GERMANY THE IMPERIAL HISTORY. From the first foundation of the Roman Monarchy to this present tyme. By Ed: Grymestone, Sergeant at Arms. LONDON Printed by Matthew Lownes 1623. THE IMPERIAL HISTORY: OR THE LIVES OF THE EMPERORS, FROM JULIUS CAESAR, THE FIRST FOUNDER OF THE ROMAN MONARCHY, UNTO THIS PRESENT YEAR: Containing their Lives and Actions, with the Rising and Declining of that Empire; the Original, and Success, of all those barbarous Nations that have invaded it, and ruined it by piecemeal: With an ample Relation of all the memorable Accidents that have happened during these last Combustions. First written in Spanish by PEDRO MEXIA: And since continued by some others, to the death of MAXIMILIAN the Second; Translated into English by W. T. 〈…〉 And now Corrected, amplified and continued to these times by EDWARD GRIMESTON Sergeant at Arms. LONDON, Printed by H. L. for MATHEW LOWNES, dwelling at the sign of the Bishop's head in PAUL'S Churchyard. 1623. TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE, LIONEL LORD CRANFIELD, EARL OF MIDDLESEX, Lord High Treasurer of England, and Master of his Majesty's Court of Wards and Liveries. THE treasures of Emperors themselves in their stil-preserued Actions, Counsels and Lives (transcending fare their transitory treasures) In all Humility I present to your Lordship's preservation and protection; as proper, and peculiarly due to the Honours of your Office and Title, for the most apt correspondency of your judicial habilities, to husband and dispose as well the Treasures of Counsels and Actions, as of Offices and Revenues. Of all these Imperial Lives (my truly honoured Lord) most of the first Edition I have only weeded, ordered, and amplified: The last six are the first-fruits of mine own Labours. Three of the first I have cast into new Moulds: And the later I have faithfully collected according to the most Authentical and Impartiall-reputed Authors now extant, together with the confident relations of such as have been eye-witnesses of some of the late Accidents, here offered as a Sacrifice to Immortal Memory. Notwithstanding which sufficient acquittal (and discharge from blame) of my well-intended Industries, I can no more assure nor promise' their Approbations, than all other ingenuous and laborious Treasurers of example and virtue; though therein they cannot but be commended for cordial restoratives, to redouble Lives, if not to eternize them. But, in these modern times, Endeavours that profit not, receive acceptances that please not. Yet such was the Bounty and Nobility of all our ancient Precedents of Times, that whosoever committed, to the Monuments of writings, either the praises of Cities or singular Men, were ever adorned with Crowns, or Honours. But in these degenerate years of ours; As many other excellent and ornamental Merits: so these, especially, are left utterly prayselesse and exolete. For s●…e men cease to do praiseworthy deeds; To be praised, likewise they think thriftless and idle. Notwithstanding, what Presents more precious can possibly be given to Men, then Praise, Glory, and Eternity? All which I intentionally and effectually present and ascribe, with all Worthiness, to your Lordship, in entitling them to you, in these supremest Personages. For, Whosoever protects and maintains Virtue and Nobility, must necessarily be himself both Virtuous and Noble. To the Protection therefore of all the Virtue and Nobility herein made sacred to Eternity, jonly select and invoke your Honour, in these my humble Dedications; Abiding ever Your good Lordships most humbly vowed, in all true Duty and Service, ED. GRIMESTON. A Table of the Names of all the ROMAN EMPERORS. A ADrian. 115 Albert the First. 349 Albert the Second. 602 Adulph. 546 Alexander Severus. 161 Antoninus Pius. 121 Anastatius the First. 302 Anastatius the Second. 363 Arcadius and Honorius. 261 Arnolphus. 405 Aurelianus. 199 Augustus Octavianus Caesar. 20 B BAssianus Caracalla. 147 C CAligula. 48 Carus, Carinus and Numerianus. 213 Charles the Great. 383 Charles the Second. 399 Charles the Third. 403 Charles the Fourth. 571 Charles the Fift. 634 Claudius the First. 53 Claudius the Second. 195 Clodius Balbinus, and Maximus Pupienus. 173 Commodus Antonius 129 Constantius Clorus. 222 Constantine the Great. 225 Constantinus, Constantius and Constance, the sons of Constantine the Great. 235 Constantine the Third. 346 Constance the Second. 347 Constantine the Fourth. 351 Constantine the Fift. 369 Constantine the Sixt. 377 Conrade the First. 411 Conrade the Second. 439 Conrade the Third. 472 Conrade the Fourth. 532 D Decius'. 180 Didius julianus. 137 Domitianus. 100 Dioclesian. 216 E EMilianus. 183 F FErdinand the First. 660 Ferdinand the Second. 755 Florianus. 206 Frederick Barbarossa. 479 Frederick the Second. 516 Frederick the Third. 605 G GAlba. 76 Gallus. 182 Galienus. 187 Gordianus. 175 Gratianus. 252 H HEliogabalus. 156 Henry the First. 414 Henry the Second. 435 Henry the Third. 441 Henry the Fourth. 448 Henry the Fift. 461 Henry the Sixt. 500 Henry the Seventh. 553 Heraclius. 339 I IVlius Caesar. 9 julianus Apostata. 241 jovianus. 245 justinus the First. 305 justinus the Second. 322 justinian the First. 308 justinian the Second. 355 L LEo the First. 292 Leo the Second. 297 Leo the Third. 366 Leo the Fourth. 376 jews the First, called Ludovicus Pius. 387 jews the Second. 397 jews the Third. 401 jews the Fourth. 408 jews the Fift. 595 Lotharius the First. 393 Lotharius the Second. 498 M MAcrinus. 151 Marcus Aurelius. 125 Martianus. 290 Mathias. 737 Mauritius. 328 Maximinus. 167 Maximilian the First. 620 Maximilian the Second. 686 N NEro. 62 Nerua. 105 OH OTho the First. 81 Otho the Second. 419 Otho the Third. 428 Otho the Fourth. 431 Otho the Fift. 511 P PErtinax. 133 Philip the First. 178 Philip the Second. 505 Philippicus. 362 Phocas. 336 Probus. 207 Q QVintilius. 198 R RObert. 583 Rodulph the First. 540 Rodulph the Second. 696 S SEuerus. 1●…1 Sigismond. 590 T TAcitus. 205 Theodosius the First. 256 Theodosius the Second. 274 Theodosius the Third. 365 Tiberius the First. 39 Tiberius the Second. 326 Titus. 97 Traianus. 108 V VAlentinianus the First. 247 Valentinianus the Second. 283 Valerianus. 185 Vespasianus. 91 Vitellius. 85 W Wenceslaus. 576 Z ZEno. 297 THE LIFE OF JULIUS CAESAR, FOUNDER OF THE EMPIRE AND MONARCHY OF ROME. THE ARGUMENT. IVlius Caesar was of a Noble Family; and, returning to Rome from the Praetorship in Spain with great renown, entered into friendship with Marcus Crassus & Cneius Pompey, who were the mightiest Citizens in Rome: and, pacifying the controversy between them, he obtained the Consulship: which he executed with such gravity and reputation, that his fellow-Consul would not endure to be with him, but lived retired. Afterwards, giving his daughter julia in marriage to Pompey, he went into France; which he subdued, and overcame the Germans. He went afterwards also into Britanny, and by force subdued it to the Roman Empire. julia afterwards dying, and Marcus Crassus being slain by the Parthians, mortal discord grew between Caesar and Pompey: the occasion whereof was, for that the second five years of Caesar's government of France being expired, it was propounded by Pompey's faction, that a successor should be sent him: and Caesar desired, that his command in the French Wars might be prolonged, and that in his absence he might demand the Consulship: which being denied him, he made another proposition, that he would give over his army in France, upon condition that Pompey should do the like by his in Spain. Which being also denied, and being enjoined to leave his army, he passed the River Rubicon (limits assigned him which he was not to pass) and, taking the city of Ariminum, he went with such fury directly to Rome, as Pompey abandoned Italy; and he, following him, in the end overthrew him in Pharsalia. Whereupon Pompey, for refuge repairing to Ptolomey King of Egypt, was in a small Bark, by that King's direction, slain by the hands of Septimius and Achila: whose head being (by Ptolomy's command) presented to Caesar, he wept. Afterwards, bending his force against Ptolemy, and overcoming him, he passed into Egypt, and tamed the pride of the Egyptians. Thence he went into Africa, pursuing the remainder of Pompey's faction; all which he overcame: and Cato being in Utica, unwilling to fall into Caesar's hands, slew himself. Caesar, returning to Rome, triumphed: and afterwards going into Spain (after a most cruel battle, wherein he was in danger to have been lost) he overthrew Sextus Pompeius, eldest son of the great Pompey: and, returning to Rome, he took upon him the Dictatorship. Where, finally, Decius, Marcus Brutus, Gaius Cassius, Gaius Casca, Attilius Cimber, Quintus Ligarius, Marcus Spurius, Cornelius Cinna, with many other principal Romans, conspiring against him, he was slain in the Senate, being of the age of 56 years, upon the fifteenth day of March, with 23 wounds; many prodigious signs of his death appearing both before and afterwards: which hindered his passage against the Parthians, and many other high designs, which he resolved to have undertaken. BEing to writ the lives of the Roman Emperors, which held the Monarchy of the world; or, to speak more properly, to reduce them into a brief Compendium (a work in truth of weight and troublesome, requiring an active spirit, and a more eloquent pen than mine) I hold it no small difficulty to begin with JULIUS CAESAR, of whom I am first to treat. Who although he were but Dictator, and not styled Emperor, in that sense of Lord and Sovereign, as his Successors afterwards held it; yet he was the forerunner, and made the way to this Monarchy: and all succeeding Emperors have held it a glory to be called All Emperors took the surname of Caesar. CAESAR'S after his name. His exploits were such and so many, and Histories are so fraught with them, that I hold it as great a difficulty to relate them briefly, as to writ them confusedly. Wherhfore, out of so large and copious a field, I will only collect that which I shall hold fittest for the Subject of this Work; yet handling it with convenient brevity: notwithstanding (he being the basis and foundation of this stately Building) it will be needful I should extend myself much more in this, than in the rest which shall follow. As for his other brave achievements, I will refer the Reader to those many books which make honourable mention of CAESAR, and to the content which is generally conceived of his virtues and worthy endeavours. Among all the glorious actions of JULIUS CAESAR, the greatest in my opinion, and which breeds most admiration, is, how he durst project, than put it in practice, and lastly bring it to effect, His greatest exploit. to make himself Lord of the Roman State (the which was Lady and Mistress of the greatest and most habitable part of the world) and of all that she had subdued during the space of 700 years: for, so long it was from the first foundation of Rome, until that JULIUS CAESAR seized upon the government of the Common-weal: whereof there were 240 years under the The time from Rome's foundation to Caesar's usurpation. absolute command of Kings, and the rest under the government of Consuls, who were chosen by the people; except some few years, in which the Tribunes and Decemuiri bore the sway. Doubtless, a short time to raise and get so great an Empire as the Romans had obtained; whenas CAESAR, of a free State, made it subject to the command of One; whose Empire without doubt exceeded all others both for continuance, extent and power: the which is confirmed by many approved Writers. Wherhfore, omitting all other Kingdoms and Common-weals, which Dio. Halicar. c. 1. Strabo c. 6 Appian in the first of his triumphs. are not to be paralleled with this, I will make mention only of the greatest and most famous which at the first were called Monarchies; namely, the Assyrians, Persians' and Macedonians: all which the Roman Empire did far exceed. As for the Assyrians and Babylonians, which is the most ancient of all Monarchies, during the space of 1240 years (for, so long it continued, according to the computation of Saint AUGUSTINE) it never extended itself out of the bounds of Asia, nor had any footing in Africa or Europe. Neither were the Medes more S. Aug. de civi. Dei. Tit. Livius, Pliny, Solynus in their come parisons of Monarchies. powerful: of which Kingdom ARBATUS was the first Founder; by the ruin and death of SARDANAPALUS King of the Assyrians, overthrowing the first Monarchy. Than the Persians' extinguished the Medes by the powerful hand of CYRUS; and this shall be accounted the second Monarchy: who although they made some irruption into Europe (as that of XERXES and others) and in Asia grew more powerful than those which had go before, yet it continued not above 200 and odd years; and they were ruined, with DARIUS their King, by ALEXANDER, the Great, King of Macedon. We cannot deny, but that his Empire was of a greater extent than any of the abovenamed: for, he had under his obedience a great part of Europe, and he subdued in a manner all Asia: and this is held for the third Monarchy; but it was like a flash of lightning, burning all it encounters, and is soon extinct: for, with the death of ALEXANDER, his power decayed. Than grew factions, and divers Kingdoms were erected; so as it is apparent, that the Roman Empire exceeded them all both in time, greatness and power. The Monarchy of the Macedonians decayed with the death of Alexander. In time, being not much less than 2300 years since Rome was built, and yet the name of the Roman Empire continueth unto this day. For the space of 1300 years it still increased, and hath ever since been held the most predominant power of all others. In extent of dominions & power; for, it is most certain, that, uniting whatsoever the others held, it will scarce equal the one half of the Roman Empire. For, laying aside whatsoever the Emperors did add unto it, before that JULIUS CAESAR did seize upon the State, they had subdued the best part of the world. In Europe they were Masters of all Italy, and Gallia Cisalpina or Lombardie, Austria and Illiricum, The greatness of the Roman Empire. now called Sclavonia; and they extended themselves as fare as the river of Danubius: they had subdued all Greece (some yielding voluntarily; others, by force) the States of Athens, Lacedaemon, Thebes, Corinth, and all Peloponesus, now called Morea, with their Territories; the Kingdoms of Macedon, & Epirus now Albania, and in like manner Thracia. They held the Lands of Sicily, Sardynia, Crete or Candie, Cypress, Rhodes, Euboea, now Negropont, with many other Lands in the Mediterranean Sea. They also subdued Spain (but with more difficulty and opposition than any of the rest) and in like manner all France, with that part of Germany which lies on this side the Rhine, called the Lower, or Gallia Belgica, which was the work of CAESAR himself; and in like manner that of Britanny, under which are comprehended England and Scotland. They were Masters of all Africa (which is the third part of the world) that is to say, of the fruitfullest and most habitable parts, having ruined proud Carthage. In Asia they had subdued the greatest and best Provinces, and made them their Subjects and Tributaries: among the which were Syria called Soria, Phenicia, Palestina, judaea, Phrygia, Caria, Cilicia, and Bithynia by the last will and testament of King NICOMED●…S. The Kings of Egypt and Cappadocia were their friends and confederates; and they had a commanding power in Armenia, Colchos, and other Provinces. Albania, Iberia, and some other Countries, did them homage, and paid them tribute: which Countries had been vanquished by them, and many Kings and valiant Captains slain. Finally, they were Lords of so many Cities and Provinces, as it were an endless labour to set them down in particular; and their power was so great, as no forces but their own were able to annoyed them. But afterwards, discord and ambition creeping into this State which was so free and powerful, what The Roma●… vanquished themselves. foreign force could not effect, they wrought with their own Arms, and triumphed over themselves. The cause of all this grew through the discord between POMPEY and JULIUS CAESAR, which two were at that time the most eminent and powerful men in Rome; and yet at the same Instant there were other Citizens of great esteem. But, the root of this hatred grew from a further cause, that is, from the factions and civil war between SCYLLA and MARIUS: in which, MARIUS being slain, SCYLLA made himself Dictator, and seized upon Rome; yet before his death he gave it over, and left the City at liberty. POMPEY had followed SULLA'S faction, and done brave exploits for him: but CAESAR had sided with MARIUS, being his kinfman, and at that time very young. This was the seed from whence sprung the civil war between them. But, it shall be needful to relate some former matters, for the better understanding of the occasions which went before, and the success which followed; the which we will describe briefly after this manner: The war and power of SCYLLA being ended, Competency betwixt Pompey and Crassus. CNEIUS POMPEIUS and MARCUS CRASSUS (who had also followed that party) remaining in great reputation, the one sought to supplant the other, so as there grew some jars between them, which began during the life of SCYLLA. CRASSUS grew very powerful: The reasons of their greatness. for, besides his Wisdom, Nobility and Eloquence, he was very rich beyond all the other Citizens of his time. POMPEY also become famous and much esteemed, besides the succession he had by SCYLLA, for his great victories and valiant exploits in Arms performed in SULLA'S time and since, both by sea and land, in Africa, Spain and Asia; the which are so many and so great, as I dare not relate them. The deeds of these two eminent People being grown to this height, and their quarrels increasing daily as the heads of factions (and yet at the same time there were others of great note within the City, as CATO, CICERO, LENTULUS, and others) during these alterations, JULIUS CAESAR returned to Rome from his Praetorship in Spain with great reputation, yet his ambitious thoughts aimed at greater matters, both in regard of the greatness of his house (for, by the father's side, he was of a Noble and very ancient Caesar's family and virtues. Family; and by the mother he descended from the Kings of Rome, who were extracted from AENEAS of Troy) and for his many allies and friends; being also very witty and eloquent. He had also purchased great credit and authority in the managing of those charges which had been committed unto him. He had been Questor in Spain, Tribune of the soldiers, Aedile, highpriest and Praetor; having gotten victories in Spain against the Inhabitants of Galitia and Portugal; adding to all this, his merits and virtues, being bountiful, wise and learned in all good Arts, most active in the managing of Arms both on foot and horseback; very valiant and strong, whereof he made great proofs before he had any command in the wars of Asia, under the Praetor MARCUS TERMO, and SERVILIUS the Proconsul; where he obtained a Civicall Crown. He was, moreover, of a good constitution of body, tall of stature, fair, strong of his members, and very patiented of labour. For all which considerations and many others, he was in great esteem; but neither by his authority nor place able to equal MARCUS CRASSUS or POMPEY, for that the roots of their greatness had been of long continuance. CAESAR being comn to Rome, with a secret intent to make himself greater than either of Caesar's policy and practice. them; CRASSUS and POMPEY affected his friendship, by whose help they might supplant one another. But CAESAR, being discreet and wise, would not follow any party, nor tie himself to defend their actions; but, carrying himself indifferently, he laboured to reconcile them; having a conceit, that, if he carried himself as a Neuter, they would both yield unto his will: and this his cunning practice (as PLUTARCH reports) was only discovered by M. CATO. In the end, by his endeavours a peace was concluded between them, being both bound unto A league betwixt Caesar, Crassus and Pompey. him: yet, being still jealous one of another, and fearing to loose CAESAR, they both sought to gratify him: and in this sort he made himself equal to either of them; and that power which two had formerly usurped, was now divided between three; and in the end we shall see who got the sole command. This league and atonement being made, CAESAR demanded, the Caesar made consul. Consulship, which is the greatest ordinary dignity. He carried himself in this charge with such reputation, as his fellow Consul BIBULUS never accompanied him, but kept himself retired during his Consulship. CAESAR, the better to maintain the credit and authority which he had got, and to attain to the greatness whereunto he aspired, he himself took to wife CALPHURNIA, the daughter of LUCIUS PISO, who was to succeed him in the Consulate; and he gave Caesar's and Pompey's marriage. JULIA his daughter in marriage to POMPEY, rejecting her former spouse SERVILIUS CEPIO, by whose help he had a little before crossed his Colleague BIBULUS. CAESAR'S consulship being ended, these three Confederates being equally greedy of honour, they easily made a match to invade the Common-weal. CAESAR made choice of Gaul or France for his Province; CRASSUS, of Asia; and POMPEY, of Spain: whither they went with three puissant Caesar goes with an army into France. Armies. And thus the whole world was to be held by three Princes in partnership. The exploits of CAESAR in his Province, what battles he fought, what victories he won, what cities and people he subdued, what stratagems, policy and valour he used (this war continuing little less than ten years) I cannot relate, my meaning being to observe brevity. He left excellent Commentaries of his own deeds, and full of truth; the which were approved by his very enemies, and much commended by CICERO. Yet ASINIUS POLLIO (envying CAESAR'S virtues) doth in some things tax him. They are also written by PLUTARCH, SVETONIUS, APPIANUS, ALEXANDRINUS, LUCAN, PAULUS OROSIUS, LUCIUS FLORUS, EUTROPIUS, and many other: to whom I refer the Reader. CAESAR got such reputation in this war, as he was held the greatest Captain of his time, yea, or of those that were in former Ages. He subdued all France, from the Pyrene Mountains unto the Alpss, and all the remainder Caesar's conquests. unto the river of Rhine. He first vanquished the Suissers and Tigurins, who (as PLUTARCH affirms) were 300000 men, whereof 190000 were well trained up in Arms. He conquered the Germans, with ARIOVISTUS their Leader, who had invaded France, from whence he expelled them. He subdued the Belgij, the Ambiani and Neruij, with other warlike people of France, and he spilt more blood than ever was in any wars in the world. Than, passing the Rhine upon a bridge of wood which he built, he subdued the Germans to the Roman Empire; and, finding no more opposition there, he passed with his Army into Brittany, which was inhabited by a fierce Nation, not till that time known by any traffic or commerce: these he forced to subject themselves to the Roman State. During the continuance of these wars, in which CAESAR got great spoils and wealth, he never left to purchase to himself friends, both in Rome and in all other places, both by letters and gifts, and in like manner with the Kings and Cities of Asia, Greece, and other Countries; sending them aids of men, without any leave or authority from the Senate: the which he might safely do, as long as the league continued betwixt The boldness & policy of Caesar him, POMPEY and CRASSUS. He won men unto him, and was much beloved of his soldiers, giving these double pay, and bestowing honours upon others: by which means (POMPEY not foreseeing it) he grew to such power and reputation, as he began to fear him when he was not able to suppress him. But now that strict league of friendship, which had been betwixt Pompey grows jealous of Caesar these two, began to dissolve, for that the pawn which maintained it was taken away; so as there grew a mutual fear & jealousy betwixt them; first, by the death of JULIA, CAESAR'S daughter, who marrying to POMPEY entertained concord between the son and the father-in-law, by the league of nuptial love; secondly, by the death of MARCUS CRASSUS, the third man in this company, who was slain by the Parthians in Asia, whither he went to make war (as some writ) more to heap up riches, than to win honour; whose reputation notwithstanding was a support to their good agreement. So as the chief causes, whereupon their friendship was grounded, being taken away, their emulation presently broke forth. POMPEY was jealous of CAESAR'S greatness; and CAESAR hardly endured POMPEY'S supereminency: the one brooked no equal; the other, no superior. Whereupon they fell to war, which was the greatest and Their forces in the civil war. most general that ever was: for, in it there were engaged the Senate, all the Roman Legions, all their friends and subjects, Kings and Cities, for the one or the other party. On the one side were eleven Legions, on the other eighteen; all Roman and Italian soldiers, with all the forces of Rome, besides the aids of their confederates. This war was managed in Italy, France, Spain, Epirus, Thessaly, Egypt, Asia and Africa, by themselves or their Lieutenants; and in the end, after five years, it died in Spain. Some Authors set down the causes of this civil war, although they vary in some points: but the truth is, the chief reasons were envy, ambition, and desire of command, The causes of the civil war. wherewith they were both infected: and the one jealous of the others greatness (as if the Roman Empire had not been sufficient for them two) the one sought to ruin the other. That POMPEY had any intent to usurp the State, and become a Tyrant, it doth not appear: but it is apparent, he would not have CAESAR attain to that dignity wherein he was. Of CAESAR some writ, that being forced through fear he came to Arms, jest he should see himself called in question, and condemned: for, CATO had threatened to accuse him whensoever he should give-over his Province. Others object, that he had always a desire to usurp the State; and therefore, balancing his power with POMPEY'S, he thought it behooveful to entertain friendship and contract an alliance with him. CICERO saith, that he had always in his mouth that verse of EURIPIDES, that If it were lawful to infringe the laws, it was for a Kingdom; and that CAESAR, being greedy of command, could not endure to be without an Army: but, in my opinion, the reasons were such as have been related; and these, the occasions. This being the last of the second five years of CAESAR'S government in France, LENTULUS and MARCELLUS being Consuls, and of POMPEY'S faction; it was propounded in the Senate, to sand a Successor to CAESAR, and that he should give-over his government and the Army; and if he would (as he had written) demand the Consulship, he should come to Rome in person. CAESAR demanded, that his command in the war might be prolonged, and the government which he had, and that he might demand the Consulate being absent, before he gave-over Laws for demanding the consulship. his Army; which honour ten Tribunes had formerly granted him, with POMPEY'S good liking. But now POMPEY would not yield unto it, as being against the laws, which did not allow any man to demand the Consulship but present; forgetting, that he had been made Consul before he came to lawful age, and had attained to other dignities, contrary to the ordinary course of law. But it is the common condition of men, To blame that in another which they allow in themselves. This being denied to CAESAR, he made another proposition; that he would leave his Army, and come to Rome as a private man, so as POMPEY would give-over his which he held in Spain. This was put to the question, and did 'cause a great distraction in the Senate. CICERO Cicero seeks to reconcile Caesar & Pompey interposed himself, labouring to reconcile them, and to conclude their jars with peace. POMPEY would have been tractable, had not those of his faction, being of the prime men of Rome, stood proudly upon terms; who (notwithstanding any just and reasonable conditions propounded by CAESAR) were inflexible. It was therefore decreed in Senate, that CAESAR, by a A decree of the Senate against Caesar. certain time prefixed, should leave his Army, and that he should not pass it over the river of Rubicon, which did bound-in his Province; declaring him an enemy to the Roman State if he did otherwise. LUCIUS ANTONIUS and QVINTUS CURIO, Tribunes of the people, favouring CAESAR, opposed themselves to this decree: but they were disgraced, ill-intreated, and thrust out of the Senate. Whereupon, they fled out of Rome, and went to CAESAR: the which was a great help to him to win the hearts of his soldiers, for that the office of the Tribunes was held sacred and inviolable. CAESAR hearing how matters had past, seeing himself deprived of all future hope of peace, he marched speedily from Ravenna, only with 5000 foot, and 300 horse, commanding his Legions to follow presently after, and to join with him. Coming afterwards to Rubicon (which if he should pass, there would be no hope of peace remaining) some say that he stayed there a good space; considering with himself, of what importance this passage was, and what miseries would ensue. PLUTARCH writes, that he discoursed thereof with ASINIUS POLLIO, and other his friends which did accompany him. APPIANUS ALEXANDRINUS reports, that he used these words, Doubtless, if I forbear to pass this river, it will be the beginning of my ruin; Caesar's words when he past Rubicon. if I pass it, the ruin will be general. And SVETONIUS writes, that turning towards the river, he said, It is yet in our power to turn back; but, passing the river, we must make our way with our weapons. He writes, moreover, that CAESAR standing thus doubtful and irresolute, he was animated by the apparition of a man of an extraordinary stature & shape, sitting near unto his Army, piping upon a reed. Besides the shepherds and herdsmen, many soldiers left their guards, and went down to hear him, and with them some Trumpeters; so as he caught hold of one of their trumpets, and leapt forth to the river, beginning with a mighty blast to sound the battle, and so went on his pace to the bank on the other side. Than, with a furious resolution, CAESAR cried out, Let us go whither the gods, and the injurious dealings of our enemies, do call us: The dices are cast. I have set up my Rest, come what will of it. After which words, he set spurs to his horse, and past the river, the whole Army following him. In this manner he resolved: which was the beginning of the civil wars, and of Rome's servitude, and the first step to a Monarchy and the sovereign command of one, as I will briefly set it down. Whoso desires to have a full view of this History, let him read APPIANUS ALEXANDRINUS, SVETONIUS, PLUTARCH in the lives of CAESAR, CATO, and CICERO; Saint AUGUSTINE lib. 3. de civet. Dei, JULIUS CAESAR himself in his Commentaries, LUCIUS FLORUS, hist. 4. TITUS LIVIUS his Abbreviats, PAULUS OROSIUS, EUTROPIUS, 6. hist. LUCAN, PLINY de viris illustribus, VALERIUS MAXIMUS, with divers others. CAESAR having past the river, and drawn his whole Army together, where (as SVETONIUS writes) the Tribunes of the Commons came unto him, in base and dishonourable garments, with the which they had fled from Rome; there he made an excellent Oration to his fouldiers; shedding some tears, and tearing his garment down the breast, laying before them the equity of his cause, and craving their helps and assistance. To whom having with a general applause and consent made answer, that they were ready to obey his will, he parted presently, and the next day came to Ariminum, whereon he seized: the like he did to all the Towns and Castles The beginning of the civil war. where he past. DOMITIUS, who in a factious tumult had been nominated his Successor in Gaul, held Corfinium with a garrison of 30 Cohorts: which being taken, he pardoned the soldiers and inhabitants, and entreated DOMITIUS kindly, giving him leave to departed (who went presently to POMPEY) which was an act of a Noble and generous mind: the which, CAESAR observed in all his victories during the civil war; by which clemency he purchased to himself as great honour, as by his victories. CAESAR'S resolution being known at Rome, it troubled POMPEY, amazed the Senate, and terrified the common people; and it would be tedious to relate what provisions they made. POMPEY was much deceived, for that he could not believe that CAESAR would thrust Pompey's error, presuming too much of himself. himself into so great a danger, or that he should be able to raise sufficient forces to resist him: but the success proved otherwise. For, notwithstanding that he had authority from the Consuls and Senate to levy soldiers, to call home the legions, and to sand Captains for the defence of divers cities of Italy whereas CAESAR should pass, yet all this was not sufficient to resist CAESAR'S fury, and the power he brought with him. The fame of his coming increasing daily, POMPEY with the whole Senate abandoned Rome, going to Capua, and from thence to Brundisium, a sea-town upon the confines of Italy, seated at the mouth of the gulf of Venice: where he gave order, the Consuls should pass to Dirrachium, now called Durrazzo, a sea-town of Macedon (whereof a great part is now called Albania) to unite all their forces; being out of hope to be able to resist CAESAR in Italy, who had already taken Corfinium, as I have formerly said: where, having drawn DOMITIUS Cohorts to serve him, he marched on; and, hearing that POMPEY and the Consuls were together at Brundisium, he went towards them with his Legions with all the speed he could. But POMPEY had fortified himself sufficiently to make defence; yet upon CAESAR'S approach, beginning to invest the Town, he embarked himself in the night time, and so passed over to Dirrachium, where the Consuls attended him. And thus CAESAR remained in Italy without resistance; being very doubtful what to resolve: for, although he would gladly have followed POMPEY, yet he had no provision of ships: and, by reason that it was winter, shipping could not come so soon as was requisite; and considering withal, how much it imported, not to leave any enemy behind him, which might 'cause any alteration in France or Italy by his absence, he resolved to defer the pursuit of POMPEY, and to take his way towards Spain, which held for POMPEY: where he had his best legions, and two captains, PETREIUS and AFRANIUS. SVETONIUS' TRANQVILLUS saith, that when he had thus resolved, he said to his friends, Let us first go against an Army which is without a Captain; and afterwards let us return against the Captain that hath never an Army: for, the soldiers that POMPEY had in Spain were valiant, and had been long trained up in Arms; but their Commanders, PETREIUS and AFRANIUS, were not held for politic or expert in the wars. And, on the contrary, POMPEY was most wise, and a very valiant Captain: but the soldiers which he had with him were newly levied, and of small experience. Returning from Brundisium, in sixty days, without bloodshed or battle, CAESAR became Caesar seized on Rome and all Italy. Lord of all Italy; and coming to Rome, they were in very great fear, remembering the cruelties committed in the time of SCYLLA: But CAESAR, using his accustomed clemency, did hurt no man of any degree, high or low; but called to the Senate those Senators which remained, and which came with him, comforting every one with mild and good words, and laying the whole fault upon POMPEY, in accusing him of all things which had happened, and of this discord. He sought by all means to justify his own cause, and declared how much he did then and ever had desired peace, and therewith requested that Ambassadors might be sent to POMPEY to procure the same; and, causing himself to be presently chosen Consul, he opened the Roman Caesar, Consul by force. Treasury, notwithstanding that METELLUS, one of the Tribunes of the people, was desirous and went about to hinder the same. The treasure which he took from thence he divided among his soldiers: which, as PLINY in his three and thirtith Book reports, was very great; the which LUCAN also affirmeth. These things being ended, and CAESAR desirous to go from Rome into Spain (like a wise and discreet Captain) first took order aswell for the civil government, as for the wars; and, making choice of the legions which were to go with him, he left part of his troops in Brundisium and Otranto, and in other strong places upon the Sea side, to keep POMPEY from landing if he sought to return into Italy. He also nominated HORTENSIUS and DOLABELLA for his Captains, to make provision of shipping to be brought to the port of Brundisium, there to be in a readiness against his return from his journey. QVINTTUS VALERIUS he sent with a legion to Sardinia against MARGUS COTTA, which held the same for POMPEY. To Sicilia he sent CURIUS against MARCUS CATO, with direction, that having taken the same, he should pass over into Africa. LEPIDUS he left in Rome, as Perfect thereof; and MARCUS ANTONIUS, for Governor of all Italy: and, determining to leave LICINIUS CRASSUS in France, with his accustomed celerity he went on his journey, and found no resistance, neither in Italy, nor in France, but only at Marselles, which held for POMPEY: who (in my opinion) more like bold and adventurous friends, than wise men, would not receive nor lodge him in their city, but put themselves in Arms against him for their defence. CAESAR coming thither besieged the City; and, to avoid loss of time, left DECIUS BRUTUS and CAIUS TREBONIUS with sufficient forces, who continued the siege, and endured much: he himself followed his way into Spain, where his coming was already Caesar's going into Spain against Petreius and Afranius. known; and AFRANIUS and PETREIUS attended him, with the aid of their friends, and four Roman legions; between which and CAESAR the wars continued many days, and chief near the city of Lerida. In the beginning, CAESAR was in great danger and much distressed, aswell through want of victuals, as by reason of the winter being come, which annoyed him with the swelling of rivers: before and after which, there passed many great skirmishes and conflicts between the two Armies, and other accidents and adventures too long to be recounted. Finally, CAESAR knew how to make war in such sort, as, without giving them opportunity to come to a battle, he brought his adversaries to such extremity and distress, as perishing with hunger they came to a composition; which was, that to the legions (who now were able neither to offend nor defend) should be granted liberty to departed & to go whither they would: which was performed accordingly; and PETREIUS and AFRANIUS went to POMPEY: and part of the legions, which would not abide with CAESAR, had leave to do as they listed; CAESAR still persevering in his clemency and mildness. This war being ended, and the spring come (not to leave any thing in Spain to be subdued) he passed forwards, and came into the province of Betica, now called Andaluzia, with part of his forces, leaving commandment with the Army to march whither he had appointed, and there to stay for him, because that MARCUS VARRO, being POMPEY'S Lieutenant in that province, held it for him, with one legion of good soldiers: but not daring to oppose himself against CAESAR, he peaceably yielded up unto him both the country and the legion; and so Caesar subdued all Spain. all was pacified, and at his command. Thence he went to Cordova, where he called a parliament, and an assembly of all the estates of that province: wherein, among other things which there were treated of, he highly commending the Cordoveses and Sevillians which had taken his part (as himself writeth) marched forwards, and visiting the province he came to the Isle and city of Cales; and, providing there certain necessaries, he took the ships and galleys which MARCUS VARRO had there in a readiness, and such other as he could get, and embarked himself. And, leaving QVINTUS CASSIUS with four legions in that province, he took his passage by sea to Taragona, sending commandment by land to his legions to march thither: where having in few days taken order for that province, he departed with his Army towards Narbona, and from thence to Marselles: which yielded unto him, having in the siege and assaults The taking of Marselles, and Caesar's return to Rome. endured many calamities. CAESAR, nothing respecting the small regard and ingratitude of that city, but the antiquity and fame thereof, would not permit any violence to be offered to the citizens & inhabitants; but, leaving a sufficient garrison to guard the same, he commanded his legions by appointed journeys to march towards Italy: himself, with a necessary guard for his person, and others in his company, took passage for Rome; all things succeeding prosperously with him, although that some of his Captains had ill success. For, CAIUS ANTONIUS, whom (we said) he left with DOLABELLA for Captain of his Navy, was overthrown and taken prisoner in the gulf of Venice by OCTAVIUS, POMPEY'S Lieutenant. At this overthrow there was an Act don worthy to be recommended with honour to posterity. ANTHONTE was constrained to ship his soldiers in long boats for want of serviceable ships; the which were taken by a stratagem as in a toil, by the Pompeians, who tied ropes under the water. One of them, which carried almost a thousand Opitergins, young men and valiant, was entangled in this snare, and was assaulted by the power of the whole Army, they making resistance from morning until night: but, in the end being oppressed by the multitudes of their enemies, and seeing no means to escape by their valour, by the encouragement of WLTHIUS their Colonel they slew one another. And DOLABELLA was likewise overcome near to the I'll of Cocyra, now called Corfu; and CURIUS, who (according to CAESAR'S commandment) went into Africa with two legions, having in the beginning good success, was afterwards overthrown, and the most part of his people slain by POMPEY'S friend, JUBA King of Mauritania, which is now the Kingdom of Fez: he might have fled away, but shame persuaded him to die with that Army which his rashness had cast away. CAESAR being comn to Rome, and made Dictator (as PLUTARCH and APPIANUS testify) new Consuls were chosen; and he, being one of them, deposed himself from his Dictatorship, and so, changing and providing Praetors for the provinces at his pleasure, sending MARCUS LEPIDUS into Spain, and AULUS ALBINUS into Sicilia, SEXTUS PEDUCEIUS into Sardinia, and DECIUS BRUTUS into France, and taking such further order as he thought good, he departed from Rome in the month of December towards Brundisium: whither he commanded all his Forces to march, there to take passage for Macedonia, the greatest part whereof (as I said) is now called Albania; where he knew that POMPEY stayed with his Army. Who, all one whole year, which CAESAR spent in his journey into Spain, busied himself in providing a Navy to return into Italy, and in gathering treasure, and in levying soldiers for that purpose, and had made ready a wonderful great provision of all things. For, there came unto him ships, money and men, from many kingdoms, provinces and cities of Asia and Graecia, from Syria, Pompey's people & provision. Pontus, Bythinia, Cilicia, Phoenicia, Cappadocia, Pamphilia, Armenia the less, Egypt, Graecia, Thessalia, Boëtia, Achaia, Epire, Athens, Lacedemonia, and the Isles of Creta, Rhodes, and many other parts and countries: there came also to his aid, in person, the Kings, DEIOTARUS and ARIOBARZANES. Of which people, and of those which he brought with him from Italy, POMPEY had drawn together a great Army by land, and an exceeding great number of ships and galleys by sea; which I do not set down, by reason of the diversity of opinions between Authors touching the number of his soldiers and of CAESAR'S: for certain, they were very mighty Armies, but the greatest number were of POMPEY'S side. Who imagining (because that it was in the hart of winter) that CAESAR should not be able, nor have time, commodiously to pass the seas; and having (as indeed he had) advertisement that CAESAR was in Rome, he divided and lodged his people in Macedonia and Thessalia, retiring himself from the sea, commanding and charging his Captains by sea (of which, MARCUS BIBULUS was chief) that they should guard and defend the coast. But CAESAR knowing, that in the speedy execution consisted the principal point of his victory, and that occasion once let slip is seldom recovered; being departed Opportunity lost is seldom recovered. from Rome, and arrived at Brundisium (as we have before said) notwithstanding that all his legions were not yet come, yet he embarked aboard those ships which he had there in readiness, so many as they could contain, which were seven legions of his choice men (as he himself recordeth) and sent commandment to those which were coming, to make haste, to the end they should join with the rest which there remained, whom he would speedily sand for. And so he departed from Brundisium, now called Brindez, in the beginning of januarie: and, crossing the seas with prosperous weather, the third day after, he arrived upon the coast of Macedonia, before Caesar's passage to Gracia against Pompey that POMPEY, had any intelligence of his embarking; and, setting his people on shore in the despite of POMPEY'S Captains, he commanded the ships and galleys presently to return to Brundisium to fetch the rest of his Army which he had there left and commanded to come. And the wars beginning, he presently seized upon the cities of Apollonia, which is now called Bellona, and Erico; driving from thence LUCIUS TORQVATUS and LUCIUS STRABERIUS, which held the same for POMPEY: who as soon as he was advertised of CAESAR'S landing, with the greatest speed possible sending for his troops (such as were nearest hand) he marched towards Dirrachium, where lay all his victual, munition, and provision for the wars, doubting that CAESAR would come to surprise the same, as in truth he did; but in vain: for, the situation thereof made it inexpugnable. POMPEY being come, their Camps were lodged within few forlongs one of the other, a river Caesar and●… Pompey lodge running between them: there passed many adventures, skirmishes, and also some treaties of peace which CAESAR offered; the which were not accepted by POMPEY, so much he assured near unto Dyrrachium. himself of his power: and CAESAR daily expecting the coming of his other legions, who stayed longer than he thought they aught to have done, without the which he thought it no wisdom to come to a battle; being much grieved, and very careful for the same, he resolved in person, with three confident servants only, secretly to embark himself in a Brigandine, and to pass that straight of the sea to fetch them, thinking to be able to perform the same without the knowledge of any. And, putting it in execution accordingly, he passed down the river to the sea, which he found so troubled and tempestuous, as the Master of the Brigandine (not knowing whom he carried) nor daring to pass any further, would have returned. Than CAESAR, discovering his face, as it is reported, said, Be not afraid, Friend: for, thou carriest with thee CAESAR and all his fortune. The Master, heerwith encouraged, strove to hould-on his voyage: but, at length, the force of the tempest was so great, and the wind so contrary, that (notwithstanding The rash adventure of Caesar. CAESAR'S courageous words) they were constrained to return, unable to pass any further forwards. Which being understood in his Army, they much wondered, grieved, and murmured thereat; praising him more for a valiant Knight, than a wise Captain: and so VALERIUS MAXIMUS recounts it for a rash adventure; which, in my opinion, was the occasion why JULIUS CAESAR records it not in his Commentaries. This being past, within few days after, ANTONIUS arrived with four of those legions which were left behind in Italy, presently returning the ships back again for the rest: and (after some adventures which happened) joining with CAESAR'S Army, and all things set in good order (and the like being done on POMPEY'S side) there passed some things between them, which for brevity I omit, until that near to the city of Dyrrachium (whither CAESAR went, with a determination to have surprised the same, and POMPEY to relieve it) the two Armies lodged themselves the one so near the other, as there were daily skirmishes and slaughters of men of either party; and that one day the skirmish waxing hot, and rescues coming from either Army, i●… came to a battle: wherein the success was such, that CAESAR'S troops began to A battle betwixt Caesar and Pompey, near to Dyrrachium. flee, and could not be made to stand by any entreaties or threats, till they came to their camp which they had fortified; and yet some abandoned the same, and durst not defend it. But POMPEY, either for that (as some think) he imagined their flight to be feigned, and that there was some deceit or ambush, or that he supposed there was no more to be done, and that CAESAR had been overthrown with small toil, so as he should be no more able to recover himself, did not prosecute the victory, neither followed the charge, but rather caused a retreat to be sounded, without assailing his enemy's camp. Wither when CAESAR came, he took such order as was most convenient, being no less courageous and politic in time of adversity, than of prosperity: and it is reported that he said to his friends, Truly, this day had ended our wars, if our enemies had had a Captain which had known how to have overcome. This day, JULIUS CAESAR lost a great number of his soldiers, amongst which were four hundred Roman Knights, ten Tribunes, and two and thirty Centurions; and his enemies took from him two and thirty Ensigns. This battle ended, POMPEY sent the news thereof to divers parts of the Pompey's vanity. world, holding himself for absolutely victorious: And JULIUS CAESAR having blamed some of his Captains and Ensigne-bearers (notwithstanding that his whole Army grieved, and were ashamed of their late loss) again desired the battle; yet he would not then fight, his Army being timorous, against those which were inheart & victorious, but rather took a new course: and, sending his sick and hurt men to the city of Apollonia, he departed by night, with the greatest silence that could be, from the place where he was, and took his way towards Thessalia, with intent to refresh and encourage his Army, and to draw his enemy further from the sea-coast, where his chief force lay, and where his camp was fortified and victualled; or, at the lest, to go to meet and overthrow SCIPIO, who (as he was advertised) came to join with POMPEY. POMPEY, seeing CAESAR'S departure, after that he had followed him some few days, took counsel, and (as APPIANUS testifieth) was determined (leaving so sufficient a Navy at sea, as CAESAR should not be able to make any benefit thereof) to pass into Italy, and to recover the same, with France and Spain, and then afterwards to return against CAESAR: but, beeimportuned and overruled by the Roman Lords which came with him, he altered his determination, and presently departed to pursue CAESAR, who made a stay in the fields of Pharsalia, which are in Thessalia (making his retreat with such discretion and in so good order, as in all occasions that were offered he had ever the better) until that at length, seeing his men full of resolution, force and courage, he resolved no longer to forbear the Fight; and therefore cared not any more to refuse the battle, but rather daily presented the same to POMPEY. Who knowing (as indeed it was true) that CAESAR began to want victuals, and that his Army began to weaken and diminish, he deferred the same, and would not fight; and, as a wise and well-experimented Captain, would have prolonged the war, defeating his enemy without putting his own Army in hazard: and although that POMPEY had thus resolved; yet the opinions, murmurings, and importunity of those which were with him prevailed so much (as LUCAN, PLUTARCH, and CAESAR himself, report) that they made him yield to give battle, even contrary to his own opinion and will: wherein joined, of the one side and the other, all the flower Pompey fought contrary to his own opinion. and force of Rome. And although that CAESAR'S Forces were fewer in number (for, all Writers affirm, that POMPEY'S Army was twice as great) yet his men were more active, and better trained. How many there were of the one side and the other, I cannot certify; the Authors do so much differ among themselves therein. APPIANUS setteth down the divers opinions which are held thereof. Some raise the number to three hundred thousand men, whereof LUCIUS FLORUS was one; others, to threescore and ten thousand: and some set down somewhat less, among which is PLUTARCH; who saith, that POMPEY brought to this battle 45000 men, whereof 7000 were on horseback; and JULIUS CAESAR, two & twenty thousand Foot, and of horse few more than one thousand. But APPIANUS understandeth, that this lesser number of these Armies was to be understood of Romans only, who were the force and hope of both these Generals: for, it is not likely, that of all nations there should be so small a number in a war so long prepensed, and of such importance: and, in my opinion, this is most likely to be true. But, howsoever it was, this battle was between the best captains and best soldiers, aswell for experience, as for force and valour, that ever were in the world; and yet being so, it was not much fought, neither did it long continued. So strange and variable are the adventures which happen in wars and battles: for, where there seemeth to be the greatest force and assurance, oftentimes is found the greatest weakness; and that which is least feared, doth sometimes annoyed most. Before the battle there were many signs of an eminent downfall; The running away of beasts appointed for the sacrifice, swarms of Bees, the sky darkened in the day time, Ominous signs before the battle POMPEY'S fearful dream over night of mourning in his Theatre at Rome; and in the morning early he was seen in the head of his main battle in a black Robe. Either of these two great Commanders, having resolved to give battle, ordered his battalions and squadrons as to him seemed most expedient, making speeches and orations to animate their soldiers; and, the accustomed sign being given, the battle presently began on either side: In the beginning whereof, POMPEY'S horsemen (wherein he reposed his greatest hope) who were all of the Roman Nobility, and of the Order of Knighthood, and who always had the better; began to come where CAESAR'S Cavalry was, and forced them to forsake the Field. Which, CAESAR perceiving (losing nothing by oversight) he made a sign to a battalion, which for that purpose he had left apart from the other squadrons, to charge POMPEY'S The battle of Pharsalia, where in Pompey was overcomn by Caesar. Cavalry: who charged them with such fury, wounding them (according to CAESAR'S direction) no where but in the face; that POMPEY'S horsemen either unable or unwilling to endure it, began to retire, in such sort, as from that part whence POMPEY thought to have obtained the victory, from thence sprang the beginning of his overthrow. For, notwithstanding that they had broken the first squadron, and were entered into the second, and the other battalious continued still fight, and that they maintained the same with great resolution; yet, seeing that POMPEY'S Cavalry fled, and that CAESAR'S came to charge them afresh, they all did the like; in such manner, as in short space the victory plainly appeared for CAESAR: and POMPEY, having lost all hope to prevail, fled to his camp, leaving the field and victory to his enemy. Happy had POMPEY been in this misery, if he had run the same fortune with his slaughtered Army: but he outlived his own glory, that with dishonour he might flee for life through Thessaly, be chased from Larissa, and upon a forlorn rock of Cilicia study whether to flee; to Parthia, Africa, or Egypt: Finally, that upon the Pelusian shore, by the command of a most unworthy treacherous King, by the council of gelded men, he should be murdered by the sword of SEPTIMIUS his Fugitive, in the view of his sorrowful wife and children. CAESAR, letting slip no occasion, seeing that he found no resistance in the field, assembled his Forces to assail POMPEY'S camp, which with small difficulty he entered: which POMPEY perceiving, leaving his ensigns and robes of General, and putting on other apparall, upon the first horse that he could get, with four on horseback only that accompanied him, which (as VELLEIUS PATERCULUS saith) were his son SEXTUS POMPEIUS, and the two LENTULI, and FAVONIUS of the Praetorian order: he fled so fast as he could, as you have heard, and never Pompey's slight. stayed until he came to the city of Larissa; where joining with some thirty other horse, which had fled, without any stay he continued his slight, until he came unto the shore-side of the Egean sea; where, finding a certain Merchant's ship of Rome, he embarked himself therein, and sailed to the Isle of Lesbos, which is in that sea which now is called Archipelago, to the city of Mytilene in that Island: For, in that city were his wife and family, which he took with him: and, gathering together such ships and men as he was able, he departed from thence very doubtful, and not able to resolve whither to go. Some counselled him to sail into Africa, for that King JUBA was his friend, and very mighty. Others were of opinion, that he should retire himself to the Parthians. Finally, he resolved to go into Egypt, for the friendship which he held with King PTOLEMY, father of that PTOLEMY then reigning; and did so. Having first touched in the province of Cilicia in Asia, and in the I'll of Cyprus, sailing into Egypt, and arriving at the city of Alexandria, he had such an end as we will presently declare. JULIUS CAESAR having obtained so great a victory, as is aforesaid, used therein his accustomed The clemency of Caesar. clemency, not suffering any Roman to be either slain or hurt after the battle was ended, and pardoning all those which were taken therein, or found in the Camp; among which was MARCUS TULLIUS CICERO. And although that in the battle were slain of POMPEY'S side fifteen thousand men, and of the Conquerors less than two thousand, as CAESAR himself writeth: yet understanding which way POMPEY fled, to the end to give him no place or means to return and repair himself; without losing any time, he pursued him with the lightest and swiftest of his Army. And coming to the Sea side, bringing to his obedience in his way all the Cities whereby he passed, and gathering together such Ships and Galleys as he then could, together with those which CASSIUS had, who was at this time received to his grace and service, he therein shipped such troops as he was able, and passed into Asia the less; where being advertised that POMPEY had been in Cyprus, he presumed that he took his way towards Egypt. For which cause he took the same course, taking with him two whole legions Caesar pursued Pompey. of old soldiers only; and arriving in safety at Alexandria in Egypt (where we said that POMPEY had lately taken port) he understood that POMPEY was arrived there: who presuming of the benefits and good entertainment which this King PTOLEMY'S father had received in his house, he sent to request PTOLEMY to harbour and assist him. But as with men which are fallen from a high fortune, few men hold faith and friendship; and in their adversities, the benefits and good turns received are commonly forgotten: so this King sent him his promise to perform what he required: and coming upon safe conduct, in a small boat towards the shore, he was murdered before he came to land by the King's commandment, by the hands of one The death of Pompey. called SEPTIMIUS, and another ACHILA; thinking by means hereof to win CAESAR'S friendship. This was done by the persuasion and counsel of FOTINUS an Eunuch, who was of great authority in the Court, and by whom the King was much ruled. He understood also that CORNELIA, POMPEY'S wife, and his son SEXTUS POMPEIUS were fled from that port in the same ship, wherein they came. CAESAR being landed and received into the City, they presently brought him for a present, the great POMPEY'S head; which