, but his Sovereignty (where there is nought but justice, and truth) I am not subject to the judgement of men, whose passion is their reason.  

God is so good that he would not suffer evil, if he meant not to derive good out of it.  Nay I have this comfort, that I am defamed by those, whose praises I should esteem injuries, and that such as understand their impostures retain so much candour, as to send them back again, from whence they came. The King of Hungary hath published against me all that, which the most enraged calumny may invent, and hath licked up all the foam he could gather from infernal Cerberus, 
Cleopatra beloved of I. Caesar, of G●. Pompey, of M. Anthony. Messalina wife of Claudius, the sink of all abominations. Clytaemnestra murdered Agame●non her husband.  to throw it on mine honour. He makes me more wanton than Cleopatra, more insatiable than Messalina, more cruel than Clytaemnestra Had he found me in those infamous houses, where every one knows, why that place is frequented, he could not use me more unworthily.  
He says I have failed in loyalty to my Husband Fie upon treachery: 
We cannot judge the inward man by the outward.  he says I did it, because he thinks I should have done it, and that the harsh and barbarous conditions of his brother might dispense with a Queen, 
They who deceive their husbands, recompense with good words, evil deeds  who being in the flower of her age, had no cause to complain that nature denied her its perfections, or heaven favours.  
Is it not a silly trick to derive the proofs of the heart, from the forehead? When he says I had nothing in store for Andrew, but scorn and contempt, and that I reserved my affections for others. What he produceth to condemn me, justifies me: who knoweth not that such as deceive their husbands, flatter them, whilst others, whose consciences upbraid them not, are more imperious, satisfying themselves with the interior approbation of their virtue.  
He says, I am guilty of his death. It is false. If my sex permitted, I would challenge him, and make these words return into his heart with the lie, or his life issue forth with his shame. I would quickly be resolved upon it, my courage should make difficulties abashed, and shame valiant.  
If I would have committed this wicked act, 
Oftentimes great mischiefs are imputed to accident, to excuse the plot.  I had means to perform it in a more secret manner, and to impute that to accident, which came by violence. I could not do it alone, and if any one therein assisted me, let him speak, let him accuse me, I promise him pardon. The King of Hungary assures him reward, but Heaven threatneth both the one and the other with Hell What say I? It is a jest, 
Polyphemus mocked at Ulysses, who spoke to him of the fear of the Gods. In many places second wedlocks have been accused of incontinency.  to speak to a Cyclope of the fear of Gods.  
He affirms I am married to the Prince of Tarentum, but have I done it without the Church's dispensation? without advice of my Council? without the necessity of my Kingdom? And where are the Laws, which forbidden Princesses of eighteen a second wedlock? Must none but virgins marry.  
He addeth, I loved him not, one should have been very tender and compassionate of heart to affect his person. King Robert made it appear, when he gave him to me, that he respected not so much my contentment, as his own. The honour I did him to marry him, obliged him to retribution of honour, but he on the contrary sought to have all authority, and I was enforced to take it from him, that I might not submit the Laws of my Kingdom to the discretion of strangers. 
So soon as sovereign authority is shaken, it is lost and confounded.  I was jealous of mine authority, as of the apple of mine eye, of the heart of my State. My Ancestors taught me, that if this rock once totter, it cannot be stayed, the end of its motion is ruin. 
Who is glad of his own loss, never loved the possession.  They say, I bewailed him not. Verily, were I bound to deplore deliverance from an insupportable torment, I confess to have done amiss, for my tears were quickly dried up. That I neglected the revenge of his death, this concerns me not, those whom I entrusted with the care of my Laws, and justice must answer for that: But revenge, not sorrow, have brought me hither, to tell you I am displeased with his death, as your Queen, who considereth the sequel of impunity, 
All Princes are brothers, and resent the offence of Prince's.  the scandal of other Princes, the reproach of this Nation, and who should account herself unworthy the Crown God hath placed on her head, if she employed not it, and her proper self in the punishment of this Parricide, protesting, there is not any person of what quality soever, whom I abandon not without hope of grace, or pardon. I conjure you to serve me in this design, and to take away the mask of passion, that the integrity of justice may appear, and the Sun dissolve the Ice, which hath hitherto covered this wicked act.  