he would not see: and his ring and seal of Arms being presented unto him, he wept for pity, Caesar wept for the death of Pompey. considering the end and success of the great adventures and prosperities of POMPEY, who with such honour and fame had three times triumphed, and been so many times Consul in Rome, and had governed the same, and had been the most eminent man there for so many years, and had in like sort obtained many victories and dignities. When JULIUS CAESAR landed in Egypt, he found the country infested with civil wars, and great discord between young King PTOLEMY and his sister, the fair CLEOPATRA, about the division and inheritance of that Kingdom: wherein JULIUS CAESAR (as a Roman Consul) took upon him to intermeddle. For which cause (as CAESAR himself writeth) or because that their guilty conscience, for the treacherous murder of POMPEY, made them to fear, as PLUTARCH affirms; the before named FOTINUS which had been the practiser of this murder, and ACHILA who had been the actor thereof (both which were in great authority in Court and with the King) imagining that CAESAR inclined to favour CLEOPATRA'S faction, sent for the Army which the King had near the city, consisting of 20000 good men, purposing to do by JULIUS CAESAR as they had done by POMPEY: and so within few days there began between CAESAR and the small forces which he brought with him, Caesar's war in Egypt. both within the city and in the harbour, between the ships and galleys, the most cruel war and encounters that he ever had; which I cannot distinctly set down, for the many adventures that passed. But let this suffice, that JULIUS CAESAR fought therein many times in his own person, both within the city (whereof his enemies held the greatest part) and also in the harbour with his ships; and was sometimes in such peril and danger, as he was driven to leap out of the boat wherein he was, into the water, and by swimming to flee into one of his galleys: and, as SVETONIUS writes, he carried his Commentaries in the one hand out of the water, jest they should be wet; and his Robe in his teeth, to the end it should not fall into his enemy's hands. But at length his forces and aid being comn from Asia and other parts, he at the end of nine months (for, so long lasted these wars) remained victorious, as in all others he had been; and the young King PTOLEMY was slain in Fight. In this war CAESAR did such exploits, and The death of Ptolemy King of Egypt. shown such valour and wisdom, that for the same only he did well deserve the fame and renown of a most excellent Captain. CAESAR having tamed the pride of the Egyptians, and put to death the murderers of POMPEY, and established CLEOPATRA for Queen and Governess in that Kingdom, Cleopatra, queen of Egypt, had a son by Caesar. whom during his stay there he entertained for his friend, and she conceived and had a son by him, called CAESARIO; all things being quietly settled, he departed from Egypt towards Asia, travelling through Syria, now Soria, by reason that he was given to understand, that while he was busied in the wars of Egypt, King PHARNACES, son of the mighty King MITHRIDATES, thought it now a fit time (seeing the civil discord between the Romans) to recover that which his father had lost: and having overthrown DOMITIUS, whom CAESAR had sent to govern those parts, and also having taken by force of Arms the provinces of Bythinia and Cappadocia, expelling thence King ARIOBARZANES, a friend and subject to Rome, and beginning to do the like in Armenia the less, which King DEIOTARUS had made subject to the Romans: JULIUS CAESAR coming with his Army sooner than King PHARNACES imagined, although he had expected him, and had intelligence of his approach; within few days they came to a battle: in which (without any great resistance) the King was overthrown and put to flight, with great slaughter of his people, from which he escaped by flight. Great Caesar's victory against Pharnaces King of Pontus. was the joy CAESAR conceived of this victory, for the desire he had to return to Rome, where he knew that many scandals and insolences were committed, by reason of his absence: he knew also, that POMPEY'S eldest son had seized on a great part of Spain, and had raised great forces of those which M. VARRO had there left, and of his father's troops. He also understood, that in Africa many principal Romans, which had escaped from the battle at Pharsalia, were gathered together, whereof M. CATO (called VTICENSIS, because that in Utica he slew himself) was the chief, and SCIPIO, POMPEY'S father-in-law; and that these went thither with a great part of the galleys and ships of POMPEY'S Navy, and with the greatest power they were able to levy; joining with JUBA King of Mauritania, they had subdued all that country, and had a great Army in readiness against CAESAR, having chosen SCIPIO for their General, because that CATO would not take that charge upon him, and for that the name of SCIPIO was very fortunate in Africa. CAESAR, having intelligence of all these things, within few days, with great celerity and diligence, recovered all that which PHARNACES had usurped: and, chase him out of Pontus, he recovered all those countries: and leaving CELIUS MINUCIUS for General, with two legions to guard that province, pacifying the contentions and controversies in the rest, rewarding the Kings & Tetrarches which had continued firm in league and amity with Rome; without any longer abode he departed from Asia, and in short space passing into Italy, came to Rome: within little more than a year after that, he departed from thence, a short time in truth, for the performance of so great matters and so long a journey. Within few days after his coming to Rome, he made himself to be chosen the third time Consul, and reforming (the best that he could in so short a time) all disorders in Rome, being grieved and not able to endure that his enemies should possess Africa, with great expedition he prepared all things necessary, and from Rome took his way thitherward, commanding his forces to follow him. First he went into Sicilia, and there shipped himself, and thence passed into Africa: and notwithstanding that neither his Navy nor Army arrived with him; trusting in the valour and goodness of his soldiers, and his own good fortune, he took land with those small forces which he brought with him, near unto the city of Adrumentum in Africa; and from thence marched to another city called Leptis, where he was received: and after some conflicts which passed, his legions being come, and certain troops both on foot and horseback; Caesar's war in Africa against Scipio. he began the war, which lasted four months, viz. from the beginning of januarie till the end of April, beginning first against PETREIUS and LABIENUS: afterwards it was continued against SCIPIO and King JUBA, which assisted the contrary faction with 8000, men, the one half whereof were horsemen, whereof the province of Africa did then, and to this day doth abound; among all which were levied against CAESAR eight legions of footmen and 20000. horse: In this war were many encounters, skirmishes and battles, which HYR●…IUS in his Commentaries, PLUTARCH, LUCAN, LUCIUS FLORUS & others writ of at large, in which CAESAR was in great danger: but at the last with his force and good Hyrcius lib. 3. Appian lib 2. Lucan lib. 3. Lucius Florus lib. 4. Titus Livius lib. 114. Plutarch in his lives. The strange death of King juba and Afranius. fortune, he overcame them all in a great battle; wherein, of the enemies, were slain 10000 men, and CAESAR remained master of the field, and in few days after of all the Country. SCIPIO and all the principal Captains which were his adversaries, died sundry deaths within few days; and king JUBA by flight escaping from the battle, and finding no place of refuge, in despair, he and AFRANIUS determined to die fight; the one against the other, till they were both slain, in which combat King JUBA being of greater strength than AFRANIUS, slew him; and afterwards commanded aslave of his own, to kill himself, and so he died desperately. The good MARCUS CATO who was in the city of Utica, knowing that CAESAR marched thitherwards, and although he knew that he would not put him to death, but had rather a desire to pardon him, and to do him honour; yet to the end that he would receive neither life nor honour from his enemy, he slew himself: in whose death passed many notable accidents recorded Cato V●…icensis slew himself. S. Aug. in his book de civet. dei. 1. Scipio slew and drowned himself. Lactantius Eirmianus, Aulus Gellius in his twelfth book. Cicero in the 3. of his offices. Valerius Maximus eap. 3. Caesar's triumphs. by many authors both christian and heathen. CICERO did writ in commendation of the death of CATO, against the which CAESAR did writ another discourse: both which are lost. And FLORUS writes his death after this manner; Hearing of the decease of his partners, he dallied not at all, but (as it become a wise man) did joyfully hasten his own death: for after he had embraced his son and friends and bid them good night; he rested a while upon his bed, having perused PLATO'S book of the immortality of the Soul; then about the first relieving of the watch, he drew his sword, and thrust himself into the body: After which the Physicians sought to wrong this resolute man, by applying some salves, the which he endured until they were out of the room; but then he pulled them away: and, the blood following abundantly, he left his dying hand in the very wound. SCIPIO, who had been General in this war, escaped from the battle by slight, and shipping himself in certain galleys, wherein he fled, was met withal by GAESARS' navy; who, to the end he would not be taken, giving himself some wounds, cast himself into the sea, and so was drowned. CAESAR, having obtained so great and absolute a victory, spending some few days in ordering the provinces of Africa, reducing the kingdom of king JUBA into a province, he came to the city of Utica, where he embarked himself the third of june, and came to the Isle of Sardinia, wherein he stayed some few days, and arrived at Rome the five and twentith day of july. At his coming (as SVETONIUS, APPIANUS, and PLUTARCH record) there were granted unto him four triumphs. The first triumph was for his conquest and victories in France, where were set the portraitures of the rivers of Rodanus and the Rhine, wrought in gold: and in the second triumph of Egypt, and of King PTOLOMEY, were set the river of Nilus and the Pharus of Alexandria burning. The third triumph was of the province of Pontus and of King PHARNACES, wherein for the speed wherewith he prosecuted the victory, was placed a brief writing which signified as much; which was, veni, vidi, vici, which is to say, I came, I saw, I overcame. The fourth triumph Veni, vidi, vici. was of the province of Africa, wherein was placed King I 〈◊〉 his son, as a captive: and in this triumph (as SVETONIUS writeth) were given jewels and arms to OCTAVIUS, CAESAR'S Nephew, who afterwards was Emperor, as we will declare, notwithstanding that Caesar would not triumph for his victory against Pompey. he was not present in those wars by reason of his young age: for he was not then fully sixteen years old. As for the battle which CAESAR won against POMPEY, he would not triumph for it, because it was against Citizens of Rome. These triumphs being ended, giving great rewards to his soldiers, and entertaining the Roman people, with feasts, gifts and other great bounty, he caused himself to be chosen the fourth time Consul; and to the end that there should be no place in the world wherein he would not be obeyed, he resolved to go into Spain, where he understood that GNEUS POMPEIUS (POMPEIUS son) with the remainder of the army which had escaped out of Africa, was go to join with his brother SEXTUS POMPEIUS, who already was there, as I have said, and was in possession of a great part of Spain, with the cities of Seville and Cordova, and many others in that coast, and many Spaniards were come to their aid. CAESAR, departing, carried with him his most experienced and chosen soldiers, and made so good speed, as within few days he arrived in Spain, and in this journey (as SVETONIUS and VELLEIUS PATERCULUS record) his Nephew OCTAVIUS followed him. CAESAR, being entered Spain, came into the province of Betica, which is Andaluzia, where SEXTUS POMPEIUS and his brother CNEIUS POMPEIUS were with such legions and Caesar's going into Spain against Pompy's 〈◊〉. Betica, Andaluzia. soldiers as they had gathered together; and so there began between them a cruel and bloody war. The end whereof was, that near to the city of Munda, CAESAR and CNEIUS POMPEIUS (for SEXTUS POMPEIUS was in Cordova) joined battle; which was one of the most obstinate and cruel, that ever was in the world. For CAESAR being the most excellent Captain, and the soldiers which he brought with him, the most valiant and accustomed to overcome; the resolution and courage of POMPEY and his men was such, and they fought in such manner, as CAESAR'S esquadrons began to give ground and were ready to forsake the field, and at the very point to have been wholly overthrown: And the matter came to this issue, that (as SVETONIUS and EUTROPIUS do writ) CAESAR was about to have killed himself, because he would not see himself overcome; and that he took á target from one of his soldiers and rushed in among his enemies, saying with a loud voice (as PLUTARCH reporteth) If you be not ashamed, leave me and deliver me into the hands of these boys: for this shall be the last day of my life and of your honour. With which words, and his example, his soldiers took heart in such manner, that, recovering the ground which they had lost, the battle became equal, Caesar's cruel battle and victory against Pompey's sons. which (as APPIANUS affirmeth) lasted the most part of one whole day, without any sign of victory; sometimes seeming to incline to one party, and sometimes to the other, until that at length CAESAR and his men did so great exploits, as the evening being come his enemies become faint, and began to flee, and the victory was apparently CAESAR'S. There died of his enemies above 30000 men in this fight: and of CAESAR'S part, were slain a thousand men of account, besides many other of lesser note. CAESAR esteemed this victory so much, and so gloried in the danger wherein he had been, that after the victory he used to say, that only that day he fought for his life, and in all other battles ever for honour and victory. He then remaining master of the field, his adversary POMPEY, who in nothing had failed of the office of a valiant and good captain (after that he saw no other hope) escaped by flight, and wand'ring through many places was afterwards taken and slain by CAESAR'S friends, whose head was brought unto him; the like happened unto LABIENUS. His second brother SEXTUS POMPEIUS' fled form Cordova, & in the end forsook Spain: hereafter more mention shall be made of him. I CAESAR recovered the cities of Seville and Cordova, & all the rest; and disposing of all things in Spain at his pleasure, returned to Rome, & entered in triumph for the wars in Spain, which was his fift Caesar's triumph for his victories in Spain. and last triumph: in this place LUC. FLORUS and PATERCULUS speak of all his triumphs. CAESAR came to be the most mighty, the most redoubted, and most highly esteemed man that ever had been in the world, having subdued and conquered the greatest part thereof, with an Army and by force, in as little time, as it might seem that another man might be able to travail those countries by reasonable journeys. All which being in subjection unto him, he made himself perpetual Dictator of Rome; and so without contradiction he finished the making of himself sovereign Lord and Monarch of the Roman Empire, within little less than five years after that he began the same. And this was the original and beginning of the Roman The beginning of the Roman Empire. Emperors: for JULIUS CAESAR would not be called King (for the name of King was odious to the Romans above all things, ener since the Kings were chased from Rome) but contented himself to be called perpetual Dictator and also Emperor; although not with a name of such power and dignity as his successors have done since; but as by a name which signified he had been a conqueror in the wars, which in this sense was given to the Roman Captains, when they The original of the name of Emperor. had obtained any notable victory: but after JULIUS CAESAR, all his successors took that name, glorying to be called Emperors, which was held for the highest title and dignity in the world. JULIUS CAESAR having attained to that absolute power which he so much desired, he shown in all things great clemency and magnanimity, honouring and rewarding his friends, and easily forgiving, and very cheerfully pardoning all those which had been his adversaries; and so he not only pardoned BRUTUS and CASSIUS, CICERO, MARCELLUS, and many others: but also some of them he admitted to his company and private familiarity, and to offices and dignities. It is certain that among all the many virtues wherewith CAESAR was endued, his The clemency and bounty of Caesar. clemency and liberality were most glorious. But this sufficed not to quench the desire of their lost liberty, neither to assuage the hatred and malice conceived against him by his adversaries, as in time did appear. And notwithstanding that many were grieved: yet some for the love which they bore him; others for fear and dissimulation; the Senate and people of Rome, and finally all, gave him names, preeminencies and titles of honour, such as never had been given to any other; neither aught he to have accepted the same, as PLUTARCH, APPIAN and others do report: But CAESAR'S mind and ambition was such, and his thoughts so elevated and so high; as he held nothing so great, but he was worthy thereof and had deserved the same: and so he not only accepted that which they offered him; but many more were offered, because they knew that he desired the same. Whereupon they gave him the name of Emperor, Father, restorer and preserver The names and high titles which were given to Caesar. of his country: He was created perpetual Dictator, and Consul for ten years, and perpetual Censor of their customs. His statue and image was erected among the Kings of Rome, and a chair and throne of ivory in the Temples and Senate, and a high pulpit and throne in the Theatre, and in the place where the Senators did use to sit, his pictures and statues were set up in all the Temples and public places. I pass over some titles which they gave him, and he accepted, which only, to those whom they held for God, aught to have been attributed. The month which they called Quintil, they called JULIUS after his name, as March of their god MARS, and june after the goddess JUNO: they did also consecrated and build Temples unto him, as unto JUPITER, and their other gods: and gave him certain honours which they held particularly for their gods, which they call Thensas: and so they did many other things to his honour, which exceeded all measure. JULIUS CAESAR enjoying such honour and power, so as he had no equal or second in the world with whom he might contend; it seemeth that he would contend with himself, and attempt something wherein he might excel himself: for he was not contented with all the victories which he had obtained, neither (as PLINY, SOLINUS and other report) to have fought in fifty several battles (in all which he over came) saving in that one at Dyrrachium against POMPEY; where, as we have already said, he was not wholly overthrown, neither (according to the same authors) to have slain in the wars and battles which he fought, a million, ninety and odd thousand men; and yet they say that they reckon not those which died in the civil wars: but that as he was of a most haughty mind, he sought to do greater matters, if greater might be. For, first he resolved to pass into the East, there to conquer and subdue the fierce nation of the Parthians, and to revenge the death of MARCAS CRASSUS, and The high thoughts and purposes of Caesar. to pass through Hyrcania and other countries, until he should come to the Caspian sea, and so through all the provinces of Scythia Asiatica; and passing the river Tanais, to return through Scythia in Europe, and in this retreat to come into Germany, and other provinces bordering thereupon, conquering and subduing them all to the Roman Empire; for the which conquest he presently caused to be levied in sundry places, ten thousand horsemen, and sixteen legions of chosen footmen, and appointing the time wherein he thought to departed, he commanded them to march towards their Rendezvous. And besides all this, he sought not only to subdue all the nations of the world, but to correct and reform nature itself: for he purposed to have made an Island of Peloponesus, which now is called Morea, by cutting the neck of the land which is between the Egean and the Ionian Seas. Of the River Tiber and the River Anien (as PLUTARCH saith) he purposed to have altered the courses, and to have opened new channels, through which they should run into the Sea, making them to leave their natural course, and capable to bear great ships. He commanded, and already began to dig down and make plain many hills and high mountains in Italy, and to dry up and drain some of the great lakes and marshes which are therein: and, in this manner, he thought to have done other things more than a man, which seemed to be possible to none but to God alone. He corrected (as many Authors affirm) the computation of the year, conforming it with the course of the Sun, and brought it to that rule which is yet held: for, before that time Caesar corrected the computation of the year. Suetonius, Plutarch, Censorinus. it was much out of order. He did the like in the course of the Moon, and the conjunctions and oppositions of her and the Sun: and this was attributed to him for tyranny, by those which did hate him. For, one day, in a discourse in the presence of CICERO, it was said, that the next day there should be an Eclipse of the Sun; yea, quoth he, it is so: for, CAESAR hath so commanded. Many other things CAESAR began, which were very great, in reforming the laws, customs and offices, which for brevity I omit: among which, the re-edifying of the ruined city of Carthage by SCIPIO (as all the world knoweth) was one, and he sent thither Colonies and Carthage repeopled by Caesar. Roman citizens to inhabit: the like he did by Corinth. But all these works and these so high conceits and resolutions were abbridged by death, which within few days ensued: and this man, whom no force could resist, a few men (yea, and those disarmed) were of power to bereave of life; as hereafter we will declare. Five months only he lived a sovereign Lord in peace (as VELLEIUS PATERCULUS hath noted) when those, in whom he reposed greatest trust, conspired his death. Some writ, that CAESAR was counselled to have had a guard always about him: whereto he answered, that he would have none; for, he would rather die once, than live continually in jealousy and fear. Many set down the causes wherefore they desired to kill him. Some say, The causes of the conspiracies against Caesar. that it was for the hatred they had long born him: some others say, that it was for the desire of liberty, holding him for a tyrant. But the most part are of opinion, that it was for suspicion that he would have made himself King of Rome; a thing in the highest degree hateful to the Romans: whereof he gave many signs and causes to suspect; which PLUTARCH and others do writ at large. Hereunto was added, that he began to have men in contempt, and all other things: whereby he become hateful to many. For, he used to say, that the Commonwealth was but a voice and a name without a body or substance; and that it well appeared, that CORNELIUS SCYLLA had no learning, seeing that he resigned the perpetual Dictatorship. All the whole Senate, coming one day into the Temple of Venus wherein he was, he attended their coming, sitting still, and rose not as he was wont to do, notwithstanding (as some say) that CORNELIUS BALBUS counselled him to rise: which was a thing much noted, and odious to the Commonwealth. His friends and favourites began also to say and to publish, that in the books of the Sibyls (which in Rome were held in great veneration, and for a true prophecy) it was written, that the Parthians could never be overcome but by a man which should have the title of king; and they practised that CAESAR should take this name, for that conquest, whither he had determined to go: and although that he made show to be much moved thereat, yet they suspected the contrary. Which suspicion increased (besides that which is already said) for that the Tribunes of the people commanded a man to be apprehended, which had set a Diadem (which is the ensign of a King) upon the head of one of CAESAR'S statues: Whereat CAESAR was so highly offended with the Tribunes, that he deposed them from their offices, making show that he did it, because they gave him cause of offence, in this, that they would make the world believe that there was cause of suspicion, that he would make himself a Tyrant-king. The like in a manner passed, when MARCUS ANTONIUS, who was a great favourite of his, and (that year) his fellow and companion in the Consulship, being at certain public games, came to CAESAR and put a Diadem upon his head: and although that he cast it down, yet they all imagined, that MARCUS ANTONIUS would not have presumed to have done it without his consent or liking, and that he did this to prove what liking the people had thereto, and how they would take it: so as these, and such other like things as passed, gave them occasion to desire and to procure his death; as some of them did. This did also encourage them, and made them attempt to do it; for that in sundry public places certain Write were set up, which did incite and animate them to conspire against him: as, upon the statue of BRUTUS, who in ancient time chased the Kings out of Rome, were written these words; Would to God thou wert now living, Brutus: And upon the image of MARCUS BRUTUS, who then was Praetor, and descended from the other BRUTUS, these words; Thou sleepest long, Brutus: truly thou art not Brutus. And, as APPIAN recounteth, at other times they set up others, which imported, Thou art dead, Brutus: would to God thou wert living: thou art unworthy of the succession from the Bruti: surely thou art not descended from that good Brutus. And other such like things were set upon these statues, and in other places: So as for all these reasons, and for other added hereunto, there were seventy of the most eminent men in Rome which conspired to murder him; one alluring another, until they grew to that number: of which, the principal Heads were DECIUS, MARCUS BRUTUS, The conspiracy against julius Caesar. CAIUS CASSIUS; yet MARCUS BRUTUS was held for CAESAR'S son: for, his mother was suspected by him, and had received from him great honours and good entertainments. With these were GAIUS' CASCA, ATTILIUS CIMBER, SERVIUS GALBA, QVINTUS LIGARIUS, MARCUS SPURIUS, and many other men of account: which, after some consultations, concluded to kill him upon the Ideses of March, which is the fifteenth day of that Month, in the Temple where the Senators were to sit that day: which was agreed upon, and kept so secret, that (notwithstanding their great number) there was not any one found that did discover the same. But there were so many signs and prodigies, and to himself there happened so many auguries and forewarnings, that, without knowing any cause, all men were of opinion, that CAESAR'S death was near at hand. The which, among many other which recite the same, OVID doth most excellently set down in his Metamorphoses, which for brevity I omit: but chief SPURINA, who was his diviner or soothsayer, forwarned him, that he should look to Lib. 14 himself until the Ideses of March were passed; for, his life was in great danger: and CAESAR'S own wife entreated him upon her knees, that he would not that day go forth to the Senate; for, she had dreamt, that he lay dead in her lap. Finally, CAESAR was so many ways forewarned, and put in such fear of some great danger, as he was about to sand to MARCUS ANTONIUS to make his excuse, and to defer the Senate until another day. But (as it was Gods will he should die so) MARCUS BRUTUS, being in place when this matter was in question (who, as we have already said, was one of the conspirators) counselled CAESAR, that in no cas●… he should make show of any such fear: whereupon he resolved to go. Some (as SVETONIUS and PLUTARCH) writ, that CAESAR made small account of death, and that he suspected he should die in this manner: for he said, that he did not so much esteem his own life, as the danger whereinto the Commonwealth would fall by losing him: For, as for him, he had won power, fame and glory enough for himself; and that he in no time could die with greater honour. It gave also cause of this suspicion, that some discoursing in his presence, the night before his death, what kind of death was best: even, quoth he, the sudden, and that which is not prepensed. Whether this be true or not, I know not: but, the fifteenth of March, he went from his house in a Litter towards the Senate; and, passing along the street, there was a petition delivered unto him, which (some say) ARTEMIDORUS, his Master A petition given Caesar. in the Greek Tongue, gave him: others say, that it was given him by another, and that ARTEMIDORUS could not come so near to him as to advice him: but, whosoever he were that gave it, therein was given him (in writing) all that which was concluded in this conspiracy, and he which gave it desired him to read it presently; which he began to do: but there came so many to speak to him, that he could but begin to read it; for, it was found in his hand when he was dead. And, passing so along the street, he also met with SPURINA, who had given him warning to look to himself until the Ideses of March were passed: and as CAESAR saw him, very pleasant and jesting he said, Dost thou not know, SPURINA, that the Ideses of March are come? Yea, answered SPURINA, and I know that they are not yet past. Being comn to the Temple where the Senate was to sit that day, he came down from his Litter, and entered therein; and, having first done sacrifice (as then was the custom) which all, according to their superstitious ceremonies of that time, presaged to be fatal and infortunate, he sat down in the Senate in his chair: and BRUTUS ALBINUS, entertaining MARCUS ANTONIUS at the door of the Temple, or (after some others) TREBONIUS; as it was decreed, one of the conspirators (whose name was CELER) came to CAESAR under colour to entreat him to be pleased to release a brother of his from banishment, and presently all the rest of the conspirators drew near to his chair. Which when CAESAR perceived, thinking that they had all come for the same purpose, it is written that he said unto them, What force is this? And at that Instant one of them, whose name was CASCA, beginning, they all drew their poiniards and swords, which they had brought in secret for that purpose under their gowns, and began to wound him. The first blow he received, they say, CASCA gave him in the throat: at which wound CAESAR spoke aloud; saying, What dost thou, Traitor CASCA? and, wresting the poiniard out of his hands, he arose and stabbed CASCA through the arm: and being about to strike him the second time, he was prevented by the other wounds which they gave him; with great force and courage leaping from one side to the other to defend himself. But, when he saw MARCUS BRUTUS (whose authority and reputation was great) with his sword drawn in his hand, wherewith he had already wounded him in the thigh, they writ, that he was much amazed thereat, and said in the Greek Tongue (which the Romans did then understand and usually speak) Why how now, son BRUTUS? and thou also? And having said so, and seeing so many weapons bend against him, and that no body came to his rescue (for, there was so great a tumult in the Senate, as they all thought to have died; and, being in despair, none durst attempt to defend him) he remembered to keep the honour of his person, and with his right hand covered his head with part of his robe, and with his left hand he girt himself, and settled his clotheses about him; and, Caesar was sl●… in the Senate, & d●…d at Pompey's feet. The excellenci●…ss of jul. Caesar. being so covered, he fell dead to the ground, wounded with three and twenty wounds: and his fortune was to fall at the foot of the seat or base whereupon POMPEY'S starve stood; which was noted for the judgement and permission of God. And so in this manner died the most mighty, the most worthy, valiant, wise, and fortunate Prince and Captain, that without all doubt before him hath been in the world; and I know not if after him in valour and humane power there hath been the like. For, his excellencies, graces and abilities; his invincible mind, his incomparable force and courage; the battles and victories which he obtained; the provinces, Kings and nations, which he overcame and subdued; his counsels, stratagems, policies, and bold attempts; his magnanimity, clemency and bounty to the conquered and conquerors; the great designs he had propounded when he was slain; being all well weighed and considered: it will plainly appear, that in none of these things aforesaid, neither in many other more which may be said of him, there hath been any King or Captain that hath excelled him, but that he in the most hath excelled all others, and had fewer imperfections and vices than any other. For, setting apart his ambition and desire to reign (which he held for no vice, and might allege that he was compelled thereto) he was only noted and blamed, as too much given to women; as for the rest, wherewith he was charged, it doth rather appear to be the murmuring and slandering of his adversaries, than any truth. CAESAR was slain in the six and fiftieth year of his age, four years and a little more (according to PLUTARCH'S computation) after the death of POMPEY; in the seven hundred The time wherein Caesar died. and tenth year (according to OROSIUS) after the foundation of Rome; and according to the Hebrew truth, in the three thousand and tenth year from the creation of the world; and according to the greater account of the seventy interpreters, five thousand, one hundred, fifty and seven years; in the hundred, eighty and fourth Olympiad; and forty and two years before the birth of Christ our Redeemer: But I would have the reader to understand, that in this account of years, there sometimes happeneth difference between the authors. CAESAR had neither son nor daughter legitimate, at the time of his death; for notwithstanding that he was married four several times, yet he had but one only daughter, named JULIA, which (as I have said) was married to POMPEY, and died: Wherhfore he adopted for son by his last will, and made him his heir in the Dodrant, which are nine parts of the twelve julius Caesar adopted Octavianus his Nephew for his son. Octavianus hi●… parentage. of his goods, his Nephew OCTAVIUS CAESAR; which afterwards was called OCTAVIANUS AUGUSTUS, who was nephew to his sister JULIA and of ACIUS BALEUS, and son of ACIA his niece, and of OCTAVIUS Praetor in Macedonia, who died suddenly. OCTAVIUS was at this time by the commandment of his uncle, in the city of Apollonia in the province of Epire, where he gave himself to study; staying for him there, thence to go with him to the wars of the Parthians, being then of the age of seventeen years. CAESAR being dead in the manner as I have said (as it happeneth in great accidents) the news presently ran over all the city; and the tumult and alteration therein was so great, as no man knew what to do or say: all offices ceased, the temples were shut up, there was no man but was amazed: CAESAR'S friends were afraid of those which slew him; and they, of his friends. It would be a long discourse to recite what succeeded, but I will briefly set down that which shall be most to my purpose. BRUTUS and CASSIUS and all the conspirators, and others which were willing to join with them, having murdered him, seeing the great tumult among the people (and as PLUTARCH writes) for fear of MARCUS ANTONIUS and LEPIDUS, whereof the one was Consul, and the other Master of the horsemen, durst not go to their houses, neither do such other things as they had pretended; but presently from thence went to seize upon the Capitol, and cried by the way as they went, Liberty, liberty, imploring the assistance and favour of the people. The rest of that day and all the next night, MARCUS ANTONIUS & LEPIDUS who took CAESAR'S part, were in arms, and there passed treaties & messages from the one to the other; wherein it was agreed the Senate should sit, whither BRUTUS & CASSIUS came, M. ANTONIUS' sons (by the persuasion of CICERO, a great lover of the liberty) remaining hostages for them; where they treated of peace & concord, and all that which was past should be buried in perpetual silence and oblivion. Whereunto M. ANTONIUS (who was Consul) and all the whole Senate agreed: and all the provinces being divided, there The determination of the Senate. was a great likelihood of peace; for the Senate approved and commended the fact, and the people dissembled it: for on the one part, the authority of BRUTUS and CASSIUS, and the name of liberty, seemed to give them some contentment; and of the other side, the greatness of the fact, and love which they bore unto CAESAR, did move and incite them to hate the murderers, and so it rested indeterminate. But MARCUS ANTONIUS, as one who also thought to become a tyrant, ever sought means to incense the people against them; and matters passed in such sort, that among other things which were done, CAESAR'S testament was opened; wherein (besides the adopting of his Nephew OCTAVIUS for his son, and appointing him for Caesar's will and testament. his chief heir, among other bequests which he made) he bequeathed to the people of Rome certain gardens and heritage's near the river of Tiber, and to every citizen of Rome a certain sum of money, to be divided among them; which being known, did much renew their old love, and ●…ade his death fare more pitiful. And having agreed upon his funeral, which was, with great solemnity to burn his body in the field of Mars, putting it in effect, MARCUS ANTONIUS, who that day made a funeral oration in his praise, and with the intent aforesaid, took the robe wherein CAESAR was slain; which being all bloody, he shown to the people, using some speeches which provoked them both to wrath and pity. So as before the solemnity of the funeral was throughly ended, they all departed in great fury, with the brands of the same fire which was made for CAESAR'S body in their hands, and went to burn the houses of BRUTUS and CASSIUS, running up and down the streets of Rome seeking them and the rest of the conspirators to have slain them; and in that fury they unadvisedly slew ELIUS CINNA, by mistaking him to have been CORNELIUS CINNA, who was one of the conspirators. This tumult put BRUTUS and CASSIUS and their confederates, in such fear, as they all fled from The murderer's o●… Caesar fled from Rome. Rome to sundry other parts; and MARCUS ANTONIUS' not observing what was decreed, thinking to inherit CAESAR'S power and authority, sought their destruction in all that he might: And notwithstanding that the Senate (having appeased the tumult of the people) would have inflicted punishment upon some of the seditious, and some were already imprisoned, yet BRUTUS and CASSIUS durst not return to Rome, but after a while went into Graecia to govern those provinces, which CAESAR (whom they had slain) had consigned unto them; which were Macedonia to BRUTUS, and Syria to CASSIUS, and so all the rest of the The death of those which conspired against Caesar. conspirators absented themselves. Surely it was a wonderful thing that within the space of three years, they all died, and not one of them a natural death. At this time CAIUS OCTAVIUS, who (as is aforesaid) was afterwards called OCTAVIANUS AUGUSTUS, came to Rome from Apollonia, being advertised of CAESAR'S death, and sent for by his mother and other his kindred, all continuing in the confusion aforesaid. After the death of Caesar, Marcus Antonius become the mightiest man in Rome. For MARCUS ANTONIUS was now very mighty: for his brother LUCIUS ANTONIUS was Tribune of the people, and other his friends and kinsmen were in offices and dignities, many of which he procured for them, saying; that JULIUS CAESAR had so ordained it in his Commentaries: and in this season came OCTAVIUS to Rome, whose story we will now begin. THE LIFE OF THE EMPEROR AUGUSTUS CAESAR. THE ARGUMENT. OCTAVIANUS, or Octavius, the adopted son of Caius julius Caesar, after the death of Caesar, applied himself, together with Marcus Antonius, to pursue Brutus and Cassius with their complices; and overcoming them he returned to Rome: where plotting the Trinmnirat, he shed so much blood, and did such execution, as there was not any street in Rome, but was polluted with civil blood. He fought with Lucius Antonius, brother to Marcus Antonius, for that it should seem that Octavius made small account of his brother: and besieging him in Perugia, he constrained him (through famine) to come in person to sue for peace and life; whom he gently pardoned, together with all those which were his partakers in that war. He also overcame Sextus Pompeius, after they had warred together many years. And falling at variance with Marcus Antonius by means of his wife Octavia, sister to Octavius, for that Antonius was besotted with the love of Cleopatra Queen of Egypt: Finally after many changes of fortune, he overcame him: whose victory constrained Marcus Antonius (in a manner) in despair to kill himself, and Cleopatra to poison herself; but Marcus Antonius slew himself, more for that he believed that Cleopatra had already killed herself, then that he accounted himself overcome by Octavius. After this victory, Marcus Antonius being dead, and Lepidus reduced to a most base estate, Octavius obtained the Monarchy and sole government of the Empire. In which time, subduing many barbarous Nations, he several times made janus' temple to be shut, and was called Monarch; in which Monarchy he lived in such manner, as with his greatness, he noway digressed from virtue by reason of his high estate; and was no less virtuous than a favourer of learned and virtuous men. He was infortunate in honest wives, and chaste and continent daughters; and most unhappy in sons, having none given him by nature worthy of the Empire. He ruled the world six and fifty years; four and forty alone, and twelve in company with Marcus Antonius. In his time our Saviour jesus Christ was borne. And being little more than threescore and six years old he died, to the great grief and sorrow of the whole world, which through his goodness had been so long time maintained in peace. IF in the History and life of JULIUS CAESAR it behoved me to be brief in the relation thereof; I have now no less need to do the like in the History of his Nephew OCTAVIUS CAESAR, which afterwards was called OCTAVIANUS AUGUSTUS, his son by adoption, as by that Octavius' Nephew to Caesar and his son by adoption. which is before written may appear: aswell for the great accidents which happened in his time, as for the multitude thereof, which cannot be repeated but by a long discourse. But we will do herein what we shall be able, notwithstanding that his reign was long (for it was fifty and odd years) that in reason we may spend somewhat more time, then in the actions of those which were of less continuance. The father and grandfather of OCTAVIUS, I have already said, who they were. His lineage and family of his father's side, was of the OCTAVII, and was of great antiquity in Rome, from the time of TARQUIN their king, and in the beginning The Lineage of Octavianus. they were Patricij (as SVETONIUS recordeth in his life) although that afterwards the order altered, reducing it to the people by adoption, or some other cause: and in process of time many of the OCTAVII, obtaining offices and Magistracies, continued in the order of Knighthood, which was in the middle degree between the Patricij and the Plebeians, until the time of OCTAVIUS the father of OCTAVIANUS, who was a Senator, and a Praetor in Macedonia. Of his mother's side (as it was said of JULIUS CAESAR) he descended from the Kings of Rome. And yet notwithstanding all this, as OCTAVIANUS had many enemies and emulators, it was said to his reproach, that his grandfather (the father of his father) had been a mony-changer, and that his great grandfather was a Libertine; which is as much as to say, a man that had been a slave. But it seems to me unlikely, that the son of such parents should have been admitted into the Senate, and made Praetor; and that JULIUS CAESAR, whose place & thoughts were so high, would have married him to his Niece. And so SVETONIUS treats thereof, as a matter which he holds for untrue. OCTAVIUS then understanding of the death of his Uncle JULIUS CAESAR, being advertised and sent for by his mother (as I have said) departed from Apollonia, and with the best speed he could make came to Rome, accompanied with some of CAESAR'S friends and some Octavianus his coming to Rome. men of war, of those which in Epire and Macedonia attended the enterprise and wars of Asia, as it was decreed: and, arriving at Brundisium, he found there certain legions, which by CAESAR'S commandment were comn thither to have been embarked for the war pretended; by whom he was received with the greatest love and affection that could be. And (as saith APPIANUS) he was there called and took upon him the name of CAESAR, by the adoption of his uncle; and, leaving off to be called OCTAVIUS the son of OCTAVIUS, was called CAIUS Octavianus took upon him the name of Caesar. CAESAR, son of CAIUS CAESAR; and commonly he was called CAESAR OCTAVIANUS: wherein he preserved the memory of his natural father, with the name of his adoptive father: like as PAULUS EMILIUS son of PAULUS EMILIUS, being adopted by SCIPIO, the son of SCIPIO the Great, was called SCIPIO EMILIANUS; SCIPIO by his adoptive father, and EMILIANUS by his natural father; a matter usual among the Romans. So was OCTAVIUS called CAESAR OCTAVIANUS: and so from thenceforth we will call him. OCTAVIANUS CAESAR departed from Brundisium towards Rome, accompanied with the old soldiers: and by the way many more joined with him, with many of his uncle and father CAESAR'S friends, and of his faction, and entered into the city with great show & pomp. But, as MARCUS ANTONIUS was of great power, and therewith very proud, and took in ill part that OCTAVIANUS was preferred before him, as PLUTARCH recordeth, he went not to receive him: which was much noted, and was the first sign of the discord which afterwards ensued between them. OCTAVIANUS had a resolution and great desire to revenge the death of JULIUS CAESAR. But, by his mother, and PHILIP his father-in-law, with whom she was married, he was counselled to dissemble his purpose for a season: for, on the one side, they saw that the Senate had approved the death of JULIUS CAESAR; and, on the other, MARCUS ANTONIUS, who was to be their principal favourer heerin, did not show himself a friend to OCTAVIANUS. Wherhfore he, following their wise counsel, advisedly concealed his thoughts for a time: and, to justify himself, and to hold correspondence, and temporize with ANTONY, he went presently to his house to visit him. And, understanding that ANTONY had in his custody all the treasure which JULIUS CAESAR had left, after discourse of some other matters, he desired him to command it to be delivered unto him, therewith to satisfy his debts, and to distribute it as CAESAR had ordained by his William To this, and all the rest which OCTAVIANUS required, he was answered by MARCUS ANTONIUS with greater haughtiness and gravity than the mind and thoughts of OGTAVIANUS were able to bear, denying to him what he required, yea, and reproving him for his demands. Whereupon presently contentions and discord arose between them; OCTAVIANUS Octavianus and Marcus Antonius fell at variance. aiding himself with the counsel of MARCUS TULLIUS CICERO, a great enemy to ANTONIUS: whose authority at that time, by reason of his wisdom and eloquence, was very great. The hatred increasing, although that friends of either side passed between them to bring them to some conformity, and to have reconciled them, yet in the end it broke out. And OCTAVIANUS his power increasing, principally (as I said) through the favour and assistance of CICERO, MARCUS ANTONIUS left Rome, and began to raise forces in Italy, and so levied four legions of old soldiers against him. And because that DECIUS BRUTUS, who commanded Gallia Cisalpina (which is now called Lombardie) was opposite unto him, procured thereto by CICERO his counsel and letters, MARCUS ANTONIUS went to besiege him in the city of Mutina, now called Modena. This being known in Rome, CICERO his credit and authority in the Senate was such, as, after much contention, MARCUS ANTONIUS M. Antony declared an enemy to the commenweal. was declared an enemy to the State: and the new Consuls HIRCIUS and PANSA were sent against him, and with them OCTAVIANUS, with ensigns of Consul and title of Propretor, with part of the Army, having been first received into the Senate (notwithstanding that he was not yet eighteen years old) by the procurement of CICERO, although that afterwards he did ill requited it. There were also assigned unto MARCUS BRUTUS the provinces of Illyricum or Sclavonia, and Macedonia, with the Armies therein; and to CASSIUS, the province of Syria in Asia, with the Army also. This and other things being granted by the Senate, OCTAVIANUS and the Consuls with their Armies drew near to MARCUS ANTONIUS, MARCUS TULLIUS CICERO remaining for chief in all matters in Rome. After some skirmishes and encounters, The battle against Marcus Antonius, wherein Octavianus and the consuls had the victory. which passed between the two Armies, they came to battle, or (as some record) battles, which are declared in sundry manners; but in effect they all agreed: and the truth is, that the Consuls and CAESAR had the victory, and one of the Consuls (which was HIRCIUS) was slain in the battle, and PANSA the other Consul came wounded from it, and died shortly after: and so OCTAVIANUS remaining with the whole Army, DECIUS BRUTUS was freed from the siege; and MARCUS ANTONIUS, with part of his people, escaped by flight. In this service, OCTAVIANUS made marvelous proof of himself (as SVETONIUS reporteth) not only as a Captain, but also as a private soldier: and, among other things which he did, one was, that seeing him which bore the standard to be sore wounded and ready to fall, with the Eagle, the ensign of his legion, which were the Arms of Rome; OCTAVIANUS took the same, and bore it a great while, until that he put it in safety: yet for all this, some of his enemies forbore not to defame him; saying, that, being in the battle, he himself slew the Consul HIRCIUS; and that afterwards he caused poison to be put into the medicines applied to the Consul PANSA, and that thereof he died. MARCUS ANTONIUS, being escaped from the battle, gathering together the remainder of his Army, passed the Alpss and went into France, soliciting the friendship of LEPIDUS, who remained there with an Army since the death of JULIUS CAESAR: with whom, after some treaties and matters which succeeded, he concluded to be his friend. And OCTAVIANUS, after the battle and victory obtained, seeing himself at liberty from the authority of the Consuls, began to put in effect the high designs which he did inherit with the goods and name of CAESAR, and presently sent to the Senate to require triumph for the victory; and also the Consulship for the rest of the time which remained to the dead Consuls, with succession in their charge, and command of the soldiers succeeding them in dignity. But his demands were not so pleasing to the Senate as he desired: for, the kinsmen and friends of the conspirators which slew CAESAR, began to stand in fear of him, and they grieved to see him so powerful. Wherefore (as APPIANUS ALEXANDRINUS and VELLEIUS PATERCULUS distinctly set down) they used a mean to protract and delay that which he required; and in the end they resolved to assign the Army unto DECIUS BRUTUS: and temporising with OCTAVIANUS, they granted him the triumph, without admitting him to the Consulship. Whereat he shown himself much discontented, and took occasion thereby to attempt that which peradventure he had before projected: which was this; He had secret treaties & practices of friendship with MARCUS ANTONIUS, and having drawn unto him the hearts and good will of the Army, imitating JULIUS CAESAR; accompanied therewith, he took his way to Rome: and approaching near unto the city, in despite of the Senate he made himself to be chosen Consul, being than not fully twenty years old. Wherein he presently entered: and, discovering Octavianus made himself to be chosen consul. Those which murdered Caesar, accused & condemned. his desire and resolution, he made accusations to be exhibited against BRUTUS and CASSIUS, and the rest of the conspirators, which was declared against them all: and as there were none to defend their cause, and they absent, not daring to appear, they were condemned. This being done, he again departed from the city; and, with the Army which he brought, returned to draw near to the camps of LEPIDUS and MARCUS ANTONIUS, who were already entered Italy. DECIUS BRUTUS, being advertised of the treaties and league betwixt OCTAVIANUS, LEPIDUS and MARCUS ANTONIUS, not daring to stay in that country, departed with his people: by which, seeing himself abandoned, part whereof going to CAESAR, and part to MARCUS ANTONIUS, he fled into sundry parts; and in the end was taken and brought to MARCUS ANTONIUS, and put to death by his commandment, and (his head being brought unto him, he caused him presently to be buried. The Armies of these Captains approaching near together, with which ASINIUS POLLIO and PLANCUS, with the legi●…nss which they commanded, were joined; the league was made, and friendship concluded between these three, to wit, OCTAVIANUS CAESAR, MARCUS ANTONIUS, and LEPIDUS, all three meeting to that effect three days together, at an appointed place in the fields between The Triumvirate and league between Octavianus, Marcus Antonius, and Lepidus. Bologna and Perugia, as APPIANUS recordeth, which was an Island, which the River Lavinum which passeth thereby, maketh, where they concluded their accursed peace. And either of these firebrands of sedition entered into that accursed Triumvirate, with a several design & intent. LEPIDUS was covetous of riches, the hope whereof consisted in troubling the State. ANTHONY by nature an enemy to peace, and troublesome to the common weal, desired to be revenged of such as had declared him an enemy to the State. And OCTAVIUS, for the death of his adopted father, upon BRUTUS and CASSIUS, whose lives were offensive to his unrevenged ghost. After which, OCTAVIANUS, putting away SERVILIUS daughter, to whom he was married, contracted himself to CLAUDIA, ANTONIUS' daughter in law, daughter to his wife FULVIA, which was then a child; from whom he was also divorced afterwards, without touching her, by reason of the discord which arose, as shall be declared. In this proscription and league which they made, besides the dividing of the Empire and Provinces, as hereafter shall be declared, they concluded each of them to kill his enemies, and the one delivered The cruel proscription mad●… by Octavianus and Marcus Antonius. Cicero delivered to his enemy. them into the others hands, having more respect and care to be revenged of an enemy, then to the saving of a friend; and so was made the most cruel and in humane proscription and butchery that ever was seen or heard of, giving and exchanging friends and kinsmen, for enemies and adversaries. For MARCUS ANTONIUS gave his father's brother; and LEPIDUS, LUCIUS PAULUS, his own brother; and OCTAVIANUS, MARCUS TULLIUS CICERO, whom he called father, and by whom he had been entreated and honoured as a son. Be-, sides these, they proscribed and condemned to dye, three hundred other principal men of Rome, as PLUTARCH setteth down in their lives, although LUCIUS FLORUS, and TITUS LIVIUS do but briefly set down the number of the Senators: of which one saith, there were put to death 130, and the other 140. But if we shall believe APPIANUS, a most diligent and grave Author, there died of the Senators in a manner 300 (therein agreeing with PLUTARCH) and near 2000 Romans of the order of Knighthood: so great power had ambition & hatred in the hearts of these three Citizens. Having made their agreement, and resolved what they would do, they all three (newly reconciled) went to Rome, where they took upon them the government of the Commonwealth, by the name of a Triumvirate, for that they were three, the time being appointed for five years, although they never meant to leave the same. And presently those which by them were condemned and proscript, were by their commandment put to death, being sought out in all parts and places, ransacking their houses and confisking their goods: In the execution whereof there was so great confusion, sorrow and heaviness in the city of Rome, and almost in all Italy, as the like was never seen nor heard of by man. And although APPIANUS ALEXANDRINUS very eloquently recounteth the cruel death of many, it shall be sufficient for us to describe the murdering of CICERO only: who understanding that his name was in the catalogue of those which were proscript, only for that he had been a lover of the Roman liberty, fled towards the Sea, where embarking himself, he had so cruel fortune, as he was forced to return to the shore: and coming to certain his possessions near to Capua, not far from the sea, sleeping, he was awakened by Crows, which with their bills plucked the clothes from his back. His servants moved with this evil presage, took him and put him in his Litter, and again carried him towards the Sea; but he was overtaken by the executioners, which smote off his head, and right hand, wherewith he had written the orations against MARCUS ANTONIUS called PHILIPPICS, imitating those which DEMOSTHENES made against PHILIP, father to ALEXANDER the great: and so CICERO was slain by one whom he had defended and delivered from death. And his hand being joyfully beheld by MARCUS ANTONIUS, was by his order nailed up in the place where he was wont to pled; whither repaired all the Roman people to behold so miserable and sorrowful a spectacle: whereof there was not any one but was hearty sorry for the death of so great a personage, and so fervent a lover of the Commonwealth. These Princes having done their wills in Rome, and knowing that BRUTUS and CASSIUS had a great and mighty Army in Graecia, able both to defend, and offend, & called themselves deliverers of their Country, and gave it out publicly, that they would go to set Rome at liberty from oppression; CASSIUS having before overthrown and slain DOLABELLA in Syria, who was made Consul in the place of JULIUS CAESAR when he was slain; and in the time that CICERO bore sway, was adjudged for an enemy to his Country: and being certified that they had (with the assistance of the Kings and provinces of Asia, and such people as they could levy) drawn together 18 legions: This (I say) being known, MARCUS ANTONIUS and OCTAVIANUS resolved to go against them with the greatest Army they were able to levy, which they had of expert and old soldiers, and that LEPIDUS should remain behind to guard Rome. Being departed from thence, and arrived in Graecia, dividing their Army, for the more commodious marching thereof, they drew near to the place where BRUTUS and CASSIUS were encamped, which was in Macedonia, in the fields called Phillippicks, for that they were near the City Philippos. Before the Armies came to join, there were apparent signs of an inevitable overthrow; for those birds which used to gorge themselves with Carrion, hovered about BRUTUS' Camp, as if it had been their own already: as they marched out to battle, a black Moor met them, which was an eminent sign of ominous success: and BRUTUS himself being alone in his tent at night in meditation, a man sad and ghastly appeared unto him; and being demanded by him, what he was? he answered, I am thy evil spirit; and so vanished out of his sight. In Caesar's Camp, all presages were as good as the others bad, birds and beasts promising all fair fortune. These contrary Armies being so near together; after some encounters and skirmishes, they came to a battle, where the victory was divided after a strange manner: for either party having ranged their Army into two squadrons, or battles, the right wing of BRUTUS his Army, joined with the left wing which OCTAVIANUS commanded; and the right, whereof MARCUS ANTONIUS was leader, with the left which CASSIUS governed: where wounding and cruelly slaying one another, BRUTUS his Battalion was of such power, as that it broke and put to rout OCTAVIUS CAESAR'S Battalion; who, as APPIANUS Brutus puts his enemies to rout. ALEXANDRINUS, PLUTARCH, and LUCIUS FLORUS report, was not in the battle, for that he was then very sick; neither durst he abide in his Tent in the Camp, for a certain augury or dream of one who was his Physician, who (they say) advised him, that he should not abide in his Tent in the Camp; for if he did, he would be slain by his enemies. Yet SVETONIUS, VELLEIUS PATERCULUS, and PAULUS OROSIUS affirm that he was there, & that being overcome, he retired to ANTONIUS' battle. And although that this be diversely reported (as it usually happeneth in great exploits and adventures) the truth wherein all agreed, is, that his people being overthrown, and his Camp entered by his enemies, imagining that he had been in his bed, there were many thrusts and stabs given through the curtains, and into the bed, and it was published abroad that he was dead. And while as BRUTUS followed this victory, his companion CASSIUS was overthrown by MARCUS ANTONIUS, Cassius' defeated by Antony notwithstanding that he performed all that was possible for him to defend his people; so as there was victory on either side, whereof the clouds and dust of that day were a great occasion; for the one could not see nor understand the other: and CASSIUS seeing his people overthrown and scattered, retired himself to a high ground, where he had pitched his Tent, whereinto he could not come, for that the enemy had already possessed it: And so standing and looking about, he saw BRUTUS' troops come to his aid, and to relieve him: but he imagining they came flying, or that they were his enemies, as he had before resolved (so great was his grief and sorrow) so commanded he a slave of his, whom he had made free (named PINDARUS) to kill him, who performed it presently, and so he died foolishly, yet bound by The death of Cassius. necessity, believing that which was not. OCTAVIANUS his people escaped by flight, & retired to MARCUS ANTONIUS' camp, whose forces returned to him with victory: although their General MARCUS ANTONIUS, as some writ, did not that day discharge the part of a good Captain but rather affirm, that the battle being begun, he left it, and went into a lake which was thereby, where he remained until that he certainly understood, that the victory remained on his side: which truly is hardly to be believed in so valiant a man, and of such experience as he was; so as there was a great broil and a confusion. But PLUTARCH affirmeth, that if BRUTUS his people had not that day busied themselves in ransacking and pillaging of OCTAVIANUS his Camp & Tents, his party had obtained an entire victory: for they might in sufficient time have rescued CASSIUS, and both being joined together, might easily have broken MARCUS ANTONIUS his battle. But the victory divided in such manner as I have told you, the Captains of either party gathered together their forces, where of BRUTUS' part were slain 8000 men; and of his adversaries a far greater number: and BRUTUS did his best to comfort the soldiers and gentlemen which followed CASSIUS. And although the next day there were some show between the two Armies of a desire to fight, and that they were near the one to the other, yet they came to no battle: but within few days after (during the which, there past some skirmishes of small importance) it was tried between them; whereto BRUTUS was forced by his soldiers. For he would willingly have delayed and prolonged the war: being advertised 〈◊〉 his enemies wanted victuals, and many necessaries, and also for that he repose●… 〈◊〉 ●…ust in CASSIUS forces; for he found that they were grown fearful, by mea●… 〈◊〉 that which was past, and were ill to command: but being come to the encounter, 〈◊〉 ●…roughly discharge all the offices which to a good Captain and valiant knight did 〈◊〉. But in the end, his men unable The Battle against Brutus. to endure the force of OCTAVIANUS and MARCU●…●…TONIUS, were by them broken and overcome: And BRUTUS, after that he had done all that which was possible to gather his troops together, being out of hope to be able to make any resistance, the night being come, he was counselled by some which joined themselves with him, to fly, to whom he answered, that he was resolved to do so, not with his fecte, but with his hands: and having spoken these words, he took a sword from a servant of his, named STRATUS, and slew himself. Brutus slew himself. Some affirm, that this STRATUS killed him by his commandment. And so DRUSUS LIVIUS and QVINTILIUS VARRO and some others of the conspiracy slew themselves, besides many others which died fight in the battle. And in this manner were OCTAVIANUS CAESAR and MARCUS ANTONIUS' Lords and Masters of the field, and all things succeeded unto CAESAR according to his desire: for whom alone, God in his secret judgement, had reserved the sole Monarchy, which then was divided and shared between three. This exploit being achieved, and BRUTUS and CASSIUS legions being reduced to their obedience (saving those which flying sundry ways went to SEXTUS POMPEIUS, son of the great POMPEY, who in these troubles and confusions seized on the I'll of Sicilia, and was very mighty by Sea) OCTAVIANUS, and MARCUS ANTONIUS agreed together, that ANTONIUS should remain in the Provinces of Graecia and Asia, LEPIDUS should go into Africa, and OCTAVIANUS should return to Rome, whither with some difficulty he came, through want of his health; and MARCUS ANTONIUS went into Asia, & afterwards gave himself to sensuality, delights and pleasures in Egypt, with Queen CLEOPATRA, of whom Marcus Antonius fell in love with Cleopatra Queen of Egypt. we have spoken in the life of CAESAR. Within few days after that OCTAVIANUS came to Rome, there arose new wars and troubles: for although that he were in peace with LEPIDUS, to whom was given the Province of Africa, OCTAVIANUS remaining with the rest of Spain, France, and part of Germany, Italy and Illyricum: LUCIUS ANTONIUS, who at that time was Consul, incited thereto by his Sister in law FULVIA, wife to MARCUS ANTONIUS, began to oppose himself against LEPIDUS and OCTAVIANUS, attempting to defeat the Triumvirate, and the league and government Lucius Antonius opposeth himself against Octavius. of three; which began about the division of the fields, which OCTAVIANUS CAESAR had made to the men of war which had served him. APPIANUS writeth, that FULVIA did this with an intent to disturb Italy, and so to procure her husband MARCUS ANTONIUS to come unto her, for that she was jealous, hearing of his familiarity and company keeping with CLEOPATRA, the Queen of Egypt. The discord in Rome grew to that height, as they came to Arms: and LUCIUS ANTONIUS departed from thence, and jevied an Army against OCTAVIANUS, who marched towards him with his power: but LUCIUS durst not join battle with him, but rather suffered himself to be shut up in the City of Perugia, where CAESAR besieged him, and at that time divorced himself from CLAUDIA, the daughter of FULVIA, to whom he was contracted (as isaforesaid) without ever touching her, and was married the third time with SCRI●…ONIA, by whom he had one daughter. Perugia was so Lucius besieged in Perugia, yields. strictly besieged (OCTAVIUS being then 23 years old) that LUCIUS ANTONIUS, and the rest which were besieged with him, endured so great hunger, as it grew to a proverb, to say, The Perugian hunger; wherewith LUCIUS ANTONIUS oppressed and forced, yielded himself to OCTAVIANUS, who pardoned him, & used him well, & those which were with him: and so this war was ended without shedding of blood, and he came victorious to Rome, & was The beginning of Octavius his Empire. ever after Lord thereof. Wherhfore many account the beginning of his Empire from this time, which might be about some 4 years after the death of his uncle CAESAR: & the account which is commonly called CAESAR'S computation, agreeth with this time: four years (as I said) after the death of CAESAR, and thirty and eight years before the birth of Christ. CAESAR being in this quietness (the which cannot long continued in the course of this life) presently without any delay, FULVIA with letters and false persuasions, sought by all means to set MARCUS ANTONIUS and OCTAVIAN at variance, seeing that LUCIUS ANTONIUS his attempts took no better effect: and with this resolution she went out of Italy, by OCTAVIUS permission, and took her way towards her husband, in hope to persuade him to come into Italy against OCTAVIUS, as he did. When she parted from Italy, MARCUS ANTONIUS parted from Alexandria in Egypt: and coming to the I'll of Rhodes, he was informed of all that happened to his brother; and arriving in Graecia at the city of Athens, he found his wife FULVIA there sick, but sound and constant in her determination against OCTAVIUS: whom he there leaving by her own good will and consent, he came with two hundred Galleys into Italy; and landing near unto Brundisium, now B●…indez, the wars began between him and OCTAVIANUS his forces, who then was in Rome. SEXTUS POMPEIUS (as I said) held Sicilia, and was in such sort Lord of the Sea, as he caused a great scarcity and want Sextus Pompeius in Sicilia. of corn in Italy. But as this war was not through OCTAVIANUS his fault, or by his will, so MARCUS ANTONIUS, by the relation of sundry persons, understood it to be so; and therefore there were some friends which interposed themselves to reconcile them and make them friends: and it was agreed there should be arbitrators which should compound the differences between them: whereto were nominated of OCTAVIANUS side, his great and private friend MAECENAS, chanted by VIRGIL, HORACE, and other Poets; and for MARCUS ANTONIUS, was ASINIUS POLLIO. And in this time, news came that FULVIA The death of Fulvia wife of Marcus Antonius. the wife of MARCUS ANTONIUS was dead: whereby a great obstacle to the peace was taken away. MAECENAS then, and ASINIUS POLLIO, set down the agreement between them; the principal points whereof were, to renew the league and Triumvirate for other five years, and to share the Roman Empire between them, as they before had done. To MARCUS ANTONIUS was assigned all the East from Italy, from the beginning of the joniane Sea, which is the entry into the gulf of Venice, unto the River Euphrates in Asia, wherein were included all the Provinces of Graecia and Asia, and the Lands contained between these two limits. To OCTAVIUS was allotted from the said Ionian Sea to the western Sea (which we call the Spanish Sea) Italy France, the provinces of Spain, Germany, Britanny, with their Lands and bounds. And to LEPIDUS was confirmed Africa wherein he then was, and all the provinces therein contained, subject to the Empire. And for the better corroborating of this league of friendship, it was agreed that MARCUS ANTONIUS, who was a widower, should marry with OCTAVIA, who was sister to OCTAVIANUS by his father's side, and lately the widow of MARCUS MARCELLUS, with whom she had been married, and had by him Marcus Antonius married Octavia sister to Octavianus. one son called MARCELLUS, whom he much loved, and OCTAVIAN adopted him for his son, of whom VIRGIL maketh much mention. This marriage was made by dispensation of the Senate, because that in Rome it was not permitted for widows to marry, until they had lived ten months in widowhood. This being concluded, OCTAVIANUS and MARCUS ANTONIUS went to Rome: where the wedding was solemnised, and they returned again good friends. But this peace was greatly disquieted, by means of the ill neighbourhood of SEXTUS POMPEIUS: for he commanded the Sea from Sicilia where he lived, and with his ships and Pirates (for he had many in his service) he disquieted CAESAR'S part (relying on the friendship of MARCUS ANTONIUS) and OCTAVIANUS had determined to make war and to ruin him: but at the entreaty of the Senate, and of MARCUS ANTONIUS, he gave ear to a peace, and by the mediation of some which were friends to them both, it took effect in this manner: That all matters past being forgotten, they should become good neighbours and friends, and that SEXTUS POMPEIUS should enjoy Sicilia, Sardinia, and Corsica, which he had in possession; and that he should clear the seas from danger, for Merchants and passengers; and that he should furnish Rome yearly with a certain quantity of corn. This being concluded, they agreed upon a meeting between them three, ANTONIUS, OCTAVIANUS, and POMPEY, upon the Seaside, in the straight of Messina, in a Fortress built for that purpose, which reached into the water, whither SEXTUS POMPEIUS might come with his galleys, and might be in safety on all parts: which was performed with great joy and solemnity, and afterwards POMPEY feasted them in his galleys, and they him like wise by land: and from thence he returned to Sicilia, and OCTAVIAN and ANTONY to Rome, where they remained certain days in very friendly manner. And MARCUS ANTONIUS, making preparation for his journey into the East, sent VENTIDIUS away before with a great Army against the Parthians, against whom he had resolved to make war, as he did. VENTIDIUS had so good success in his journey, as he overcame and defeated PACORUS, the King's son of the Parthians, and slew of them twenty thousand men: so as he sufficiently revenged the death of MARCUS CRASSUS: for the which, after his return to Rome, he triumphed. Ventidius tritumphed of the Parthians. MARCUS ANTONIUS departed Rome towards the East with his new wife, with whom he wintered in Graecia in the City of Athens, & from thence he continued his journey. Within a while after, as OCTAVIUS (remaining in Rome) grew mighty, and in great estimation, so likewise he become pensive: and as the company and neighbourhood of SEXTUS POMPEIUS in Sicilia was displeasing unto him, so he attended an occasion to war against him: which having resolved, he prepared a great fleet for that purpose, under pretext that POMPEY with his galleys and ships hindered the coming of provision of corn into Italy. These wars of Sicilia were long (resting sometimes) and continued certain years. In the beginning whereof OCTAVIUS had ill success, more through tempests and foul weather at Sea, than the force of The first wars between Octavian & Sextus Pompeius. his enemies, although there were some fights between the ships of either party; but by tempest and shipwreck OCTAVIUS lost sundry fleets. And if SEXTUS POMPEIUS had been as able to offend and conquer as he was to defend himself, and overthrew his enemy; and as he was valiant, if he had been wise and politic, most authors affirm, that he might have greatly distressed OCTAVIAN in all matters concerning Italy. But the matter was so handled, that in this war MARCUS ANTONIUS came twice out of Graecia into Italy, whither he came from the East at OCTAVIANUS request; in one of which journeys he came to Brundisium: and not finding him there according to his appointment, and as he had sent him word, he returned without seeing him, upon some suspicions and jealousies which grew between them. Wherhfore OCTAVIANUS having lost the most and best part of his Navy in a storm, he sent MAECENAS his private friend unto him; at whose entreaty, MARCUS ANTONIUS returned again into Italy with three hundred sail of ships and galleys, giving it out, that he came to CAESAR'S aid: And notwithstanding that there were some differences & jealousies between them, yet in the end OCTAVIA, who came thither (being wife to the one, and sister to the other) prevailed so much as she reconciled them, so as they met together in the mouth Octavius and Antony parley and agreed by the means of Octavia. of a River near to Tarentum, where MARCUS ANTONIUS gave to OCTAVIAN one hundred and twenty galleys for the wars: and OCTAVIAN gave to him certain troops of Italian trained soldiers; and they renewed their Triumvirate for other five years then begun: MARCUS ANTONIUS returned towards the East, to the war which he had begun against the Parthians (which concern not me to writ) his wife OCTAVIA and her children remaining in Rome. ANTONY being go; OCTAVIANUS, who was resolved to prosecute the wars with all his forces against SEXTUS POMPEIUS (whom it seemed fortune and the winds did favour) was not contented with the arming of two navies (AGRIPPA being Captain of the one, and himself of the other) but he earnestly entreated LEPIDUS, a Triumvir & his companion, to come from Africa to his aid: who came with such power, as APPIANUS affirmeth, that he brought with him a thousand ships little and great, and fourscore galleys, wherein he transported five thousand horse, and twelve legions of foot. SEXTUS POMPEIUS, whose power by Sea was very strong, seeing so great preparations made against him, did marvailously fortify all places upon the Sea side in Sicilia; and on the frontiers of Africa, near unto Lilybaeum, he placed a very good Captain called PLINIUS, with good troops of soldiers: his whole fleet by Sea (whereof he was abundantly provided) he drew together in the port at Messina, where he purposed to follow the wars with his ships and galleys, for by land he was neither Octavian●… his second war with Sextus Pompeius. of such experience nor power; and in this order he stood ready to prosecute it, which APPIANUS, TITUS LIVIUS, and LUCIUS FLORUS writ at large. The sum whereof is, that LEPIDUS parting with his whole fleet from Africa, was overtaken with a tempest, wherein with great loss of his Ships, he landed at Lilybaeum; and having taken certain places in those parts, he might have done much hurt: but being of small judgement and little experience in the wars, he managed it with greater cost and outward show, then to any effect or profit. And the very same day that he was in that tempest, OCTAVIUS also was at sea, & lost thirty galleys, besides Foists & Brigandines, & with much difficulty returned into Italy: and TAURUS, who had the command of the galleys, which MARCUS ANTONIUS left with him, the same day took land at Tarentum, with great loss and danger; so as it seemed that the winds and weather took part with POMPEY. Wherewith OCTAVIANUS was so much grieved, as he was in doubt to have given over the war for that year: but altering his determination, he repaired his Navies and Armies, and commanded AGRIPPA with a great fleet to pass into Sicilia, and there to make war by Sea and Land: and he with all the rest afterwards did the like. In this time, or a little before (as it seemeth by SVETONIUS) OCTAVIANUS divorced himself from SCRIBONIA, notwithstanding that he had by her one daughter, called Octavianus puts away his wife Scribonia, and married Livia. LIVIA, and married LIVYA DRUSILLA: wherefore TIBERIUS NERO, to whom she was married, and by him had a son called TIBERIUS as his father, was driven to leave her, which he unwillingly did, to please OCTAVIANUS, she being with child of a son. This LIVIA he much loved, and continued with her till his death. But returning to our history of the war; I say, that AGRIPPA assaulted & took certain places upon the coast of Sicilia: which when POMPEY understood, he departed from Messina, to relieve them; at which time he had of his own, and of Pirates which served him, one hundred seventy and five Galleys. It is a wonderful thing to consider the great Fleets that were put to sea in those days. AGRIPPA being advertised of his coming; put his Galleys, being almost equal in number, in a readiness to encounter him; & so they joined battle: wherein, although at first the victory was doubtful, yet in a short space it plainly appeared, that AGRIPPA had the better: which POMPEY perceiving, fled, before he would be wholly overthrown; and his galleys and foists withdrew Ab●…tuile by Sea. themselves to some places and Rivers near at hand. But AGRIPPA, for that his Galleys were greater, could not follow the chase, nor come so near the shore as he would: but yet notwithstanding, POMPEY lost thirty of his Galleys. AGRIPPA the next day went to a city called Tindaria, which he thought to get by reason of certain secret intelligence he had with those of the City: and POMPEY, in the dark of the night, giving secret advice to his whole fleet, took his course toward Messina. And OCTAVIAN, to loose no occasion, embarked aboard his ships and galleys a great part of his army; and passing over into Sicilia, set them on shore, appointing CORNIFICIUS for their Commander, little thinking that POMPEY had been so near; of whom he was in great danger, if he had been suddenly charged by him: so as if POMPEY had then given him battle, he had defeated him. But he losing that opportunity, OCTAVIAN embarked himself again, with intent to determine the quarrel by a battle at Sea, leaving CORNIFICIUS with his land soldiers fortified on land: and POMPEY, with the same desire, after some accidents which happened, sailed out of Messina with all his whole fleet: and neither party refusing it, they came to fight; in which conflict (although the histories recite it with some difference) OCTAVIANUS CAESAR was overcome, and all his Octavianus Caesar overcome in a battle at sea by Sextus Pompeius. great Fleet scattered and lost, and he driven to fly into Italy in a Brigandine, where he escaped many dangers; and in the end arrived where his Army was; whereof MESALLA was General: & being nothing discouraged with this loss, he presently took order for all that was needful. To Rome he sent in haste his familiar friend MAECENAS, to foresee that these news should breed no alteration: and by a Brigandine he presently sent direction to AGRIPPA, who (as is said) was Admiral of his other fleet, that with the greatest speed that might be, he should go to succour CORNIFICIUS, who remained in Sieilia with his Army by land: and to LEPIDUS he sent word, that (all matters set aside) he should make his present repair to the Isle of Lipari, which is between Sicilia and Calabria; whither he should come so soon as he might possibly. With these provisions, and the diligence and good order which he took, he so much prevailed, as within a short time, being helped with the wars which LEPIDUS and AGRIPPA made (in despite of POMPEY) he passed overall his forces into Sicilia. And joining himself with LEPIDUS, he encamped near to the city of Messina, where the war began to be most cruel both by sea and land: which truly was admirable, to consider the power and sufficiency of POMPEY, to know how to defend himself against so great enemies. Who seeing himself oppressed, (notwithstanding that he had well fortified the land, and wanted no forces for his defence by sea) he sent a challenge to OCTAVIANUS CAESAR, with this message; that to avoid the effusion of blood, and to make an end of the war; although he Pompey doth challenge Octavianus. were well provided and furnished with singular good Galleys, and well trained soldiers; yet that he would come to a battle by Sea, so many against so many Ships and Galleys; whereunto were made many answers and delays, but in the end they agreed to do so. And appointing the number, which were three hundred Ships and Galleys of either side; and the time and place set down, either of these Commanders prepared himself as strongly as he could for the battle: and OCTAVIANUS, leaving LEPIDUS with his Army by land, embarked himself in his Fleet; and POMPEY doing the like, they joined battle; A battle by Sea. which, without doubt was one of the most cruel that ever was, considering the Commanders and power of either part: wherein, after that POMPEY had done all that which to a good and valiant Captain did appertain, and after the death of much people of either Octavianus Caesar overthrew Sextus Pompeius. side, he was overcome by OCTAVIANUS, and all his Fleet was taken, burnt, or sunk, saving xuj Sails which escaped by flight, and he in one of them; and so he entered into the haven at Messina: The which though it were sufficiently fortified; & that he knew, PLINIUS, a Captain of his (as is aforesaid) came to his rescue: yet, acknowledging that all sufficed not to defend him from such powerful enemies, in a dark night he embarked himself in a Galley; and with the other xuj which escaped, abandoning Sicilia, he fled towards the East, and sailed to MARCUS ANTONIUS, in hope to have found some relief with him; but it happened contrary to his expectation: for being arrived; after some great toil and accidents that happened (which for brevity I omit) he was slain at the command of MARCUS ANTONIUS, The death of Sextus Pompeius. by the hands of one named TICIUS. And so ended the power of SEXTUS POMPEIUS (which truly was very great) and in him the house and memory of his father the Great POMPEY. It is a great example, and a fair document of the inconstancy of all things in this life, to see and read the changes in the History which we are now to relate. For when it seemeth that matters succeed in such sort as quietness and peace may ensue, then begin new alterations, and greater troubles; as we have seen hitherto, and shall see hereafter in the process of this discourse. SEUTONIUS writes, that at the very instant of this naval Battle, OCTAVIUS was in such a sound sleep, as his friends were fain to waken him, and to raise him from his bed to give the signal; wherewith ANTONY did afterwards repro ache him, that he could not with his eyes see his battle arranged, but lay like a senseless corp●… on his back, looking up unto the sky, and that he never came in sight of his soldiers, until that M. AGRIPPA had put twelve of his enemy's ships to flight. He escaped many dangers in this war. For having transported part of his Army into Sicily, and sailing back again to conduct the rest from the firm Land; he was at unawares surprised by DEMOCHARES, and APOLAPHANES, Lieutenant's and Admiral's to POMPEY: from whom, with great difficulty he escaped with one only Bark. In like sort, travailing by land to Rhegium, near to Locris, seeing a fare off, certain of POMPEY'S Galleys near the shore; and supposing them to be his own, he went down, and was in danger to have been taken by them: And even then seeking to escape away by unknown passages, a Bondslave of AEMILIUS PAULUS his familiar friend; grieving that his master's Father PAULUS had in times past been proscribed by him: he embraced this opportunity of revenge, and attempted to kill him. OCTAVIANUS, having obtained so great a victory (although not without great loss) going to land with his Ships, and the Army; he commanded AGRIPPA presently to join with LEPIDUS and go to Messina, whither PLINIUS POMPEY'S Captain had retired himself (after POMPEY'S flight) with all his troops; who, for that he would not stand upon his defence, yielded himself to LEPIDUS, with all his Legions: whereof LEPIDUS grew so proud, that coveting to have all Sicilia for himself, he presumed to contend with OCTAVIAN: And entering into the city of Messina (notwithstanding that AGRIPPA requested him to stay for OCTAVIANUS) he placed a Garrison therein to his own use, and did the like in many other places in that Island. And OCTAVIAN being come, he sent the next day to speak with him, greatly complaining of his proceed. But as in rule and command, equality is intolerable; so either of them coveting the I'll of Sicilia particularly for himself, they fell at variance, and OCTAVIANUS made his Navy to draw near the shore: both Armies began to stand upon their guard, the one against the other, and many messages and complaints passed between them: in the end although they met and spoke together, yet they could not agreed. But as OCTAVIAN was much Discord between Lepidus and Octavianus. more beloved and better esteemed by the men of war for his many virtues and nobility, and for the names sake and remembrance of JULIUS CAESAR, this dissension did much grieve them all, and both the one part and the other laid all the fault on LEPIDUS. Which when OCTAVIAN understood; before that they would fall so fare out as to take arms, he practised secretly with sundry in LEPIDUS his Army, and with gifts and promises drew them to his will: so as having well effected this device, he one day with a great troop of horsemen road near to LEPIDUS his Camp: and singling himself from his company, he began to parley with his soldiers, complaining of him, and laying the fault of all that was like to ensue, upon LEPIDUS: which being heard by them, many of them began to come over to his side. LEPIDUS, advertised hereof, commanded the alarm to be given, and to sally out against him; so as they skirmished, where in the beginning, OCTAVIAN was in some danger, but it continued not long: for the most part of LEPIDUS troops passed over to OCTAVIAN, whom LEPIDUS could not contain; but, seeing himself in danger to be abandoned by his whole army, for his last refuge, he yielded himself into CAESAR'S power; and putting off his robe of General, went out of his Tent, and submitted himself unto OCTAVIANUS, humbly entreating him to pardon him: whom OCTAVIAN received, as if he had never offended him, very courteously and honourably, but he restored him neither to his estate nor power, but sent him to Rome well accompanied, and entertained, but without Magistracy or office, with the dignity of highest Priest only, which he had ever held from the death of JULIUS CAESAR, whose it was: and so this quarrel was ended without battle or bloodshed, which some feared would have brought both danger and ruin. OCTAVIANUS CAESAR remained Lord of Sicilia: and, depriving LEPIDUS of the Triumvirate, he appropriated to himself the province of Africa, and remained General of the three Armies, viz. that which was LEPIDUS army, POMPEY'S, and his own, wherein APPIANUS Lepidus deprived of his province of Africa affirmeth, were 45 Legions of footmen, and 25000 horse, well armed; besides many other light horsemen and Numidians: which seemeth not incredible to him that considereth how great a part of the world they commanded which levied the same. He affirmeth also, that An exceeding great assembly of men of war. there were then at sea, and upon the coast 600 Galleys, and a greater number of Ships, Foists, & Brigandines: And although that OCTAVIANUS had these great forces, yet would he not pursue or sand after POMPEY, who (as we have said) fled, which he did (as some did suspect) supposing that MARCUS ANTONIUS would have harboured and succoured him, being glad that occasion might be offered to quarrel with him, for that now there was no other man living that was an eyesore unto him: or else he did it, as he himself said afterwards, for that POMPEY was none of those which conspired CAESAR'S death. And purposing now to disperse his forces, and to return to Rome, he paid his soldiers, giving Coronets, and other honours and arms to those which had performed any notable exploits in the wars: and having given many gifts, and made many fair promises to his legions, pardoning the Captains and soldiers which had followed POMPEY, and in the best manner that he could, paying and contenting LEPIDUS his companies, he sent them home to their houses; notwithstanding that there were some scandals and mutinies: but he pacified and brought all in good order. Leaving in Sicily: and sending into Africa, Praetors & Governors, he took his way towards Rome, where he was received with ovation (which was little less than a triumph) with incredible joy and honour, and began to be so beloved and esteemed, as in many places they erected Temples and Altars unto him, as to their gods; and he reform all things which by reason of the wars and troubles were corrupted and out of order. It would be a long discourse to relate the particulars of all things which he did in Rome and in the provinces, as well concerning the government & justice, as the decency and beautifying thereof. At this time, MARCUS ANTONIUS, who was in the East; although that in the Parthian war he had no prosperous success: yet nevertheless he was still of great power, very rich, and greatly obeyed in all the provinces of Gracia, Asia, Egypt, and in all the rest of his governments. But he was so much blinded and besotted with the love and company of CLEOPATRA Queen of Egypt, as he thought of nothing but how to satisfy her humour, being unable Antony captivated by Cleopatra. to leave her, or to have any regard or remembrance of his wife OCTAVIA, sister to OCTAVIANUS, who in beauty and wisdom was nothing inferior to her, and in virtue and goodness did fare excel her. And so the Monarchy of the world was divided between these two, the one in the East, and the other in the West: and as the desire and grediness to reign is endless, and the thirst with continuance increaseth; as though that each of them had not had enough to his share, both of them bethought themselves how they might be able to obtain the whole. Principally OCTAVIAN seeing that ANTONY cared not for his sister, neither sent for her after that he had left her in Rome, he therefore continually advised and urged her to go to her husband, to have (as I conceive) occasion to fall out with him (as PLUTARCH observes in the life of ANTONY) if she were not well entertained. And she not understanding this device, with an intent to prevent all controversies that might arise between her husband and her brother, departed from Rome, bearing with her many jewels and presents, which she had gathered together to present them to MARCUS ANTONIUS, as VELLEIUS PATERCULUS reports. But he who had fixed his heart upon CLOPATRA wrote to her upon the way, that she should stay in Graecia in the city of Athens, until he should return from the journey which he intended against the Parthians; the which he never performed, CLEOPATRA hindering the same. Finally, to be brief (for otherways there were much to say) OCTAVIA sent all those things which she brought with her, to her husband; and this nothing availing, she returned to Rome sorrowful, and forsaken. Whereunpon OCTAVIAN began openly to complain of MARCUS ANTONIUS, and to show himself his enemy: and MARCUS ANTONIUS (who had the same desire) entered into league and amity with the King of the Medes in Asia, causing CLEOPATRA (besides the title of Egypt) to be called Queen of Syria, Lybin, and Cyprus; and jointly with her a son of hers named CAESARION, of whom (as we have already said) JULIUS Caesarion the son of 〈◊〉 Caesar. CAESAR left her with child when he was in Egypt; and to two sons which he had by her, the one named PTOLEMY, and the other ALEXANDER, he gave titles of kings: to ALEXANDER, of Armenia and Parthinia, which he meant to conquer; and to PTOLEMY, of Cilicia and Phoenicia: for which and many other causes which were offered, the hatred between him and OCTAVIAN was apparent; but the war was yet deferred, for that OCTAVIAN was hindered by the wars in Illyricum & Dalmatia, now called Slavonia. The people of which countries, seeing the civil wars of the Romans, rebelled, with other nations which conspired with them, and did assist them, although not subjects as they were, to wit, the two Pannoniae: the upper, which is now Austria; and the lower, which is Hungary, and Noricum, which is now part of Bavaria, with other their borderers ●…d neighbours. Which war OCTAVIAN undertook of purpose, and The wars which Octavianus made in Illyr●…. followed it in his own person, the which was very cruel and dangerous: wherein he was twice wounded, and made marvellous proof of his person, both for valour and wisdom: wherein there passed great and famous actions, which require a large field to relate. APPIANUS, in his sixt book which he calleth Illyricus, writeth thereof at large: and also VELLEIUS PATERCULUS, although more briefly LUCIUS FLORUS, and TITUS LIVIUS abbreviated by him and some others. The end thereof was, that OCTAVIAN not only subdued and tamed Illiricum, and sundry Nations contained under that name, but also the Pannonia's, and the rest which had conspired with those of Illyricum, partly by himself in person, and partly by his Captains. These victories being obtained, OCTAVIANUS CAESAR came victorious to Rome: and Octavianus refuseth to triumph after his victory. notwithstanding that the triumph was granted unto him, yet he would not triumph as then; so great was the desire he had to make war against MARCUS ANTONIUS, who was no better affected unto him: but he levied soldiers, procured friends and arms against him, and promised his friend CLEOPATRA, to bring her triumphing into Rome. LUCIUS FLORUS, writeth, that she requested of him the rule and Empire of Rome, and he promised it her: as though the Romans had been more easy to subdue then the Parthians. And matters standing on these terms, MARCUS ANTONIUS sent to his Wife OCTAVIA, sister to OCTAVIANUS, a divorcement and renunciation of his marriage, in such manner as then was accustomed; commanding her to go out of his house, wherein she dwelled in Rome: All which, with many other indignities OCTAVIAN imparted to the Senate, complaining against him, and in his orations and speeches to the people, accusing him, that the second five years of his Triumvirate & league being expired, without coming to Rome, or respecting the authority of the Senate, he exercised Octavianus complains of Antony. the same, and held the possession of Gracia and the provinces of the East, and so used many speeches against MARCUS ANTONIUS to incense the people against him. MARCUS ANTONIUS on the other side, complained by messengers and letters, alleging that OCTAVIAN had often broken the peace, and had cast SEXTUS POMPEIUS' out of Sicilia, retaining those provinces and others which he held; and that therein he had no respect of him, neither had he given him any part thereof; and that he detained the galleys which he lent him Antony complains of Octavius. for that War: and besides this, that he had practised means to deprive LEPIDUS, and so held all the provinces of Africa, and all the Legions which were his, without imparting any thing thereof unto him; and that he had given the lands of all Italy to his Soldiers, not contributing any part thereof unto his. And in this manner the one accused the other, and either of them made show, that he was urged and enforced to undertake this war. But the truth is, they both desired to be Lords of the whole: and in my opinion, vainglory, ambition, covetousness, The causes of the war between Octavianus and Marcus Antonius, and the beginning thereof. and envy, moved them thereto, each of them putting his determination in effect, & calling diverse Nations to their aids; so as the whole world in a manner, either of the one side or other, was in arms: those of the West in the behalf of OCTAVIAN, and those of the East in favour of MARCUS ANTONIUS; at the lest, the best and most choice men of all, although not so many as they might have levied: for the Romans never used to make wars with such huge multitudes and excessive armies as they should not be well able to maintain and rule, as the Persians' and other barbarous nations did. ANTONY was first in field, and came with great troops to the famous city of Ephesus, which was in jonia a province in Asia the less, whither he had sent for his ships and Navy, to pass into Europe, and had there in readiness 800. galleys and ships of burden; 200 whereof CLEOPATRA gave to him with all the munition and victuals necessary for the fleet; and herself he carried with him, contrary to the opinion of all those which were of his council: And herewith sailed to the I'll of Samos, whither he had appointed to come by a prefixed day, all the Kings, Tetrarches and people of those cities which served him in this war, and from thence he Samos an Isle in the Ionian Sea over against Ephesus. The people and preparation of Marcus Antonius. went to Athens. PLUTARCH sets down the Kings which came with him, and those which sent forces to his aid, part whereof were friends and allies to the Empire, and others vassals and subjects; to which were given the title and government of provinces: of which he names TARCONDEMUS of the upper Cilicia, and ARCHELAUS of Cappadocia, PHILADELPHUS of Paphlagonia, and MITHRIDATES of Comagena, with others; besides those which sent their forces, as HERODES king of judea, AMYNTAS of Lycaonia, and the king of Arabia, the king of the Medes, and PALEMON king of Pontus, with some others: wherein (it was said) he brought 100000 good and well trained footmen, and 22000. horse: and according to the same PLUTARCH, besides this army by land, his Navy by Sea consisted of five hundred galleys, besides the ships of burden which carried the munition and victuals. Although that in the number of Ships and Galleys Authors do vary, yet it should not diminish the credit of the History; sithence that in actions which pass now adays the which we see with our eyes, we can hardly know the certain number of Ships and Armies. MARCUS ANTONIUS came with such power, as Historiographers affirm, that if he had presently taken his passage for Italy, he had put OCTAVIAN to his shifts, and in great hazard: for he had not then sufficient forces levied to have fought with him, neither had he necessary provision for the wars. And so MARCUS ANTONIUS delaying the time, he was taxed with want of discretion, knowledge and foresight of the good fortune which was offered him. For he spent so much time in Athens, that OCTAVIAN had leisure to provide all things wanting, from Italy, France, Spain, and other provinces under his subjection: and levying 80000. choice and well trained Soldiers, and above 20000. horse, seeing that ANTONY stayed so long, he sent him word, that for as much as he had Ships & provision fit, he should draw near to Italy, where he stayed in field to give him battle, promising to give him free Ports and Havens, where he might safely take landing without any interruption, to the end that he might the more commodiously order and provide all things thereto necessary. Whereto ANTONY answered, that it would be more honourable, if he would determine this quarrel in person against him body to body, which he would willingly accept; notwithstanding that he was now old and crazed, and the other young and lusty: and if he liked not hereof, he would stay for him with his Army in the fields of Pharsalia, in the same place where his father JULIUS CAESAR fought with GNEUS POMPEIUS. These Embassies and messages passing between them, without effect; ANTONY drew his Army by land, and his Navy by Sea, towards the coast of Italy, and OCTAVIAN, drawing his Ships to Brundisium, embarked his legions, and crossing the Sea came to a place called Torma, in the province of Epire, which is now called Romania. After certain notable exploits which ●…pire, Romania. passed, the two Armies drew near, and the like did the Navies by Sea. OCTAVIANUS Navy (as PLUTARCH affirmeth) consisted of 250. galleys, but better appointed and swifter, than MARCUS ANTONIUS his galleys were, which were more in number, although (as I have said) Authors, in this matter, agreed not: but the most common opinion is, as I have said. But howsoever it were, MARCUS ANTONIUS, persuaded by CLEOPATRA (who even in this also was the cause of his ruin) would needs try his fortune in a battle at Sea, notwithstanding that in his army by land he had the advantage. CLEOPATRA did this (as some writ, and as it after appeared) thereby to have the better means to fly if the battle should be lost. ANTONY choosing 22000. men out of his army, put them aboard his fleet, which was near at hand: and OCTAVIAN, who refused not to fight at sea, made his provision also for the battle; and shipping himself aboard the galleys, committed the charge of his army by land, to TAURUS: and ANTONY doing the like left his forces with CANIDIUS; in sight of both which, these two most powerful Captains with the best troops and Navies of the world, took the Seas, where they fought for no less than the Empire and Monarchy of The battle at Sea between Octavianus and Marcus Antonius. the world: The which was deferred for three day's space in despite of both parties, the Seas swelling so high as they could not govern their vessels. The fourth day they came to encounter at a Cape called Accius, which is in Epire, not far from whence were their armies by land. The battle was one of the most cruel that hat'h been written of: for it lasted ten hours before that OCTAVIAN, who was the victor, did wholly obtain the victory, although that ANTONY stayed not so long in the fight: for as CLEOPATRA knew better how to mollify and soften men's hearts, then to encourage them; in the hottest and greatest fury of the battle, with a feminine hart unable to endure the sight of so furious a spectacle, she fled away in her galley, whom 70 of her other galleys followed; which is not to be wondered at, but how she durst stay so long. But the unfortunate MARCUS ANTONIUS, who all his life time had been The shameful slight of Marcus Antonius. a valiant and worthy Captain, that day metamorphosed into CLEOPATRA, seeing her galley fly, whereon he had fixed his heart & eyes, went out of his (for that it seemed too heavy) and embarking himself in another more swift (desiring rather to fly with CLEOPATRA) then to conquer without her) followed her, without respect of his Armies by land or sea: and, overtaking her, he went aboard the same galley wherein she was; wherein he sailed three days without seeing or speaking to her, for shame (as it is most likely) for the great weakness which he had showed. And after some wand'ring, he arrived in the Port at Alexandria in Egypt, Octavianus his victory. where he afterwards ended his life, as we will declare. His Army which he left fight, although without a captain, made resistance as I have said, whereof there were slain about five thousand men: but in the end it was wholly overthrown, more through want of a captain, then through any force of the enemy: although some writ, that the lightness and swiftness of OCTAVIANS galleys was a great help unto him, and so he remained conqueror, and granted life and pardon to the conquered, and had in his power three hundred of their galleys. In the army by land there wanted neither constancy, nor faith to their general ANTONY, although abandoned by him; who continued seven days in their camp ready to give battle, without accepting any composition or offer, made unto them by OCTAVIAN (with a show that they would yet have stayed longer) if CANIDIUS, whom ANTONY left in his place, had not abused his charge, as he who had given him that charge had done. For it happened after seven days that he fled secretly in the night from the camp to seek ANTONY, and abandoned the army: which being forsaken, yielded to the enemy; and OCTAVIAN used his victory with great clemency: which being obtained, he either thought it not good, or could not at that time pursue ANTONY, but took his way towards the city of Athens, where taking order for all matters in Graecia; by reason of some mutinies of his soldiers in Italy (as SVETONIUS' writs) he returned thither, where he stayed somewhat longer than he would have done, aswell by reason of the former lets, as the evil weather to sail in, which followed. After all this, OCTAVIANUS having set all things necessary in a readiness, he sailed with Octavius goes into Egypt against Antony. great forces into Egypt, with a resolution to make an end with MARCUS ANTONIUS (as indeed he did) and arrived near to the city of Alexandria: where ANTONY (recovering courage, and Queen CLEOPATRA making great preparation for the wars, in the time of OCTAVIANUS his stay) had levied great forces, both of foot and horse for their defence. They had also a great navy by sea, as well of CLEOPATRA'S, as of those which came from other places: and MARCUS ANTONIUS with his old courage, which now too late and to no Antony raise●… a new arm●… purpose he recovered, took the field and entertaining a skirmish with CAESAR'S horsemen, which were then landed and strongly entrenched, he used such skill, and charged them with such dexterity, as he made them fly to their strength: and being returned to the city, he again sent to challenge OCTAVIANUS to fight with him body to body. Whereto CAESAR answered, that MARCUS ANTONIUS had other ways and means enough in a readiness to die, Antony challengeth Octavius, and his answer. without dying by his hands. ANTONY receiving this answer, determined to die fight, although it happened otherwise. The next day in the morning he again salied forth with an intent to fight; and standing upon a high ground, looking towards the sea, he saw that his navy and galleys moved, and made towards OCTAVIAN his fleet; which he thought they had done, with a resolution to fight: and staying a little to see the sequel, within a while, he saw them join together in company, by means of a secret practice passed between them. Which when he saw, and fearing the like in those which he brought with him to field, he returned to the city, suspecting and affirming that CLEOPATRA had betrayed him, although that in truth she was blameless therein: and she being advertised of what ANTONY had said, stood in fear of him; and withdrew herself into a strong temple or sepulchre: and commanding the doors thereof to be shut and fortified, she sent some feignedly to tell him that she had slain herself with her own hands. Which MARCUS ANTONIUS believed as firmly as though he had seen it, and refusing to live any longer, without stay to die fight; after he had uttered certain speeches, he stabbed his poiniard into his own breast, and so (deadly wounded) he fell down Antony kills himself. upon a bed in a swoon. And within a while coming again to himself, being advertised that CLEOPATRA was yet living, he made himself to be carried thither where she was: who received him with so many tears and such pitiful complaints, as he being so near death, began to comfort her, saying, that she aught not lament for him, neither to hold him for unfortunate, sith he accounted not himself so, for he had been a great captain and very powerful, and in the end died overcome by the Romans. He counselled her to yield to the mercy of OCTAVIANUS CAESAR, and speaking these words (his strength failing within alittle while after) he died: and so ended the power and life of MARCUS ANTONIUS. Who in truth for matters of war was very famous: and if his excellent wit and courageous mind had not been captivated with the love of CLEOPATRA, after JULIUS CAESAR he was in election to have obtained the monarchy of the world: but it appeared plainly that the stars and the divine powers were inclined to favour OCTAVIUS. OCTAVIANUS having intelligence hereof, and of the bad order and guard of the city, ma●…ched thither with his forces and entered the same, sending to comfort CLEOPATRA, and to make great offers unto her, to the end she should not kill herself; and going to see her in person, he did the like: but all his care little availed. For she being advertised, that he would sand her to Rome, and would carry her and her sons in his triumph, chose rather to dye, then that he should triumph over her: and some say, that she took poison which she had provided for that purpose, wherewith she killed herself. Others (and this is the most common) that she put an Aspicque to her arm (which is a certain kind of Serpent or venomous Adder) to the end that it should sting her, which was brought to her in a basket of flowers; so as she was found The death of Cleopatra. dead without any sign of blow or wound, but as if she had been asleep. Whereat OCTAVIAN was much grieved (not without great admiration at the resolution and courage of that woman) and he commanded her to be buried in the same Sepulchre wherein she had entombed herself; together with MARCUS ANTONIUS, with whom she had lived andraigned 14. years, she being 39 years old when she died, and MARCUS ANTONIUS 56, or (after some) 53. He commanded the tomb which they had begun, to be finished. OCTAVIANUS easily pardoned all those which had served or sent succours to MARCUS ANTONIUS, and also his children, which were seven, by three women, FULVIA, OCTAVIA The Clemency of Octavius to Antony's children. sister to OCTAVIANUS, and CLEOPATRA; saving the eldest, which he commanded to be slain, and the like he did by CAESARION CLEOPATRA'S son by JULIUS CAESAR, of whom we have already made mention: the eldest (they say) he slew upon particular displeasure which he conceived against him; and CESARION, by the counsel of ARRIUS a Philosopher, who told him that it would not do well to have many CAESARS; an usual thing among Princes to secure their estates. This business touching MARCUS ANTONIUS' being ended, and the kingdom of Egypt made a tributary province, that it might be fit to yield corn and victuals for the City of Rome; he viewed the tomb with the body of ALEXANDER the great, taken newly out of the vault or secret Chapel where it had been laid, he set a coronet of gold upon it, and strewing flowers thereon worshipped it; and being demanded if he would look upon the PTOLEMY'S, he answered that his desire was to see a King, and not the dead. Afterwards passing through Syria and Asia the less, leaving all quiet and in peace; he passed into Gracia, and there doing the like, he came into Italy: where having ended all civil wars, and the whole Empire being subject to himself alone; he entered into Rome in triumph, with the greatest feasts and solemnities of the Senate and the people of all Italy, that could be devised or imagined. It was granted unto him to triumph three times, to wit, for the victory in Illiricum, and for the victory in his battle by Sea, and the overthrow of MARCUS ANTONIUS, the conquest of the Kingdom of Egypt, and Queen CLEOPATRA, whose statue was placed in his triumph, with the Aspicques set to the veins of her arms. And so OCTAVIANUS finished the building, and erected the Monarchy which his Uncle JULIUS CAESAR had begun and founded: which (at it seemeth by PAULUS OROSIUS his computation) was sixteen years after the death of JULIUS CAESAR. And although that he obtained it by means hardly justifiable, yet truly, he afterwards governed it most justly Octavianus an excellent Prince and wisely, and was one of the best Princes that ever was in the world; gentle, merciful, liberal, just, valiant; endued with many virtues and excellencies, most happy and fortunate in all his affairs, and beloved above measure of all men. As there was no man to contend with OCTAVIANUS CAESAR, and he so beloved of all men (as is aforesaid) the people & Senate of Rome gave him a new name, which before that time was never heard of, AUGUSTUS; & so he was afterwards called CAESAR AUGUSTUS: a name which they held for holy, venerable, of great majesty, and which appertained to the Gods and Titles given to Octavius. their temples; as we find it used by CICERO, VIRGIL, OVID, and other authors; although that some derive it from the Verb augeo, in Latin, to increase, because that OCTAVIAN enlarged and increased the Empire: and some others give it other derivations; but whethersoever be the most certain, it was given him for the most honourable name of all others: they also called him father of his Country, & gave him all the other titles & names they could device. CAESAR AUGUSTUS (for this name henceforth we sometimes give him) seeing himself now in such quiet, & without war with any person or nation in the world, commanded the temple of JANUS to be shut, which they religiously observed that during the wars it should stand open; and never had been shut but twice from the foundation of Rome, according to TITUS LIVIUS, LUCIUS FLORUS, and PLUTARCH, and other Authors: once in the time of NUMA How many times the temple of janus was shut. POMPILIUS, second King thereof; and the other after the end of the second Punic wars, which they waged with Carthage, whenas TITUS MANLIUS was Consul. I know that some Authors set this shutting up of JANUS temple by OCTAVIAN to be a great while after, at the time of the birth of Christ our Saviour. But in this place I follow the authority of PAULUS OROSIUS, a Christian Author, who used great diligence and truth, and is of 1200 years antiquity; who reckoneth, that CAESAR AUGUSTUS shut this temple three times, whereof this was the first; and I hold his opinion for certain: for he is assisted by the authority of TITUS LIVIUS, who in his first book affirmeth, that AUGUSTUS did shut this temple after the wars with ANTONY: and LUCIUS FLORUS, and other Authors set down, that this temple was shut after that. And hereby it appeareth, that OCTAVIANUS CAESAR did shut the temple of JANUS more than once, and every one showeth his time when; and PAULUS OROSIUS all, which was thrice, setting down the time to every one of them, as he noteth; which is also drawn out of SVETONIUS TRANQVILLUS, following the letter, as PHILIPPUS BEROALDUS followeth. I have a desire to set this down here (although Note the saying of the Author. it little importeth) to the end that the variety and difference which the Reader shall find among Authors shall not offend him; and that he may know that I have an approved Author whom I follow, though I name him not, if he shall find aught written by me contrary to that which he hath read. OCTAVIANUS CAESAR, living in this peace and tranquillity, omitted no part of his care for the government of the Roman Commonwealth, and Provinces thereof; sending thither Praetors, Proconsul's, and other Governors, which were excellent men, to rule and govern; and himself gave direction, and was very diligent in all things touching justice, customs, religion, and public buildings: so as in all things his reign was most happy, peaceable, and quiet; and so it continued during his life. VELLEIUS PATERCULUS, speaking like a Gentle, doth so extol his reign, that he saith, Paterculus commendation of Octavius. men could not desire or ask any thing of the gods, neither think nor imagine aught; neither could the gods give that to men which OCTAVIANUS CAESAR AUGUSTUS, after his victories and return to Rome, did bring and give to the Roman people, and the whole Empire. Notwithstanding that this was common to them all (as great minds naturally affect liberty) yet in that so prosperous a time, some people and nations were so presumptuous as to shake off the Roman yoke, and to molest and disquiet the Empire; as the Spaniards, the nations of Illyricum and the Pannonians. In Spain the Cantabrians, which are the Alaveses and Biskains, the Asturians, and part of Gallicia were not only unwilling to obey; but passing their limits, began to make war against the subjects of the Empire. OCTAVIANUS CAESAR knowing this, holding it to be a doubtful war, and of importance, commanded (as PAULUS OROSUS writes) the temple of JANUS to be opened, and determined to go thither in person, and to sand other Captains to follow the other wars. The time of these wars, which were first or last, the Authors do handle very confusedly, so as I cannot bring it to light: whereof it might be that diverse of these things did concur at one time. But OCTAVIANUS AUGUSTUS took Augustus goes into Spain to make war. his journey into Spain, and began the war with three armies against the people before named, which rebelled; which war was very doubtful and desperate, and lasted five years. During this time passed many conflicts: and although that AUGUSTUS did suppress the Cantabrians and Asturians, and drove them to the rocks and mountains; yet they did so defend themselves, as it behoved him before he could subdue them, to raise a great Navy on the coast of France, to invade the sea coast of Cantabria, Asturia, and Gallicia: at which time he drove the people of those countries to such extremities by land, as he compelled them to yield and submit themselves to his obedience; His great favourite AGRIPPA, serving him well and faithfully in this war (as in all the rest) whom he married to his daughter JULIA, who then was the widow of his nephew MARCELLUS, son to his sister OCTAVIA, with whom she had been married. And so AUGUSTUS finished the full subjection of all Spain, above two hundred years after that the Romans began to make their first war there: so as no province cost the Romans more blood, more toil, and more time, then Spain. And this long and doubtful conquest being finished, PAULUS OROSIUS saith, that OCTAVIAN esteemed the same so much, as