The assembly thanked her for this declaration, 
To despise the punishment of great crimes, is to give way to much greater.  praised her justice, and the magnanimous care she had of her reputation, which could not any way be more sensibly wounded, than by deferring the enquiry, and punishment of a crime so enormous and horrid, the dissembling whereof were injustice, and clemency, cruelty.  
Hugo de Baux, Prince of Orange, Count of Avellina was appointed, with absolute and sovereign power, void of limitation, to punish the guilty. He laid not hold on wretched and miserable creatures, which like little animals do nothing, 
To punish inferiors, is but to crush little animals, saith Seneca.  but foul the fingers of those who crush them; he caused to be taken many Lords, many Ladies of the Chamber, and Cabinet, than the Catanian, the High Steward of Naples her son, the Count Mursan her son in Law, and Sancha her daughter. 
Erecto immaniequuleo in conspectu Neopolitanae urbis medio maris in sinu, ritu regionis, spec●ante populo in Philippam torsit Mis●llam, Sanctiam, & Robertum.  And that the Commonwealth might publicly receive the satisfaction he promised upon this proceeding, the Process being drawn, he without the Town erected a torture, wherein he exposed to the eyes of all the City, and Kingdom, the Catanian and her children, who suffered great torments, as an Antipast of some fare more exquisite. The most miserable thought themselves happy in comparison of such prosperity. Not to be moved with these examples, is as Pirrho's Pig, to eat barley greedily in the greatest violence of torment. Boccace tells us not what they confessed; but by the subsequent punishment we may guess of the confession.  
Certain days after, they are dragged naked thorough the Town upon a hurdle, then tied to three ship-masts, burning pinsers twitched them, razors flaied them, and flames choked them. The Catanian old and weak, died in the midst of the torments, her heart and entrailes were torn out, her head set upon one of the gates of Naples, and the rest of her body turned into ashes. 
Enraged hatred envieth the executioners commission.  Her daughter Sancha was burnt alive, Robert her son, half roasted in the fire, was drawn thence alive, and as if the punishment had been too gentle for public satisfaction, the people haled him throughout the City in the dirt, and kennels, 
Egineta counselled Pansanias after the victory of Platea to hang Mardonius his enemy on a gallows.  than pulled his heart and bowels forth, rend him in pieces, and there were some who barbarously inhuman tore him with their nails, and fixed their teeth upon him, not so much for revenge, as through fury, and brutishness.  
This history is come to its period, 
You counsel me not well, said he, it only is proper to Barbarians to be cruel to the dead  it goes no further, he that would know how Queen joane went out of this tragedy, must travel farther therein, than we have done. It sufficeth to tell you the Catanian drew upon the Kings and Kingdom of Sicily a deluge of calamities, fastening misery, as with nails of Adamant, to the Crown of Naples, never prosperous either for joane, her four husbands, her sister, or those of her race.  
Lewis King of Hungary, entered twice into Naples, as into an enemy's Country to revenge his brother's death, he enforced the Queen to retire into Nice, 
The King of Hungary had a black standard whereon is portrayed the strangling of his brother.  put the Duke of Durazzo to death at Aversa in the same place where his brother had been strangled, Marry his wife escaped into Provence with her two daughters in the habit of a Franciscan. The Pope declareth the Queen innocent, treateth peace with Lewis, she adopts Lewis Duke of Anjou, 
Queen joane strangled at Naples the 22. of May. 1382.  son of K. john. Charles D. of Durazzo revolts against joane, besiegeth her in the Castle Ovo, makes her yield, causeth her with her sister to be strangled, and usurps the Crown. Lewis King of Hungary dies a Leper, Charles is slain by Elizabeth, She by the faction of Charles: Ladis●aus her son died of poison in the embracements of a Lady.  
joane the second succeedeth, marrieth jaques de Bourbon Earl of March for her second husband, 
joane had two favourites, her husband cut off the head of one, and she stabbed the other.  who unable to correct, or tolerate her imperfections, forsakes her, and shuts himself up in a cloister. She adopteth Alfonsus, and having nothing constant in her, but her inconstancy, revokes the adoption, fought to kill him, & declareth Rene Duke of Anjou, Earl of Provence, her heir. He did not long enjoy her Crown. In all this we must conclude, that ill success w●iteth on unjust prosperity, that there is not any wickedness which beareth not its pain and repentance; that he who perpetrateth one, expects the opportunity of another, that whilst the world's Theatre lasteth, Fortune thereon will play her Tragedies, and will make it appear, she flatters those she means to stifle.  
FINIS.