having established peace in Spain, in sign thereof, he again commanded the doors of JANUS Temple to be shut, and came to Rome in great triumph. But this Temple continued not long shut, for some Nations of the Germans rebelled (although at diverse times) so as it was again opened to make war against them which were the Inhabitants of Noricum, which is War in Germany & Hun garie. now Bavaria, and the Pannonies, which are Ostrich and Hungary, as is aforesaid, and the two Missias, which are Bulgaria and Servia, and also Illyricum, which is Slavonia, although at another time tamed by him; and the Province of Dacia, which now is Transilvania & Walachia, and some others also. Against all these Nations this most fortunate Emperor CAESAR AUGUSTUS sent his Captains and armies: among which were his sons in law, the sons of his wife LIVIA, TIBERIUS NERO, who succeeded him in the Empire, and his brother DRUSUS NERO, of whom LIVIA was with child when OCTAVIAN married her: and these two brothers (although the war lasted somewhat long) vanquished those Nations, and obtained great victories in Germany, and the confines thereof; especially TIBERIUS (as SVETONIUS writeth in his life, and PAULUS OROSIUS in his histories) who in three years space subdued the Pannonies, Illyricum, and Dalmatia: for which victories he afterwards entered into Rome in ovatian triumph, with great honour and pomp. And another Captain, whose name was MARCUS CRASSUS (as LUCIUS FLORUS, and TIT●…S LIVIUS report) overcame and put the Missians to flight in their own Country, a nation which had never seen the Romans; which (as LUCIUS FLORUS recordeth) being ready to give battle, in manner of justification, said to the Roman Army: Tell us who you are that seek to molest us? Whereto they were answered: We are Romans, the Lords of Nations. Whereupon they replied: It shall be so if we be overcome. And so they were afterwards, both they, and those also which conspired with them. But OCTAVIAN had not these victories without some crosses: for in this war died his son in law DRUSUS, who was highly extolled and esteemed for his great acts and victories, for whom he and the Empress LIVIA his mother were very sorry. But that was fare greater without comparison, which he conceived for the mishap which be fell to QVINTILIWS VARRO, who was Captain of three legions in Germany, and being careless, was surprised by the Almains, and himself and all his legions, and the Auxiliaries slain, and two Standards with the Imperial Eagles taken: wherewith he was so wonderfully Augustus' sorrow for the loss of his Legions. grieved, as they writ, that he cried out very unadvisedly, and knocked his head against the walls, saying: QVINTILIUS VARRO, give me my legions again. For certain months together he suffered the hair of his head and beard to grow carelessly: And the very Augustus' sorrow for the loss of his Legions. day of this unfortunate accident he did every year observe mournefully, with sorrow and lamentation. Of his son in law DRUSUS, there remained two sons, called GERMANICUS and CLAUDIUS, which he had by ANTONIA, OCTAVIANS niece, & daughter of his sister OCTAVIA and of MARCUS ANTONIUS: of which, CLAUDIUS was Emperor: and this GERMANICUS which married with AGRIPPINA, the daughter of JULIA which was OCTAVIANS daughter, was father to CAIUS CALIGULA, who afterwards was also Emperor. But these losses confirmed the victories which his son in law TIBERIUS obtained: Wherhfore OCTAVIAN married him to his daughter JULIA, who was a widow by the death of AGRIPPA, causing him to put away AGRIPPINA the daughter of the same AGRIPPA, by his first marriage, by whom he had one son named DRUSUS: so as after many notable victories, and subduing sometime one nation, and sometime another, which were compelled to sue for peace, OCTAVIAN again commanded the Temple of janus to be shut, and from thence forth all things succeeded unto him most prosperously. He was careful to have martial discipline observed: he dismissed all the tenth legion with ignominy upon a mutiny and unwillingness to obey. Whole bands and Cohorts, if they gave ground and recoiled before the enemy, he decimated, and to the rest he allowed barley in steed of wheat to feed on. A Roman Knight, having cut off the thumbs of two young men his Sons to avoid the military oath and service of war, he set him and all his goods to open sale: but seeing the Publicans bid freely for him, he delivered him to his own freed man; that being confined and sent away unto his living in the Country, he might suffer him to live free. The subjects of the Empire were very obedient unto him, and all others sent him ambassades seeking his favour and friendship, offering him their service: the Indian's (a people of the remotest part of the East) and also the Scythians which inhabit in the North, and the Parthians (a people most fierce and untamed) sent their Ambassadors to him, giving security to keep the The greatness of the Roman Emperors. peace, and delivered the Standards and Eagles taken in battle, when MARCUS CRASSUS was slain. There came also Kings, friends and subjects to the Empire, to Rome, to do him honour, as his familiar friends, laying aside their Ensigns and royal Robes; and many of them built cities to his name, for his honour, calling them Caesareas' in remembrance of him: so did HERODE in Palestina, JUBA in Mauritania, and others. The world continued in this quietness and general peace, forty and two years being fully expired since that OCTAVIAN, after the death of JULIUS CAESAR, came to Rome, from which time is commonly accounted his Empire. In this general peace was borne ISSUS CHRIST our Lord and Saviour in Bethlem, of the holy womb of the blessed Lady the Virgin MARY (HERODE being King of jerusalem, placed there by the Romans, he who slew the innocent children) coming to the world in humane form and nature, to save and redeem mankind with his blessed death and passion: whose most holy life, mysteries and infinite miracles aught not to be mixed with profane Histories, and therefore I will not intermeddle to treat thereof. But returning to my purpose, I say, that OCTAVIAN enjoying so great prosperity and good fortune, was not altered in his natural condition, as in other Princes it hath happened, but rather become more mild, just, and affable, more courteous, more liberal and more temperate. He established wonderful good orders and laws, for the reformation of abuses and evil customs: he erected in Rome and without it, great and sumptuous edifices, and bestowed great gifts and favours upon all sorts of people: he delighted the people with feasts and plays in diverse manners, going himself in person, to honour them, and sent Colonies and inhabitants to sundry parts and provinces: he made an excellent good order for the government and governors of the whole Empire. The like he did for the war and martial discipline; he shown himself loving and sociable to his familiars and friends, and honoured and loved them much. Some conspiracies which were discovered against him, he punished without rigour, giving more pardon than punishment and correction. Of murmurings and defamatory libels The virtues and qualities of Octavianus. he never sought nor desired to know the authors, but with great gravity answered, giving satisfaction, and purging himself of those things which were imputed unto him. He was much given and affected to letters and learning, and was very learned and eloquent, and compiled books and notable works: He did much honour and reward the wise and learned men of his time, wherein were many very learned in all Arts. But for all these virtues and perfections, and other which for brevity I writ not, yet he escaped not to be noted of some vices, growing through humane weakness and great liberty, especially to be much given to women; although that in eating, drinking, in his apparel and ornaments, he was very modest and temperate: he gave himself also excessively to play at dice, and other games then accustomed. But SVETONIUS saith, that the most part thereof was upon ceremonious and festival days, which aught well to be noted for a shame and example to our time, wherein Christianity is professed. For that is accounted by many for bravery and valour, which to OCTAVIAN being an Heathen and unbelieving Prince, was imputed for vice. Wherhfore, to conclude and make an end of his History, as is reason; I say, that although that in many things he was happy and fortunate, yet besides all his troubles and dangers, he was unhappy and unfortunate in his children and succession: for by four wives, with which he was married, only by SCRIBONIA, which was his third wife, he had one daughter named JULIA; and yet this one scarcely proved honest of her body: so as for want of sons to succeed him, he first adopted his Nephew MARCELLUS, his sister OCTAVIA'S son aforenamed, to whom he first married his daughter JULIA: and MARCELLUS dying without issue, he married her to his favourite AGRIPPA, who also left her a widow, as is above said: but he left by her, three sons and two daughters, the daughters proving no honester than their mother, and two of his sons died in OCTAVIANS time, having been first by him adopted. Wherhfore, desiring to overcome the crosses which he had herein, he adopted the third, who was called AGRIPPA as his father was, the which adoption he afterward revoked for some displeasure conceived against him: and taking this care for his succession, he adopted and made his son in law TIBERIUS NERO, his son, whom, as is aforesaid, he married to his daughter JULIA, who, as I said, was AGRIPPA his widow. But he commanded TIBERIUS when he adopted him, that he (notwithstanding that he had a son called DRUSUS) should adopt his Nephew GERMANICUS, son to his brother DRUSUS, who died in Germany, for that he had married his niece AGRIPPINA the daughter of JULIA: and by this means came TIBERIUS to be OCTAVIANUS successor, more through the diligence of his mother, than any good liking that his father in law had to him; who rather was, and seemed to be very sorry, that he should succeed him. All things standing in this state, OCTAVIAN being now seventy and six years old and odd days, having reigned above fifty and six yeeares, and being the best beloved and most obeyed Prince, that ever was in the world, death overtook him: the cause thereof was a flux which held him for certain days, whereof in the end he died in the city of Nola (whither he The death of Octavianus Caesar Augustus. came sick from Naples) a quiet and peaceful death, in the fifteenth year after the birth of Christ our Redeemer. TACITUS writes, that it was suspected his death was hastened by the lewd practices of his wife, for that it had been bruited abroad, that AVOUSTUS accompanied only with FABIUS MAXIMUS had been in the Island of PLANATIA to visit his Nephew AGRIPPA, both weeping when they met, whereupon there was some hope that the young man should be recalled to his Grandfather's house. This secret FABIUS disclosed to his wife, by whose means it came to LIVIA and to TIBERIUS: which made them to practise all the means they could to prevent this reconciliation. His death was generally lamented, and there was an universal sorrow and heaviness over the whole Empire for him: for he did wisely and uprightly govern that, which by force and cunning he had gotten. OCTAVIAN was of a mean stature, and of a very good shape and proportion Octavian his proportion of body. of his body, exceeding fair of face mixed with modesty and gravity, his eyes were exceeding clear and bright, he was very advised, and loved to speak quick and briefly. His last will and testament was written a year and four months before he died, and left in the custody of the Vestal Virgins. It was then produced, & in open Senate read: the contents whereof you may read in SVETONIUS. THE LIFE OF THE EMPEROR TIBERIUS. THE ARGUMENT. AFter the good Augustus, succeeded his son in law wicked Tiberius Nero, who was most subtle, and knew how to dissemble and fai●… to love those will whom he hated, and to hate those which he loved. He made show to be unwilling to accept of the Empire, to observe who was his friend and who his enemy: and whereas before this dignity, he was very orderly and discreet, he become afterward so riotosis and such a drunkeard, that he was called in scorn Biberius. In his time died jesus Christ and john Baptist in jerusalem: he caused Germanicus a great Commander to be slain, although he made show to Agrippa to be very ●…orie for it. He subdued many provinces which rebelled against the Roman Empire, and was no less cruel than libidinous: and of these three vices (to wit) cruelty, incontinency, and gluttony, it is hard to say, which was lest. He ruled the Empire, four and twenty years, and was no great enemy to Christians: he proponed in the Senate whether Christ should be accepted for a God or not, whereto the Senate consented not. Finally, he died through the treason of Caligula, whom he had nominated his successor, being seventy and eight years old: which he did, as it was thought, to the end that Caligula his vices should make his seem less, who was so wicked and cruel, as he wished that the world might end at his death. AFter the good and valiant Emperor OCTAVIAN, succeeded his son in law, and adopted son, the wicked and cruel TIBERIUS NERO, unworthy of his succession and of the Empire: for he was one of the most cruel and wicked men that ever was: yet in OCTAVIAN his time, both in Germany and in other parts he did many great and notable feats in arms. In the beginning of his Empire he made show of a good prince, and did many good deeds, but afterwards (as this was but counterfeit) he discovered his malice, and governed cruelly, covetously, and dishonestly. This TIBERIUS (as I have said) was the son of TIBERIUS NERO and LIVIA, whom OCTAVIAN afterwards took to wife, of both sides descended of the ancient family of the CLAUDII: whose grandfather by his father's side was TIBERIUS CLAUDIUS NERO; and by his mother's side he descended from APPIUS CLAUDIUS PULCHER, and by adoption he likewise descended from the The lineage and corporal constitution of Tiberius. LIVII, a worthy family (although but Plebeian) for Consulships, censures, and triumphs. He was of a tall and strong body, and had a large breast and broad shoulders, whereto all parts of his body were answerable: he had a fair face, and great eyes; and so clear, as they affirm a strange thing of him, which is, that awaking in the night, for a good space he clearly saw the place wherein he lay, and all things therein aswel as if he had had a light. He was a man of great strength, and had the use of both his hands alike; whereas commonly every man useth the right hand with greater dexterity than the left, and he had so great strength in his fingers, that with a fillip he would (as often as he listed) break a pages or a young man's head, as SVETONIUS reporteth. He was very learned both in Greek and Latin, delighted chief in poesy, and made many verses in both tongues, which truly was ill employed in him, seeing he so little profited Tiberius' 〈◊〉 learning. thereby. When OCTAVIUS AUGUSTUS fell sick, TIBERIUS was go towards the province of Illyricum or Slavonia: and his mother LIVIA seeing that his sickness increased, sent in great haste for him, and he happily arrived at the city of Nola, CAESAR AUGUSTUS being even near his end, but yet in such case as he could speak, and (as SVETONIUS reporteth) he conferred with him a great while in secret: Although CORNELIUS TACITUS saith, that it is not certainly known whether he found him alive at his coming or no, for his mother the Empress had set so many guards as the death of OCTAVIAN was not known, until that all had consented that TIBERIUS should rule, and succeed him. At that time was Posthumus AGRIPPA Nephew to OCTAVIAN, and son of his daughter JULIA by AGRIPPA her second husband, slain by the hand of a Tribune of soldiers who had him in keeping (as it was thought) by the commandment of his father in law TIBERIUS, and by the counsel of his mother LIVIA, to the end that he should be assured of the succession. But yet he gave it out that it was done by AUGUSTUS' commandment, who (as he said) had given charge to the Tribune or Centurion which had him in guard, to make him away as soon as he should have notice of his death: but it is not credible, that to assure the state to his wife's son, he would seek the blood of his own Nephew. The Centurion bringing word that he had fullfilled his commandment, he answered presently that he had commanded him no such thing, and that he should answer it before the Senat. CRISPUS SALUSTIUS who was acquainted with Tiberius' greatest secrets hearing hereof, having sent the Centurion letters to proceed in the business, fearing his own danger advised LIVIA not to diuulge the secrets of her house, the counsel of friends, nor the services of soldiers; & that TIBERIUS should have a care not to weaken his power of sovereignty, by referring all to the Senate, and so this business was passed over in silence. In Rome liberty now was so forgotten, and the Monarchy so settled by thy custom of many years continuance, under the reign of OCTAVIANUS, that notwithstanding that there were Consuls, Praetors, Tribunes, and other names of dignity and magistracy; yet there was in a manner no man in Rome that did remember and understand the manner of the old government, which was before that JULIUS CAESAR suppressed the Commonwealth; and the death of OCTAVIAN being known, there was no man that durst name or speak of liberty, but when as TIBERIUS came to Rome, they presently gave the government and administration of the Commonwealth unto him. And he was the first Emperor that did quietly and peaceably inherit the Empire, so as he was not forced to make a conquest thereof, as JULIUS CAESAR and OCTAVIAN had done. And notwithstanding that before he would accept thereof he caused himself to be much entreated, and made great show to have no desire to the Empire, yet afterwards it appeared plainly that he did but counterfeit, to the end he might discover every man's affection towards him: For to all those which yielded to accept of his excuses, and did not importune him, he bore a perpetual hatred; for although that one way he excused himself, yet in many other things he began to use the authority of an Emperor, taking a guard, and mustering the armies, as Emperor. Having accepted the Empire, there were some accidents which put him in great fear: the first was, that the armies in Pannonia or Hungary, mutined, and revolted from JULIUS BLESUS their Commander, a captain called PERCENIUS being principal of this mutiny, and they sent to require many excessive things: against whom TIBERIUS sent his son DRUSUS, whom he had by AGRIPPINA, with whom he was married before he espoused JULIA. The which was pacified with much danger and difficulty; PERCENIUS and VIBULENUS, with some other ringleaders of this mutiny being put to death. It happened also that the legions which were by the river of Rhine, as the custom was, did the like, through the absence of GERMANICUS their General before named, adopted son and Nephew to TIBERIUS: And those of Pannonia were not only discontented with the pays and exemptions which they required, but they presumed to choose a new Emperor against TIBERIUS, nominating their general GERMANICUS, who (as is before said) was TIBERIUS Nephew and adopted son, and preferred before his natural son, by the commandment of OCTAVIAN. But GERMANICUS was so loyal, that when these news were brought unto him, he not only refused their offer, but with great danger and hazard of his life, and with much trouble, pacified those alterations. TIBERIUS was another way disquieted, being advertised that LUCIUS SCRIBONIUS an eminent man, and one which bore great sway in the commonwealth, had some secret practices against him: but he freed himself from all these troubles, and they were pacified, though not without great difficulty. For his son DRUSUS on the one side (after some treaties) reduced the legions of Pannonia to his obedience, and did justice on PERCENIUS. And GERMANICUS (as I said) after some great difficulties (which CORNELIUS TACITUS relateth at large) made those of Germany to obey: and not therewith content, he passed the river of Rhine (which commonly was the bounds of the Roman Empire on that part) and made war within the country of Germany, with good success. While these matters were adoing, & for some space after, TIBERIUS did cloak and conceal his wicked inclination and vices; and What good Tiberius did in the beginning. (as I said in the beginning) performed many parts of a good, discreet and mild Prince, wherewith he deceived the people, especially those which did not inwardly know him; whereof (although they be recited before their time) it shall not be amiss to set down some, to the end that (as of a venomous Beast) that which is profitable and medicinal, may be taken. First, many of the names and titles of Honour which were offered him by the Senate, and other Honours and Ceremonies, he refused, and would not consent that they should erect or build any Temples unto him; and forbade them to set up his Statues and Images without his express commandment: and if sometime he did permit it, it was upon condition that they should not place them among the Images of the gods. He seemed also to grieve to hear himself praised, crossing and interrupting them in speeches which did it. One in a discourse called him Lord, whom he commanded to use that word no more: but insolency and presumption since that time hath so increased, as that which in those days seemed pride in an Emperor, there is not any now (be he never so base) but presumeth he deserveth the same. The like discretion did TIBERIUS show in other words, which were also proper to the gods, & the things to them appertaining. He feigned also patience and meekness; for although that in the Senate there passed some matters contrary to his will & opinion, and that in other affairs they gain said him, yet he seemed not any way to be displeased or offended therewith. And understanding that some spoke ill of him, and murmuring, used reproachful speeches against him, he shown no discontentment or alteration thereat: but said, that in a free City men's tongues aught to be free, and men might lawfully speak freely. And whereas the Senate would have exhibited an information, and have proceeded against those which had written defamatory libels against him, he would not consent thereto; saying, that he had not so little employment as to loose time about such matters: affirming that he would do nothing against them which spoke ill of him, but trouble them with keeping account of what he said and did; and if that were not sufficient, it should satisfy him, to love them as little as they loved him. At first, TIBERIUS shown great respect to the Senate, & gave them so great authority in all things, as he did nothing without their counsel, willing that all should be done by their advice and consent. In execution of justice and government he made many good beginnings, taking care and order that there should be no thiefs nor robbers by the high ways side in all Italy, but that men might travel in safety: and that justice should be executed in Towns and Villages. The Ensigns, and praetorian Cohorts, which in Rome were the Emperor's guard (to The praetorian cohorts were the Emperors guard The feigned virtues of Tiberius. ease the citizens of their guests and other troubles) he made to encamp and lodge without the city in the fields, where they should continued and abide: which although it then seemed profitable, yet afterwards it bred great inconvenience and prejudice. By these means he not only dissembled and covered his cruelty, pride, and ambition; but he was so double and false hearted, that even his avarice and covetousness (which of all other seemeth to be the most apparent passion) and his incontinency and looseness he could so mask for a time, as he seemed to be no way touched with those vices. So as when some governor's of Provinces gave him notice of means how to increase his rents and revenues; he answered, that a good shepherd The speeches of a good pastor, and the mind of a Wolf. aught to shear his flock, but not flay them: & so he abated some tributes, and shown favours to certain particular persons. His lose life he sought to cover, by ordaining a public informer against dishonest and adulterous Matrons of Rome, which he did (as it afterwards appeared) to the end there should be no other adulterer but himself. He did other things (which for brevity I omit) which seemed to spring from a good root and intent: but it failed in the end; for he fauned, to bite; and drew back, to charge again with the greater force: As we will hereafter declare in part, for the whole cannot be related as it was, nor mentioned for the filthiness thereof, which is the occasion why that order and style cannot be observed which is fitting; for certainly, disordered and obscure lives cannot be clearly and orderly written. And besides this, he used his wife JULIA cruelly and disgracefully, forgetting that by her as for her dowry, he enjoyed the Roman Empire: for he never lived nor kept company with her after the death of OCTAVIAN. One of the first signs he shown of an evil Prince and governor, was; that notwithstanding there came great complaints against the Proconsul's, Praetors, and Prefects, sent into Provinces; yet he would not remove them: which was contrary to the order and custom of Rome, and his predecessor OCTAVIAN: which some atrributed to his carelessness; others held it to proceed of malice and an ill disposition, to the end that many men should not enjoy the honour and profit which grew in such charges. After this he began to envy and malice GERMANICUS, for that he was preferred before his son DRUSUS, and it grieved him to see his good success in the wars of Germany. Wherhfore to find occasion to remove him from that charge, he dissemblingly caused the Triumph to be granted unto him, for the victories which he had obtained, and wrote to him many times to come to triumph: but GERMANICUS understanding his evil intent, deferred his coming. It happened within a while after, that the King of the Parthians took arms and made war against the Roman Empire, breaking the peace confirmed in the time of OCTAVIAN, entering into the Province of Armenia, the King whereof was invested there by the Romans: wherewith TIBERIUS was nothing displeased, supposing thereby to have the better occasion to draw GERMANICUS from his charge and government of Germany, under colour to sand him to the Parthian Wars, as he did: And so GERMANICUS being sent for, came for this purpose, having few days before won a great Germanicus sent against the Parthians. battle, & slain ten thousand of his enemies, & so he entered into Rome in a solemn triumph, and (as CORNELIUS TACITUS reporteth) he brought thither with him the ensigns which QVINTILIUS VARRO had lost, and presently began to prepare for the war against the Parthians. A little before GERMANICUS his triumph, there arose a man in Italy, called CLEMENS, a bondslave to AGRIPPA, who named himself AGRIPPA, nephew to OCTAVIAN (whom we have said to be slain by TIBERIUS his order) which action seemed of some importance: for much lose and seditious people joined with him, which caused a great tumult i●… Italy; this man pretending that he aught of right to be Emperor, and not TIBERIUS: But as he had a weak foundation, so was he soon overthrown, taken prisoner, brought to TIBERIUS, and finally executed although secretly. And about the same time TIBERIUS committed a fowl and perfidious act of cruelty: for having with gracious and kind words alured ARCHELAUS King of Cappadocia to come to Rome (who was a friend and vassal to the Roman Empire) for feigned and unjust causes he made him to be accused and committed; where afterwards this miserable King died in prison, and his country was made a tributary province. In the like manner he Cappadocia made a province. dealt with many Princes and great men of Spain, France, Gracia, and other parts. The expedition which TIBERIUS had intended against the Parthians, was much hastened by reason of the death of ANTIOCHUS King of Comagena, and of PHILOPATER King of Cilicia in Asia, vassals to the Empire: by means of whose deaths some alterations grew in those provinces; for some would have a King, and others would be governed by the Empire. GERMANICUS being prepared for his Eastern journey (as he was commanded) departed from Rome, carrying his wife AGRIPPINA and his children with him: between whom and LIVIA the mother of TIBERIUS was great emulation. There was also at this time great controversy and parts-taking, both in words and affections in TIBERIUS his Court; some taking part with GERMANICUS, who (as we have said) was his adopted son and nephew: others adhered to DRUSUS, his son legitimate. TIBERIUS and his mother LIVIA ever sought to advance the reputation of DRUSUS, and in secret to disgrace GERMANICUS: for which occasion he gave the charge of all the legions of Illyricum to his son DRUSUS. And to the end, that GERMANICUS should not be too powerful in the East whither he went, he made GNEUS PISO captain of the province and legions of Syria (who was an eminent man, greatly allied in Rome, and of a good house) for that he held with DRUSUS; and dispossessed CRETI●…US SYLLANUS of that charge, being a friend to GERMANICUS. This PISO was married to a Roman Matron called PLANCINA, of the same condition, but of an hautier spirit than her husband; to the which husband and wife the Emperor TIBERIUS and his mother LIVIA gave in charge, to procure hatred and dislike against GERMANICUS; yea and his death also: as it after appeared. And with this resolution they departed from Rome towards the East: where PISO presently, with gifts and flattery, began to draw to himself the love and good Piso animated by Tiberius against Germanicus. liking of the army against GERMANICUS, and to murmur and speak ill of him: who, while as PISO practised these things, took so good order in the war and government, as he placed a King in the province of Armenia, who was a friend and subject to the Romans; and the kingdoms of Comagena and Cilicia being void by the death of their Kings, he reduced into provinces, and placed in them Praetors and governors. In Comagena QVINCIUS SERVIUS, and in Cilicia QVINTUS VERANIUS; moderating in them both the royal subsidies and tributes. And after this he took so good order, as he compelled the King of Parthia to sue for peace and friendship: which he granted and concluded, to the honour of the Empire. Being thus busied about these things, PISO and his wife never left to murmur against him, and to tax him openly: the which he dissembled, knowing from whence it did proceed. And having made an end of the Parthian war, he departed from thence to visit the province of Egypt: and in his absence (although it were not long) his competitor PISO plotted such matters against him, as when he understood of his return, he departed out of that province. But as he had practised his death, he went not far off, but remained some days in an Island: during which time, GERMANICUS coming on his way, was poisoned by the practice of PISO, but by the direction and counsel of TIBERIUS (as it was thought) whereof he died suddenly, leaving behind Germanicus poisoned by Piso. him sons and daughters; among which was CAIUS CALIGULA, who was afterwards Emperor. For which cause it hath been very expedient to make such mention of his father GERMANICUS, who if he had lived had been Emperor and successor to TIBERIUS. Before his death he complained much unto his friends of the lewd practices of PISO and PLANCINA his wife, by whose fraud he was brought to an untimely death, entreating them to prosecute revenge. And turning to his wife, he conjured her by all the bonds of nuptial love, to submit her courage to the frowns of fortune; lest at her return to the City, by emulation of greatness she should purchase to herself two powerful enemies. The worthy and valiant Captain GERMANICUS being dead in this manner, as is said, his wife AGRIPPINA came to Rome with her children, and brought with her the ashes of her deceased husband. The Emperor TIBERIUS made show of great sorrow (though counterfeit) for the death of GERMANICUS (the like did LIVIA and her son DRUSUS, who then was come to Rome) but in truth was very glad thereof: for by the death of GERMANICUS he did assuredly hope to succeed in the Empire. But true and unfeigned was the sorrow which all the people of Rome conceived for the death of GERMANICUS; and great were the favours and love which they shown to AGRIPPINA and her children: and great was the hatred they bore against PISO, whom they openly charged to have murdered him; who presuming on TIBERIUS his favour (being altogether shameless) came to Rome: where, in the behalf of AGRIPPINA and her friends, he was accused before the Senate for hatred to GERMANICUS; that he had corrupted the common soldiers with licentiousness and done wrong to the Confederates; that he was called father of the Legions by the lewdest sort; that he had been cruel to all good men, and that he had poisoned GERMANICUS, and borne arms against the State. To most he answered weakly, only the poisoning could not be well verified. Which, TIBERIUS dissembling, (as one who was not to love him any better than the rest) he was driven to such an extremity in the accusation, as before that the cause was determined, he was found dead in his bed (as it was thought) by his own hands; although (as CORNELIUS TACITUS saith) it was never certainly known: but there were many opinions concerning the same. Who also writeth that a powerful man named TACFARINAS rebelled in Africa in the province of Numidia; and levying great forces, overthrew certain Roman cohorts, thinking to have been able to possess the country: against whom went the Proconsul LUCIUS ASTRONICUS with an army: and coming to a battle he overcame him and put him to flight, to his great loss. Which (as it seemeth) happened in the seventh year of the reign of TIBERIUS; although afterwards the same TACFARINAS was again overthrown, by the Proconsul BLESUS, in a second rebellion. The year following, the Emperor TIBERIUS made himself to be chosen Consul, and his son DRUSUS his Companion, as at other times he had done: and feigning that it behoved him for his health, he went forth of Rome, to the end he might settle and establish DRUSUS in the government of the Empire; for of his brother CLAUDIUS until then he made small account: but God disposed of all in another manner. In the same year many cities in France rebelled, being unable to endure the intolerable tributes and exactions which TIBERIUS imposed upon them. The captains and authors of this rebellion, were two hardy men, the one called FLORUS, and the other SACROBIS, which did so much trouble the country, as they put Rome itself in great fear, much more being there reported than was true. But this did nothing trouble TIBERIUS; so much had he forgotten all virtue and goodness, giving himself wholly over to vice and sensuality in his old age. But CAIUS SILIUS, who was Captain of those parts, did soon suppress the troubles of France, who with his legions came against those which rebelled, put them to flight in a battle, and slew a great number of them: and so he pacified that country, and his son DRUSUS did principally employ himself in the government. TIBERIUS passing the most part of the time in Campania, between whom and his mother LIVIA began some secret (which grew to public) quarrels and dislikes, he being very unreverent and undutiful; and she much discontented with his manner of government, and chief for the private familiarity between him and ELIUS SEJANUS, whom he favoured so much as he made him captain of the Praetorian cohorts, and gave him many other dignities: and finally made him so great, as he presumed to contend with his son DRUSUS: and his presumption was such, as by wicked practices and devices, he alured to his dishonest lust the wife of the said DRUSUS, daughter in law to TIBERIUS, whose name was LIVIA, the daughter of GERMANICUS. Committing this adultery (with a conceit to succeed in the place of DRUSUS) he practised his The Insolences of Sejanus death, and found means by an Eunuch his servant, to poison him: which took effect, and DRUSUS died thereof, and left one son named TIBEIUS, as his grandfather; but it was not then known who was the cause of his death. Whereof arose great murmuring in Rome, although The death of Drusus, Tiberius' son. it little grieved the greatest part: for they deemed that GERMANICUS his three sons should have succeeded in his place, whom they much respected for their father's sake: whose names were CLAUDIUS NERO, CAIUS CALIGULA, and DRUSUS. This happened in the ninth year of the reign of TIBERIUS, which was a beginning of his misfortunes: we may say the like of the Commonwealth; for from that time forwards, all his actions and resolutions had ill success, his detestable vices discovered themselves, and the subjects endured infinite cruelties, robberies, outrages and oppressions: as also in this same year, TACFARINAS rebelled again in Africa, who in his last rebellion escaped by flight: and having levied much people, in the end was the third time overthrown in battle, and wholly defeated by PUBLIUS DOLABELLA the Proconsul. In Rome the wicked SEJANUS (TIBERIUS favourite) although that in the beginning he made show publicly to favour GERMANICUS sons, which (as hath been said, and it was thought) should have been TIBERIUS successors: yet afterwards all his study and practice was to disgrace and ruin them, and to that end, procured false accusations to be made against all such as took their, or AGRIPPINA their mother's part. And to bring this and other his wicked devices to effect, he procured TIBERIUS to departed from Rome whither he was come: who following the others counsel, aswell for this, as the more freely to give himself to his detestable vices, went into the I'll of Capra, which lieth upon the coast of Naples, where he remained for a time; and being returned into Italy, making his progress into diverse places, never came any more to Rome: neither in the rest of his life is there any more to be spoken, but of his vices and cruelties, whereof in sum we will make a brief relation. Before which it is requisite that all men understand, that during this peregrination of the Emperor TIBERIUS in the eighteenth year of his reign, our Lord and Saviour jesus Christ true God and man suffered The passion of Christ our redeemer. josephus in his antiquities n●… his 15. 16. 17. and 18. booker, and in his first and second of the wars of the jews Saint jerom upon the second chapter of S. Matthew. The Herodes how many they were. Herodes Ascalonita. Saint Matthew the second chapter, I his death and passion, PONTIUS PILATE being precedent or governor of jerusalem in the province of judaea. And to the end that it may be the better known and understood how PILATE came to concur with one of the HERODES, and how many there were of the HERODEs, of whom mention is made in the holy Scriptures, (which is a matter whereof some have made a doubt) in few words I will here set down: which was in this manner, as the Evangelist testifieth, and as out of Saint JERO●… and JOSEPHUS it is gathered. HERODE the great, son of ANTIPATER, who was called HERODE ASCALONITA, was placed there by the Romans: and having reigned many years, was the same to whom the three Kings came from the East guided by a Star, and he who murdered so many innocent children, and some of his own children also, when Christ was borne; who within short space after died, and by his death, his son, whose name was ARCHELAUS, had the kingdoms of judaea, and Idumea; and to his other two sons (for the other three died before their father) were given certain Tetrarchies, whereof to this HERODE ANTIPAS (which was one of them) was allotted the tetrarchy of Galilee, and by this means he is called Tetrarch▪ & this was he which put Saint JOHN BAPTIST to death, and he, to whom PILATE sent Christ, who disdained him. And to PHILIP his other son was given the tetrarchy of Thrach●…nitis: and the other brother, who (as I said) had the title of a King, was accused to OCTAVIAN, and by him deprived and banished into France, to the city of Vienna, by means whereof PILATE was sent to govern that province; and by this means it happened that Christ died in the time of PILATE and of HERODE ANTIPAS the Tetrarch, from whom the tetrarchy afterwards was taken by CAIUS CALIGULA, and he died banished in Lions in France, and his Nephew the Herodes Antipas. Saint Luke chapter 2. Herodes Agrippa. son of his brother ARISTOBULUS, who was one of the three which their father slew in his life time. HERODE AGRIPPA was he, to whom CAIUS CALIGULA, restored the kingdom of judea. And afterwards the Emperor CLAUDIUS gave the tetrarchy of Galilee to his Uncle: and this was he, who put Saint JAMES to death, who beginning to persecute the Apostles, died stricken by an Angel, as Saint LUKE beareth record. Christ being put to death by the sentence of PILATE, and he knowing afterwards that The acts of the Apostles chap. 12. Christ was risen again, by the report of those which he himself had set to watch his body, being also informed of the many miracles which he did in his life time (notwithstanding that he was an idolater and a wicked judge, and had adjudged him to die) yet TERTULLIAN and EUSEBIUS in his ecclesiastical history, and PAULUS OROSIUS in his seventh book, Pilate made relation of the miracles which Christ wrought to the Emperor Tiberius. most ancient and true authors, do record, that by his letters, he advertised the Emperor TIBERIUS thereof, to the end that he should advice and determine, whether Christ should be held for a God or no; and TIBERIUS sent to the Senate to consult thereof, he giving his opinion that he aught to be so: but the Senators, as the devil's scholars, counselled TIBERIUS that he should not do it. Which (as these authors affirm) was for that he had not first made the Senate acquainted therewith, which pretended by an ancient law which they had, to have the superintendence in all matters of religion: yet TIBERIUS notwithstanding that the Senate consented not to his opinion, commanded that the christians should be free from persecution; but he neither embraced the faith of Christ as he aught, neither left his sin and vices. First he gave himself to his old vice of excessive gluttony and drunkenness, for which cause from his youth (in steed of TIBERIUS NERO) they called him BIBERIUS MERO, which signifieth a drinker of the best: and even in this his old age, he hath been often known to sit a whole night, & part of the day, at a banquet, giving gifts & rewards to such as drank most, and in favour thereof he instituted a new office and magistracy; as, master of delights and sports. After this, his chiefest time was spent in abominable luxury and incontinency, which was such and so abominable as christian ears can hardly endure the hearing thereof, nor a christian hand writ the same, wherefore I will pass most of them over in silence. Let this suffice, that it was horrible and detestable: and not contented to commit it himself, he induced and drew others thereto, and gave jewels and rewards to those which invented and committed most filthiness. For during his private abode in Caprea, (as SVETONIUS writes) he devised a room with seats in it of purpose for his secret wanton lusts. For the furnishing whereof he drew from all parts a number of young strumpets, and stolen Catamites or bawds, and such also as invented monstrous kinds of libidinous filthiness, whom he termed Spintrie, who being in three ranks linked together, should pollute one another's body before his face, that by the sight there of he might stir up his own cold courage and fainting lust, with many other such shameful devices, as are not to be mentioned, for the which men did usually term him CAPRINEUS after the name of the Island. This wicked old Emperor, persevering in his libidinous sin, forgot not his cruelty and covetousness, whereto he was no less addicted: for he increased his subsidies and tributes in such manner, that the provinces become ruinated and desolate; and committed many other extortions of the like quality. As for his cruelty, all the examples cannot be repeated, they did so exceed: for he condemned the principal and best men in Rome to death, and confiscated their goods, for very light causes, and most of them forged. One he put justly to death, and with great reason caused him to be slain, which was his great favourite SEJANUS, for many sins which he had learned of him (as DION COCEIUS recordeth:) but for the rest, it is a matter ridiculous, and otherwise lamentable, for what causes they were accused and condemned. One he caused to be slain, because that commending BRUTUS and CASSIUS, he said, they were the last Romans: another he caused to be slain, because that in a tragedy which he had compiled, he spoke ill of AGAMEMNON: another Roman Knight he commanded to be slain, because that in a garden he had taken up a Capon: and for other such like matters as these, he put to death sixteen, of twenty ancient noble men; whom he had chosen for his counsellors. And he forbore not to execute these cruelties upon his allies and kinsfolks: for besides that which is already related, he commanded his Nephew GERMANICUS to be slain, and afterwards the three sons which he left, seeing them to grow in estimation; the two elder of them he caused to be accused by false witnesses, and he himself wrote such things to Rome against them, that in the end they were condemned to death: the one of them desperately killed himself, and he caused the other to pine to death with hunger, as SVETONIUS reporteth. It was a marvel that he had not done the like by the third, whose name was CAIVA CALIGULA, and by their Uncle CLAUDIUS: but it is likely he would have done it, if he had lived a while longer. These executions he thus commanded to be done, to the end that his cruelty might attain to the highest degree, which were not ordinary: for before their death, they suffered hunger, torments, and disgraces, to qualify them. Finally, to conclude, they were so many and so fearful, that many which were condemned, slew themselves, some with poison, and some with the sword, for fear; for TIBERIUS did execute his fury with such cruelty, as he accounted it a deed of charity, to put them to an ordinary kind of death: so as, for that one had killed himself before that he could execute his rage upon him, he cried out; O how hath CORNELIUS escaped me? for so was that man's name: and to another, which entreated him that he would not defer his death; TIBERIUS answered, I am not so much thy friend, as to hasten it. And employing himself in these dinelish exercises, wherein he continued until his death; ARTABANUS King of Parthia, breaking the peace and league which he had contracted with GERMANICUS, presumed to enter into Armenia, and the limits of the Empire, and also the Sarmates invaded the provinces; for which TIBERIUS took no care, neither levied any new army; but they defended themselves with their ordinary legions and armies the best they could. Now, forasmuch as in many places of this history, mention is made of legions and armies, which the Romans ordinarily entertained in their provinces, in time of peace & war, I hold it fit to declare what they were, for the better understanding of what is already, and shall be said hereafter. Which is a great argument, to prove how great the wealth and power of the Romans was: and although that some Authors do treat thereof, I will only set down what CORNELIUS TACITUS writer●… in the fourth book of his histories, an historiographer of great authority. He first saith, that in the two seas, of the one and other side of Italy, to wit, in the Adriatic sea, now the gulf of Venice, and in the Sicilian sea called Mediterranean, they maintained Na●…ieses and fleets maintained by the Romans in sundry places and provinces. two great navies of galleys and ships for their guard and security, and for the safe passage of Merchants, and such other necessary occasions. Another great navy they maintained upon the coast of France, between Spain and Italy; besides those which they had in a readiness and caused to be built when any occasion of war was offered. Their armies by land were divided in manner following: upon the Rhines side on the frontiers of France, they maintained eight legions, to keep those countries which they possessed in Germany, and to resist the Germans and other northerly nations, and these ordinarily were the most experienced and best soldiers. And although that the number of a legion did increase and diminish upon diverse occasions, yet the ordinary in the time of the Emperors was (after VEGECIUS and MODESTUS) that every legion should contain six thousand and one hundred footmen, and seven A legion, of how many foot and horse it consisted. hundred twenty and six horsemen. Of these they held, in Spain, three ordinary legions; and in Africa, in the province of Carthage, two; and in Mauritania one; and two for the guard of the kingdom of Egypt; and in the provinces of Mesopotamia and Syria (to wit) in the countries contained between the Syrian sea, the furthest end of the Levant sea, and the river Euphrates, which were (for a long time) the bounds of the Roman Empire, they held four legions. And here in Europe (besides those which I have already mentioned) they had other six legions, in this manner: in Austria and Hungary they had two; in Servia and Bulgaria, as many; and other two in Slavonia; and near unto the city of Rome, were always lodged twelve Cohorts, nine of which were called Praetorian, and the other three Vrbane, which by turn did guard the Emperor's palace. Of all these Cohorts (according to the same authors) the first and chief Praetorian and Vrban Cohorts. of them contained one thousand, one hundred and five footmen, and one hundred thirty two horse; and the others equally each of them five hundred and fifty footmen, and threescore and six horse. Besides all which, they had in diverse cities and provinces, companies of horsemen, which were friends and subjects to the Empire; and also other companies of footmen, which werere called Auxiliaries, which were not trained after the Roman order and discipline: so as they continually entertained & paid five and twenty legions, besides those which auxiliary forces. were paid by their friends. And this was in time of peace, for the authority and guard of the Empire; for when there happened any wars (according as need required) they reinforced their armies, and increased the number of their legious. With the force of these great garrisons the Roman Empire maintained & defended itself, notwithstanding the want of care and diligence in some Emperors, as in TIBERIUS, of whom we now discourse; who (as is said) spent the rest of his life until his death, in wicked practices: which being much wished for by all the world, overtook him in a house of pleasure near to Naples, having reigned twenty and three yeeares' Emperor, in the seventy and eight year of his age, and thirty, and nine years after the birth of Christ. In what manner he died, authors agreed not, for some say that he was poisoned, by his Nephew and successor CAIUS CALIGULA: others writ that being sick (as it was thought) mortally, and seeing that he made some show of recovery; for fear that he should mend, CALIGULA smothered him with a pillow, or with the covering of the bed, he having ordained him for his successor; Notwithstanding that by reason of a certain prophecy which he held, he had resolved to make his Nephew TIBERIUS the son of DRUSUS his heir, whom DION COCCEIUS in his histories saith, he would not name, because he was not assured that he was his son's son, for the suspicion which he held of his mother; and also because that the Mathematicians and Astrologians, to whom he was much affected and gave credit, had told him, that he should live but a little while, and that CALIGULA should kill him: and so upon a time being very much offended, he said to CALIGULA, thou wilt kill me, and another shall kill thee. It is also imagined, that TIBERIUS chose CALIGULA for his successor, for that ke knew his evil and wicked inclination, hoping that with his vices, he would deface and blot his wickedness out of remembrance; and also for that he believed, that he would extinguish the Roman nobility; for he was so wicked and cruel as he desired that all the world might end with his life, and so hewas sometimes wont to say, that he wished, that when he should die, than the heaven and earth might be dissolved: but he deserved not to see the heavens; and all the earth rejoiced and was glad when he died; as all Authors writ: and this was the end of TIBERIUS. SVETONIUS writes, that the people rejoiced much at his death: and some running up and down, at the news thereof cried out Fling TIBERIUS into Tiber. Others besought the mother Earth, and the infernal gods to vouchsafe him no place but among impious wretches. And some threatened to drag his liveless carcase into the Gemoniae. THE LIFE OF CAIUS CALIGULA, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND FOURTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. CAligula, before he was made Emperor, was so pleasing, and in such grace with the people and Senate of Rome, as when he was advanced, it is unknown whether was the greater, the sorrow which was in Rome for the death of Octavian, or the joy which it conceived for the succession of Caligula. But being made Emperor, as if with his dignity he had changed his natural inclination, he become so wicked and infamous, as I cannot set down his vicious life without offending the chaste ears of him that shall read the same; nor without a burden to his modesty that shall writ it. He made the Bridge at Baias, a work of no less folly then great expense. He deflowered three of his own sisters; and of his Palace (with reverence be it spoken) he made a brothel of Roman Matrous. He was so covetous, as he raised a tax upon the Whores, and had a share of their get. He used to walk up and down upon Crowns; and was so prodigal, that sometimes he caused most precious jewels to be dissolved with vinegar and put into his meat: he was finally in all his actions so contrary to himself, that no man knew how to behave himself towards him. He would be called and reputed for a God, which name he stained with such abominable cruelty, that he was worse than the devil: he shed so much blood, and made the wild beasts which he kept, to devour men, and to drink their blood; so as those which were condemned to be slain by them, rather chose to kill themselves, then to endure the torments which he devised in his cruel disposition. He died of thirty wounds given him by certain which conspired against him, having reigned almost four years: whose death was so acceptable to the people: as it is hard to say whether was the greater joy, that which was conceived when he was made Emperor, or that when he left the Empire, together with his most shameless life. CALIGULA the son of GERMANICUS succeeded TIBERIUS in the Empire, who during the time of his reign, was in the highest degree of all kind of wickedness most abominable: Caligula in the highest degree abominable. and his words and deeds were so odious and detestable, as in truth it is a shameful & unworthy thing, having written the lives of so worthy men, as were JULIUS, and OCTAVIANUS CAESAR'S, & their heroical acts; now to descend to the sink of the villainy, cruelty, and ribaldry of CALIGULA. For although there wanted not in TIBERIUS cause to be abhorred & blamed, yet some part of his reign was good, and he in former times had been an excellent Captain, and had enlarged the dominions of the Empire, for which cause his evil conditions might be somewhat the better tolerated: but this wanting in CAIUS CALIGULA, who was a man of no such valour (although in the beginning he deceived the world with an appearance of some good deeds) yet it maketh the remembrance of him the more detestable, and his hand that shall writ the same, the more heavy. But because I am not to make choice of Emperors, In Caligula wa●… nothing that was g●…od. of whom I am to treat at my pleasure, but to continued the course of my history, wherein my chief foundation is, to observe the truth, and cleaving thereto, to continued my troublesome journey; Let him which shall read it consider how detestable and odious his actions were, and how small time his Empire endured (which attained not to four years complete) and the end which he made; to the end that he may fly and abhor them, & may do the like by some others which followed, like to him, or worse. After the death of TIBERIUS CAESAR (as I said) the joy which the Senate and people of Rome conceived was incredible, and therewith they accepted and approved the Empire of CAIUS CALIGULA (whom before his death TIBERIUS had adopted and nominated for his successor) for the love and goodwill which they bore to his father GERMANICUS, and for the pity and commiseration which they conceived for his death, and the affliction and wrong done to his house. For these causes was he accepted by all the Provinces, and provincial armies: for his father being General in Germany, and in the East, he was bred up among them, and this name of CALIGULA was given him for a certain kind of hose, called Caliga, used Wherefore he was called Caligula. among men of war, which he did use to wear. Coming from the place where TIBERIUS died, to Rome, a great number of the principal men of all estates went forth to entertain him upon the way, with exceeding joy, notwithstanding that he came mourning with the dead body of TIBERIUS, which the soldiers brought to be burnt at Rome, according to the manner of that time. And coming with great solemnity to Rome, he was obeyed with unspeakable gladness and joy, they giving him new names and Epithets, showing great reverence and love. CALIGULA was a man tall of stature, great boned and corpulent; but his neck and legs Caligula his gesture and disposition of body, were very small and slender, deformed and unsuitable to the rest of his body; his countenance was horrible and ugly: being Emperor, he took pleasure to terrify people with his looks; and to this effect it is written, that beholding himself in a glass, he would study what countenance to set, to seem more fierce and terrible. His eyes were very hollow, his forehead broad, his complexion yellow, his head very bald, and in those parts of his head where he had any hair, it was very thin, all the rest of his body being marvelously hairy. He was very unsound and unhealthy, and in his youth was troubled with falling sickness and other diseases, and afterwards (as we will presently show) he was ill disposed both in body and mind, changing his conditions with the Empire: for before that time, he was ever held for good. Wherhfore it is said of him, that he had been the best servant, and was the worst and most wicked Lord in the world. The first thing he did after he came to be Prince, was to disannul & make voided the testament of TIBERIUS, which he had made two years before, wherein he made him & his nephew TIBERIUS his coheirs: whereto the Senate did willingly agreed, & every man devised & plotted how to gratify him and do him service, with such love as within few days after he was confirmed in the Empire. Going forth of Rome to recreate himself upon the Sea at the I'll of Caprea; and in other Lands upon that coast, they made vows and sacrifices for his health and return: and writers affirm, that there were slain 170000. beasts, according to the rites and ceremonies then used: And then making show of a man, and not of a beast (as his deeds did afterwards make manifest) he presently commanded the ashes of his mother and brethren to be brought to Rome, and there to be sumptuously buried. He then took for his companion in the Consulship, which he would execute, his uncle CLAUDIUS, brother to GERMANICUS, who in the time of TIBERIUS lived private and in disgrace; and young TIBERIUS, (which was nephew to TIBERIUS the Emperor) feigning to love, and affect him: to do him honour, he made him captain and prince of all the Roman youth. Seeking by sergeant goodness and bounty, to draw to himself the goodwill of the people; he did twice give unto every body (excepting none) a certain donative of money, which they called Congiarius; and to all the Senate, and to all those of the order of Knighthood (which was a degree between the commonalty and the Nobility) he made a most solemn banquet. And feigning also that he meant to govern with justice, he commanded OCTAVIANUS CAESAR his Institutions to be sought out, which TIBERIUS interrupted and brought out of use. He commanded also great plays and feasts to be made in Rome of Swordplaiers, who were men which to show pleasure to the beholders, fought and killed one another; and certain men on horseback which they called Troyans'. He also appointed certain hunt, wherein were slain a great number of Lions, Panthers, Boars, Bears, and other wild beasts; and besides this, Comedies and other shows which were made in the Theatre, & other kinds of sports and pleasures to delight the people, whose love and grace he then affected. And besides that which is already said (as SVETONIUS reciteth) principally in the beginning of his Empire, ARTABANUS King of Parthia, who rebelled and was an enemy, came to a conference with the General of the Romans which commanded the legions in Syria, and fearing the new Emperor whom he yet knew not, made a peace with him; and passing the river Euphrates, which was the bound of Peace with the king of Parthia. the Roman Empire, came in person to adore and to do reverence to the Emperor's statue, and to the Imperial standard and Eagle: so as the little, until this time, may be reported of CALIGULA, as of a wise and discreet prince; and the remainder seemeth to be of a senseless man and a brute and savage beast. The beginning whereof was one of the greatest fooleries or vanities that ever was seen, which was to make such a feast as was never heard of, to show his greatness and vanity, and to be able to walk and tread on the Sea as well as upon the land▪ Or (as others say) because he would imitate King XERXES, who passed his army aut of Asia into Europe over the straight of Hellespont upon a wooden bridge, he commanded to be brought together, and to be new built all the ships he could get, which were infinite; & in a bay or a creek A wonderful bridge made by Caligula. which the Sea maketh near to the haven of Baias in Campania, from one point of the land to the other side of the Bay, which is about three miles distant, he commanded a bridge to be made upon the said ships, set in two ranks, fastened and moared together with anchors, chains and cables, which made them to stand fix and firm: he commanded this bridge to be made of boards, so strong and eeuen, and to lay so much earth upon the same, as it seemed to be firm ground, and one of the streets of Rome. And bringing for this work a great number of Artificers and labourers, with an infinite charge; he also caused houses and lodgings to be built upon the bridge, as writeth DION, who relateth this work more at large then all the rest. This being finished, and he with all the Court going thither, with an infinite number of people which from all parts came to see this work; he proudly attired in robes of gold and pearl, with a crown of Oaken boughs upon his head (which was called Civica) on horseback, accompanied with men of war, and all the Nobles and gentlemen of Rome, entered at the one end of the bridge and road to the other; and lying one night upon it, the next day he returned, riding in a Chairot drawn by most excellent fair horses, in manner of a triumph. DION writeth, that the night when he lay upon the bridge, he caused such an infinite number of Torches, Lanterns, and other lights to be lighted and set up, as the clearness thereof did exceed the darkness of the night, of all that side of the mountains near adjoining; CALIGULA boasting that he had made of the night, day; and of the Sea, land. And spending herein two whole days (in all which time the Sea happened to be still and calm) he said; that Neptune (whom they held for the god of the Seas) did it for fear, and to do him reverence. The fruit which ensued of this strange folly, was great famine and scarcity of corn, and other necessaries, for that the ships were stayed about this bridge, to make the which there were employed an incredible number. Such like benefits as this, did ever follow the actions of CALIGULA. Wherhfore before I speak of the rest, to say the truth, it is to be understood, that many were of opinion, that to this man was given a certain drink by his wife, whose name was CESONIA, wherewith she made him mad and distracted of his wits; she giving it him, to the end he should love her: for having been at other times married he had put away his wives; so as his cruelty and riots were by some attributed to his foolishness & want of wit. Of this opinion is JOSEPHUS in the 18. book of his Antiquities, and the Poet IWENAL with SVETONIUS: and they say that after he had taken this drink, CALIOULA slept not by day nor night above three hours; and rising sometimes affrighted, it seemed to him that he saw apparitions and visions: adding this to his perverse condition and nature, he suffered himself to be led by her, and committed outrages without number or measure, which I know not how to set down in any order: among which he shown himself so haughty and vainglorious, as he despised all men. In the end (besides that he was the first of the Emperors which caused himself to be called Lord) he purposed to be honoured as a God, or to say better, a Devil; and made himself to be adored, taking first upon him names never thought nor heard of, calling himself father of Armies, Devilish pride. Optimus & maximus, with other epithets, which they gave to their god JUPITER only. And certain Kings in his presence which came to visit him, and to do him honour, being at contention among themselves about the antiquity and nobility of their houses and lineages, he interrupted, repeating a verse out of HOMER in the person of ULYSSES, which saith, That there neither is, nor aught to be, but one King and Lord; and had then taken a Crown and Diadem of a King, but that he was given to understand, that his own was a more high estate and dignity. Nevertheless, he determined with his pride and elation to usurp the dignity which he held for divine, and caused to be carried before him the statue of JUPITER, & some The images of the gods, with heads to be taken off and on. others, which (as PLINY recounteth) the Romans used to have with heads to be taken off and on, to the end they might serve for diverse gods; and taking away those heads which they had, he caused other heads to be set on, to his own likeness: but in my opinion it had been better they had cut off his head and set it thereon. Besides this, he caused a temple to be built, and tobe dedicated to his name and honour, and made his statue at Life to be set up therein, which they called Iconium; and he instituted Priests to serve him: and this his image to be every day clothed in such attire, as himself did wear. Also he caused Peacocks, Feasants, and an infinite number of other princely birds to be sacrificed in this Temple, as in other Temples of the gods of the Gentiles was used; with whom he sought to make himself equal: which truly was no great matter: for they all were devils, Impostures and deceits. But considering the opinion and conceit which they then held, it was a presumption never heard nor thought of, which came to be accounted a ridiculous foolishness: for presuming much upon his deity, he came forth one night by Moonlight (she being then at the full) and wooed and made love to her, as if she had been a fair Lady. Sometimes A ridiculous folly such as the like was never heard of. he would also go to the Temple of JUPITER; and joining himself close to the Image, he made show as though he had spoken in his care: and sometimes he laid his care to the Image, as though it should speak to him: and sometimes he made as though he were very angry, chiding, and threatening to sand it into Gracia: and afterwards he would feign himself to be pacified, and that he was contented that they two should devil together: and in this manner he proceeded to a thousand idle fooleries, although they were devilish. And on the other side, this man which presumed to displace the gods and to make himself one of them, shown his envy to men; grieving to see their statues and memories honoured, commanding many of them to be overthrown, and defaced. He practised and was desirous to disgrace the poems of HOMER and of VIRGIL, and in like manner the histories of the excellent historiographer TITUS LIVIUS, and commanded his image to be taken out of the Libraries in Rome, where they used to keep the Images and pictures of great and excellent learned men. Of VIRGIL he said, that he was a man without any wit, and less learning; and TITUS LIVIUS he reproved for a man of many words, and negligent; of SENECA (who in that time was much esteemed, and with great reason) he said that he was sand without lime, and a work made without mixture: and so did he tax the most sublime and excellent wits. Besides which, he took from many Patricij and Noblemen of Rome the Arms and Ornaments which they bore of their Lineages and Families: and his envy yet descended to lighter and meaner matters than these; so as there was no man (were he never so base) whom he envied not for any prosperity or good success that might happen unto him; as to make men to be shaved, if he saw they had yellow or fair coloured hair. Now for matters of lasciviousness and dishonesty, truly there is so much to be said, as a man may not, neither aught to make the whole relation thereof; to the end that his filthiness do not soil and corrupt our History: for it is certain that he was as filthy and abominable, as his predecessor TIBERIUS, if not more. He was so shameless in his incontinency and lust, as he respected neither persons nor place. He abused all his Sisters: of which (it is thought) he deslowred DRUSILLA being a Virgin, himself but a very boy. She being afterwards married to LUCIUS CASSIUS LONGINUS, a man of Confular degree, he took her from him and kept her openly, as if she had been his lawful wife, and being sick he made her heir of all his goods, and his successor in the Empire: but she dying he sorrowed with impatiency. His other Sisters LIVIA and AGRIPPINA, he neither loved nor respected, but would often prostitute them to his own stolen Catamits. And in the end he condemned them to exile with AEMILIUS LEPIDUS, as Adultresses and privy to treasons against, his person. Neither was any Roman Matron (how honourable or virtuous soever) free from his pollution. He would usually invite them with their husbands to supper: and if any one liked him, he would rise from the table, and call her to him into an other room, and there abuse her, and then presently return again and brag of his fowl fact. In other vices he was beyond all measure passionate, being extreme in extremities, the one The abominable vices of Caligula. against the other: for he was greedy and covetous in extreme manner; and of the other side, prodigal and a spender above all measure. To glut his greedy covetousness he invented means to gather wealth, and to rob the land and the people: so as there was no kind of tribute or imposition to be devised which he put not in practice; even amongst common & dishonest women; His extreme avarice. and of all suits in law, he had the fortieth part of any sum that was recovered; and if the parties agreed before sentence given, he had a certain portion: and so in all matters wherein any thing was to be gotten, he took a share, even of those which were porters and got money by carrying of burdens upon their shoulders. And having amassed together an infinite sum, by direct and indirect means; he would lie down and tumble upon it, recrea●…ing himself in his covetousness: wherein he shown great simplicity, seeing how little he did otherways esteem it, and his lavish expenses, as the most prodigal man that ever was, which a man may easily judge by these few examples following. Into the baths wherein they did use to to bathe, he caused most precious and sweet smelling ointments to be cast which were of exceeding great price, that they might bathe in them, hot and cold, as in other water. In the feasts and banquets which he made, Caligula his prodigal●…ieses. he commanded most precious pearls and jewels to be dissolved in most strong vinegar, and to be put into their meat, because the cost should be inestimable: and he commanded that all the services in steed of meat, bread, flesh, fish, and fruits, should be of fine gold for his guests. Besides this, he sometimes cast among the people great sums of money: whereby it seemeth they had reason, which attribute the doings of this man to foolishness, aswell as to his ill disposition. The inconstan●…t and variety 〈◊〉 h●… doings and behaviour. There was so great variety in his actions, affections and desires, as may be gathered by that which is already said, and the rest which we will declare; as on the one side he contemned the gods, and presumed himself to be one of them, and yet he was so afeard of a thunder clap that he ran and hid himself under a bed. Sometimes he was very familiar, and called men to converse with him, seeming to be much delighted with their company and conversation: at other times he shunned them, and retired himself to his works. He sometimes dispatched matters with such expedition and diligence, as he seemed to be the most quick and active man in the world, and at other times, with such slackness and leisure, as he seemed not to be the man which he was before. Many which committed heinous crimes, he punished not: and others he commanded to be slain, which had done no offence. He would this day praise one thing: and the next day, he would peradventure 'cause him to be slain which spoke well thereof. Finally, he was so variable that (as DION reporteth) men knew not what to do, nor say, his conditions were so doubtful. The like he did in his apparel, in his exercises, and in all his other actions: for procuring one thing, he would do clean contrary; as we said in robbing and heaping treasure together, he would spend so prodigally that those treasures should not suffice for his expenses. Besides what is already said, authors affirm that he commanded certain ships to be built, which were the greatest and most costly that ever were seen, of which all the timber was of Cedar, and Ships of incredible cost a●… greatness. the poops and sternes of ivory set with gold and precious stones, and all the sails and tackling were of silk of diverse colours: they were so great, as they had in them halls and gardens, wherein were many trees and flowers: in one of these ships, he sailed along the coast of Naples one whole day, to disport himself. He also began certain buildings and works against all reason and humane discretion, and such as seemed impossible. For in the sea he commanded Proud buildings. huge pillars and towers to be built, and by land he raised certain valleys, & made them equal with the mountains, heaping up rocks and earth in them, until they were even therewith. And in other places, he began to dig down mountains to make them level with the meadows, presuming to correct the works of nature. As CAIUS CALIGULA was so variable and inconstant, as we have said; so in cruelty only he was constant, using it indifferently to all without respect of parentage or friendship: in the like manner he used his grandmother ANTONIA daughter to GERMANICUS, so as she being in despair, took poison whereof she died. And the young TIBERIUS Nephew to the Emperor TIBERIUS, and son to DRUSUS (as I have said) he making show to love him, living secure and without fear, he sent to kill him by the hands of a Tribune, for no other cause, The cruelties of Caligula. but for that he used a certain kind of confection of sweet savours for his delight: CALIGULA saying, that he did it, for fear to be poisoned. And SILLANUS, (who had been his father in law,) he forced to kill himself, only for that he went not one day to sea, with him. Which SILANUS did forbear, because the sea made him sick. And PTOLEMY the son of JUBA King of Mauritania, to whom he was near allied, and MARCO which had helped him to get the Empire, and others with whom he was in great league and friendship, in requital of their deserts he caused them to be cruelly put to death. To all men generally, both in word & deed he used such cruelty, as it would seem incredible, had not so many and such authors written the same: for he commanded wild beasts which he kept for feasts and triumphs, to be fatted with the bodies of living men, condemned to death. And sometimes causing some to be executed, he commanded their parents and kindred to be present at their execution, and then invited them to eat with him, and compelled them to discourse of pleasant matters. He also qualified his cruelties, with sundry kinds of deaths which he inflicted; prolonging it, to the end that the torment should be the greater: So as they stood in so great fear of this man, that many (if they had opportunity) slew themselves rather then they would stay for his sentence: among which the accursed PONTIUS PILATE, who condemned to death the giver of life JESUS CHRIST our Redeemer, was one; who being accused and banished, slew himself with his own hands. This wretched CALIGULA was so nuzzled in blood, as he much desired and wished that all the Roman people had had but one head, to the end that he might cut off that head at one blow. He also held the time of his reign infortunate, & complained of the infelicity thereof, for that in his days there was no pestilence, famine, earthquakes, deluges, spoils by fire or other misfortunes. There came by chance one day into his presence, a man who had been banished by the Emperor TIBERIUS, of whom he asked what life he led in his exile? the other to flatter him, answered, that he spent his time in praying for the death of TIBERIUS, to the end he should be Emperor: which when CALIGULA heard (as he had banished a great number of men) he believed that they all made the like prayer for him, & therefore commanded so many of them as could be found, to be sought out and slain. Using these cruelties and such like, or greater, he made himself within few days so hateful, as his death was generally desired, and practised by some: but the conspiracies against him being discovered, it deferred his death, although but for a small time, which was as he deserved, as we will presently declare. But first we will speak of the wars & conquests which he made, wherein he shown no less vanity then in all the rest. For upon a sudden at the end of the third year of his reign, he caused a great number of men of war to be levied, wherewith he departed from Rome, giving it out that he went to make war in Germany whither he took his journey: whereto he added the ordinary legions, which were in those parts, and with a show and appearance to do some great exploit with his army, he passed the river of Rhine: and he began to make war at such time as it seemed to all men (considering The conquests and vain war of Caligula, his great number of men, and the resolution wherewith he came) that he would have overrun the world, and have made some great conquest; but he contented himself with this, that the King's son of Batavia (which is now called Holland) being in disgrace with his father, came Batavia, Holland. to his service, and herewith having done some small harm in that country, he returned, and passed the river: And after he had given some alarms, he took his way with his army towards the sea; and in memory of his victory, he there commanded a tower to be built, and all his soldiers to gather abundance of cockle shells, as the spoils of his enemies: and then calling his army together, in such manner as captains use to do after some notable victory, he made a long oration unto them, and commended them all; and afterwards he commanded a great some of money to be distributed amongst them, over and above their pay. Returning to Rome, he sent before, to command that there should be prepared a most solemn triumph; carrying with him to that effect, certain Barbarians his enemies, such as he could get: but afterwards he altered his determination, deferring the triumph until another time, and entered into Rome in ovacian triumph, and there began again to execute some of his accustomed cruelties, purposing to have done greater. Which the world being unable to endure, many conspired against him: he which did most therein, and the first that began to practise, was a Tribune of the Praetorian Cohorts, whose name was CHEREA: he died of thirty wounds Caligula murdered, and in what manner. which they gave him, in a vault or secret gallery, wherein he used to pass unseen, from his palace to certain baths, having most unworthily reigned three years and ten months, in the nine and twentith year of his age. The manner of his death, besides SVETONIUS, DION and others, is written by the true Historiographer JOSEPHUS: to whom I refer the curious reader to make an end of so brutish a monster, as was CAIUS CALIGULA. This happened in the three and fortith year of CHRIST our Lord After that he was dead, there died the same day CESONIA his wife, and one only daughter which he had: and notwithstanding that the Almains which were of his guard fell to arms, & would have slain the conspirators, and did kill some of them, yet in the end all was pacified, and his death was generally approved, as of a Tyrant and most cruel Prince; in like manner as the death of such Kings and Princes is usually approved & pleasing, whose lives have been detestable and odious. It is certainly known, that when CALIGULA was slain, he had purposed to have put many to death: for in his closet or privy chamber, were found two books; whereof the one was called the poiniard, and the other the sword, wherein were written the names of a great number of Senators and Knights of Rome: whom he had condemned to death. There was also found a chest full of diverse kinds of poisons, such were the relics and jewels of this wicked man. In this short time wherein CAIUS CALIGULA reigned, the name and faith of CHRIST was published and preached in a great part of the world, the holy Apostles Saint PETER and Saint PAUL preaching the same; and particularly in judea Saint MATTHEW, who first of all wrote the Gospel. THE LIFE OF CLAUDIUS, THE FIRST OF THAT NAME, AND FIFT ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. Claudius' the son of Drusus, and Uncle to Caligula, obtained the Empire more through the temereity of the soldiers, then for any worthy acts done for his country: for Caligula being dead the Senate resolved to extirpate the race of the Caesars, and to restore Rome to her ancient liberty, and with many armed men had seized upon the Capitol. Whereupon he standing in great fear, seeing so great a tumult (as commonly it happeneth upon innovation in States) and being by nature fearful, and a coward, he hide himself in a secret place of the palace, where being found by a soldier which by chance came to seek for pillage, he was by him reverenced, and hailed Emperor. This soldier being seconded by others who together with the people desired a prince, in the end maugre the Senate they made him Emperor; in which dignity he carried himself in the beginning with such modesty and humanity, as all men began to assure themselves of an excellent government: but he continued not long in that good disposition: for through his little care, the natural vices of his mind increasing, he desrauded the world of the hope conceived of him, and in short space become both luxurious, cruel, a drunkeard, and a glutton. He had many wives, but above all the rest Messalina was so incontinent and so infamous, as her filthiness cannot be written without undecent and immodest words. This Emperor was so forgetful, as he remembered not in the evening what he had done in the morning; by reason whereof, he did oftentimes 'cause those to be called to eat, or play with him, whom he had commanded to be slain; and amongst others, he asked wherefore his wife Messalina came not to dinner having but a little before caused her to be put to death. He caused with excessive charge the lake Fucinus to be dried up, wherein before that it was drained, he made an infinite number of men (condemned to die) to fight a navale battle. He subdued Mauritania which rebelled against him: and in his old age took to wife Agrippina the mother of Nero: who perceiving that he was not greatly affected to her son, as a woman desirous to make him to succeed in the Empire, poisoned him in certain Mushrooms which be loved to eat, alleging that they were meat for the gods, for that they grew of their own accord, whose death was concealed by Agrippina, until she had confirmed her son for his successor in the Empire. He lived sixty and four years, and reigned fourteen; his death was not greatly lamented, for that his life was not much beloved. BY the death of CAIUS CALIGULA, his Uncle CLAUDIUS, and brother to his father the good GERMANICUS son of DRUSUS and son in law to OCTAVIANUS, had the Empire. But the manner how he attained thereto was very strange, and therefore worthy to be related. The sudden death of CALIGULA caused great alteration and confusion in the city of Rome, as soon as it was published. Some would not believe it, seeing it was done in a secret place, imagining that it was a matter feigned by him, thereby to discover every man's affection towards him. The conspirators, as they did not practise his death to the end that any of them should aspire to the Empire, neither for any other man, but only to free the commonwealth from so cruel a Tyrant, had more care for their own safeties then to make choice of a new Emperor. The Consuls as soon as they were certified of his death, assembled the Senate; and being terrified with the miseries past, resolved to reduce the city of Rome to her ancient liberty, and to extinguish the name of CAESAR'S and the Monarchy; and persevering in this determination, The Senate sought to reduce the city to her ancient liberty. they seized on the Capitol, with some of the Cohorts of the city, which had the guard of the palace, who were also of their opinion. But herein were diverse opinions in the city: for the common people would have a head and an Emperor, for the hatred which they ever bore to the Senate, and for that the lest part of the evils and cruelties committed by the Emperors, fell upon them; and also for that they enjoyed and tasted of the feasts and largess which the Emperors The common people and men of war would have an Emperor. used to make. The men of war of the praetorian Cohorts which were lodged hard by Rome, desired there should be an Emperor; because they were in hope to make choice of him at their pleasure; and in regard of the rewards and privileges which they enjoyed from the Emperors. But the matter remaining in this confusion, neither the one nor the other knew whom to nominate. It happened that CALIGULA being dead, CLAUDIUS was in so great fear of his life, as he dared not go forth of the Imperial palace, neither openly to show himself. But being amazed and in this fear, he went to hide himself in the most secret place he could find; but certain soldiers running up and down to take what they could find, it chanced that one of them found him, seeing his feet: who to the end he might know who he was, uncovered him, and knew him. And CLAUDIUS imagining himself to be sought for to be slain, cast himself at the soldier's feet, desiring him to save his life: whereof the soldier assured him, & presently resolved to name him Emperor: who gathering together those which came with him, they all did the like: and taking him upon their shoulders, they carried him in a litter to their Camp; where (trembling in great fear) he knew not to what issue this would come. But he was well entreated in the Camp, & the soldiers agreed to make him Emperor. The Consuls and Senate hearing he was carried to the Camp, in such manner as aforesaid, sent to him requiring him by a tribune of the people, to come to the Senate, and there to treat of such matters as should be for the common good. Whereto he answered, that he was there detained by force and could not come. It chanced that at this time, HERODE AGRIPPA King of judea, was in Rome: whom (as is above said) CAIUS CALIGULA had restored to the Kingdom, which in right had belonged to his uncle ARCHELAUS, & to his grandfather HERODE, which slew the Innocents'. This HERODE showing himself a neuter, began to mediate an agreement between CLAUDIUS and the Senate; although that secretly he favoured CLAUDIUS, counselling Claudius assistest by Herode Agrippa. him to be resolute, and not to submit himself to the Senate. One whole day and a night was spent without any resolution, during which time CLAUDIUS wavered between hope and fear: the next day the people began openly to demand an Emperor, and many abandoned the Senate and Consuls; so as there followed much trouble (which JOSEPHUS noteth.) But at Lib. 19 c. 30. length, seeing that the succession in the Empire more rightly appertained to CLAUDIUS, then to any other, they all agreed to make him Emperor: and the Senate went unto him, and the Cohorts took the oath, and did their accustomed homage, he making many large promises; and so the Senate accepted and confirmed him. And thus he obtained the Empire of the world, who but a day before knew not where to found a place to hide himself, for the safety of his life. When CLAUDIUS attained to the Empire, he was fifty years old, having ever lived poorly and little esteemed, notwithstanding that he was near of kin to the Emperors, and had passed great dangers and perils, without any office or dignity; saving some few months the Consulship, wherein by CAIUS CALIGULA he was admitted for his companion. He was a man of a tall stature, neither fat nor lean, of a fair and pleasing countenance; and whether he sat or stood, he ever shown a greatness, representing majesty: whereto his fair grey Claudius' his gesture and bodily disposition. hairs were a great ornament. He had so little strength in his knees as he went weakly, and as though he were careless. And when he was angry, he was so much altered therewith, as the tears would fall from his eyes, and he stammered in his speech; besides all which, his head did ever shake. He was a sickly man: but being once Emperor, he was cured of his infirmities, except the pain of the stomach, which sometimes troubled him very much. He was learned both in Claudius was learned in the Greek and Latin tongues. the Greek and Latin tongues, and wrote books and histories. He also took upon him to add three letters to the Latin Alpabet: but as a matter superfluous they continued not. CLAUDIUS is numbered among the bad Emperors, for his vices and the great cruelties which he committed, suffering himself to be governed by certain enfranchised men which were his favourites: yet he did many things befitting a worthy Prince, which were profitable, so as PAULUS OROSIUS in some sort seemeth to defend his actions. Beginning to take the government upon him, notwithstanding that there were diverse opinions, & many both attempted and spoke much against him; The first thing he did, was to give a general pardon, and to command all things past to be buried in perpetual silence and oblivion: yet for example, and to fear others to attempt the like, he commanded justice to be done on CHEREA the captain of the conspirators & upon some of the rest; who suffered death with Cherea died courageously. great courage, and resolution, making mention of BRUTUS and CASSIUS, who slew JULIUS CAESAR; CHEREA desiring that he might be slain with the same sword wherewith he had slain CALIGULA. CLAUDIUS shown himself merciful to all which had offended him, and were opposites in his election: and disannulled all the cruel edicts made by CALIGULA. He also commanded to be delivered out of prison, & to be released from banishment, all those which unjustly, or for small causes did endure the same: among which he released from banishment CALIGVLA'S sisters and nieces. And to HERODE AGRIPPA King of judea (in requital of them eanes he used to advance him to the Empire) he gave the tetrarchy of Galilee, which CAIUS CALIGULA had taken from his uncle HERODE ANTIPAS, Herode Antipas which put S. john Baptist to death, died miserably in exile at Lions in France. Herode Agrippa a great persecutor of the Gospel, was stricken by the Angel of God. Chap. 1●…. Three Herodes. Herode Ascalonita was he which murdered the Innocents', died of death natural. who had put S. JOHN BAPTIST to death, and was an actor in the death of our Saviour. This HEROD AGRIPPA was of great state, and honoured in jerusalem: where putting S. JAMES to death, and persecuting the Apostles and Primitive Church, he was stricken by the Angel of God, and died as S. LUKE reciteth in the Acts of the Apostles. And so these three HEROD'S died an evil death. Of this AGRIPPA, & his uncle HERODE Tetrarcha, called ANTIPAS (who put Saint JOHN to death, and in whose time our Saviour died; and the other HERODE the great, who slew the Innocents', in whose time CHRIST was borne) I have twice made mention, because these HERODES commonly breed a confusion in reading of the Scriptures, not distinguishing the one from the other. Returning to the Emperor CLAUDIUS (I say) that touching the ceremonies, names and titles, which for honour the Romans were wont to give to their Emperors, he shown himself very discreet and temperate, & would not accept of many of them: and forbade upon great penalties, that none should do sacrifice to him, as they had done to CAIUS CALIGULA: and so in the beginning of his Empire, he did these and such like as a good Prince. Among which, one was, that he had an especial care that Rome should be continually well provided of wheat and grain, warranting the Merchants against all dangers and pirates by Sea: and herein (although afterwards he committed many errors) he was ever diligent and careful during his life. CLAUDIUS was also a great lover of sumptuous buildings: among which there were The wonderful buildings of Claudius. three so proud and stately, that it seemeth they excelled the most of all that ever were in the world; and for such, PLINY, SVETONIUS, and most authors do accounted them. The one was a marvelous Conduit or Aqueduct of water, which after his name was called Claudia, Plin. lib. 36. cap. 15. with which none of the Conduits in Rome could compare, either for abundance of water, or for cost and excellency of the workmanship: for it was brought forty miles from Rome, by mines and passages through mountains; and in low valleys, by erecting most high Arches of a wondered charge; and so was it carried & mounted to the top of the highest hills in Rome. The other work was a Haven of the Sea made by hand, in the city of Ostia, the which was capable of a great number of ships, made in the firm land; and afterwards he let the Sea into it (as DION reporteth) having first fortified and made firm the bottom thereof: in truth a marvelous work, and such as his posterity and those which succeeded him were not able to maintain. His third work (although less profitable, yet most costly of all the rest;) was to drain and lay dry a great Lake called Fucinus, in the country of the Marsi, a people near to Rome, which was the greatest Lake in all Italy: the which he did (as some say) to bring that water into the River of Tiber, to make it greater with the current thereof, and to dry up and lay open the fields, which that water covered, to the end they might be tilled. Which to effect, among other difficulties and infinite toil, he mined through a very high mountain of flint, three miles in length; a work which seemed impossible, being (as I said) a mine through a rock. Finally; how great and admirable this work was, may appear by the time which it continued, and the labourers which wrought therein, which (as some authors affirm) were 30000. men, which laboured eleven years without ceasing; a matter which seemeth incredible: so as besides the rest, A wonderful work. if EUSEBIUS (a most Christian and true author) had not written it, I durst not report nor believe it. What end this work and labour had, shall be related in his place: for (as I said) although it began in the beginning of his reign, it was ended eleven years after. I also forbear to speak of other his buildings, which although they were excellent, yet not comparable to the above named. Having begun and continued these works, he was not careless for the reformation of evil customs and abuses within Rome, and abroad, and in some other matters: wherein if he had persevered, he had been worthily held for an excellent Prince. But afterwards by reason of his great liberty, and wickedness of his favourites and such as were inward with him, (by whom he was much overruled) he become so dissolute, that it defaced and stained all his former actions, as hereafter shall be declared. Besides that which is already spoken, this made the beginning of his reign the more famous, that in the first, second or third years thereof (as EUSEBIUS, PAULUS OROSIUS, BEDA, and S. ISIDORE report) S. PETER the Apostle came to Rome, and there seated himself, after he had preached in diverse parts, but principally had remained in Antioch eleven years: and being come thither, remained there twenty five years, until the end of the Emperor Nero, as shall be specified: they also affirm, that with S. PETER came the Evangelist S. MARK, and being by him informed, and inspired with the holy Ghost, he wrote the Gospel, by whose direction he returned to preach CHRIST in Alexandria; of whom, and of the other holy Apostles and Disciples of CHRIST, of their miracles, martyrdoms, & what success they had, I make little mention, because (as I have said) in a profane history, as this is, I hold it not fit to insert divine and holy matters, although that in brief there shall be mention made of that which shall be most convenient for the light of this history and the general good. To return to our discourse of CLAUDIUS, it passed in this manner, that in the fourth year of his reign, notwithstanding that the Emperor's power was then so great and so much redoubted, as no Nation of the world durst bear arms against him: yet the inhabitants of the Island of Britain, which JULIUS CAESAR had subdued, did boldly rise in arms, and deny their obedience and vassalage: which the Emperor CLAUDIUS took so ill, as he resolved The Emperor Claudius his coming into England. in person to undertake the enterprise to subdue and pacify them. For which action (besides the ordinary legions) he assembled a great Navy by Sea, and a great army by land; and purposing to go by Sea, he embarked the same in the Port of Ostia, notwithstanding that the passage was fare about: but in the beginning of his voyage he was so overtaken with a tempest, as he was in danger to have been cast away. Wherhfore he disembarked his forces in the city of Marselles in France; and altering his determination, crossed through France, & shipping himself again right over against England, he passed into the Island with so great a power, that he easily pacified all: The Britons rebelled against Claudius. yet (as DION testifieth) he came to a battle with the Britain's, wherein he overcame them. But the common opinion is as I say, and so doth GILDAS, an ancient true English Historiographer of 960. years continuance, record. The journey into Britanny being ended to his content, he sent his Navy into the Lands called Orcades, which lie to the North of Scotland, & are now subject to the King of great Britanny, which within few days he subdued & made subject to the Empire: which until that time were unknown to the Romans, as EUSEBIUS and OROSIUS record. Having performed all these things in the space of six months, he returned towards Rome, where he entered triumphing with the greatest solemnity that could be, & to him was given the name of BRITANNICUS, for subduing the Isle of Britanny. To the solemnity of this triumph, SVETONIUS TRANQVILLUS reporteth, that he not only suffered the Governors & Prefects of provinces to come to Rome, but also he released many others who lived in exile, from their banishment. For this victory, he caused a crownenavall to be made, which was used to be given for victories by sea, which crown was of gold wrought with the prowess of galleys and ships, and placed A Crow●… naval. over the gate of the imperial palace, hard by that which ordinarily did stand there made of oaken boughs, called Civica; and for the same reason he commanded that a son of his, which he had by his wife MESSALINA, whose name was GERMANICUS, should be called BRITANNICUS: And in this triumph he began to honour with arms & other favours some of his libertines, which had been slaves and were enfranchised and set at liberty, and did them so great honour, as men began to murmur against him, and thereby he made himself ill beloved. For they committed many insolences and wrongs, by means of their great riches and authority: of which the chiefest and most spoken of, were six or seven, one named DIODONES, to whom he gave for his arms, the triumph aforesaid: another, whose name was FELIX, he made governor and perfect of judea, Samaria, and Galilee, by means of the death of HERODE AGRIPPA, before which FELIX we read in the acts of the Apostles that Saint PAUL was brought prisoner. Another called CALIXTUS, of whom PLINY, SENBCA, and CONELIUS TACITUS make mention. Another was POLYBIUS', who was a learned man, whom CLAUDIUS himself held for his companion, and as it were master of his studies, to whom SENECA wrote a consolatory epistle for the death of his brother. Another named NARCISSUS, whom he made his Secretary, whom SVETONIUS preferreth before all the rest. Another was PALANTE, a man also very famous: to all which he did such favours and gave so excessive gifts, as they attained to such riches, that CLAUDIUS upon a time complaining that his treasury & exchequer was poor, he was answered, That it would be rich enough, if his freed men NARCISSUS and PALANTE would accompany him, and share with him in their trade and stock. Within short space he made himself so subject, and was so much overruled by these Libertines, and his adulterous and dishonest wife MESSALINA, to whom he was now married (after other wives which he had had) that by their directions and counsels he committed many disorders, follies and wrongs, more like their slave and subject, than their Prince and Sovereign, and suffered others to commit the like; pardoning such grievous offences and committing such cruelties, as it would be long and displeasing to right them all. But by that which he committed against his own blood, which I will declare, the rest may be conjectured which I pass in silence. One of the first and most notable, was the death of APPIUS SILANUS a worthy noble Roman, who sometimes had been governor of Spain, and married with his own mother in law, whose death was plotted by his wife MESSALINA, and his enfranchised NARCISSUS. DION writeth, that having no cause whereof to accufe him, it sufficed to command him to be slain, for that NARCISSUS in a morning came into CLAUDIUS chamber before he was up, feigning great haste and fear, persuading him to stand upon his guard, and to take heed of APPIUS SILANUS: for he dreamt that night he was slain, and that SILANUS only had killed him. The Emperor well pleased with the matter, went to the Senate, acquainting the Senators therewith; much commending & extolling the loyalty The strange cruelty of Claudius. of NARCISSUS, that he even sleeping had care of his life and health. After SILANUS, he also put to death his two sons in law, LUCIUS SILANUS and POMPEY, and two of his own nieces called LIVIAE, one of which was the daughter of DRUSUS, and the other of GERMANICUS; no man knowing any cause wherefore he did it, nor admitting their defence. And so were a great number of others put to death, all by the counsel and practice of MESSALINA and his freed men, who bore such sway in the government and counsel of estate, as they sold offices, Captainships & dignities; and that which was worse, took money for absolutions, penalties, punishments and banishments: finally, all was to be sold for money. And the most part hereof was put in practice (as some authors affirm) without the privity of CLAUDIUS, or being acquainted therewith: so great was their power and authority. And in the like manner did he put some to death, being abused, to please and content these his favourites; so subject was he to be governed by them. By means of the great disorders, murders, and grievances, which CLAUDIUS by the counsel and practice of his libertines and his wife MESSLINA committed, he made himself to be hated of many, and principally of the better sort; so as some practised his death, and conspired against him: although that for his other good deeds, before repeated, he was beloved and much esteemed of others. But as those which hated him were more, and boulder in courage: so they feared not to practise his death which they wished him; chief two Roman Knights resolved to kill him, and STACIUS CORVINUS and GALLUS ASINIUS, two principal Romans conspired against him. But the one and the other being discovered, it was brought to light, and he prevented the danger by executing new cruelties upon the said parties, and upon such as had consented & participated with them: and seeing himself freed from this danger, he continued in his evil purposes and cruel courses. In like manner the hatred increasing against him, it happened that FURIUS CAMILLUS SCRIBONIANUS, who was Lieutenant, and Governor of Dalmatia (incited by many principal men of Rome) openly rebelled against him: and the legious of that Province consenting with him, he called himself Emperor. This put CLAUDIUS into such a fear and amazement, as he was much dejected and base minded: and as sin and an evil conscience is one of the chiefest causes that maketh men cowardly and fearful, he was so daunted, that CAMILLUS (who rebelled) writing unto him, and persuading him to leave the Empire and to live private, he remained doubtful what to Furius Camillus rebelled against Claudius. do; and caused certain principal men to consult thereof: So as if the matter had go forwards, it seemeth that he would have had small courage to have defended the Empire. But as CAMILLUS had no more right thereto then he, & as his purpose was not to redress the Empire and reform the evils committed by CLAUDIUS, but to make himself lord & tyrant, and peradventure do as ill or worse, God would not suffer it to take effect according to his desire: for it happened that the same legions which had raised & chosen him, repenting of what they had done, the fift day after slew him. Some Authors (among which are SVETONIUS, and PAULUS OROSIUS) Furius Camilus sla●…e by the Legions. report, that herein happened a strange accident: for the Ensigne-bearers coming to give their oath and obedience to the new Emperor by his commandment, were not able to remove the Ensigns with the Eagles from the place where they were set; so as moved by this prodigious spectacle, they all concluded to submit themselves to CLAUDIUS devotion, and to slay CAMILLUS. And so was CLAUDIUS delivered from this danger, but not from fear and jealousy, but lived ever after in continual disquiet and fear; insomuch as being one day in the temple offering his sacrifices (as then was the custom) and by chance finding a sword, which some man peradventure without any ill intent had brought thither, and there forgotten it, he as a man which knew that he had deserved death, fearing all men, thinking that it was brought thither to effect some treason against him, was in such a perplexity and fear, as presently in great haste he commanded the Senate to be assembled; and with tears in his eyes, he complained unto them, publishing himself to be a man of most miserable condition and unhappy, and that he was at no time nor in any place assured, but in danger; and so held himself many days retired, and came not abroad. By means of these things which were attempted against CLAUDIUS, MESSALINA his wife and her favourites and confederates, took occasion to put many men to death, and The wickedness of Messalina. to confiscate their goods, using other cruelties to all manner of people, alleging that they were guilty of the conspiracies aforesaid, or of some of them; and this in a most wicked manner: for many upon suspicion without any trial or proof, were condemned and put to death; and to the contrary, others which were guilty, by bribes and gifts were freed: wherein although that for the most part CLAUDIUS was abused by those he most trusted, yet the blame was laid upon him, and the world hated him for it. For besides the remiss forgetfulness which he had of all things, and the trust which he reposed in such wicked people, he shown himself cruel and bloody; for oftentimes he would be present when torments were inflicted, and at the execution of these cruelties: a thing unworthy of the state & dignity which he held. He would sometimes also suddenly be in such a rage, as he seemed to be out of his wits: and so SVETONIUS accounteth his fury for folly and madness; notwithstanding that CORNELIUS TACITUS writeth of him, that he was naturally inclined to pity and clemency: so as in truth it is a strange thing to consider of the contrariety of this man's mind. After all this (as JOSEPHUS, EUSEBIUS, and SVETONIUS affirm) in the ninth year of his reign, he commanded all the jews to be cast out of Rome, whereof Saint Luke maketh mention in the Acts of the Apostles: and PAULUS OROSIUS writing the same, maketh a doubt whether they were cast out for their discord with the Christians, or whether the Christians were expelled in the like manner: for SVETONIUS saith, that they were cast out for that there was some tumult about the Christian religion. The next year following there was a most grievous famine in Rome, and A general famine. almost generally in all the world; whereof besides other Authors, Saint Luke maketh mention in the Acts of the Apostles. CLAUDIUS having now reigned nine or ten years, & matters passing there in such manner, as I have said; yet the state and greatness of the Roman Empire was not impaired in his days (for hereof it seemeth both he and those which governed were careful) but it defended, and in part enlarged itself: For besides the pacifying of the I'll of Brittanny, Mauritania also in The two Mauritanies' made tributary Provinces. his time rebelling (which is a Province in Africa, where there reigned Kings, friends and confederates with the people of Rome,) he made wars there by his Captains SVETONIUS PAULINUS, & GNEUS SIDIUS GETA, as DION witnesseth. Those countries were subdued and divided into two tributary Provinces: the one was called Mauritania Caesariensis, Mauritania Casariensis, the kingdom of Fez. Mauritania Tingitana, the kingdom of Morocco. which for the most part is this day the kingdom of Fez, but it extended itself so fare as Algiers, Tunes, and Oran; and the other Mauritania Tingitana, which is much of that which we call Morocco, and Barbaria, and the coast of Zale and A●…amor, even unto Arzil and Tanzar. At that time the Province of Numidia was infested by certain barbarous Africans, which were overcome by the ordinary legions. In like manner the Imperial authority was upheld in the Provinces of the East, CLAUDIUS placing therein Kings & Tetrarches at his pleasure, as DION recordeth. But besides all this, in all parts (as well as in Rome) they endured great vexations and oppressions, and the disorders which his favourites and libertines committed, and commanded to be committed were very great: of the greatest part whereof his wife was the chief instrument, who was so incontinent and dishonest, as she was not only a common adultress, but she also procured and brought many others to be so: and she herself would pray, and even enforce men, and was of such credit with her husband the Emperor, and had such power over him, as no man durst make it known, or give him intelligence thereof. The dishonesty of this woman mounted to so high a pitch, that judging (as it seemed) open Messalina marrieth with Caius Silius during the life of Claudius. adultery to be but a light sin, she devised a wickedness never heard nor thought of before in such manner as she did it, which was to be married with another, even as she was to the Emperor; and putting it in effect, CLAUDIUS being go forth of Rome to Ostia to do certain sacrifices, she married in form and with the solemnities accustomed, with a Roman, whose name was CAIUS SILIUS, whom they affirm to have been the fairest and properest young man of his time. The love which CLAUDIUS bore to MESSALINA was so great, and the power she had over him such, as she thought that this might also pass in silence, or that he should dissemble it as he had done many other great abuses. But it now pleased God that she should receive punishment for all her misdeeds; as he oftentimes permitteth wicked men after some great sins, to commit other greater, to the end at once to be punished for all. And it was so, that his great friend and favourite NARCISSUS, a libertine before named, discovered this infamous act to CLAUDIUS, with a multitude of other villainies committed by her: who awaking in some sort out of his drowsy slumber and forgetfulness, notwithstanding that this action had put him in great fear; yet after that he was well informed of the truth, he came to Rome, sending first before him LUCIUS GETA, who was captain of the praetorian Cohorts, to confirm them in his service; and being arrived, he caused his wife MESSALINA to be apprehended, and many others which were guilty of this action: and by the diligent industry of NARCISSUS justice was done both upon her and them. And so they were put to death by his direction before The death of Messalina. that CLAUDIUS commanded the same, notwithstanding that he had so resolved; He fearing that she with her sergeant flatter would so mollify the heart of CLAUDIUS, as she might obtain pardon, or that of himself he would altar his resolution, whereof he made some show, as CORNELIUS TACITUS reporteth. It is a marvelous thing to think of the neglect and forgetfulness of this CLAUDIUS: for although they came and told him that MESSALINA was dead, he never spoke word, neither asked by whom, nor how she died; neither then nor after that time seemed he to rejoice or to be sorrowful for it; neither spoke word good nor Claudius' his monstrous forgetfulness. bad. SVETONIUS' TRANQVILLUS addeth another thing to this forgetfulness, which seemeth incredible (but he and others of great authoritiy affirm the same) which is, that the next day after that MESSALINA was put to death, sitting down at the table to eat, he asked how it chanced that MESSALINA came not to dinner? The like happened at other times concerning those which he had condemned and commanded to be slain, that having put them to death one day, the next day he was so forgetful, as he hath sent for them and called them to his counsel, and others to come to play with him, as they had used to do. The Emperor CLAUDIUS remaining a widower after the death of his wife MESSALINA, by whom he had one son called first GERMANICUS, & afterward BRITANNICUS, and one daughter whose name was OCTAVIA, he resolved and gave it out that he would marry no more, for that he had been very infortunate in his wives: and therefore now in his old age he would not try any more hazards; wherein he spoke the truth: for in his youth he had been twice married, first with EMILIA LEPIDA, who was great grandchild to the Emperor OCTAVIANUS AUGUSTUS; and the second time, with LIVIA MEDULLINA CAMILLA, of the ancient lineage of the CAMILLI: the first wife, before his marriage took effect, he put away; and the second died of an infirmity the same day which was appointed for their wedding: and afterwards he married with PLAUTINA HERCULANA; whom, after that he had by her one son named DRUSUS (who died a child) he forsook, as dishonest and an adultress: and married the fourth time with ELIA PETINA, of the family of the TUBERONES, from whom, for some causes and discontents he was also divorced, notwithstanding that he had by her one daughter called ANTONIA. All these marriages he had before he was Emperor; and when he took upon him the Empire, he was married to MESSALINA, whose death we now made an end to relate: and although (as I said) that he remained a widower, and had protested that he would marry no more, adding thereto that if he did, he gave them leave to kill him: yet afterwards forgetting himself (as in former time, of other matters) by the counsel of his libertine and favourite PALANTE, he lastly married with JULIA AGRIPPINA, who was exceeding beautiful, being his Niece, and daughter to his brother GERMANICUS, who was the widow of DOMICIUS NERO ENOBARBUS, by whom she had a son named DOMICIUS NERO, as his father. And for that the marriage with his Niece within this degree of consanguinity was prohibited and detestable among the Romans, he procured that a law should be made whereby it should be lawful: and his new wife took such order with her old husband and uncle, that within few days after that she was married, she obtained of him that he should marry his daughter OCTAVIA, with her son DOMICIUS NERO; and that he should adopt him and make him his son, preferring him Claudius marries his daughter Octavia to Domicius Nero his son in Law. before his own son BRITANNICUS; and that in stead of DOMICIUS NERO he should be called CLAUDIUS NERO, which was performed accordingly. And not content herewith, she procured the death of certain Roman Ladies, which had been her rivals for her marriage with CLAUDIUS (notwithstanding that they were favoured by NARCISSUS and CALIXTUS, his freed men) the better to maintain her greatness. Having in this time finished that great work of undermining the mountains, & making those great Caves and Ours to draw the water out of the lake Fucinus, wherein (as I said) thirty thousand men had wrought eleven years; the Emperor CLAUDIUS decreed, that in memory thereof, there should be in the same Lake a Naval battle before that the water should be let out, which did so much resemble a battle in earnest, as therein were 24 Galleys, which were built there hard by for that purpose (DION writeth there were fifty) which is not very unlikely; considering, the number therein, which, as CORNELIUS TACITUS reporteth, were 19000 men; many of which were slaves, or men condemned to death or banishment; the Emperor promising those which should prevail and vanquish, life and liberty, and so they were commanded to fight to the uttermost: and to that purpose the Galleys and men were divided into equal battailions; and their apparel, ensigns, banners, flags and streamers were of diverse colours: the one part of them were called Sicilians, and the other Rhodians, as though the wars had been between Sicilia and Rhodes. To see this spectacle, there came an infinite number of people from all parts of Italy, and from out of Italy, which covered all the hills and mountains near to the said Lake, and the banks thereof. CLAUDIUS with his wife AGRIPPINA, and NERO CLAUDIUS his adopted son and Nephew were most richly attired in gold, stone and pearl: and so the battle began, and was maintained between them most cruel and bloody, the poor men endeavouring of either part to have the victory, thereby to win life, liberty and honour: and so it was obstinately fought & continued a great part of the day, the one kill and wounding the other; and most miserably until at last the one part over came A wonderful pastime, but cruel. the other; and so was ended that most cruel and horrible sport. Which being ended, presently the next day CLAUDIUS commanded the passage of the Lake to be opened: and the water beginning to issue out, it broke forth with so great force and vehemency, as it seemed that the earth would have sunk; & it was so violent, as it did much harm in all the borders thereabout; and in like manner great was the fear and amazement of CLAUDIUS and his wife AGRIPPINA, who were there by, notwithstanding that they were upon sure ground & in safety. This was the end of this costly vanity. These things being passed in such sort as we have written, AGRIPPINA seeing herself much made of, & beloved by the Emperor CLAUDIUS, being grown proud of the power and favour wherein she saw herself (which are two things which few men can enjoy and use moderately) she become so proud, haughty & ambitious (following the footsteps of MESSALINA) as she would command alone and bear all the sway in every thing: whereupon she presently grew to be hated and envied by some of CLAUDIUS his favourites, yea and by himself; so as he began to be sorry that ever he married her, or that ever he adopted his son in law NERO. Which AGRIPPINA soon discovered, as well for that he began to make much of his young son BRITANNICUS, as for words which he spoke to the same effect: for upon a day he said, That it was true he had ever been infortunate in his wives; but none of them had escaped unpunished: with other speeches to the same effect. Whereat AGRIPPINA grew into such fear and suspicion, as to assure her own life, and the succession to her son, she determined to procure her husband's death by poison, and there wanted no ministers nor means to accomplish the same. For although that Historiographers agreed not herein, yet they all concur that poison was given him, such as killed him: & the most part writ, that it was in a Mushroom, which was a meat he used to eat with great appetite. It was the just judgement of God that CLAUDIUS should die by eating: for he was so gluttonous and insatiable in eating and drinking (among his other vices) as he thought no time nor place sufficient thereto, and did ever eat so immoderately, that most commonly surfeiting, he used vomits to discharge his stomach, putting a feather into his throat, a remedy which some gluttonous men do use, eating upon assurance thereof, and carrying themselves more filthily, then if they fell sick. In which feather some authors affirm that the poison was given The Emperor Claudius poisoned by his wife Agrippina. him. He died in the sixt & fiftieth year after the birth of CHRIST our Saviour, in the 14. year of his reign, and the 74. of his age, the 13. day of October about the break of day, and his wife AGRIPPINA concealed his death the most part of that day: and pretending that he mended, she caused certain vows to be made for his health, until she had confirmed the Empire to her son NERO, according to his adoption, which (seeing they then thought CLAUDIUS to be living) was no hard matter to be effected. In the time of this Emperor CLAUDIUS the Christian faith was preached, and did much prevail in the world, the Apostle S. PETER then preaching in Rome from the beginning of his reign, although with great contradiction and difficulty. There happened also in his time a thing which all authors affirm, and chief EUSEBIUS, to be very strange and wonderful, which was, that between the I'll Thera and Therasia in the Egean Sea, there was discovered a new Island of three hundred furlongs in length, where before was nothing but water of an ordinary A new Island in the Sea. depth, and no sign of any Island. THE LIFE AND ACTS OF THE EMPEROR NERO, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND SIXT ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. Claudius' being dead and his death published, the Senate and people of Rome swore fealty to Nero: who by the practices and cunning of his mother Agrippina, was made Emperor. This man for the first five years carried himself so well, as all men said that a God was sent from heaven to govern Rome, notwithstanding that his mother used much cruelty, who ruled the Empire a long time. Nero afterwards growing in years, and beginning to be disobedient to his mother, grew also in vices, and began to walk abroad by night alone, and to hurt such as he met, whereby he was in some danger, and escaped not unwounded. In his youth he dear loved an enfranchised woman called Aeta, and loved Poppea Sabina, wife to his great friend Otho, whom in the end he obtained and enjoyed. And for that his mother shown herself very contrary to his humours, she become odious to her son: but to recover his former favour again, she made great semblance to be in love with him; so as it was thought that he had the use of her body: but she growing every day more odious, in the end (supposing certain apparent ●…igness of treason) he caused her to be slain. After her death, he wholly let slip the reins to all shame and licentiou●…neses, by which example the people of Rome where also corrupted, and openly practised the like dishonesty. He overcame the Parthians, and subdued the Britain's: after which victories, giving his mind to cruelty, amongst many others, he put his mastor Seneca to death, having (besides his wife Octavia) married Poppea Sabina, which he be●…ore held for his wife: in the end he made the one to be slain, and the other he killed himself. He caused a young youth named Sporus to be gelded, and publik●…ly married him: And amongst his other infamous practices, in the end he set Rome on fire, and stood ●…ith great pleasure to behold it burn. He built so huge a Palace, as it contained a very great part of the city of Rome, and took upon him to altar the name of the city, and called it Neroniana. He so cruelly pers●…uted the Christians, that besides S. Peter and S. Paul, he put an infinite number of others to death. Under this Emperor, began the war against the Jews. Finally growing intolerable, and odious to God & man, first he understood of the rebellion of many nations: & perceiving the enemy to draw near, and the sentence of the Senate pronounced against him to be apprehended, 〈◊〉 was in such fear, that flying secretly from Rome, he was constrained miserably to kill himself. He lived 32. years, and was Emperor 14: whose death was so grateful to his country, to Rome, and to the whole world, as they clad themselves in joyful garments in steed of mourning: and in him ended the line of the Caesars. Such a successor had the Emperor CLAUDIUS, as he deserved and made choice of; and this was NERO, the most famous man for cruelty that ever was: for although that otherwise he he was very wicked, yet in cruelty he so exceeded all measure, as you shall never hear any man pronounce NERO, but you shall also hear an addition thereto of Cruel; notwithstanding that he had the most wise and virtuous Schoolmaster of his time, which was SENECA, of whom in his youth he learned the liberal Sciences, wanting no capacity; whose counsel & precepts were of force, for a time, to suppress his bad inclination, and were the occasion that in the beginning of his reign, he performed many parts of a good Prince, in such sort as TRAIANE (as many writ of him) afterwards said, that for Nero in his first five years wa●… a good Emperor. the first five years, NERO was peerless. But after that time, setting all shame aside, occasions with his power and liberty increasing, he did things which did so much stain and blemish his good deeds passed, as there remained no sign or spark of any goodness in him. Yet there wanted not some authors, who in part to excuse his actions affirm, that of envy and malice writers made his vices and faults seem so odious, among which was JOSEPHUS in his book of Antigona quities; Lib. 20. after that he himself had laid open many of his cruelties and parricides. I will writ what I shall find written by most approved authors, & in the order and progress of things and time will follow CORNELIUS TACITUS, who in my opinion excelleth the rest. CLAUDIUS being dead, through the treason of his wife AGRIPPINA, as we have mentioned, after that she had by her authority and cunning gotten the people's good will, and taken away all occasions that might hinder her son in attaining to the Empire, she published his death, which until then she had commanded to be concealed. At which time NERO came forth of the Imperial Palace, accompanied with BURRUS the Perfect of the Praetorian Cohorts, who was very private with AGRIPPINA, and also had the command of that Cohort which had the Burrus the P●…fect of the Praetorian Cohort●…. ordinary guard of the Palace; and proclaiming him Emperor, they carried him to the Camp, where by all the Cohorts, he was joyfully received: and having made a speech, and promising great donatives to the soldiers, he was by them presently carried back to the Senate, where all the Senators, conforming themselves to the will of the men of war, obeyed and received him for Emperor with the ordinary and accustomed solemnities, giving him names and titles of great majesty: among which, he refused the name of Pater patriae, because he was of opinion Nero was Emperor at seventeen years of age. that that title agreed not with his young years, being then but seventeen years old. And so NERO obtained the Empire, which he aught not to have had; and there wanted not some which murmured, that an adopted son should be preferred before a legitimate and natural son, and would have had GERMANICUS called also BRITANNICUS, and not him: But th●…se men were not of power to withstand him: for as he was obeyed in Rome, so was he in like manner in all the provinces of the Empire. He then presently commanded the obsequies of CLAUDIUS to be solemnised, (as the custom was) with great pomp; and according to the superstitions of that time, they canonised him among the gods. Great was the joy wherewith NERO began his reign, aswell for the discontentment of the government past, as for that change and innovations are ever pleasing, and desire commonly bringeth good hopes, which were confirmed by his outward show and appearances in the beginning. First he promised to govern according to the rules and institutions of AUGUSTUS CAESAR, and began both in word and deed to show himself, or (to say better) to feign himself, to be liberal, pitiful, just, mild, and tractable; doing favours, and moderating the impositions and tributes of the provinces, dividing amongst the people of Rome, and the praetorian T●… sergeant vertu●…ss of Nero. soldiers, a huge sum of money and corn, bestowing other donatives upon them: and to the Senators which were poor, he assigned pensions out of his exchequer; using all men with such humanity and courtesy, as it seemed there was no reason to fear any thing of that which afterwards ensued. He likewise shown great clemency & pity, in the execution of justice and punishments; so as one day, a warrant being brought to him to sign, for the putting of one to death, he making show to be very sorry for it, said, I would to God that I could not writ: which words as though they had proceeded from a pitiful inclination, his master SENECA In his second book of clemency. doth highly praise and extol. He entertained in like manner all men lovingly and friendly, and in his disports and exercises, he permitted any to be present: so as it seemed that God had sent them such a prince as they desired. And above all in the beginning of his reign, he honoured & bore great respect to his mother, and gave her greater power and command in the government, than indeed he aught or was fit: for the truth is, she was a cruel woman, proud and haughty: who through the counsel of PALANTE (one of CLAUDIUS enfranchised men before named) without the consent of NERO, she caused JUNIUS SILANUS Proconsul in Asia, to Agrippina caused Silanus and Narciss●… to be slain through the 〈◊〉 of Palante a ●…crime. be slain, l for the hatred she bore him; the like she did by NARCISSUS another famous Libertine, whom she also greatly hated. And her cruelty had extended further, but that SENECA and the Perfect BURRUS, and another eminent man whose name was AFRANIUS (by whom NERO in the beginning of his reign was much ruled) did oppose & cross AGRIPPINA in her wicked practices, as fare as in them ●…ay: but she had such authority in all causes, and over them which had the managing thereof, as it could hardly be done, as long as she continued in good grace with her son. The state standing in these terms, news came to Rome, that VOLOGESUS King of the Wars with the K●…ng of the Parthians. Parthians levied forces to make war against the Empire, practising to make his brother King of Armenia, in which province from the time of AUGUSTUS CAESAR, the Romans had authority to place Kings at their pleasure: so as upon this occasion the wars began in the second year of the reign of the Emperor NERO; who sent VINIDIUS with new legions thither, beside the ordinary legions which were in Asia, under the command of DOMICIUS CORBULUS. But the war as then continued but a while; for a peace was concluded, VOLOGESUS Peace with the Parthians. desisting from his attempts & giving certain principal men in pledge for the keeping thereof, which we commonly call hostages. About this time began NERO to show himself somewhat alienated from his mother, and desirous to abate her great power and authority, beginning to show her less obedience then formerly he had done: for he then fell in love with a base enfranchised woman, (but she was very fair) whose name was AETA; notwithstanding that his wife OCTAVIA was very fair and a virtuous lady. And herein to have his will, against the will and liking of his mother (who sought to cross him in his love, to the end that he should not be free from her power) he began to take into his favour OTHO a Noble man, of whose family 〈◊〉 and●…udius ●…udius Phenicius, Nero his favourites. there had been Consuls, and CLAUDIUS PHENICIUS, the son of one of the most powerful enfranchised men in Rome; and these wrought means for him to obtain his beloved AETA, which opened a passage to many other accidents which followed, whereby he began to be disobedient to his mother, who had had so great power over him and all others. And he commanded the enfranchised PALANTE, (who was a great favourite of hers) to be deposed from all government in the Imperial estate. AGRIPPINA seeing this, she attempted by all means possible, to recover the grace which she had lost with her son: sometimes by giving him counsel; at other times by entreaties and flatteries, accompanied with threatenings and fears: among which one was to do great honour, and to bestow many favours upon BRITANNICUS, who was the Emperor CLAUDIUS his son, and then about 14. years old: imagining that through fear and suspicion of this man, NERO would return to her obedience: but his wicked mind freed him not from that danger, by those means which she conceived, for he delivered himself thereof, by giving him poison; whereof the poor BRITANNICUS died. Whereat AGRIPPINA was much amazed: but The death of Britannicus. being either unable or unwilling to suppress her pride, she perseverd in this controversy with her son, and presumed to contend with him (although upon unequal terms). Whereupon NERO setting all shame and respect apart, commanded her guard of Germans to be taken from her, and she to be lodged out of the palace, doing her other open disgraces, forbidding certain persons to have recourse unto her, or to visit her: and he himself went very seldom to see her, and that very coldly, and with little respect. And being thus out of favour (as few keep true friendship with such as are dejected and in disgrace) the most of her friends forsook her: and one, a great Matron whose name was JULIA SILLANA, upon a private grudge Open contention between Nero and his mother Agrippina. (producing false witnesses) wrongfully accused her to have conspired against her son the Emperor, and that she practised to have made RUBELIUS PLAUTUS, Emperor; who by his mother: descended from the Emperor AUGUSTUS CAESAR. And the matter was so handled, that AGRIPPINA was in some danger, until the accusation was found to be forged and the witnesses suborned, and this JULIA the twister of this web, escaped with light punishment which was but banishment. This gave encouragement to a wicked fellow called PETUS, to accuse PALANTE also falsely (a libertine many times before named) and BURRUS the Perfect, who were servants and favourites to AGRIPPINA, alleging that they practised to depose NERO, and to make CORNELIUS SILLA Emperor: but this also was discovered to be forged and false, and for this offence PETUS and his false witnesses were only banished. All which passed in the third year of NERO his reign, Saint PAUL the Apostle being then prisoner in Rome, who alittle before was sent thither by the commandment of FESTUS, governor of judea, who succeeded FELIX aforenamed: In which imprisonment (although he went abroad at liberty) he was detained two years. As the Emperor NERO grew in years, so began he to wax more vain and vicious, and to discover his bad inclination: for by night he would go disguised up and down the streets in Rome, and would hurt and abuse such as he met, coming out of their houses; wherein he committed many notable insolences, and offended many: and he himself being upon a time unknown, was in danger to have been slain, being sore wounded. And as the vices and defects of Princes, although that in their absence thy are condemned and men murmur at them; yet in their presence they are most commonly excused, and sometimes applauded: So NERO his favourites did not seek to withdraw him from this dangerous vice and insolency; but they advised him to go no more abroad without a guard, whereby they were the occasion of fare greater riots and disorders, than before: And some dissolute young men (feigning themselves to be the Emperor) took occasion to do the like, so as there were infinite violences committed by him and them, by means whereof there was no small scandal & tumult in the city, although that in the rest, until then there was indifferent good order in all things, and justice was administered orderly in Rome and in the provinces; and the people did dissemble or had patience with the lightness & insolences of NERO, by reason of the distribution of money and other things, which he made generally to all, and for certain taxes and impositions which he commanded to be abolished. The fift year of his reign being come, which as it seemed would have proved prosperous and peaceable both in particular and general; VOLOGESUS King of the Parthians began anew to arm against the Empire, for the same reason and cause concerning the kingdom of Armenia before spoken of. And CORBULUS, who was Proconsul in Asia, sent to entreat the Emperor that the ordinary army which he had, might be reinforced and increased, for that by reason of the long peace, his legions were grown more slothful & less serviceable than was needful for so dangerous a war; and were also diminished, some by death, and many soldiers were waxen old: for which NERO took order, that new companies should be levied, and sent unto him, and with them one of the legions of Germany, which were ever held for the best and most experienced, as those which lay on the frontiers against the most fierce and valiant enemies. And so began the wars with the Parthians, wherein after some great encounters, and skirmishes which passed, fortune and victory being variable, and winter being come, CORBULUS sent a captain whose name was PACTIUS ORPHITUS, who with a good part of the army had the guard of certain straits and passages, whereby the enemy might enter the country, whom he commanded that in any case he should not give them battle: and he lodged himself in the Plains with the rest of the army. But ORPHITUS, quite contrary to that Wars with the Parthi●…. which was commanded him, by the enemy's provocation joined battle with them, and was therein overcome with great loss to the Romans: for which, CORNELIUS was exceeding sorrowful, and it was no less grieved at in Rome. Whereupon CORBULUS, reinforcing his legions, took the field before the ordinary time, & u●…y resolutely followed that war: wherein passed many things which CORNELIUS TACITUS reciteth, and I for brevity omit, to return to NERO; of whom from henceforth there is no good to be spoken. I say then that while as his captains made war against the Parchians, he gave himself over to sensuality without contradiction in Rome, falling in love with the wife of his great favourite OTHO, who in time came to be Emperor, called POPPEA SABINA, and by some POPPEIA, a most beautiful woman & of high parentage, endowed with many graces & good parts, but dishonest and incontinent; and to the end that NERO without any obstacle might have her wholly to himself, giving to her husband OTHO this reward in requirall of all his good services, he Poppea Sabina Nero his friend. sent him into Spain to be governor of Lusitania now called Portugal, and he freely gave himself over unto this POPPEA, forgetting and abhorring his own wife OCTAVIA, and his other above named friend; AETA a Libertine whom he had much loved. Wherewith this POPPEA become so proud, that she taking scorn to be his friend, very instantly entreated and desired the Emperor, that divorcing himself from OCTAVIA, he should marry her: and seeing that AGRIPPINA NERO'S mother, who supported and defended OCTAVIA, was a great let hereto, she endeavoured all she might, to increase the discord begun between the mother and the son. Against which, AGRIPPINA used all the means that she possibly could device to recover the good will of her son, as to procure him to commit most detestable incest with her own self, from which he was withdrawn by the means of SENECA, as CORNELLUS TACITUS reporteth: yet SVETONIUS saith, that the only fear of his mother's power and presumptuous boldness withheld him from it, although other authors do not wholly clear him from this sin. Howsoever it was, by POPPEA'S great practices and his own wickedness, he so much abhorred his mother, as he determined to kill her: but as it was a matter most odious, so he would have it done covertly: and first he attempted & practised it with poison thrice: which taking no effect and perceiving that she was defended by Antidotes and preservatives; he provided a bedchamber for her with such an arched roof, as being easily unjointed, the frame might fall in pieces in the night upon her being asleep. When this design could not be kept close, but was revealed by some privy thereunto, he then devised a ship so artificially made as it should suddenly split in sunder, that either by the wrack or the fall of the fore-deck she might perish: This was contrived by the direction and counsel of one of his sea captains whose name was NICETUS: and the plot was laid that she should be drowned in the sea on the coast of Calabria: whither NERO (feigning a reconciliation with her) caused her to go; Nicetus took upon him the charge to kill Agrippina. and under colour to do certain sacrifices, he himself went thither also. But this plot taking no effect, wherein certain of her company were drowned, and she with great danger escaping, he seeing that secret practices availed not, he resolved to put her to death openly: and to that end (through the counsel of the said NICETUS) he caused it to be bruited abroad that one by whom she had sent him word of the shipwreck and danger wherein she had been at sea, would have killed him; & for this purpose there was a poiniard let fall at his feet, he which brought it feigning, that by his mother's commandment he came to have slain him. Under this false pretex●… only, he commanded eertaine Tribunes, of which this NICETUS was chief, to kill Nero put his ●…other to death by the h●… of Ni●…tus. her: who being come where AGRIPPINA was, she presently understood the cause of their coming: and seeing them unsheathe their swords, authors writ, that showing them her belly, she said, strike me here first; for this part hath deserved it, seeing it conceived and brought forth such a monster as NERO: and so she died soon of the many wounds which were given her. And NERO who was in a place there by, came to see his dead mother, and stood beholding her naked body as if it had been the body of a beast; praising and dispraising her parts and members. To horrible cruelty of the so●…e, and dive●…h ambition of the mother. And thus did the wicked son murder his wicked mother, who cannot be excused, but that she for her wickedness deserved the death which she died: And it cannot be denied, but that herein NERO shown most abominable cruelty; for nature doth abhor that a son should punish & be executioner to his own mother, moved thereto by his own wicked & evil disposition. Doubtless, it is a strange thing to think of the love which this woman bore to her son: for it is written of her, that before he was Emperor, it was foretold her by an ginger, that he should be Emperor, and that he should kill his own mother: whereto she answered; Let him have the Empire, and then kill her and spare not. So great was her pride and ambition, that to the end she might be mother to the Emperor, she would put it in hazard to be slain by her own son: and so both the one and the other were accomplished. Notwithstanding that the Soldiers, Senate and people, applauded him for this foul and odious Matricide, yet was he ever after terrified with the sting of Conscience for so fo●…le a fact; and as he often confessed, was haunted with the apparition of his Mother's Ghost, and tormented by the Furies. To this of his Mother, he added the murder of DOMITIA, his Aunt by the father's side: who being an aged woman, and lying sick of a costiveness, coming to visit her, and she using loving speeches unto him; he commanded the Physicians to ply her still with stronger purgatives: so he before she was fully dead, seized upon her goods, and suppressed her last will, that he might enjoy the whole. The Emperor NERO having performed so great an exploit as the murdering of his mother (so much are Princes blinded with flattery & adulation, that notwithstanding all the world Princes are ever abused by flatterers. did see and understand the matter, and how all had passed; yet most men in his presence approved and applauded the same: and there were many vows and sacrifices made to their gods, for that he had escaped such a treason, and for the discovery thereof, making him believe that they held it for truth) cloaking his wickedness under this colour, he came to Rome: where seeing himself at liberty, and free from the controlment of his mother (whose authority was ever great) he began to abandon all shame, giving the reinss to his beastly appetite, and to all kind of filthiness and most abominable luxury; which was such and so horrible, that, to keep such honest decorum in our History as is requisite, and not to offend the ears of chaste Readers, I purpose to pass it over in silence. Wherein he spending great part of the time, all the rest he employed in lascivious Comedies and other libidinous exercises, and oftentimes in banquets and feasting, which lasted all the day and the night also. He was prodigal in all things, especially in his rich and sumptuous attire. The ornaments of his Palace, and his expenses and prodigalities were such, as the like had never been seen. In Comedies and public Shows (most of which were most vile and dishonest) he acted a Part in Person; and would that the Noble young men of Rome, and some of the principal young Ladies, should be present to hear and see the same. And, above all, he was so inclined to Music, and so much affected it, as, beside that he was skilful in that Art, he gloried so much in singing, as many times he refused to eat for hurting his voice; and to clear it and make it better, he purged himself, and used other remedies and medicines. Some writ of him, that to that effect he wore a plaster or sheet of lead upon his breast. Finally, NERO forgetting the dignity and majesty of his estate, gave himself over to base and vile exercises and vices, the which for that they were so filthy, are not at all described, and which afterwards brought him to the sink of all sin and cruelty, as we will declare. And as the Subjects, for the most part, do imitate the fashions and behaviour of their Princes & Lords; so presently in Rome and out of it, they began to practise and follow their vices and follies, wherein the Emperor spent his time; and the Laws, good customs, Arts and Sciences began to be corrupted and forgotten. Wherhfore, he made himself an enemy, and odious to all good men, although then there were but few, as if it often happeneth. Whileas he busied himself in these base actions, the wars which his General CORBULUS Wars with the Parthians. began with the Parthians, about the Title of the Kingdom of Armenia, never ceased. In which, after sundry exploits of war, the Romans prevailing, the Parthians were wholly driven out of the Province of Armenia: and NERO nominated and sent thither for King thereof (as a Subject to the Empire) TIGRANES, who was nephew to ARCHELAUS sometime King of Cappadocia, having a long time continued in Rome in base and poor estate. This man was by some of the country received and entertained with good approbation; and others, which held for the King of Parthia, repined thereat, as commonly it useth to happen in such cases. Wherhfore there was given unto him an ordinary guard of foot and horsemen, and some of the Roman Cohorts to aid him to defend that Kingdom. CORBULUS' being victorious came with his legions into Syria: which happened in the seventh year of the Reign of NERO. About this time there was so great an Earthquake in many parts of the world, as many great Buildings fell; and the City of Laodicea was therewith wholly ruined and laid waste. Within few days after, the I'll of England and Scotland, then called Britanny, rebelled against Rebellion in Britanny. the Roman Empire, being unable to endure the insolences and oppressions of the Roman Legions lying there in garrison, PAULINUS SVETONIUS being their General: for, from the diseases and vices of the Head, Rome, did flow disorder and corruption through all the Provinces which were members thereof. The cause of the insurrection in this Island proceeded from hence: PAULINUS being desirous to win honour, and envying the fame which CORBULUS had gotten in the East, who was daily victorious in the war against the Parthians, he wanting neither courage nor discretion to do the like, but matter and occasion; and seeing, that in the I'll of Britanny there was neither time nor hope for his purpose, leaving such troops and garrisons there as he thought sufficient, he went from thence with a great Fleet to make war in an Island near to England, then called Mona, and now Man, which was inhabited by a fierce Nation. And notwithstanding that all succeeded well in that journey, yet, during his employment The I'll of Man there, the Britain's, choosing among themselves a Captain, a man of great account and reputation, called PHRASURATUS or PRASUTAGUS, with the Title of a King, as they ordinarily had in that Island, although it were subject; they rebelled for their liberty, kill all the Roman soldiers they could find, who had shut themselves up in a Temple: and, afterwards The Romans ●…t in pieces by the Britan●…. overthrowing a Legion which came to their aid, they slew the greatest part thereof, and compelled PETUS, who had the command in the absence of PAULINUS SVETONIUS, to flee to their Camp: where they presently besieged him, and so were Masters of the Field, CALPUS (who, for the Emperor, was then Governor of the Island) seeing himself unable to defend the same, with the greatest speed that possibly he could fled into France, and abandoned the Island. And the Britain's took such order, and used such expedition in this war against the Romans and their Adherents, as within few days in divers places there were slain 70000 men. PAULINUS, being advertised of this great disaster, having effected that which he had attempted of his own authority, with all speed possible returned into the Island with his troops: where he assembled together those which had continued constant in the Emperor's service, and the remainder of the Roman soldiers which were left; and, reprehending some, and encouraging others, without any longer delay he went to seek his enemies, and their Captain PRASUTAGUS; who were now grown so hardy, as they came to seek him; and did so assure themselves of the victory, as they brought their wives in Wagons and Cars, to see the battle which they meant to fight. Which, PAULINUS SVETONIUS refused not; but, like an expert captain, took such advantage of the ground, and marshaled his men in such sort, and in the battle A great battle, fought so valiantly, as he obtained the victory; yet was it one of the most fierce battles, and fought with the greatest obstinacy, that ever was seen: for, of the Conquerors there died a great number; but of the conquered (as CORNELIUS TACITUS reports) there were slain few less than fourscore thousand men. But GILDAS, an ancient Historian born in the same Island, sets down a far less number; who saith, that there were slain but thirty thousand. With this great victory, and with the new supply which NERO sent, the Romans prevailed in that I'll; so as from thenceforth it remained in peace. While these things were in action, NERO daily increased in his vices and wickedness: and besides the abovenamed he began to put in practice many new cruelties, commanding many to be slain upon light occasions, and some without any; notwithstanding that his Schoolmaster SENECA, and BURRUS the Perfect of the Praetorian Cohorts, did hinder and mitigate the same all they might. But in the ninth year of his Reign BURRUS died; and SENECA, being brought into suspicion with NERO (besides that virtue is ever hateful to the wicked) began to withdraw himself from intermeddling with the affairs of the government: and as the Physician leaveth to apply medicines to the Patient, of whose recovery there is no hope; so did he forbear to converse with NERO, or give him any counsel, feigning his old age and want of health to be the cause thereof. And in like manner (as saith CORNELIUS TACITUS) others, which had any spark of ancient Romans in them, withdrew themselves; being unable to endure the sight of what passed, and NERO committed. At this time NERO commanded PUBLIUS SCYLLA to be slain in France, who was one of the most famous men of his time; and another whose name was RABELLIUS PLAUTUS, a worthy and eminent man; in whom was found no other fault, or cause wherefore he should be slain, but that he was virtuous, and therefore beloved of all men: and, being such, upon a time when NERO was so sick as it was thought he would have died, the people of Rome fixed their eyes upon this man, naming him for NERO'S Successor. Upon which occasion, NERO banished him from Rome, and then resolved to release him from banishment by causing him to be slain. And after this manner he slew in those days a great number of other Romans, which these Authors do name, and I leave out as a matter odious; putting them to death through cruelty and envy, without any other cause. A little after this, growing impudent through his customary sinning, he divorced himself from his wife OCTAVIA; and not content to put her away, he took another man's wife, & presently married POPPEA, whom (as we said) he held for his friend, having first taken her from OTHO who was her husband: and not contented to put a way his good and virtuous wife, he caused her to be falsely accused of adultery, having plotted with NICETUS, his Sea-captain Nero put away his wife, and married another man's. (who murdered his mother AGRIPPINA, who as it should seem was a man fit for such services) that he should confess himself to be the man which had committed adultery with her. And notwithstanding that this was plainly discovered to be a fiction, he for a colour banished NICETUS, and OCTAVIA was also banished, and afterwards slain by his commandment: so as to the innocent was given an unjust punishment, and to the traitor a feigned corection. At that time he also commanded the famous Libertine PALANTE to be slain, for the desi●…e he had to his estate: for in the time of NERO it was more dangerous to be rich, then to commit offences; and many were slain because they were rich, and few were punished for their evil deeds. NERO committing these and many other such like enormities; VOLOGESUS King of Parthia, taking it in scorn that his Brother TYRIDATES should be dispossessed of the Kingdom of Armenia, and that it should by the Romans be given to TIGRANES, began to levy his Forces: and, determining to renew the war, he sent his Brother to recover that Kingdom; the which he soon effected, and seized upon many countries and parts thereof. Against whom, CORBULUS (who was Lieutenant in the East, and had made the last war) with all expedition sent two Legions for a supply to King TIGRANES: and, the war beginning very hotly on either side, the Emperor, at the earnest suit of CORBULUS, sent new Troops to reinforce the Army against the Parthians, and CESONIUS PETUS for their Leader; who, with the greatest speed he could, with many companies and great preparation for the wars, New war with the Parthians. departed Italy; and, following his journey, came where CORBULUS attended his coming: who dividing his Troops with CORBULUS, each of them by himself followed the war apart. In process whereof, CORBULUS governed so valiantly and with such discretion, as he not only defended the limits of the Empire in that part which fell to his lot, but passed the River Euphrates, and surprised some holds in his enemy's Country. And SESONIUS PETUS with less judgement or experience, but more vainglory, promising great matters of himself, began the war. In the beginning whereof, with appearance of good success, he entered Armenia; and, extending his power farther than he aught to have done, passed the Mountain Taurus, taking some towns without consideration whether he were able to hold the same or not, and sent of his troops into diverse places with a desire to get and to do more than he was able to accomplish, or was fit to be done: So that (as CORNELIUS TACITUS writeth (he governed himself so ill, that when as VOLOGESUS came against him, there fell so many disgraces upon him, and he so unadvisedly encamped himself, as he was besieged by VOLOGESUS in his camp; in such sort as being unable to stay for the succours which came from CORBULUS unto him, wanting both courage and discretion to defend himself, he came to a shameful and dishonourable composition for the Roman reputation, with the King of Parthia: which was, That the King giving him leave to departed out of the country with his army, he should abandon the province of Armenia, & deliver up all such holds as he had taken: all which was performed accordingly, and he very shamefully went out of Armenia, in great disgrace, and with no small loss of his Army. The Emperor being advertised hereof, sent for him to come to Rome, and to leave his legions with CORBULUS: and when he was come, he inflicted no other punishment, but in a word or two called him dastard and coward; adding, that he would speedily pardon him, lest the fear of punishment should kill him. CORBULUS' remaining General alone (notwithstanding that the Parthians were grown proud by reason of their late victory) prosecuted the war in such manner, as they motioned treaties of peace, and sent Ambassadors to Rome, where after sundry Embassies and some truce taken, in the end a peace was concluded, profitable to the Parthians, although in show and ceremonies Peace with the parthians. honourable to the Romans: which was, That TYRIDATES should remain in possession of Armenia, but should give over the title and royal ensigns, until he had been at Rome, and there personally receive the same at the hands of the Emperor NERO. To confirm this agreement, he came into the Romans camp, and in presence of all the army, humbled, and prostrated himself upon the earth before NERO his image, and taking the crown from his head, he set it at NERO'S feet: and afterwards being solemnly entertained and feasted, appointing a time for his coming to Rome, he left a daughter which he had, for assurance thereof; and so departed to visit his brothers, VOLOGESUS King of the Parthians, and PACORUS King of the Medes, and to prepare all things necessary for his journey. Which although it were not so soon performed as it was appointed, and that there passed some things in the mean season, as we will presently specify, yet to the end that we leave not this matter unperfect, it shall be fit (although somewhat afore the time) to speak of TYRIDATES his coming to Rome, for it was a solemn matter and worthy to be remembered▪ which was thus. As NERO was a man desirous of fame and vain glory, so by Letters and great promises he invited TYRIDATES to come to Rome; which he performed, being greatly accompanied, and was most honourably entertained: NERO attended his coming with sumptuous provision made by the Senate and people, set upon a high throne, with all the show of majesty and greatness that could be devised: at one end whereof, were all the Praetorian Cohorts and men of war, armed with fair and rich armour. TYRIDATES coming to the place where the Emperor NERO was, being alighted from his horse, he mounted up the stairs to the scaffold where he sat, and coming near him, fell at his feet; but NERO taking him by the right Tyridates crowned in Rome by the Emperor, Nero, with great solemnity. hand, raised him, and took from his head an ornament which he ware, and did put thereon a diadem or crown of a King; using herein other stately ceremonies. TYRIDATES being crowned with this solemnity, after certain feasts which were made in Rome, having remained there some days, departed towards his country, carryi●…g with him, an incredible mass of money, which the Emperor gave him for his journey. A peace with the Parthians being confirmed in this manner, NERO gave himself more to his old vices than he did before; and to do the same more freely, and to be at more liberty and farther off from the authority of the Senate, he departed from Rome, with the most solemn and magnificent court and attendance that ever was seen; although the greatest number were conformable to his conditions. The report of this journey was, that he went into Graecia, to cut the neck of a land in Achaia, which is a Nero his journey into Graecia. narrow passage between the Egean and Ionian Seas, which makes Peloponesus, now called Morea to be as it were an Island. And in his journey, in Naples and in other parts, without shame, he shown himself on the Theaters and Stages, and acted a part in Comedies, as one of the Actors or Players, and sung Tragedies and Fables, and won many prizes and crowns, which were rewards given in those controversies. Being come into Graecia, in this great action for which he came, he did no more but appoint a day to begin his work: and having made a speech to his people, he took a tool in his hand where with he began to dig the earth, and making this beginning, he suddenly (no man knowing any cause) left off what he had begun, without order for doing any more; and presently returned to Rome. Wherein he entered in triumph, as if he had won some great battle, demanding it for the victory abovewritten: wherein he came mounted upon the same chariot wherein OCTAVIUS AUGUSTUS had triumphed, compassed about with Musicians and Players, such as represented fables and tragedies upon stages, being brought from all parts of the world for that purpose. And within few days after this, he pretended another journey into the Kingdom of Egypt; and, all things being in a readiness for that purpose, through a certain divination he gave over his journey. NERO, being comn to the beginning of the eleventh year of his Reign, become so impudent, giving himself wholly over to sensuality, that he did any thing without blushing or changing colour, and gave leave to an infinite number of others to do the like: and his wickedness mounted to so high a degree, that SVETONIUS testifieth of him thus; Super ingeniorum paragogia, & n●…ptarum concubinatus, vestali virgini Rubriae vim intulit. Acten libertam paulùm abfuit, quin iusto matrimonio sibi coniungeret, summissis consularibus viris, qui regio genere ortam peierarent. Puerun Sporun, exsect is testibus etiam in muliebrens naturam transfigurare conatus est, cum dote & flamm●…o persolenni nuptiarum celeberrimo officio deductum adse, pro uxore habuit. Ext●…tque cuiusdam non inscitus iocus, bene agipotuisse cumrebus humanis, si Domitius Neronis pater talem habuisset uxorem. Hunc Sporum Augustarum ornamentis excultum, lecticaque vectum, & circa conventus mercatusque Gracia, ac mox Romae circa Sigillaria comitatus est, identidem exosculans. Name matr is concubitum appetisse, & ab obtrectatoribus eius, ne ferox atque impotens mulier, & hoc gratiae genere praevaleret, deterritum nemo dubitavit, utique postquam meretricem, quam fama erat Agrippinae simillimam, inter concubinas recepit. Olim etiam, quoties lectica cum matre veher●…ur, libidinatum incestè ac maculis vest is proditum affirmant. That is to say, Besides his unnatural abusing of boys freeborn, and the keeping of men's wives as his concubines, he deflowered RU●…RIA a Vestal Virgin. He would have married ACT or AETA, a freed woman; suborning some, who had been Consuls, to swear, that she was royally descended. There was a Boy called SPORUS, whose genitories he cut off, trying to transform him into the nature of woman. Him he caused to be brought unto him as a Bride, with a Dowry and a yellow Veil, after the solemn manner of marriage, and a goodly Train attending on him; whom he maintained as his wife: whereupon one said pleasantly, that it had been happy for mankind if DOMITIUS his father had wedded such a wife. This SPORUS, adorned with the ornaments of an Empress, he accompanied in a Litter through all the Cities and Towns of Greece, and afterwards at Rome, up and down the streets; SIOILLARIA kissing him often. He had a desire to lie with his own mother; but was terrified from it by some which hated her, jest that proud and insolent woman should by this favour grow too mighty, whereof no man ever made doubt; and the rather, for that afterwards he entertained a harlot among his concubines, very like (as it was reported) to AGRIPPINA. It is also said, that in former times, as often as he road in a Litter with his Mother, he used her incestuously: the which did appear by the spots upon her garment. Among all his dishonest and filthy pollutions, he never forgot the fierceness and cruelty of his mind, shedding blood, and kill an infinite number of men, and made boast and vaunted thereof, saying, that none of his Predecessors in the Empire, did ever know their own power, but he. And when One in his presence said, as a byword, When I am dead let the world be burned: Nay, quoth he, let it be before I die. Of so ill and envious an inclination was this man to all mankind: which did fully appear by that which he did within a little while after, which was, to set the City of Rome on fire; as SVETONIUS, EUSEBIUS, EUTROPIUS, PAULUS OROSIUS, and ISIDORE, affirm: yet CORNELIUS TACITUS maketh some Rome set on fire by Nero. doubt thereof, whether it were done by chance, or by his commandment; and yet himself saith, that no man durst quench the fire for fear of him: and all affirm, that it lasted six days and seven nights, and that NERO went up to the top of a high Tower to behold this spectacle, which was very pleasing to his sight: where he stood singing certain verses of HOMER, which contained the burning of the City of Troy. And the fire did consume so much in the City of Rome, as TACITUS writeth, that of fourteen great quarters which were in the City, only Four escaped free; and of the ten, three were wholly consumed and burnt to the ground; and in the seven there was never a house, whereof the greatest part was not burnt, and many wholly consumed. Finally, they were innumerable, and not to be imagined, the houses, tempes, riches, the spoils of victories, the clotheses and merchandizes, and other things, which this fire confirmed▪ and to the end that the Reader may the better understand it, he must consider that Rome▪ was then the greatest and most populous city in the world, much frequented by strange Nations, and the most rich and beautiful that ever was, the which in that time did draw unto it and swallow up all the money and riches of all the provinces subject unto it, by taketh, tributes, impositions, bribery, and tyrannies. This lamentable desolation being ended, there was not left in him any pity, but all men held him to be the author thereof, although they durst not say so; and that he desired to have the ruins; for the stones, pillars, and other things, which escaped the fire, he would not suffer to be carried away by the owners, but took them for the building of his own palace and houses, which some days before he had built: and part thereof being bur●…ed with this fire, he afterwards re-edified and made without comparison fairer & greater then before; so as it seemeth an incredible matter, what PLINY, SVETONIUS, and CORNELIUS TACITUS writ of the greatness thereof, to whom I refer the Reader for the particular description of that Palace, because A description of Nero his Palace. it is a matter wonderful, and which only was sufficient to show the riches of Rome. For it stretched from Mount Palatine to Mount Esquiline, which, as it seemeth, were distant a good deal more than a mile in breadth; it contained in it ponds of water so great, as they seemed to be gulfs of the Sea, compassed round about with buildings and lodgings, It had in it also, besides gardens and orchards, excellent hills and woods, wherein were all manner of wild beasts. Moreover the halls and dining chambers, besides being built of Marble, Alabaster, jaspers', Topaces, and other excellent stones; the timber-works thereof and the ceilings were inlaid with gold and ivory, and mother of Pearl, and some stones of price. And some of these high places and chambers were round, and made with such art, as the floor remaining firm & fixed, the roof & vaults thereof went continually round like the sky, in such sort as some bird-ca●…es are made; and some of these rooms were wrought with such art, as there were in them certain ventals and alimbiques of gold and ivory, which at certain times did cast our sweet flowers, waters, and precious oils. This house likewise had baths of sundry waters hot and cold, and other ornaments and excellencies, such and so many as would be tedious to recite; wherein, and in other buildings which he made, he spent an inestimable treasure, and in other which he began, which were strange and marvelous, the which for brevity I omit. And although (as is said) he had commanded the City of Rome to be set on fire, yet being thus burnt, he used all diligence to re-edify it again, in better for me than it was before, and had determined to altar the name thereof, and to call it Neroniana after his own name. But this his care sufficed not to clear him of the infamy which he had purchased among the people, for commanding it to be set on fire. After all this, the Emperor NERO by the instigation of the devil, in whose power remained his sins (the number of Christians in Rome then increasing, through the preaching of the Apostles, S. PETER and S. PAUL, who then were there) he and his like being grieved with the holiness and pureness of the Primitive Church, resolved to persecute the same: and putting it in execution a great number of Christians, both within and without it, were put to death by his commandment. And this was the first general persecution which the Church suffered. The first persecu●… of the primitive Church. And although that after the death of CHRIST there wanted no persecutors (yet was it never persecuted by the Emperor's public edict until this time. Wherein, how great the constancy of the Martyrs was, & what sundry kinds of martyrdom they endured, CORNELIUS TACITUS an infidel Historiographer, and an enemy to Christians, yet true in his history, besides other Christian authors, shall bear witness: who (like a Gentle murmuring at them) reciteth the persecution of the Emperor NERO: whereof SVETONIUS also making mention saith, that a very great number of Christian men and women were put to death: And among other cruelties, burnings, crosses and other kinds of death, he reporteth that they were thrown to the dogs, to be torn in pieces: and to the end that dogs should be the more eager against them, they covered them with the skins of Bears and other wild beasts. This persecution of the church SVETONIUS and CORNELIUS TACITUS set down in this place after the burning of Rome, in the eleventh year of the Emperor NERO'S reign; yet EUSEBIUS and other authors note it to be in the last year of his Empire, wherein died the blessed Apostles S. PETER and S. PAUL by his commandment. But it may be, & so I believe, that this persecution lasted till then, which was little more than three years; or whether i. were only at this time, it pleased God to preserve his holy Apostles until the time above said. After that the Emperor NERO had executed this cruelty against the Christians, which was the greatest that he ever used, there followed in Rome, and in the marches thereof, one of the greatest pl●…gueses of pestilence that ever was in the world; by the permission of God▪ as it is to be believed▪ for his cruelty used against the Christians. But there was no amendment in him, neither any repentance of that, or of his other villanie●…: but▪ waxing worse, he again began his intolerable extortions in all the Provinces, which were such and so many, as they become unpeopled, and many places were wholly ruinated and desolate. For, the ordinary Rents (though the sum were incredible) being insufficient to maintain his prodigalities and immense expenses▪ The excessive prodigality of Nero. because they cannot be related at large, it shall suffice to make some brief mention thereof, the better t●… 〈◊〉 of the rest. Besides what, without measure, he consumed in his Buildings and va●…workss; and in the curious work manship of his famous house, which was a matter ●…nestimable; in all the rest, his disorder and excess was incredible. First, he apparelled himself with most rich attire, and ordinarily consumed at dices and at other games great sums of money. When he went afishing (whereto he was much affected) and for his pleasure went to the sea or any river, he commanded the nets to be made of gold-thread, and the cords of most excellent fine silk. In his progresses which he made out of Rome (which were many) besides an infinite number of people of his Court which followed him, he never had less than a thousand Wagons drawn with Mules for his Wardrobe, excellently wrought and garnished; and those which led and governed them were apparelled in rich at●…ire, of gold, silver, cloth of gold and silk; even unto the Mules shoes, which were of silver. Than the games and plays which he presented were such and so many, as it cannot be valued what they might cost: for, besides those which in Rome were ordinary, as, the Sword players, combats, hunt of Lions, Elephants, Bears, Panthers, Tigers, and other beasts; the Comedies and Tragedies which in the Theaters and Amphithea●…erss were represented, and the sports on horseback, and with chariots of divers forms, in the circuits and places of Rome, which were many and more frequent, and with greater magnificence than ever theretofore; he invented new sports with chariots drawn with Camels, and Elephants with Castles on their backs, with other new inventions & strange devices; which to bring to pass, it behoved a man to compass the world: as was his naumachy, a fight with Galleys upon the water; making a Lake for that purpose by hand, which they also called Naumachia, drawing water from the Sea to fill the same; and therewith fishes to swim therein, because it should be more natural and at life. Than, in the donatives which he threw to the people, for him which could first catch them (which they called Missilia) he would Gift●… given by Nero. not give such as were ordinary, as other Emperors did, of money, birds, and other things of small value: but therewith he commanded rich apparel, gold, silver, rich stones and pearls to be given; and, to increase this in all superfluity, of things which could not be thrown abroad in their kind, he caused certain Tables to be cast, wherein was set down what he should have into whose hands they came, in wheat, herds, or slaves; which extended so far as to give heritage's, fields, houses, islands, and other matters of great price. By all that which hath been said, he that will may see his prodigality, and may imagine what his expenses might amount to in other matters. So as this accursed man had no vice wherein he would not be extreme; and so would he be in spending and wasting as he was in robbing and spoiling the people: Which his prodigality as it was grateful and pleasing to the vulgar sort, so I presume it was the cause why they so long endured his tyranny and wicked disposition. But, as these things were intolerable, after the eleventh year of his Reign many of the prime Noble men of Rome conspired against him: the head and chief whereof was CAIUS PISO (the most Noble man by birth, parentage and virtue, which at that time was in Rome) and, according Piso conspired against Nero. to his name, this conspiracy was called Pisoniana. But it was discovered before it took effect; and, in stead of the remedy which was hoped for, it opened the way to the Emperor's cruelty: for, upon this occasion he put to death so many, and of all sorts, noble and ignoble, as well those which were guilty, as those which he would hold for suspected, as they were without number: among whom, died the witty and excellent Poet LUCAN, and his Master SENECA; albeit he had sworn to him very devoutly (when-as he often made suit for leave to departed the Court, and yielded therewithal his goods into NERO'S hands) that he had no cause to suspect him, and that he would rather loose his own life, than do him any harm. And fear and flattery were of such power (which things commonly concur) that the Senate determined to The Senate did sacrifice for the health of Nero. do sacrifice, and to give solemn thanks unto the gods, for the health and safety of NERO, and his delivery from this conspiracy; and they ordained feasts to be made therefore, and that the Month of April should loose his name, and be called NERO; and that there should be a new temple erected to the God of health, and other such like things. After this there was another conspiracy, the captain whereof was a Roman Knight, whose name was VINDEX or VINICIUS: but as the devil would help and support his servant NERO; so it was also discovered, & the confederates were by him brought to their death; and many other upon that occasion, The Conspirators had their trial, and pleaded bound in chains, some freely confessed it; and others added that he was beholding unto them for it, being impossible to cure him by any other means (infected as he was and dishonoured with all kind of impieties) but by death: The children of the condemned were expelled the City, and afterward poisoned or starved. After which he grew so fearful, and therewith so cruel, as from thenceforth his greatest study and practice was to put men to death, upon any occasion whether forged or true, according to his fantasy. And so he slew a great number of noble men (as SVETONIUS, and more at large CORNELIUS TACITUS reports.) Being nuzzled in these cruelties, he forgot not his other vices and lewd exercises; among which one was to come personally into the Theatre, and there to contend and strive for the prizes which were given to him that best could recite or sing verses and tragedies, and for other rewards of Music which were given in that time, as if he had been the poorest Musician or singing man in Rome. And coming one day very merry for a victory which he had obtained in these theatral justs and contentions, he took some displeasure against his beloved wife POPPEA: and as he was very proud and ill conditioned, he gave her a spurn on the belly, whereof being with child she fell so sick as she died; and Nero killed his wife Poppe●…. he, who was the cause of her death, was exceeding sorry for it. There was no kind of Alliance or Consanguinity, how near soever, but it felt the weight of his bloody hand. ANTONIA the daughter of CLAUDIUS, refusing after the death of POPPEA to be his wife, he slew, under colour that she went about to conspire against him; and to altar the state. He also murdered all others that were in any sort allied unto him: Among the which, A. PLANCIUS was one: whose body having by force filthily abused against kind before his death, Let my mother now, said he, kiss my successors sweet lips; giving it out that he was her dear darling, and that she encouraged him to aspire to the Empire. His son in law RU●…INUS CRISPINUS, son of POPPEA, being yet very young; for that it was reported of him, that in game he would play for great places of command and dukedoms; he gave charge to drown him in the Sea, when he should be there fishing. After all this, in the thirteenth year of his reign, the provinces being no longer able to endure his tyranny, and much less the armies which were in them, they began to mutiny and to think upon means how they ●…ight rebel against him; as within short space some of them did, which was in the 13. year of his reign. Moved upon the like occasion; the jews rebelled against the Empire, God permitting The jews rebelled against Nero. that they should be the first, and should continued in their rebellion, for a public and evident punishment which should be inflicted upon them, for the putting of our Saviour CHRIST to death. For this war which was begun against the jews, VESPASIAN was appointed General, a man very famous both in peace and war, and who afterwards was made Emperor: he had for his lieutenant (which is the second place after the General) his son TITUS, who in process of time was also Emperor. VESPASIAN began this war very resolutely, and it was afterwards one of the most famous that ever was in the world; wherein as shall be declared, the city of jerusalem was wholly destroyed. This history is excellently well written by JOSEPHUS a jewish historiographer, who served in that war, and was taken prisoner by VESPASIAN: and by EGESIPPUS a jew by birth, but a christian by profession; besides many other authors which treat and writ thereof. VESPASIAN having taken some Cities in judea; the envy and hatred daily increasing against NERO, with the causes which he gave of the same, all Nations conspiring to rebel against him; the provinces of France, and the legions which were there, began, first choosing JULIUS VINDEX for their captain. The news hereof came to NERO being then in the city of Naples, whither he went for his virtuous recreations, such as he was accustomed to use: whereat he seemed not to be much moved, and (as it was surmised) it offended him not, because that thereby he might have occasion to rob and spoil all the provinces of France. But the news still increasing, he began to stand in some doubt, and came to Rome, where he was certified that a part of Spain called Tarragona, was also risen against him, with SERGIUS GALBA proclaiming himself Emperor; who was a man very famous for hisnoble lineage, charges and dignities Insurr●…ction against Nero. which he had worthily executed. Which he did, as some write, being persuaded thereto by letters from JULIUS VINDEX who (as I now said) was in arms in France. With these news of Spain, the Emperor NRRO was so much troubled, as after that he had lain a good while (as though he had been dead) without speaking any one word, he rose up as a man desperate; and tearing his clotheses, he knocked his head against the walls, not demanding, nor receiving counsel or comfort from those which would have given it him. And this fury being past, he began to take order for the levying of forces, and to require succours and aids: but he was so much hated of all the world, as no man came very willingly to his service; rather persuading one another to the contrary: Things standing in this state, as NERO busied himself about levying an army, discoursing in himself what cruelties and punishments he might inflict, there came certain news unto him, that the legions which lay upon the frontiers of high Germany whose captain was RUFUS VIRGINIUS, were also in arms against him, as well as those of France and Spain. With this news NERO lost all courage and hope to defend himself: and the Senate and people of Rome were therewith so much troubled, as without any leader, but only of their own mere motion by common consent, they determined Nero despairs of himself. to abandon NERO, and refuse to yield him any obedience: whereof ensued his death which was shameful and vile, as he deserved; which was in this manner. SVETONIUS writeth, that when the news came of the insurrection of the legions, NERO was at dinner; and that presently when he heard it, he threw the table to the ground, and in despair to defend himself, taking certain poison in a box of gold, he withdrew himself to certain gardens which he had, where he devised sundry ways and means to escape this present calamity; sometime thinking to fly out of Italy to the King of Parthia, with whom he was in a great league of friendship ever ●…nce the coronation of his brother TIRIDATES King of Armenia; otherwhiles he thought to yield himself to SERGIUS GALBA, and to crave mercy at his hands: but finding no help nor remedy in either (for few were they which repaired un-him, or came at his calling) he was of opinion to go forth into the public places of assembly in Rome, clad in mourning attire, and there to crave pardon for his ill forepast life; and if they should not grant him to continued in the Empire, yet at the lest that they would bestow upon Nero brought into extreme misery. him the government of the kingdom of Egypt: and to this effect, were found certain orations already drawn in his closet; but he durst not put this device in practice, fearing to be slain by the people; so great already was the tumult in the City. Passing that day and part of the night in these doubts and fears, he laid himself upon his bed, although he took little rest, determining with himself the next day to put in execution that counsel which should seem most profitable. And having slept a little, he awoke about midnight, and was given to understand that the Cohorts which had the guard of the palace were go, and had forsaken him. Amazed at so great an alteration, he sent for certain of his best and most confident friends to their houses: but as between wicked men there is no true friendship, neither was there any due to him, neither had he deserved any, so from none of them he received any good answer: wherefore with some of his servants, and those very few (protected by the darkness of the night) he went forth of his palace, and in person went to many of their houses, at none of which they would open the doors, neither give him any answer: so as he who within few days before was feared and adored of all the world; returned sorrowful, despised, and in fear of all men. And returning to the lodging from whence he came, he found it ransacked and spoiled even to the very box of poison which he had reserved for his last refuge. Which when he saw, in despair of his life, and desiring to die, he began in great haste to call for a certain sword player which served him, whose name was SPICILLUS MIRMILON, and commanded him to kill him. And as neither this man, neither any other would do it, he cried out with a loud voice, saying, Now I perceive that I have neither friend nor enemy. And in this fury, he went with a determination to drown himself in the River Tiber: and making a stand, he asked of those which were with him, where he might hide himself, until that he had bethought him what to do. Presently an enfranchised man of his, named FAON, offered to keep him secretly hidden in a farm which he had 4 miles from Rome. And so NERO taking this for his last refuge, mounting on horseback, being barefooted and in his shirt and waistcoat, with an old sullied overworn cloak cast upon him, and so holding a handkerchief before his face, in the dark of the night he went out of Rome with four men only, which did bear him company, in the most covert and disguised manner that possibly he could: And with great fear and trouble came to the village whither they carried him; and leaving his horsehidden among certain trees, he went covertly through certain Canes and Reeds; and before that he came to the house whither he was to go, the same FAON which brought him, counselled him to go into a Cave which was there, where they used to dig sand: whereto he answered, that he would not bury himself alive; in the end he went into the house, creeping in on all four at a hole which they made through the wall; and coming into a chamber, he cast himself upon a poor bed which was there, and being both hungry and thirsty, he desired to have something to eat: but there was nothing to be had but a piece of brown bread and a little water; the bread he would not eat, but he drank of the water with wonderful fear and sorrow to see himself in that place. As these things passed with NERO (as I have said) as soon as it was day, his flight was presently discovered, and the Senate assembled, and by their common consent he was adjudged an enemy unto his country; and being condemned to die, was commanded to be sought for every The Senate sand to seek out Nero. where: to the execution whereof, the men of war of the Praetorian and Vrban Cohorts, consented by persuasions and promises which were made unto them. With which news, the determination of the Senate being published, a servant to the said FAON which brought NERO to his farm, went out of Rome, to give him to understand thereof: for he knew the secret way. And being come where the Emperor was, he found him making preparation to kill himself, through the persuasion of those which came with him, seeing that there was no other means for him to escape. He hearing the sorrowful news of his doom given by the Senate, To be an enemy to the State, and that he should be punished Moore Maiorum, hereupon he demanded what kind of punishment that Moore Maiorum was? And when he understood that a man so condemned was to be stripped naked, his head set fast in the stocks, and his body scourged with rods to death: He was so terrified therewith, as he took the poiniards which he had brought thither, and feeling their points and edges, he made show to do that which they had counselled him: but growing fearful and a coward, he put them again into their sheaths, feigning that his fatal hour was not yet come. And sometimes he prayed and entreated some one of those which were with him, to kill himself, to the end that he might follow his example: At other times he would reprove himself for his base mind and want of courage, until at last hearing the noise of certain horsemen, which by the commandment of the Senate came to seek him, he set a poniard to his throat, wherewith, with the help of one of his servants, he wounded himself, of which wound within a little while after, he died; making Nero slew himself. such gestures and countenances, as made all those which were present amazed thereat. And so ended the enemy of mankind, the venom and poison of the earth (for so PLINY calleth him) after that he had ruled the Empire fourteen years, and being of the age of two and thirty years, in the seventith year after the birth of JESUSCHRIST. This NERO was a man of a goodly constitution, neither high nor low, of a fair countenance though somewhat wanton; his eyes greenish, a round visage, reddish hair, with a thick and full neck, he had a great belly and little legs, and was of a sound complexion: for notwithstanding that he was given to all vice and excess, yet in fourteen years that he reigned, he was never but thrice sick. His death being known in Rome, the joy which the Senate & people conceived, was incredible; and all came forth into the streets to congratulate one with another, with bonnets upon their heads, which was a sign of liberty; for so did slaves use to wear when their masters made them free. But with all this (as NERO had been a great feaster, a spender, a giver, and was subject to other vices, which many men loved more than other men's virtues) yet there were some which for a long time honoured his sepulchre and did ordinarily set flowers upon it. And the King of Parthia sent his Ambassadors afterwards to Rome to confirm the peace and amity: who with great instance, earnestly desired that the remembrance of NERO might be held in honour and reverence. And as vain and idle people use to sow false reports; many believed that NERO was not dead, but that he lay hidden and should return again to the Empire, as though he had been enchanted. Saint AUGUSTINE also in his book decivitate Dei saith, that some were of opinion that NERO was antichrist: which vanity gave occasion that twenty years after there rose a man in Asia, naming himself NERO, which caused great trouble and alteration, being assisted by the Parthians: although that in truth there remained no house of NERO, neither son nor daughter, adopted or natural, and he was the last Emperor of the house and family of the CAESARS, founders of the Empire; so In Nero was ended and extinguished the lineage of the Caesars. in him ended his lineage, notwithstanding that the name continueth unto this day. SVETONIUS writes, that there were many signs foreshowing the fall and end of CAESAR'S house in NERO, but among the rest there were two most evident: As LIVIA soon after her marriage with AUGUSTUS went to see a farm house of hers, an Eagle soaring over her head, let fall a white Hen into her lap, holding in her bill a Laurel branch. And thinking it fit to have both the fowl kept, and the Laurel set in the ground, behold, of the one there came many chickens all white which multiplied daily; so as the very house was called Ad Gallinas: And of the other there sprang so fair a row of Bay-trees, as all the CAESARS when they did ride in triumph, gathered from thence their Garlands: and the manner was, when they had triumphed, presently to prick down others in the same place; and it was observed, that a little before the death of every one, the tree, by him planted, did also die. But in the last year of NERO both bay-trees withered at the root, and all the Hens died. And soon after the Temple of the CAESARS being strooken with lightning, the heads of all their statues fell down at once, and AUGUSTUS' sceptre was shaken out of his hand. THE LIFE OF SERGIUS GALBA, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND SEVENTH EMPEROR of ROME. THE ARGUMENT. SErgius Galba succeeded Nero, and in his old age was advanced to the Empire. This man was of the Noble Family of the Sulpitij, very intemperate in his diet, and of no great good fame concerning Sodomic, and governed the Empire by the counsel of three of his familiars. Before his coming to the Empire he subdued many Provinces, and was very severe in the execution of martial discipline. He was learned in the liberal sciences, but chief very expert in the laws. He was infortunate in his children: for those which he had died before him; and he whom he adopted, whose name was Piso Licinianus, was slain a little after him. This old man died through the sedition of Otho, who sent certain Soldiers to cut off his head in the public market place, whither he came armed to repress the tumults. His body was left to the mercy of the people; yet in the end it was buried by one of his bondmen. He lived seventy and three years, and governed the Empire seven months and seven days. His death seemed to be very acceptable to the people, as to those which are ever desirous to see alterations. NERO being dead in such manner as we have declared, to the great joy (and with a general consent) of all men, SERGIUS GALBA was created Emperor; who in the time of NERO was nominated and proclaimed by the Army which was in Spain; and he was the first that received the Empire from the hands of the Army, the Senate consenting thereto and approving the same; having no Affinity or Alliance with the House and Family of the CAESARS, neither by Blood, nor yet by Adoption: For, always until this time the Empire succeeded by inheritance and succession from one to another, being either kinsmen by Nature, or else by Adoption. Now to declare the life and fortunes of SERGIUS GALBA before he was Emperor, would require a large discourse; for he came to it at the age of 72. years, and enjoyed it not one whole year: so as seeing that I writ an Imperial history, I will not for so short a discourse (as was his reign) make so long a preamble. Let it suffice for him, and so much as shall appertain to our history, to know, that SERGIUS GALBA was of a most noble family in Rome, descended from the SULPITII; by surname GALBAE, and from other noble and ancient families; whereof, although men speak diversely, yet he was wont to boast, that by his father he was descended from JUPITER, and by his mother from The Image of Sergius Galba. PASIPHAE, wife to MINOS king of Creta; of whom is reported that notable fable of a Bull. And you shall also know that in his life time he had obtained many Magistracies and dignities in Rome and abroad, whereby he won great credit both in peace and war: for being borne about the 40. year of the reign of OCTAVIANUS AUGUSTUS, or within little more or less, he lived after in the times of TIBERIUS, CALIGULA, CLAUDIUS and NERO, and was well known and honoured by them all; which could not be, without great wisdom and valour, to support and increase his honour in times of such confusion, and under so tyrannous Princes; although imitating them, he eschewed not some of their vices, for which he was noted and defamed. So as speaking indifferently of this Emperor, we may say, that he was between good and bad, and so it seemeth that CORNELIUS TACITUS noteth him; yet PLUTARCH, who writeth his life gravely and at large, amongst other defects in his reign, sayeth the fault upon the time, and the evil conditions of men in that age, and of GALBA he treateth as of a good Emperor. And he and others writ, that he was learned in the liberal Sciences, and much inclined and given to learning and knowledge, particularly in the laws and Galba, learned in the liberal Arts. customs. He was but once married, and then with a Gentlewoman, whose name was LEPIDA: who being dead, and two sons which he had by her, he would never marry any more. And this shall suffice for the notice of the person and qualities of GALBA. Now let us speak of his reign, which although it were short, yet it was not so in the accidents which happened. After that GALBA had rebelled in Spain, in such manner as is said, and that the title of Emperor was given him, and by him accepted; in the mean space until NERO died, and a little before he knew of his death, he was in great trouble and danger: for although that presently in the beginning all went well with him, and he took a house and held the state of an Emperor, taking a guard, and choosing for his council, with whom he might confer and consult of matters of importance, certain of the principal and wisest men of the legion whereof he had the charge, and had given offices and dignities, and the inhabitants of the province made their repair to him to do him service: yet upon a sudden all was in combustion; for part of the Cohorts began to repent them of what they had done, and were ready to have abandoned him. And it also happened that a certain servant to one of NERO his enfranchised men, having been procured thereto, resolved, and missed but a little to have slain him, in a passage as he was going to certain baths. And above all, the death of JULIUS VINDEX, which then ensued, News which put Galba into despair. troubled him most; who, as we said, rebelled in France, and had induced him to make himself Emperor, which VINDEX slew himself, for that his troops had fought with RUFUS VIRGINIUS his forces, who was captain of the legions in Germany which also rebelled; which battle was against the will of both the commanders, and JULIUS VINDEX his forces being overcome, and of them 22000 slain, he therefore killed himself. These news, being added to the former, did so trouble GALBA, as he was in despair both of the Empire, and of his life. But about this time (for, it was in a manner all at one instant) news came from Rome of the death of NERO, with certain notice, that the Senate and Praetorian Cohorts had chosen and accepted of GALBA for Emperor. Which news one ICEL●…US a Libertine brought him; for which he afterwards did him many favours: and, messengers increasing, much people with these tidings repairing to his service, he took his way toward Rome, accompanied with men of war. And upon the way VIRGINIUS RUFUS, Captain of the Legions in Germany, sent to yield him his obedience, who until then had showed himself neutral, attending the will of the Senate, notwithstanding that he had declared himself against NERO. This old (although new) Emperor, travelling towards Rome (as it commonly happeneth in things that are done with little consideration) his coming to Rome was nothing so pleasing as his election: for, before him there came certain news, which gave occasion of discontentment, that he was not only cruel, but also covetous; as Princes are much noted both in their doings and sayings. And it was also reported, that such Cities of Spain and France as had not in time repaired unto him to offer their service and obedience, he had condemned in great sums of money, and had charged them with great tributes, and that of some of them he had commanded the walls to be thrown down, and the Governors to be put to death. Which reports of his cruelty and covetousness were confirmed and augmented at his first entrance into Rome: for, when he would have forced the mariners and seamen (whom NERO had inrouled in a Legion, and made lawful soldiers) to return again to their former estate and condition, and they (making refusal) called insolently for their Eagle and other military Ensigns; he not only sent a troop of horsemen among them, who trod them under their feet, but also executed every tenth man. In like manner the Cohort of the Germane, which in former times had been ordained for the guard of CAESAR'S person, and had been always found very trusty and faithful, he discharged, and sent them home into their Country, without any recompense for their service; pretending that they were better affected to CNEIUS DOLABELLA, than to him. Being in Rome, with this secret discontentment, although with public joy and solemnity, he began to take upon him the administration and government of the Empire, and did some things as a wise and worthy Prince, and took good order to assure himself against those which had rebelled: for, in Africa he caused CLODIUS MACER to be slain, because he practised to make a combustion in that Country, by the means of TREBONIUS GRATIANUS; and for the same cause he commanded to be slain, in the Frontiers of Germany, FONTEIUS a captain, whom VALENS FA●…IUS and CORNELIUS AQVINUS, Lieutenants to the Legions in Germany, slew. And in Rome NEUFIDUS SABINUS, a Perfect, was put to death: who, after NERO was dead, practised to make himself Emperor. Which executions although they were not to be blamed, yet they did discontent and grieve many. Also the common people, being affected to the feasts and dissolute sports of NERO, and being accustomed thereto, loved better those his vices, than the ancient virtues of GALBA. The Praetorian and Vrbane Cohorts, seeing that the Emperor GALBA did not perform the promises which were made unto them, began likewise to murmur; yea and to repent them to have yielded him their obedience. They were also much discontented, for that he had brought with him a legion of Spaniards, and lodged them certain days in the city; wherewith they held themselves wronged. But that which made him to be hated and abhorred of all men, were his favourites, which principally were three; unequal in conditions and behaviour, Galba hated, and the reason. but equal in power and credit with him: the one of them was called TITUS JUNIUS, and had been his Lieutenant in Spain, and then was Consul; the other was CORNELIUS LACUS, an infamous man and ill beloved, whom he made Praetorian Perfect, which was the greatest dignity and authority next to the Emperors; the third was ICELLUS MARCIANUS, who had brought the news into Spain of the death of NERO. By the counsel of these men he was governed, the short time that his reign endured. And this was such, as without any constancy or resolute staidness (as become a Prince) he did things many times one contrary to the other, according to the will of some of them: so as sometimes he shown himself severe and rigorous; and at other times slow, remiss and negligent, condemning some unheard, and pardoning others without any reason, at the instance of those men. And as they for their deserts were ill beloved; so commonly with the Prince which is governed, all those which have not the like authority with him, are discontented; by this reason he made himself ill beloved. Whereto this was a help, that he sought to moderate and diminish the excessive gifts and rewards which NERO was wont to give without measure or reason, seeking to apply it to his own benefit, allowing but a tenth part out of it; and with this strict condition, That if any actors upon the stage, wrestlers or other Champions had sold any such donations formerly given unto them, the same should be taken from the buyers, seeing that the parties who had sold the same, had spent the money, and were not able to repay it. And to increase the people's hatred and discontent, when as they called on him for justice, and to have HALOTUS and TIGELLINUS executed, the only men of all NERO'S Instruments who wrought most mischief, he saved them from danger, advancing HALOTUS to a Procuratorship, and rebuking the people for their cruelty against TIGELLINUS. And besides what is already said, his unwieldy old age began to be had in contempt, so as every man durst presume to murmur at him, and to do any thing against his authority. Matters standing upon these terms in Rome, those abroad were in as little rest: for seeing that the Army and province of Spain had made an Insurrection and chosen an Emperor either of envy or discontentment, there were in most parts mutinies, factions and desire of alteration, and principally in the Roman army which was in high Germany, the captain whereof was RUFUS VIRGINIUS before named: for these legions waxing proud, by reason of the victory which they had obtained against the army of JULIUS VINDEX, and making no account of ORDEONIUS FLACCUS, who was their Commander, and Lieutenant to VIRGINIUS; holding themselves for suspected, and in disgrace with the Emperor GALBA, because they were the last that came to his service, they determined to be the first that should leave the same. And the first day of januarie being come, wherein they did use to swear, and to do homage of fidelity to the Emperor, they refused to do it to him, but to the Senate; and The legions in Germany refused to do homage to Galba. sent to the Praetorian Cohorts at Rome, to let them understand, that they would not obey that Emperor who was created in Spain; & that the Senate should choose such a one whom they thought fit; whereto they remitted themselves: Yet SVETONIUS saith, they referer this choice to the same Cohorts. The legions in Germany standing upon these terms, those in low Germany were as little obedient, whose captain was VITELLIUS: who having sounded the good will of the soldiers (notwithstanding that he was sent thither by GALBA, & had received that charge from him) through a desire to reign violating his faith (as JULIUS CAESAR was wont to say, that for rule it was lawful to break any faith) he practised to get the Empire to himself. And for as much as he afterwards came to be Emperor, it shall not not be amiss to give the reader to understand what he was. This VITELLIUS was a man of great reputation and authority; which he had gotten in the offices and Magistracies which he had held in Rome, and abroad, in the time of the Emperor's CAIUS CALIGULA, CLAUDIUS and NERO, with all which he had been very private, more for his vices, and some abilities of his person, then for any virtues. With CALIGULA he was in grace, for that he was a great Auriga; for so were they called which had the charge and rule of chariots and wagons: with CLAUDIUS, for that he was a great gamester: with NERO, for the same, and such like qualities. And besides this, as he was very subtle and cunning, so he obtained in those times great dignities and offices, of Perfect, of priesthood, and also to be Viceconsul in Africa, which he wisely executed: and in the end GALBA gave him this command in Germany; where succeeded that which we will declare. His principal descent was from the family of the VITELIII; whereof because there are sundry opinions, some making it very ancient, and others to be of later time, I will make no question thereof: the same happened to his fathers and ancestors; for some said that he was of mean degree. SVETONIUS' in his life treateth thereof more at large, to whom I refer the curious reader: for, what is spoken, sufficeth for my purpose, thereby to understand what shall be said hereafter. The Emperor GALBA being advertised of all that had passed in the armies of Germany' and knowing that besides his age, he was not respected, for that he had never a son that might succeed him, he resolved to put in execution what he sometimes before had projected, which was to adopt and choose for his son, some personage of such age & authority, as might be sufficient Galba resolves to adopt one to succeed him. and capable of the Empire, & who in his life-time might protect him, & after his decease succeed him. His favourites, & such as were private with him, understanding this his determination, each of them apart pretended to give him a son of his choosing, so as there arose strife and contention amongst them upon this occasion. OTHO gaped after it and thought to have obtained this adoption (it was he, from whom we said, that NERO took his wife POPPEA and sent him into Spain) alleging for his desert, that presently after GALBA'S rebellion against NERO, he was the first that came to his service. A great part also of the Praetorian and Vrban Cohorts favoured him (which Historiographers indifferently call the Army which lay near to Rome) and most of all TITUS JUNIUS assisted him, who was one of GALBA his fauourits, and was Consul with him that year: so as OTHO did assure himself that no other should be adopted but he. But GALBA being fully resolved to that which was most expedient for the good of the commonwealth, without any other respect; and likewise disliking the disposition of OTHO (which scented of NERO'S conditions) he took no regard of what was said unto him; but upon a day when no man thought of any such matter, being in the Senate, he took PISO LUCINIANUS by the hand, who was a man both wise and virtuous, and in whom did concur all the qualities and good conditions that might seem fit and requisite Piso adopted by Galba for his son and suc●…or. for an Emperor: and calling him son he adopted him, after the manner then accustomed; and with a great train, in great pomp, he went with him to the Camp, and made the Army to swear obedience unto him, and to receive him for CAESAR: which he did without giving any rewards to the soldiers, or promising them aught, whereto they were accustomed; but only made a grave oration with great majesty, after the ancient manner: and so it was coldly accepted among them, they performing more with silence, than with any sign of gladness either in countenance or in speeches; and with the like coldness he was accepted by the Senate: for, now Rome was not capable of equity, or the ancient integrity. GALBA, having made this adoption, conceived that it would have been the mean to have preserved and protected his life: but it proved in effect to be the occasion of his confusion and utter ruin. For, OTHO, seeing himself deceived in his hope of adoption, and finding the soldiers well-affected towards him, for the hatred they had conceived against GALBA, resolved to effect his purposes by force and treason: which he presently practised by all means possible with the Praetorian soldiers, by Otho incites the praetorian Bands against Galba. great gifts, and greater promises which he made unto them. And he so cunningly handled the matter (for, so little faith and loyalty was used in those days) that in less than eight days he had plotted his treason; and it was concluded, that they should rebel, and created him Emperor (as they did) with the death of poor old GALBA, which was performed in this manner: GALBA being with certain his private friends in his palace doing sacrifice; this OTHO being there with him, he stole secretly away from him to a place appointed, where a number of soldiers of the Praetorian Cohorts attended his coming; who took him upon their shoulders, calling him Emperor, and drawing their swords (to give the greater terror to the people) went with him towards their camp. This being related unto GALBA, who doubted not any such matter, it extremely perplexed him; and as his counsels were sudden, so were they inconstant & variable. For some were of opinion that his best course was to put himself in arms, and to go publicly abroad; for with his presence he might have stayed the tumult from proceeding any further; others, that it were best for him to fortify himself in the Capitol, and there to stay till he should see to what issue the matter would grow. The poor old man wavered, and was doubtful what resolution to take, the messages which were brought him were so divers: for, some made the matter nothing; and others, very dangerous. In the end, deceived by a false report which they brought him (that the Army had not only refused to receive OTHO for Emperor, but had slain him) he road armed with his guard, and some others which repaired unto him, even unto the principal place in Rome; where all the people were assembled to see what would be the end of so great a combustion. At that Instant there entered on the other side a great troop of horsemen which OTHO had sent from the Camp (where he was chosen Emperor) against GALBA, to kill him: who although they came with that resolution and charge, yet coming within his sight, and knowing him, they stood amazed a pretty while, as doubting what they should do. At this time was GALBA most perplexed, not knowing whereon to resolve; and the multitude and press of people was so great about him, as they swayed him sometime to one side, and sometime to the other: and, as it commonly happeneth in such accidents and tumults, that then the counsel is praised and approved when the time is passed wherein it might have been put in execution; and, standing irresolute whether he should return to the Palace, or shut himself up in the Capitol, having had sufficient time for either; now, when he would have done the one or the other, he could not: For, being abandoned by the greatest part of those which did accompany him, they who were sent by OTHO, set upon him, after they had stood a good space doubtful (as I said) and there slew him. PLUTARCH writes (although some others report it after another manner) that when as those which came to kill him drew near unto Galba was slain by the direction of Otho, and his head presented unto him upon the point of a Lance. him, he thrust out his head, to the end they should cut it off; willing them to do it, if so it were expedient for the Good of the Commonwealth, and of the Roman people. And so it was stricken off, and set on the point of a Lance, and presented to OTHO, and from him was carried up and down the Camp; and his body remained in the place without a head, for any man to tread upon, until at last it was buried by a bondman of his. And the same day, by OTHO his commandment, was PISO LUCINIANUS put to death, whom GALBA (as I said) had adopted for his son and successor: and so was TITUS VINIUS also, who was Consul; and others of his Favourites, whose heads were all carried to the Camp to OTHO, whom all men now obeyed for Emperor: and, being laid together with GALBA'S head, every one gloried to have embrued his hands in their blood. Not man's death did OTHO so much rejoice at, no man's head did he view and review so unsatiably, as PISO'S; whether he thought himself then freed from fear and care, PISO being his enemy & concurrent; or that the remembrance of Majesty in GALBA, or acquaintance with VINIUS, had moved him to compassion. And so ended the life of the Emperor GALBA, having held the Empire only seven months. His death was in the year of our Saviour JESUS CHRIST 71, and 73 of his age. He was a man of a good constitution of body, greenish eyed, hawk nosed, very bald: and by reason of the great pain of the gout wherewith he was afflicted, his fingers and toes were weak and crooked; he was a great feeder, very incontinent, and given to women. THE LIFE OF MARCUS SILVIUS OTHO, FIRST OF THAT NAME, AND EIGHT ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. OTHO borne of a Noble Family, took the Empire after Galba, although his evil fortune would not suffer him to enjoy the same long: for at the same time that Otho was made Emperor in Rome, Vitellius was proclaimed Emperor in Germani●…. And for as much as the on●… would not give place to the other, in the end they came to blows: and after sundry b●…ttaileses, Otho being the los●…r, not knowing what other course to take in his adversity, slew himself●…; which act ●…med not answerable to the life which he had led, which was more like to the ●…minacie of a woman, than the courage of a man. This man governed the Empire four months, and died in the thirty. 〈◊〉 of his age. He was so dear to his own soldiers, that whilst his body was burning after the manner then of the Romans, many of them sl●…w themselves with their own hands. THE Reign of GALBA (of whom we have now ended our discourse) of OTHO, and VITELLIUS his successors, of which we are to treat, were so short, so turbulent, so confused, & gotten by such wicked and unlawful means, as more properly they might be called Tyrants, than Emperors, and so some writers term them: neither do they put them in the catalogue of Emperors; of which are Saint ISIDORH and BEDA. And the great Magician APOLLONIUS THIANEUS, who lived in that time used to say, that GALBA, OTHO and VITELLIUS Galba, Otho, and Vitelliu●…, called Theban●… Emperors, and compared to Kings upon a 〈◊〉 in a ●…ragedie. were Theban Emperors: and the reason was, for that the Thebans held the Empire a very small time, and so did these as little the Empire of Rome. PLUTARCH in the life of GALBA, compareth them to Kings in a Tragedy, which last no longer than the time that they are represented upon the Stage. But howsoever it was, they obtained the names of Emperors; whether the Senate gave it them for fear or flattery, I will not decide: But passing on with PLUTARCH; CORNELIUS TACITUS, and the rest which writ of them, I say that the same day wherein GALBA was slain, there was no man of any account which went not to the Camp where OTHO was, to yield him obedience and to flatter him, as their sovereign Lord and Emperor, commending the Cohorts, and Army for that which they had done, in putting GALBA to death, and for the election of OTHO. OTHO was a man very valiant and witty, and was the son of LUCIUS OTHO who had been Consul, of an ancient and honourable family; and was so like unto TIBERIUS in his gesture Otho his descent. and countenance, that some held him for his son. His mother also was of a noble house, and so were her progenitors and ancestors. Hereof writeth SVETONIUS, and PLUTARCH in the life of him: by which and by CORNELIUS TACITUS may be understood what was the course of his life before he came to the Empire, or had the name of Emperor; which in brief I have before declared, & therefore hold it needless to make repetition thereof. OTHO besides the occasions which he had to rise against GALBA, they writ that he had this for one, which was, that an ginger which he carried with him when he was sent by NERO into Spain, did foretell and assure him that he should be Emperor of Rome. Being in the Camp in such manner as before is recited, compassed about with Senators & the principal men of Rome, he came to the Senate; having first commanded the Praetorian Perfect of the city to assemble the same: where besides the ordinary blessings and applauses, they gave him the name of AUGUSTUS, and all the other titles and preeminences which the other Emperors desired to have. And having there made a brief Oration, wherein he let them understand that he was compelled and forced to take upon him the charge of the Empire, promising to govern the same by the counsel and advice of the Senate, he went from thence through the midst of the place (which was all bloody and full of dead bodies) to JUPITER'S Capitol, and thence to the Imperial Palace: and so was OTHO advanced to the Empire; who was the first that by the Otho was the first that was made Emperor by the Praetorian Cohorts. Cohorts (which were the Army lodged too near the City of Rome) was chosen and made Emperor, and from whom came the custom to created Emperors, after they had forsaken GALBA: before which time they were ever the Emperor's ordinary guard. This was an accursed and most pernicious introduction for the Roman Empire, and for the Emperors themselves, as experience did afterwards make manifest. OTHO, to perform his promises, and to make a good beginning and show of a good Prince, he commanded much confiscated goods to be restored to their owners, and to such men as NERO had banished; and did other things in like manner, which were exceeding pleasing to all the people, in such sort, as they took such love and liking to him, that they continued evermore faithful unto him until his dying day, although in truth his life continued but a short time after. While these matters passed in Rome, the Legions and Army, which both in high & low Germany (as I have said) were disobedient to GALBA, their Captain VITELLIUS having by gifts and promises purchased their favour and good will, after some treaties (which TACITUS and PLUTARCH describe at large) concluded to created him Emperor, and Vitellius made Emperor by the Legions in Germany. (without attending the will and pleasure of the Senate) they made him so: so as in a manner, at one instant, OTHO was advertised thereof, and VITELLIUS knew what passed in Rome. The Germane Legions, presuming that VITELLIUS (whom they had chosen) should continued Emperor, pretending that they had as great authority to created an Emperor as the Legions in Spain; the Senate in like manner, the Cohorts, and army at Rome pretended to have the supreme power, & that in them rested the absolute authority to choose and created the Emperor, which was OTHO only. And although that OTHO by this means seemed to have the greatest interest and best title: yet whether his guilty conscience did put him in fear, or that it grieved him to think of the evils which were likely to ensue (as he afterwards shown) he sought means by letters & messengers to come to a composition and agreement with VITELLIUS; but nothing was concluded: and the dissension daily increasing between them, either party made preparation for the wars. And certain tidings being brought that VITELLIUS his forces came marching towards Italy, under the conduct of two Captains, whose names were VALENS and CECINNA (VITELLIUS remaining behind them attending more aid) OTHO departed from Rome with a fair and well ordered army, of all the Roman Nobility, the Praetorian Cohorts, and the Legions which were in the Navies by sea upon the coast of Italy, which he sent for to that effect, and such others as he then could levy: and in this manner he marched from Rome very mighty in number of men, though not much accustomed or trained up to the wars, leaving FLAVIUS SABINUS, brother to VESPASIAN, for governor, who (as is said) followed the wars against the jews, and so he continued his journey against VITELLIUS, whose forces were already come to the Alps, to the number of 70000 men, whereof forty thousand were commanded by VALENS, and the rest by CECINNA, VITELLIUS remaining in France expecting the remainder of those in Germany, and the Legions of Britanny which also came to do him service. These two Armies drawing near the one to the other, the civil war began between them, and was very cruel in many parts: or to say better, that war was prosecuted which was begun between GALBA and NERO▪ Rome for a good War between Otho and Vitellius. space had not been infested with any civil dissensions, although it escaped not free from sundry calamities, by reason of the wicked Princes which reigned there; by which means the present miseries which were very great, brought the battles fought between MARIUS and SILLA, JULIUS CAESAR and POMPEY, AUGUSTUS and MARCUS ANTONIUS, and others which depended thereon, into remembrance; with which these whereof we now treat may well make comparison, both for alteration in estates, for number of men, and effusion of blood; I cannot say whether for continuance of time, in countries and provinces, or no: for after these wars began, there died by the sword four Emperors (as it hath been, and shall be declared) Four Emperors slain in the civil wars. which which were NERO, GALBA, OTHO and VITELLIUS, besides VINDEX, and other Noblemen which were slain; and besides VINDEX Legions, which (as we said) were overthrown in France, there were great encounters and battles fought, and extreme cruelties committed. And these wars lasted until VESPASIAN came to be Emperor, no part of the Empire remaining free from this fury; whereof I can set down but the sum and most notable accidents which happened therein. OTHO, coming to the City of Brixellum, upon the side of the River Po, remained there, sending his Forces before him, under the conduct of good Captains; who were ill obeyed by their soldiers, being grown proud for that they had made an Emperor; imagining, that no man aught to have the command of them. The like want of obedience was in VITELLIUS Army, and for the same reason: and, the wars waxing cruel between these two Commanders Battles betwixt Otho and Vitellius. and their Armies, they made such haste, as leaving apart the great skirmishes and other encounters, there were within few day's space two or three notable battles fought betwixt them: one of which was near to the City of Placentia; the other, near to Cremona; and the third near to a place called Castor, in which were slain a very great number of men: and in all these three battles OTHO his Captains and the Romans had the better, although that of either side the word was, Rome and the Empire. After which, VALENS and CECINNA, who were VITELLIUS Lieutenants (which until then had made wars apart) joined their Forces together, reinforcing their Armies with new soldiers and supplies; determining to set up their whole rest in one battle, if the enemy would give it them. At that time (as PLUTARCH reporteth) OTHO, very joyful for the victories obtained by his Captains, came to his Army at Bebriacum (where then it lay) near unto Cremona; and, seeing that his enemies (notwithstanding they had been put to the worse, and were routed) made show to desire to fight again, took counsel whether that of his part he should do the like or no. The greatest part, and wisest men, were of opinion, that he should prosecute the wars without hazarding any battle; for that his enemy endured want of many things, and with their losses past had likewise lost much reputation; and many Countries were revolted from VITELLIUS, and held for OTHO: besides that, VITELLIUS could sand them little relief; and, on the contrary, his Army was well provided of all things necessary, and Rome and all Italy were wholly at his devotion. And, besides all this, the Provinces of the East stood firm for him; and the Legions in Servia, Bulgaria, Hungary, and Austria, were upon the way coming to his aid: so as he had no reason so often to tempt his fortune, and therefore he aught to weary his enemy by delays, or else to stay for greater power; wherein there was no doubt of victory. But those which were haughty, and desirous to fight, alleged many reasons to the contrary; that he aught not to loose the occasion, and the good success of fortune, neither to suffer VITELLIUS to come to his Army, and to free it from the fear wherein it was; with many other reasons, to the end a battle might be given. And OTHO, being inclined thereto, approved it, and commanded the same to be put in execution: for, in truth, he did so much abhor the war, as he held it for a less evil to loose the victory, than long to stand in suspense. And being resolved upon this counsel, he returned to Brixelle: for, it was agreed, that he should not personally be in the battle; and so his Army went to seek VITELLIUS his Forces, which were not fare off. And, as of either party they were desirous to fight, so they came to a battle; where, in the beginning, OTHO his Army was deceived by a show of peace which his enemies made: whereupon they gave the charge very slowly, and Authors report the manner thereof very diversely, as it useth to happen in the like accidents: but all affirm, that both the one and the other fought valiantly, saving the Praetorian Cohorts, which were those in whom OTHO reposed his chiefest trust; through whose default and cowardice, OTHO lost the battle, and VITELLIUS was Victor, and (with great slaughter of his adversaries) become Master of the Field. OTHO his Captains with such others as by flight escaped from the battle, retired themselves to their camp, and fortified the same, in hope to have been relieved by their Emperor; notwithstanding that many fled to sundry parts: but he, hearing the news of the overthrow of his Army, brought by those which fled unto him: And among the first that brought this disastrous news was a common Soldier, who when he reported the overthrow of the Army, and could purchase no credit, but was taxed with untruth, and that he had run away through fear and cowardice, he fell upon his own sword, at OTHOES' feet: at which sight he cried out: That he would no more draw such valiant soldiers, and so well deserving, into danger. Notwithstanding he knew that in the camp there were sufficient forces, and that he had opportunity to temporize, and to stay for the legions which came out of Missia, Hungary, Austria and Dalmatia to his aid, and were near at hand: yet he regarded not any of those helps, but with his own hand resolved to end the civil wars, which as it passed (for that it is a notable action, although I shall be somewhat tedious) I will declare as PLUTARCH and TACITUS writ it, and SVETONIUS TRANQVILLUS also after the report of his own father, who was then present, which was thus. The heavy tidings of this overthrow being published, all thosewhich were in the city) which were many and very good men, and the greatest part of the Senate of Rome) came to OTHO his lodging, fearing and suspecting that which afterwards ensued, by reason of that which they had understood by him before: all which with show of great courage offered to die for his service, and endeavoured to animate and comfort him: but all this (notwithstanding that he knew a great part of his army yet remained, and that more forces were coming unto him, and that there wanted neither courage in his soldiers, nor means to continued the wars) sufficed not to altar his resolutions; so much did he abhor civil discord and contention. And giving answer to all the reasons & persuasions which they used unto him, he made unto them a very notable Oration, signifying, that he would never Otho his Oration. have begun the wars against VITELLIUS, but in hope of peace, which he had sought and procured before he took Arms; and that he had no use for those legions and forces which they said came to his aid, seeing that his enemy was neither HANNIBAL nor PYRRHUS, or any other common enemy to the people of Rome; but Romans themselves, and the Lords thereof: so as the Conquerors and Conquered did wrong their Country if they contended any longer, seeing that the joy of the victory was to the loss and prejudice thereof: And that he could no way so much advance the Roman Empire by winning battles in war and contention, as by making a sacrifice of himself for the peace thereof, seeing that by his death only a general union and concord would ensue: wherefore he was content that VITELLIUS should be Emperor without any more bloodshed, and he desired no revenge nor rule, to the ruin of his Citizens, neither to diminish the Commonwealth by the loss of such Armies; and that as others had purchased honour and fame by well-governing and supporting the Empire, so he would likewise procure himself a good name by leaving it resolutely, to the end he would not damnify it. And, finally speaking these words, and giving other good reasons, permitting and persuading all those which were with him to go and serve VITELLIUS; night being come, he retired himself to his chamber: where he commanded all his money and jewels to be taken out, which he divided among his servants and friends. Which although they would not accept, yet Otho divided his money and jewels amongst his servants and friends. he commanded them to go to their rest: and he did the like, laying first the sharpest of two Rapiers which he had, under his bed's head: and, being laid in his bed, he slept part of the night, in presence of those which were in his chamber, the door standing open; and, awaking about the break of the day, and seeing one of his servants remaining, he commanded him to go forth. And, then presently taking the Rapier in his hand, he thrust himself under the left side with such force as the wound was mortal, giving one only groan, which was heard by his servants, who hastily ran unto him, and found him striving with death, and died presently under their hands. By Otho slew himself. those which were present, & such as presently repaired thither from all parts of the city to him, there was so great lamentation made for him, as it seemed the heavens had rend asunder: so much was this man beloved in so few days. And his body was presently burned, according as the custom than was. And so ended the Emperor OTHO manfully and resolutely, according to the opinion and law of the Romans: scarcely four months after that he had usurped the Empire, in the 38. year of his age, and the 71. after the birth of CHRIST, leaving after him neither son nor daughter. He was a man but of a small stature, and had crooked feet; but he was so neat and curious in attiring himself, as the care which he took therein, was more beseeming a woman then a man. He ever ware a periwig, and suffered no jot of his beard to grow, shaving it every day, and so used such other eff●…inate toys, much dissonant from the manly resolution which he shown at his death. Many of his soldiers which were about him, when with abundance of tears they had kissed his hands and feet as he lay dead, and commended him for a valiant man, and the only Emperors that ever was, presently slew themselves near unto his funeral fire. And many which were absent, hearing of his end, (oppressed with grief) slew one another. Finally, many who in his life cursed and detested him, being now dead, highly commended him, so as it was an ordinary speech, That GAL●…A was not slain by him for that he affected Sovereignty, but because he desired to restore the Commonwealth to her lost liberty. The news of his death & of the victory was brought to his enemy VITELLIUS in France: who having intelligence of the losses which his captains had received, was coming with all the forces that he was able to make, to join with them, and to reinforce the army. In those days, LINUS who was S. PETER'S successor, held the chief seat in the Church of Rome, where there was a Church and congregation of Christians, which made their prayers to God for those which persecuted them. THE LIFE OF AULUS VITELLIUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND NINTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. AFter Otho, Aulus Vitellius, borne of a Noble Family, succeeded in the Empire, wherein he was unfortunate: for he governed the same but 8. months. This man was of a cruel disposition, and of a bountiful mind. In his time Vespasian, being in the East, was made Emperor by his Soldiers; who coming to a battle in Italy against Vitellius, took him prisoner: and binding his hands behind him, leading him (publicly) half naked, and his face all dirty, they slew him with many wounds, in the same place where he had put Sabinus, Vespasians brother, to death. He lived 57 years, and reigned (as is above said) little more than half a year. By whose misery it plainly appeareth how variable the motions of fortune are, and that oftentimes a kingdom is lost through the same means whereby it was unjustly gotten, as appeareth in this Emperor: for Vespasian did by him as he had done by his Predecessor Otho. AS the contention for the Title of Emperor continued betwixt OTHO and VITELLIUS, as by that which is already said may be understood; OTHO being dead, all yielded to VITELLIUS: which happened in this manner; The great lamentation made for the death of OTHO being ended, all the men of war, both legionary and Praetorian, with all the rest, made repair to the lodging of VIRGINIUS, who had been Commander of the Germane Legions, who fought against VINDEX his Army when they both made a mutiny against NERO. And, being all assembled together, they entreated him to take upon him the name of Emperor; offering him their service, and to die in the action; and if that he pleased not to accept thereof, yet at the lest that he would be their Ambassador to VALENS and CECINNA, and obtain their pardon of them. VIRGINIUS RUFUS, who was a wise and valiant man answered them with the best words he could device, alleging that to him it seemed folly to accept of the Empire from the hands of those which were overcome, having refused the same of the German Legions, which now were victors, when in the life of NERO they had offered it him. And as concerning the ambassade which they requested him to perform for them, he gave them a doubtful and uncertain answer, still putting them in hope, until that he was gotten into his lodging, and out again at a back door, and so retired to a secret place where he hide himself until that fury was passed. But a certain man of note whose name was RVERIUS GALLUS, afterwards accepting of that journey, went to VITELLIUS his Captains to treat thereof; and peace and pardon was granted, as well to these men as to the army overcome near Bebriaco, and so all came to the obedience of VITELLIUS in his absence. The like was done by part of the Senate which came with OTHO, and was then in Modena. And in Rome, when as the death of OTHO was known, FLAVIUS SABINUS (being Perfect of the city) assembled the Senate, who conforming themselves to the time (which was now to proffer service and to flatter) with the accustomed solemnity proclaimed VITELLIUS for Emperor, giving him the title of AUGUSTUS, and Pater patriae, with other honourable titles and Vitellius confirmed Emperor by the Senate. Epithets, resolving to give great thanks, and to commend the Army for that which was done. The news of all this came to the new Emperor VITELLIUS in France upon the coast of Italy: which how pleasing it was to him, may easily be imagined; wherewith he hastened his way with admirable pomp and pride, his soldiers in all the cities as they passed, committing many disorders and insolences. The Germane Legions which were in Italy, grown proud through the victory which they had obtained, and for that they were the Authors of VITELLIUS his Empire, committed outrages never seen nor heard of in that country before, whereof the spoils and loss which the people sustained was inestimable, as TACITUS and SVETONIUS report: And VITELLIUS, coming full of pride for his victory into Italy, either could not, or would not remedy these disorders. And that in some sort he might seem to do justice and show himself a justicer, he caused all the Praetorian Cohorts, which had been actors about the death of GALBA, and making of OTHO Emperor, to be disarmed and deprived of the name and honour of Soldiers, and commanded their arms to be taken from them, and one hundred and twenty of the most guilty he condemned to death; and being sought and found out, a just sentence was executed upon them, if it had proceeded from a just judge. VITELLIUS, thus marching towards Rome, desired to see the place where his Captains obtained the victory against OTHO his Army: and being but forty days after the same, the fields lay full of dead bodies which were yet unburied; and as many of those which were with him could not endure the evil smell thereof, the cruel tyrant reproved them, saying, That there was no sweeter scent in the world, than the smell of an enemy when he is dead, and especially of a citizen: A The cruel speech of Vitellius. speech doubtless very inhuman and cruel; the which is written to be abhorred, and aught to be read with the like affection. VITELLIUS being come to Rome, as upon the way many scandals and outrages were committed by the sundry nations which came with him, with infinite robberies and spoils done in the country; so was his entry into the city fearful and terrible: for he entered into it as into an enemy's country which had been conquered, mounted upon a great horse, clad in military and warlike habiliments; the Senate and people of Rome going before him as though that he had Vitellius his entry into Rome. triumphed over them; compassed about with standards, with the Eagles, and sundry other ensigns, and his whole Army both of foot and horse, armed in the best armour and furniture that could be gotten. In this manner he went to the Capitol to make his prayers to JUPITER, and afterwards he went in the same manner to his Palace: and the next day commanding the Senate to be assembled, he came thither; where he made a fit speech, magnifying with little wit or discretion his acts and adventures, and promising great goodness of himself; and by them was humbly answered, obeyed and honoured as Emperor, and their sovereign Lord Departing from the Senate and taking his way towards his palace, all the people of Rome (being accustomed to flatter and to make offers of their service) met him, making show of great joy, applauding and blessing him: and as new accidents ever bring good hopes, so all were of opinion that▪ VITELLIUS would prove a good Emperor. These first solemnities being ended, he made himself presently to be chosen high Priest, and perpetual Consul; and took to himself certain dignities, such as he thought good, and commanded that Magistrates should be chosen for ten years before hand: so absolutely and tyrannously purposed he to have usurped all things, if time would have suffered him. And, thinking by his industry to have prolonged his life, he banished out of Rome and all Italy all the judicial Astrologers called Mathematicians, because they had said, that his Reign should not continued one year complete. And he was so Vitellius banished the Mathematicians from Rome. incensed against them, as, if Information were made against any one, he presently put him to death without hearing the Party. Presently after the making of his Edict for their banishment by the first of October, there was a Writing set up in the open market place, to this effect: We give warning by these Presents unto VITELLIUS GERMANICUS, that by the Calendss of the said October, he be not extant in any place wheresoever. After this, falling to his old humours and licentious inclination, he began to give himself to the practices and vices of NERO, and such like; which were plays and dishonest sports upon Theatres, with public feasts: wherein he consumed an infinite treasure, desiring to make the beginning of his Empire acceptable and pleasing. In which time he made so great banquets, as never any Emperor had done the like before him: at which, was given to his guests (which were a great number of people) such things as never were thought or heard of; wherein he spent in estimable sums. SVETONIUS writes, that he sometimes commanded one, and sometimes another, to invite him: in which feasts they spent at the lest ten thousand crowns. But, above all others, one supper was most stately, made by his Brother the day he entered into Rome; at which there were two thousand choice Fish, and seven thousand Fowl. At which supper, to make it more magnificent, he did consecrated a Charger of a huge capacity, and called it MINERVA'S Shield: in the which were the Livers, Brains, and Tongues, of rare Fowls; with the spawn of Mullets, which he had caused to be fished from the Carpathian Sea to that of Spain. During these pleasures (and afterwards) he executed great cruelties; in such sort, as, if his Reign had lasted long, he would have made himself equal with NERO, whom he did imitate: for, he did put many to death contrary to all law and equity, seeking forgeries and false accusations against them; with some of which he had held strict friendship and familiarity: one of which, coming to visit him being sick, and calling for a little water to drink, he with his own hand cast poison into the cold water, and poisoned him. At another time he commanded two young men being brothers to be slain, for no other cause, but because they came to entreat him to pardon their father, whom he had condemned to die. And on a time a Roman Knight being Cruelties committed by Vitellius. carried by his commandment toward the place of execution, he commanded him to be stayed, because he said he had nominated him for his heir by his Will and Testament: and seeing his Will, and finding that jointly with him he had made a bondman of his, whom he had enfranchised, his heir with him, he commanded him to be slain, and the poor Libertine also, without any other occasion. An Usurer, coming to salute him, and to do his duty, he delivered him to the executioner to be put to death; and presently called for him back again: But when-as the standers-by commended him for his clemency, he commanded the Party to be slain before his face; saying, that he would feed his eyes. He also used the like cruelties upon some poor and mean people; of which upon a time he commanded a great number to be slain, for no other occasion, but for that in certain sports which were used on horseback, and in chariots (wherein were sundry men apparelled in sundry colours) they took part with those which were clad in green, which was called the Prasian faction; he being affected to the contrary colour, which they called Venetian, which was grey: which two colours and factions (although there were white and read also) were the chief among all the rest. And amongst these colours the good liking and favour of the Roman people was so divided, as this affection extended itself even to the Emperors themselves: as, now to VITELLIUS, who favoured the grey colour; as NERO and CALIGULA before him had affected the green: and sometime (as it shall be hereafter declared) about these vanities there followed great riots and murders. These and other such like cruelties and tyrannies committed VITELLIUS in Rome, and some of his Captains and Favourites did no less: for, having obtained the victory, every one revenged himself on him whom he hated; and sometime they feigned displeasures, thereby to have a colour under which they might rob and spoil the innocent: such are the first-fruits of civil war. Besides this, the violences and opressions which were committed in Rome were very great, and in the marches thereof by the men of war which he brought with him, and were lodged in the Country, staying to see him settled in the Empire. Whileas VITELLIUS made so ill a beginning in the City of Rome, suffering himself to be led and governed by Libertines, and such as were odious to all men; after that Italy, Spain, France and Africa, were come to his obedience; in the East the Legions which were there for the defence thereof, although that in the beginning they refused not his Command, yet they presently did begin to mutiny, and very shortly after resolved to make VESPASIAN their Emperor, who at this time (as is aforesaid) made war against the jews, which began about the end of the reign of NERO; They having rebelled, being abused with an old fabulous Prophecy, which they did constantly believe, That by the appointment of the destinies about such a time there should come some out of jury, who should be Lords of the whole world: but the event did show it was meant by the Roman Empire. The issue thereof passed in such manner as followeth. VESPASIAN, who for his worthy acts in his life past, was much esteemed, in this war gained greater estimation: for he obtained many victories, and besieged and took many cities in judea, and PALESTINA; until that at last being ready to besiege the city of jerusalem, the Emperor NERO died: and understanding of his death, and being doubtful what would ensue, he continued the war for a space, until he might see who should succeed in the Empire: and knowing that GALBA prevailed, he took no care to proceed any further or to oppress the city, but preserved what he had gotten, & kept the enemy in awe, observing what course the new Emperor would take: and so he sent his son TITUS to Rome, to treat of this business, and to offer him his obedience. Who being hindered by contrary weather, when he came to the coast of Achaia in Gracia, he was advertised that GALBA was slain by the direction of OTHO; wherefore he held it for his best course to return to his father, and so he did: and as OTHO his reign continued but four months as is above said, and in the same followed the civil wars between him and VITELLIUS, VESPASIAN continued as nowter although that he acknowledged OTHO for Emperor, until that VITELLIUS obtained the victory, and OTHO was slain; which was nothing pleasing to him, neither to the Captains in the East, neither to their armies, for the dislike they had that so vicious a man as VITELLIWS should be Emperor: and so that day wherein they swore fealty to their new Emperor, with the accustomed solemnity, in presence of VESPASIAN (CORNELIUS TACITUS writeth) that the Legions performed it with great silence and heaviness. And VESPASIAN prosecuting the war with great honour and fame, and having now resolved to besiege the city of jerusalem; the murmuring and discontentment so much increased against the new Emperor VITELLIUS, aswell in the army which VESPASIAN commanded, as in those in Syria, in Egypt, and other ordinary Legions in the East; as they all fixed their eyes upon VESPASIAN, resolving to created him Emperor against VITELLIUS: whereto was a great help, the certain news which came that the Legions in Mysia and Pannonia, had the same resolution: for (as is before related) they came to the aid of OTHO when his army was defeated, and he slew himself: and continuing in the same resolution, they disobeied VITELLIUS, desiring and nominating VESPASIAN for Emperor. In such sort as upon these motions, there passed some messages and letters between TIBERIUS ALEXANDER, who was governor of Egypt, and LICINIUS MUCIANUS governor of Syria; who concluded that VESPASIAN should be Emperor, although that he refused it. And this matter being begun by TIBERIUS ALEXANDER, who was governor of Egypt, in the city of Alexandria; VESPASIAN was in his absence proclaimed Emperor, and all the Army confirmed the same with great applause, doing their accustomed homage: which happened the first day of july in the seventy and two year after the birth of CHRIST. And this was accounted Vespasian made Emperor, which ●…e re ●…ling, was compelled to accept thereof by whom and in what manner. for the beginning of the reign of VESPASIAN; and within eight days or little more or less his Army did the like, entreating him first to accept thereof: and he refusing and gainsaying it (as EGESIPPUS and JOSEPHUS doetestifie) they forced and compelled him with their drawn swords threatening to kill him if he refused the same. Having accepted thereof and performed all the solemnities requisite in so great an accident, VESPASIAN as a valiant and excellent prince, with the like wisdom and valour as he had lived being a subject, began to show himself a Lord; and to provide for all things with great authority and judgement, sending Ambassadors, and writing letters to all parts of the world. And within few days after this, all the armies and provinces of the East came to his obedience and service; and the like in Europe did those of Mysia, Bulgaria, Servia, and those of Hungary and Austria then called Pannonia; and also those in Slavonia, then called Dalmatia and Illiricum, whose ancient names I will sometime use until such time as they shall loose the same. The like I have done and will do in most of the provinces of the Empire. All things happening so prosperous and luckily to VESPASIANUS, having resolved with MUCIANUS governor of Syria, TIBERIUS ALEXANDER governor of Egypt, and with his own son TITUS what was best to be done, it was decreed that TITUS should continued the wars against the jews; that MUCIANUS with the greatest part of the Legions, should with all speed take his journey for Italy; and that VESPASIAN should go to Alexandria in Egypt to make provision Antony captain of the Legions in Slavonia came into Italy against Vitellius. from all parts, and with a greater power pass over into Italy, there to make an end of the war, if it were not before hand finished by MUCIANUS. This being concluded, it was commanded to be presently put in execution. But while as LICINIUS MUCIANUS was travelling towards Italy, ANTONY, who was General of the Legions in Illyricum and Dalmatia, having intelligence of what had passed, desiring to do VESPASIAN some great service, and to show the hatred which he bore against VITELLIUS, marched in great haste with his Leigons, and such as he could levy in Mysia and Pannonia, and came to make war in Italy against the Emperor VITELLIUS, who was in arms. Of the election of VESPASIAN and of other things (as we have said) and of every particular which had passed, within few days VITELLIUS had advertisement, who spent his time in Rome in banqueting and riot, although that he could not long enjoy the same. And desirous to make resistance against so great forces, he began to levy the greatest power he was able, besides those which he had already, the which he yet had not discharged: and knowing with what haste and resolution ANTONY commander of Illiricum came forwards; without staying for LLCINIUS MUCIANUS, who came with as great speed, he sent VALENS and CEGINNA his Captains before named, who had served him in the war against OTHO, with so great an army and power, as seemed sufficient to make head both against him and LICINIUS MUCIANUS. He also provided extraordinary fleets and Captains for the Seas. Thus the war begun, but it would be too long to repeat all the particular accidents which happened: the effect was, that the two armies approaching the one near to the other, there grew a jealousy that CECINNA one of VITELLIUS Captains practised some agreement with VESPASIANS Commanders: which being known in the army, he was slain by the old soldiers▪ ANTONY hearing this, as he had a great desire to fight before that MUCIANUS should come (after sundry great encounters and skirmishes, which happened between them) came to a main battle with the Vitellians, near to the City Cremona: which was fought with such fury, and was so bloody and cruel, that of ANTONY his side who was Conqueror, there were slain A cruel battle. 4500. men, and of the Vitellians, who were overcome above 30000. This great victory being obtained, Italy, which until then had been wholly at the devotion of VITELLIUS and took his part, was suddenly divided, and many Cities sided with VESPASIAN. It is an admirable thing, and worthy of an excellent History, to recite the accidents which happened within few days, and the cruel war which CORNELIUS TACITUS writeth more at large then any other, the which I cannot relate for brevity's sake, which I observe. But the issue was, that VITELLIUS Captains, who were overcome & escaped from the battle, reinforcing their Army, and gathering together their Soldiers, made what resistance against VESPASIANS Captains they were able, although they were not of force to stop their passage to Rome, as hereafter shall be declared. For, ANTONY being Victor, with the same greatness of mind, and expedition wherewith he began the war, endeavoured to obtain the victory, seeking means to put it in execution. As soon as VITELLIUS, being in Rome, was given to understand of the overthrow of his army, affrighted with such news (although that he never gave over his vices and beastly courses) he made election of new Captains, which were JULIUS PRISCUS and ALPHENUS VARRO, who with thirteen Cohorts should guard the passage of the Apennine mountains; & should also seek to stop ANTONY his passage for Rome, and MUCIANUS also, who as it as is said, was already arrived in Italy. And of the rest of his forces which he held for the guard of the city, he made his brother LUCIUS VITELLIUS General, and used all possible means to levy men of all sorts. But the success was such, as fear made VITELLIUS desire to come to some composition and agreemeent howsover: And being offered by letters from ANTONY, who was victor, and also from MUCIANUS that if he would quietly resign the Empire, his life should be granted him, and a place with means sufficient for his maintenance; thereto he gave ear and took A compositio●… offered to 〈◊〉, co●…nally that he should resign the Empire. counsel thereupon, with FLAVIUS SABINUS, VESPASIAN his brother, who in all these troubles remained in Rome, and never withdrew himself from VITELLIUS, having also with him DOMITIANUS, VESPASIANS youngest son, who afterwards was Emperor: and it was concluded in the temple of JUNO; where he swore and promised to renounce the Empire, and would presently have put it in effect, as he twice protested openly: so great was his fear. But those which were of greatest authority about him did so much oppose it, and chief the Praetorian Cohorts, as he took heart again, and altered his determination. Which when FLAVIUS SABINUS understood (to whose house were drawn together a great number of the chiefest noble men of Rome, as to his brother whom they made account should be Emperor) he was much moved therewith. And knowing that in the behalf of VITELLIUS there came some to murder him in his house, being induced thereto by those which were with him, he went forth of his house with strong hand, although with less power than was requisite for so great an action, and retired to the Capitol (which was the chiefest strength of Rome) and seized on the same, where he was presently besieged by VITELLIUS his friends. And as it commonly happeneth, Many will give honourable and grave counsel, but there are few will thrust themselves into danger, neither lend their hand to put it in execution: so, few of those which had persuaded him to enter into this action, came to his aid, or made any repair unto him. The next morning he was assaulted with great fury; in the defence whereof was no good order, but rather little agreement: and as in such misfortunes and disasters it happeneth, all will direct and command, but few will execute; so as by the means of ill fight and worse direction, the Capitol was by force entered and burned, and all those which were therein, slain, and FLAVIUS SABINUS taken prisoner, who within a little while after was put to death by the commandment of VITELLIUS; and young DOMITIANUS his nephew and son to VESPASIAN, escaped by flight, and so might SABINUS have done that night (as CORNELIUS TACITUS reporteth) if he would have come forth of the Capitol: for there was no sufficient guard to have hindered him: but he with too little judgement, and too much presumption was lost, as is said. After the death of SABINUS, VITELLIUS hearing that ANTONY drew near to Rome with his forces, he again began to seek some agreement; and to that end sent letters and messengers unto him: and he grew so fearful and dejected, as he sent the vestal virgins, who were virgins enclosed like Nuns in a Cloister; which was the most religious and most ceremoniously guarded of any thing in Rome. But ANTONY, being incensed for the death of SABINUS, would give no ear to their words, neither come to any composition; but kept on his way until he came near Rome, where VITELLUS his Forces attended him, resolutely determining to defend themselves. So there being, both without and within, a very great number of the best soldiers in the world, ANTONY assailed it in three parts, and VITELLIUS his people sallied out against him in as many; and there began at each of them one of the most cruel fights in the world: which CORNELIUS TACITUS describes excellently well; affirming, that it lasted the greatest part of the day. And, in the end, that City (which was the Head and Lady of the world) was taken by those which were her own natural Subjects; and they which were Rome entered, taken, and sacked, and by whom subdued endured that which in like cases happeneth, and much more; as, slaughters, spoilings, violences, and extreme disgraces, as against enemies whom they deadly hated for the death of SABINUS, for that he was their Lord's Brother, and for the obstinacy and fury wherewith they had fought. When VITELLIUS saw that the City was entered, thinking to escape by flight, he went forth of his Palace; and, finding no safe way (I know not with what hope) he returned thither again; and, finding it abandoned without guard or defence, in the best manner he could he hid himself in a secret place: where he stayed not long before he was found by a Tribune. And being taken by him, without attending any further determination or counsel, they bond his hands behind him, and cast a rope about his neck: and, tearing his clotheses from his back, half naked they led him through the streets of Rome, until they brought him to the principal place; where by the way they did him an infinite number of indignities and disgraces; pulling his hair behind him, as they used to malefactors; and, setting a dagger under his chin, that he might be seen of all men, some casting dirt and filth in his face, others calling him Incendiary & glutton; and some reproaching him with the defects of his body: and there he was slain by the The death of Vitellius. soldiers (no man being able to aver for certain, who either began or ended) and cast into Tiber. And this was the end of this tyrannous Emperor, and with him died his brother LUCIUS VITELLIUS, and one only son which he had at his death. He had not been Emperor much above eight months, as most authors affirm, although that SVETONIUS setteth down a longer time: for he maketh his account that VESPASIAN was chosen Emperor in the East, in the eight month of VITELLIUS his reign, which was some months before his death, which was in the 57 year of his age, and the 72. year after the birth of our SAVIOUR. Anno Dom. 7●…. What happened after his death shall be referred to the history of VESPASIAN, seeing that it was in his time. VITELLIUS was so tall, and so corpulent of body, as he was therewith deformed. His face was very read, by reason of the much wine which he drank, and was very corpulent: he went lame of one leg, through a bruise which he had received by a waggon. THE LIFE OF FLAVIUS VESPASIANUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND TENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. VItellius being ignominiously slain, the good Vespasian attained to the Imperial dignity, who restored tired Rome to such rest, as it seemed to have recovered her ancient dignity and greatness, from whence the vices and wickedness of many former Emperors had made it to fall. This man, before that he attained to the Empire, was no less wise than valiant in Art Military: so as he grew to be so excellent, as notwithstanding he was not borne of any very Noble house, yet for his virtues he deserved to be made Emperor. In his time were ended the wars of jerusalem, under the government of his son Titus. He made many Provinces tributary to the Roman Empire, which until then never yielded obedience. He beautified Rome, not only by repairing the ruins, grown by the fire, made by Nero; but he also built a new Amphitheatre and Temples, which he adorned with fair marble, and most beautiful Statues: for in his time painting and carving flourished. He was very courteous and mild, and amongst his other virtues, this was one: to forget injuries, and not to regard what malicious tongues said of him. He was very cleanly, and neat of his body. In his diet he was very temperate, and fasted one whole day in every month. He was noted for no other vice but avarice, whereof he excused himself, alleging, that he found the Imperial Treasury empty, through the pilling of former Tyrants. He lived 69. years, and reigned ten, and died of the flux. Truly, it seemeth this Emperor was borne for the good of the Roman Common wealth; to the end, that after the cruelty of so many Tyrants it should not be wholly ruinated. AS fair weather cometh after tempests and storms: so was the Reign of VESPASIAN after the troublesome and stormy times of the detestable Emperors TIBERIUS, CALIGULA, NERO, and the tyrannies and civil wars of GALBA, OTHO, and VITELLIUS: wherewith the Roman Empire was so divided and shaken, as it was ready to come to ruin, if VESPASIAN had not upheld and supported the same by his goodness, valour and wisdom. VESPASIAN was of the Family of the FLAVII, Vespasians 〈◊〉 nag. mean and low, and not honoured with any titles and dignities. He had, long before these civil combustions, tokens presaging Sovereignty. First, within a Country Farm belonging to the FLAVII, there stood an old Oak consecrated to MARS, which at three childbirths of VESPASIA, suddenly put forth a bough at every birth. The first was small, and withered soon (for, a daughter then born died within one year): the second grew & continued long: but the third came to the bigness of a Tree. Whereupon SABINUS (Father to VESPASIAN) told his own mother, that she had a Nephew born which should be CAESAR. Being in Achaia, he dreamt that he and his should prospero, when-as NERO had a tooth drawn: and it happened, that the day following a Barber shown him a tooth of NERO'S, newly drawn. And JOSEPHUS, being taken in the jewish Wars, and cast into prison, maintained constantly, that he should be shortly set at liberty by him, but he should be Emperor first. These, with many other presages, confirmed his hopes to obtain the Empire. He was 59 years old when he was chosen Emperor; and came to be known, and to win reputation and credit in the times of CLAUDIUS, CALIGULA, and NERO; and he obtained offices and dignities in the wars, and in the government of Cities. In Thracia he was Tribune of the soldiers; and, being Questor Vespasians offices & dignitie●… or Treasurer, the I'll of Creta (now Candia) fell to his lot. He was Edil and Praetor in Rome, and afterwards was Lieutenant to the Legions in Germany: and from thence he was sent to be Governor and General in Britanny when it rebelled, where (as EUTROPIUS and SVETONIUS report) he fought above thirty times in battles and skirmishes, in his own person: so as for his desert there were Arms and triumphant ornaments given him, such as they did use to give to such as did triumph. After all which, he was Consul in Rome two months in the end of a year, and was afterward Proconsul in Asia in the time of NERO; and in the end was sent thither by him to that war against them: the which he followed when-as he was chosen Emperor against VITELLIUS, his Army compelling him thereto, as it is already observed. He had at that time two sons, the one called TITUS who was with him, the other DOMITIANUS who was in Rome: both which he had by FLAVIA DOMICILLA his lawful wife, daughter to FLAVIUS LI●…ERALIS; by whom he had had a daughter which was dead, whose name was DOMICILLA also. And this is the sum of his life before he came to the Empire. But, returning to our History, it passed in this manner: VITELLIUS being so reproachfully and ignominiously slain in Rome; although with his death the war ceased, yet the first-fruits and effects thereof were not ended: for, the Conquerors committed so many slaughters and spoils upon those which had taken VITELLIUS part, as there was no part of Rome wherein was not effusion of blood; so as that City endured (by means of this battle) the like or greater misery, than in the wars and proscriptions of MARIUS and SILLA, or any other whatsoever in times past. But, as soon as MUCIANUS came to Rome, who was the chief Commander sent by VHSPASIAN, and that DOMITIANUS was returned, who ever since the death of his Uncle SABINUS, and the burning of the Capitol, lay hidden; these murders and revenges ceased, and there began some order to be taken in the Commonwealth. The Senate was assembled, and the government of VESPASIAN was accepted and approved, and there were given unto him the names and titles which were usually given to other Emperors, and messengers with all diligence were sent unto him, to advertise him of the victory, and to yield obedience in the behalf of the Senate. And for that (being absent) he could not take order and provide for the estate of Rome, his son DOMITIANUS, MUCIANUS and ANTONY which then were of greatest power, began to manage the government, not without confusion and emulation between them, until the coming of VESPASIAN, which by reason of the dangerous sailing in the winter time was deferred. The only thing he wanted (being as it were a new unexpected Prince) was countenance and authority, and a kind of royal Majesty, which also followed suddenly upon this occasion: Being in Alexandria (attending a seasonable time for his passage to Rome) there was a certain man of mean quality stark blind, and another lame, both which came together when as he sat on his Tribunal, craving help for their infirmities, it being foretold them by SERAPIS in their dreams, that If VESPASIAN did but spit in the blind man's eyes, he should recover his sight; and the others leg should be made strong, if he would but touch it with his heel. He doubted much of the success, and therefore durst not put it in practice: yet in the end, by the persuasion and importunity of his friends, before the whole Assembly he tried both the means; and they were both cured, as SVETONIUS writes. DOMITIANUS was called CAESAR, and made Praetor of Rome with Consulary authority; and, because he was the Emperor's son, had the preeminence and chief place in all matters, although he proved not afterwards to be such as he aught to have been: for, beside that he was vicious, he was disloyal and disobedient to his Father. The Senate's Ambassadors, and others which were sent from Rome, found VESPASIAN in the City of Alexandria in Egypt, with his Legions and men of war ready to pass into Italy against VITELLIUS (knowing nothing, that he was dead) and stayed there with the King of Parthia's Ambassadors, which offered him 40000 horsemen. In like manner, there were Ambassadors from other Kings and Tetrarches of the East (some subject to the Empire, and some free) which came to the like intent: but, seeing there was no such need to draw so great Forces to Rome, he gave great thanks to the King of Parthia's Legates, and the rest of the Kings for their offers, and resolved to take his passage as soon as conveniently he might: And so, as a wise Emperor, forgot not to take order for the defence and extent of the bounds of the Empire; resolving to sand his son TITUS to make an end of the wars begun by him against the jews and the holy City of jerusalem: to whom besides the ordinary Legions, he gave three other Legions; wherewith TITUS continued the wars with great resolution: and, by God's permission, the jews were in his time, by the hands of the Romans, and through their own civil dissension, vanquished even to their total confusion, as hereafter in brief shall be declared. VESPASIAN could not so soon departed from Alexandria as he desired, by reason of the stormy and unseasonable wearther by Sea, unfit for Navigation, in which time there arose in Rome great troubles, emulations, envy, and contentions between MUCIANUS and ANTONY, each seeking to be preferred before other: Tumult in Rome MUCIANUS, for that he was the chief commander sent by VESPASIAN, and had borne great sway in his election; and the other, for the great victories which he had gotten in his service against VITELLIUS and his Captains. The bad practices of DOMITIANUS were also partly cause of these tumults, who could not be easily restrained, considering who he was. But the revolts and insurrections which then were in Germany and part of France, did much more trouble them that swayed the government: for all was in combustion, and in Arms against the Empire, which had a former original in the time of VITELLIUS, although that then we could not relate it. The original and occasion thereof was in manner as followeth. In the province of Battavia, now called Holland (a province in low Germany, which the Rhine An in●… 〈◊〉 in Holland. dividing itself maketh an Island) there was an audacious man, of great credit among them, whose name was CLAUDIUS CIVILIS, who under colour of taking part with VESPASIAN against VITELLIUS, when the war began between them, levied some forces of that country, and induced the Frieslanders and their captain, whose name was B●…INO, to do the like: and being thus in arms, they assailed those of the Roman legions which held for VITELLIUS; and taking them at unawares, slew many of them, being left weak by reason that VITELLIUS withdrew the greatest part of the forces from thence when he went against OTHO as before hath been mentioned: So as they drove all the Roman garrisons out of that province, and there happened afterwards many encounters and skirmishes of either side, until that VESPASIAN prevailing in Italy, FLACCUS HORDHONIUS, being for VITELLIUS captain of those legions in Germany, was slain by his own soldiers, proclaiming VESPASIAN; & so the legions remained without order of commander. CLAUDIUS CIVILIS with the forces of Holland and Friesland, joining with another captain called CLASSICUS, imagined that in the confusion of those troublesome times, they might free their countries; or to say better, make themselves Lords thereof, as many have done: and drawing to their faction certain of the legions which remained firm for VITHLLIUS, they made an insurrection against VESPASIAN, publishing that he was dead; in such sort as within few days, some cities in France revol●…ed, so as it was feared that some great alteration would have ensued in the Empire. Which, as I said, put MUCIANUS and ANTONY in great doubt; for DOMITIANUS who should have had the greatest care, spent his time in his vices and pleasures. After many counsels and consultations held about this business, QVINTILIUS CERIALIS was sent for General into those parts: who both valiantly and wisely followed the wars, and reduced those legions to the service of the Empire, who being abused, had joined with CLAUDIUS CIVILIS; and obtained notable victories although hardly gotten and very bloody, which CORNELIUS TACITUS sets down at large. Being in the hear of this war, holding it to be of great importance, MUCIANUS and DOMITIANUS departed from Rome, with the greatest power they could raise, to give relief and aid where need should require; who being come to the Alpss, they had intelligence that CERIALIS had obtained another famous victory in a great battle: by means whereof, and of the fame of their coming, all those countries yielded their obedience, and the Germans laying down their arms, desired peace. Notwithstanding this, DOMITIAN, although there were no Domitia●… suspected. need, had a desire to march forwards, and to take the government and forces which CERIALIS held and commanded, and wrote sundry letters to him requesting the same: whereupon he was suspected, that his intent was to rebel against his father, and so writeth CORNELIUS TACITUS. Others suspect that he did it of envy against his brother TITUS, and to make himself equal with him: But his practices, whatsoever they were, took no effect. For, CERIALIS dissembled and would not yield his command and government unto him, and MUCIANUS hindered his passage from going any further: for CERIALIS within few days had pacified the country, and DOMITIANUS returned to Rome to receive his father, who (he knew) was coming, and within few days came, having sailed from Alexandria to Vespa●… coming to Rome. Rhodes in ships, and from thence in galleys; and passing all along the coast of Graecia, visited all the cities thereof which were in his way, till his arrival in Italy, and so came to Rome, where he was most solemnly received (which JOSEPHUS most elegantly relateth.) For, as his coming had been long desired and wished for; so was it very grateful and pleasing to all men, and he presently began to do things conformable to the desire and hope which they had conceived of him, in ministering justice, in reforming the laws and customs of Rome, rewarding those which had served him, and pardoning and punishing with singular clemency those which were his adversaries: in conclusion, he made a good and laudable beginning of his Empire, and persevered and ended therein, as shall appear. In the mean time while as the Emperor VESPASIAN parted from Alexandria and came to Rome, his son TITUS prosecuting the wars against the jews, having subdued the country round about, he came and besieged the City of jerusalem, at such time as from all parts of the world an incredible number of jews were come into the City, to celebrated the feast of the paschal Lamb. Of the siege and destruction thereof, because it was a matter of great moment, and prophesied of before, and was famous afterwards, it shall not be amiss in few words to declare the end thereof; and for as much, as in truth, it was the most strictly and obstinately besieged, and best defended City that ever was in the world, the jews persisting in their obstinacy and rebellion, by God's permission, in revenge of the death and passion of his only jerusalem besieged by Titus. son JESUS CHRIST our Saviour God and man: all which JOSEPHUS, EGESIPPUS and CORNELIUS TACITUS writ at large, to which I remit the curious reader, besides many others which are more brief: being by TITUS besieged in such manner, as no man could sally forth, or enter into it. For the effecting whereof, not contenting himself with the multitude of his men of war and provision, within few days he compassed it round about with trenches and ramparts, such as were sufficient, making the soldiers of his army set their hands to the work: so as he besieged it in this manner the space of five months; in which time there were so many assaults, skirmishes and slaughters, as by the numbers of the dead, which we will set down, may appear: and such as I never read or heard that the like had passed before any City; with such obstinacy and resolution the besiegers assailed it, and the besieged defended themselves. In all which TITUS performed the duty of a most excellent Captain and a valiant Knight; sometime giving direction and commanding, and also when need required fight, that, as JOSEPHUS testifieth, in this conquest he slew twelve jews with his own hands. The hunger which afflicted the City of jerusalem in this siege, is wonderful to read: for, all ordinary sustenance being spent, although they made the greatest spare thereof that was possible, they gave themselves to eat all things that might yield any taste, without any difference, good or bad, eating the flesh of horses, asses, dogs, cats, rats, snakes, adders, and other unclean and strange things, as it seemeth incredible to all humane reason: But The extreme famine in the city of jerusalem when it was besieged. A mother killed and ate her own son. jerusalem taken by Titus. this giveth it the more credit, for that all writers both Christian and Heathen affirm, that there was a mother which killed and ate her own son, whom she had at her breast. Finally, after the death of an infinite number by sword and famine, upon the eight day of September (having been besieged about five months, and above four years after the war was begun by VESPASIAN in the reign of NERO) the City of jerusalem was entered by force, and a great number of those which were therein slain: and so had they all been, but that TITUS, moved with compassion, commanded the execution upon women, and such as bore no arms, to cease. But although that this slaughter was stayed, yet in the province and the city there died of hunger and the sword (as EUSEBIUS, PAULUS OROSIUS and other authors affirm) six hundred thousand men able to bear arms. And if we shall give credit to JOSEPHUS, who was an eyewitness to most part thereof, there died eleven hundred thousand; and there were Captives which were sold, ninety seven thousand. EGESIPPUS, who is of no less credit and authority, agreeth with him in the number of the captives; but in the number of the dead, he setteth down 100000. less, which seemeth to be an error but in the letter: both which do yield the reason of so great mortality to be, as is said; for that so great a number was gathered together in jerusalem to the feast at Easter, and had retired thither as to the head of all that province, there to die or defend the same. Also that famous Temple was burnt, and those strong and stately walls of the famous Temple of SALOMON were thrown down, Salomons temple destroyed. and all the City laid waste, desolate and wholly ruined, as sundry Prophets had before prophesied. And this just and deserved destruction of jerusalem happened in the second year of the Emperor VESPASIAN, and the fortieth year after the death of CHRIST our Lord, and the seventy there after his birth, being (according to EUSEBIUS and PAULUS OROS●… one thousand one hundred and two years after that the Temple was first built by SALOMO●… and five hundred ninety & one year after that it was re-edified in the time of K. DARIUS, having been destroyed by the Babylonians. In this account I follow EUSEBIUS his computation, to avoid disputation about the difference which is among Writers. All affirm, and it doth plainly appear by PLINY and CORNELIUS TACITUS, that jerusalem had never been so rich, jerusalem destroyed and laid waste, so that there remained not one stone upon another, An. Dom. 40 nor so populous, nor so sumptuous in walls, temples and buildings, as at the time of CHRIST his passion, and when it was destroyed. And so that City and the holy Temple were overthrown and laid even with the ground, not one stone remaining upon another; according as our Saviour CHRIST had told his Disciples, they showing it to him, and extolling the greatness and building of that Temple, as the holy Evangelist reciteth more at large: and so it lay until the Emperor ADRIAN began to re-edify it, although not in the same place, neither such as it was before; as hereafter shall be declared. And so that Province, which had been governed by the Romans as their friends, and in a manner free, was made captive and tributary; and the The jews taken in jerusalem, sold and dispersed over the world. jews being captives were fouled and dispersed through all parts of the world. This war being ended by TITUS in such manner as is specified, his Father and all Rome greatly rejoiced thereat, and to both them the triumph was granted by the Senate, because they both had followed that war. And TITUS, leaving all things in good order in the East, came victorious to Rome. And, within few days after, both the Father and the Son entered triumphing with one of the most solemn and stately triumphs that ever was seen in Rome. The Vespasian and Titus came to Rome in triumph for the wars of of the jews. which he that will see more at large, shall find it written by JOSEPHUS in his seventh book of the wars of the jews. Whileas TITUS was busied about the siege of the City of jerusalem, the Alanes, a people of Scythia (of whom hereafter we shall speak much) had their abode above the lake Meotis, near the River Tanais: who in very great numbers abandoned their Country, it being barren and unfruitful, or for that it was not sufficient to sustain them, and came into the Territory of the Medes, robbing and spoiling that Country; and marching forwards came into Armenia, where Tiridates King of Armenia overthrown and put to flight by the Alanes. they did the like. TIRIDATES, King thereof, fought a battle with them; wherein he was overcome, and by great good fortune escaped by flight. Which when TITUS understood, having then fully ended his enterprise against jerusalem, he marched with his Forces to the relief of TIRIDATES, to assist a King who was vassal and friend to the Empire; and came to the City of Antioch, as EGESIPPUS writeth: but the Alanes, upon the only report of his coming, returned to their Country, contented with what they had gotten by theft. VESPASIAN being in Rome, enjoying the Empire in peace, had his son TITUS continually with him, having had good experience of his wisdom and mild disposition: he did most matters by his counsel, and after his opinion, and in all things held him for his companion in the Empire, and made him his fellow in office in the Censurie and Tribunate; and afterwards in seven Consulships together. VESPASIAN, continuing as he had begun the whole course of his life, never omitted any thing that was fit for a good and excellent Emperor, as well in preserving and enlarging the The good deeds of Vespasian. Empire, as in beautifying and reforming the same; in correcting the abuses and evil customs, as in execution of justice and other virtues: and chief he took great care for the public edifices and buildings, wherein he spent much treasure; and made the Capitol which VITELLIUS had burnt (when his brother SABINUS was slain) to be re-edified and new built, fare more stately and beautiful than ever it had been. He also repaired the City of Rome of those ruins which yet remained since it was burnt in the time of NERO, as in his life we have declared. Besides this, he built a most stately Temple to the goddess PALLAS; the workmanship whereof was so rich, so exquisite, and so excellent, as the like had never been seen in Rome. For, touching the painting, carving, and inlaying, all the most excellent workmen of the world (these Arts being then at the highest) shown their skill, and left memorials of their handworking, as PLINIUS writes; and JOSEPHUS (who was an eyewitness) affirms, that men came from all parts of the world to see the riches and excellency of this Temple. VESPASIAN also built an Amphitheatre, of singular and most rare workmanship; which is yet at this day to be seen in Rome, although ruined and defaced: which is a building of marvellous and sumptuous greatness, round in form, as if two Theatres were joined together like to half circles: in the midst of which were represented the plays, shows, wrestle, fighting with wild beasts, and also combats of swordplaiers: And every thing was wrought and framed in such manner, as by means of their seats it was capable of an infinite number of people, without any hindrance one to the other; which we may comprehend by the Theatre which OCTAVIANUS CAESAR built in remembrance of his Nephew MARCELLUS, of which we read that there were seats for four score thousand persons. And VESPASIAN did not only consume great treasure in building (whereto he was much affected) but he also bestowed great gifts and pensions upon such as were masters and excellent workmen; and no less but rather greater, upon learned men, and such as were expert in arts: and to the Rhetoricians and masters in eloquence, both in Greek and Latin, he gave great fees and pensions out of his Exchequer; & also upon Poets and other excellent learned men, he bestowed notable favours and rewards: so as it is certain that he not only showed himself liberal in these things aforesaid, but to all persons and in all places. And in the Provinces where he knew that any public buildings were ruined or decayed, by reason of the ill government in times past, he commanded them to be re-edified and repaired at his own charges out of the subsidies and tributes. The like care he took for some Cities, which in his time were defaced by earthquakes. And for that he would not forget to repair and amend the living bodies aswell as the dead, he endeavoured to reform and order the multiplicity and tediousness of suits and pleas in law, choosing new judges and Arbitrators, which should take order, and set agreement between the parties contending, and within few days should decide and determine controversies and pleas in suit: and he ordained and established most excellent laws and statutes. After that the good Emperor VESPASIAN had taken such good order in all his actions, as he made the time of his reign most happy, he was still careful to continued and increase the same. We also read that he made many Provinces subject and tributaries, which until then were in a manner as friends and obedient, but yielded no tributes, or did other services: Among which in Asia the lesse were the Provinces of Lycia, Pamphilia, and Cilicia; and in Asia the great, Comagena, which lieth Eastwards from Cilicia; and here in Europe, the Province of Thracia, and the City of Byzantium which is now called Constantinople, with the Isles of Rhodes and Samos, Provinces brought into subjection by Vespasian. and other Countries and Provinces which he also made tributaries. For what cause or reason he did so, I find it not written: but duly considering the acts and proceed of this Emperor, I presume that he did it not without just occasion in them all. JOSEPHUS setteth down the cause thereof in the Province of Comagena only, and in what sort it was made tributary, and how that ANTIOCHUS the King thereof being overcome and taken in battle Comagena made a tributary province by Vespasian. by CESONIUS PETO Governor of Syria for the Empire, was sent by the same CESONIUS, prisoner to Rome. But VESPASIAN remembering himself that he held friendship with this King when he lived in the East, and although that he held it fit and requisite to dispossess him of his country, yet he would not deal severely with his person: for, being upon the way, he sent commandment that he should not be brought to Rome, but commanded him to be carried to the city of Lacedaemonia in Gracia, and that he should live there, and that sufficient provision should be made to maintain him and his children in royal estate: and so that King led his life afterwards in that City, and the Province of Comagena remained tributary to the Empire. What else happened in the time of VESPASIAN, the Authors which I follow, have not written, peradventure because they were of small importance. But as concerning his virtue, bounty, and good government, they have written more at large then I have done, such and so many were they: and because I will not be too sparing and brief in this subject, I will say somewhat for a remembrance and an example to good Emperors. First, the manner and course of his life after that he came to the Empire was this. He awoke every morning before day, and in his bed did read and hear letters and instructions of diverse affairs; and then he commanded The life and manners of Vespasian after that he was Emperor. the door to be set open for his friends and such others as would come into his chamber: in whose presence he arose and made himself ready, without any page or servant to help him, but to bring his clotheses to his hands; and then he stood a good space giving audience to such as he had to deal withal, providing for all things, and making therein such dispatch as was convenient: then he went into his litter or chariot, as the manner than was, and for his exercise went into the field of MARS or to some other place, and sometimes he went on foot. After all this, he retired himself to his Palace, to his exercises and pastimes: after which he used the baths, whereto men in those days were much addicted: which being ended, he returned to his business, and to provide for all thing necessary; wherein he spent the greatest part of the day. He was very moderate and temperate in his diet, and after supper was very pleasant and merrily disposed, delighting much to use quick and brief speeches, whereof SVETONIUS reciteth some. He was a Prince of great modesty, patience, and singular clemency, enduring and dissembling with those which did murmur and speak ill of him, pardoning and forgetting injuries and offences: the examples whereof (which were many) I omit because of brevity. VESPASIAN was noted and taxed for being overcovetous: true it is, that he caused his rents Vespasian noted of covetousness. to be collected rigorously, imposing new taxes and services, seeking extraordinary and strange means to get money: whereof AUR●…LIUS VICTOR and other Authors excuse him; alleging, that he was forced thereto, for that he found his Exchequer poor, and the Imperial Treasure wasted and exhausted: so as for the maintenance of his State it was very requisite to raise it to some good proportion. Which makes it seem to be true, seeing he was very bountiful and liberal to all men, and spent and freely parted with that which he so gathered. Finally, howsoever it was, he is reckoned in the number of good Emperors; for, with singular wisdom and valour he governed the Empire nine years: at the end whereof (being seventy and nine years old) a Flux took him, and he died in peace in the year of our Lord 81. He was a man of a middle stature, well compact in his limbs, and of a good complexion, and lived ever sound and in good health: for the preservation whereof, he ordinarily used frictions on his arms and legs; and every month fasted one whole day, without eating any thing. THE LIFE OF TITUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND ELEVENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. VESPASIAN being dead, his Son Titus succeeded him, who reserved his Father's name. This man in his youth applied himself much to the study of learning and sciences; and delighted so much in writing, that with great facility he counterfeited all manner of letters; being General, the tedious wars of jerusalem were ended. Coming afterwards to the Imperial dignity, be wholly altered his former disposition, and became very merciful and most bountiful. His bounty was such, as he said, He had lost that day wherein he had not done some deed of courtesy. He was also of so mild a nature, as he said to his Brother Domitian, who (it seemed) conspired against him, that he should not seek to get that by fratricide which he might obtain by love. He lived 41 years, and ruled the Empire little more than two. His death was so grievous to the City of Rome, and to all the Provinces subject to the Roman Empire, as all affirmed with one voice, that the Father of the Empire, and the Delight of mankind, was departed out of the world. AS soon as the Emperor VESPASIAN was dead, his eldest Son TITUS (called by his surname VESPASIANUS) without any contradiction was received and obeyed for Emperor; as well for that his Father in his life-time had made him his companion in the Empire (and that, as some Authors say, he did participate with him, and that he gave him the name of Emperor) as also for that in his Testament and last Will he appointed him his Successor: yet his brother DOMITIANUS proudly maintained, that his Father had nominated him, and not his Brother TITUS, and that his Father's Will was falsified. TITUS was an excellent Emperor, but his Reign was short; for, it lasted little more Titus was endued with noble virtues. than two years: so as, for his natural bounty and noble disposition, he was called The love and delight of mankind, although before he was Emperor he was taxed upon some occasions; some imagining, that he would have proved wicked and perverse. But truth and virtue, although for a time they may be suppressed, yet at length they will prevail, and overcome envy and slander: and as the clear Sun disperseth the dark clouds; so did TITUS clear himself of the suspicions conceived against him, with the brightness of his virtues and worthy actions. He came to the Empire at the age of 39 years, and somewhat lesle; in which he followed the wars, and got great experience both in peace and war. First, in his infancy he was brought up in learning and other virtuous exercises, and thereby grew to be very learned both in Greek and Latin, and expert in many Arts. He was a very good horseman, and most skilful in Music; a very good Singer, an eloquent Orator, and could make verses with wonderful ease and facility. He had a singular memory, and was endued with an excellent wit; and was so speedy in writing in ciphers and abbreviations, as he excelled all his Secretaries and Notaries; and would so well sergeant any man's hand and writing, as it was said of him, that he might have been a notable counterfeiter or forger. Being endued with these graces and sufficiencies in his youth, before his Father came to the Empire he bore Arms in the wars, and was Tribune both in Germany and Britanny, and purchased the reputation of wise and valiant. After which, being comen to Rome, he used to pled and defend causes and actions (which was then the exercise of the most eminent men); and afterwards in time he was made Questor or Treasurer. In process of which time he married twice: the first, with ARRICIDIA the daughter of a Roman Knight whose name was TERTULLUS, who had been Perfect of the Praetorian Legions; and, after her death being a widower, having never a child, he married the second time with a woman of great blood, whose name was MARTIA FULVIA, whom he afterwards put away, having first had a daughter by her. The wars beginning against the jews, he went thither with his father, having the command and charge of a Legion: and matters succeeding in such manner as is already said, he made a final end thereof. And although that some practised to bring him in suspicion with his father, falsely suggesting that he would have rebelled against him; yet after those victories he came into Italy, sufficiently cleared himself, and triumphed of the jews; and (as we have said) obtained so much grace with his father, as he made him his companion, and in a manner equal with him in the Empire. In his father's life time he purchased dislike upon some occasions: whereof one was, that they charged him with the covetousness and avarice of his father, for the new impositions which he laid upon the subjects of the Empire: whereof although that he might well have purged himself, yet he would not make manifest his innocence, for that the fault should not be imputed to his father. The other was, for that he had caused AULUS CINNA and certain others of great note to be put to death, although he had just occasion to do it; as SVETONIUS showeth in AULUS CINNA: and other authors, in others. TITUS also discredited himself for bringing of Queen VERONICE from judea with him for his friend or concubine, whom he so dee●…ly loved, as he entertained her in a manner as his wife: and there is an author which affirmeth that he slew AULUS CINNA, through jealousy of her. All which being laid together, when by the death of his father he came to the Empire, they doubted that he would have proved wicked and cruel: but his clemency and other virtues did presently disperse all those clouds of suspicion. The first, and happily the greatest conquest was, the forcing of his will and bridling his desires and affections by withdrawing himself from the company of VERONICE, for the which he was taxed with infamy, although that he loved her exceedingly, and was by her beloved in the same degree. He also gave over his other pastimes, which he held unfit and unbeseeming an Emperor, and began to live and carry himself very modestly and honourably, and to show his liberality, clemency, and singular courtesy. Whereof I hold it requisite (although I keep not order, seeing his time was so short) to make some mention; that seeing his bounty, clemency and wisdom made his Empire void of civil mutinies, wars and alterations, which usually please the readers, yet they may speak of the virtues & greatness of this Emperor. First for a show & ostentation to the world (which great Princes sometimes should make, because that thereby they do in some sort purchase the love of the common people) he repaired & made some new great buildings, and he also presented games and sports, wherein (according to EUSEBIUS, EUTROPIUS, and SVETONIUS) were slain 5000. wild beasts, and therein also fought a great number of Sword-players. He caused also to be represented a Naval battle in one of the ancient Naumachias, whereof mention hath been made heretofore. And as he was by nature most noble and liberal, all the favours, graces and rewards, which his Predecessors had given and granted (which none of them would confirm, but they granted some new) he confirmed by a decree. And, moreover, to any petition made unto him he never gave unpleasing answer, neither suffered any to departed from him discontented, or without hope to obtain his demand. And being reproved by some of his Council, for promising more than it seemed he was able to perform: he answered them, that It was not fit nor worthy, that any man should departed from him sorrowful & discontent with his entertainment. He was naturally so desirous to do good and to help others, as one night after supper remembering himself, that that day he had given nothing, with a sad and heavy countenance he turned towards those which were in his company, and said: My Friends, I have lost this day; which were speeches worthy to be noted and engraven in the minds of all great Princes. He was also so desirous to pleasure and give contentment to all men (holding always his gravity and authority) as in all his speeches and discourses with any people whatsoever, he always shown himself affable, pleasant, courteous and tractable. In some sinister accidents which in his time happened in Rome, as one was (as saith PAULUS OROSIUS) a great fire, wherewith were burned a great number of houses, and also a great plague; he not only used the diligence of a careful Prince, but also shown the love and affection of a pitiful Father; helping with his own rents to repair and new-build that which the fire had consumed, and causing those which were wounded to be cured with great diligence; and those which died of the pestilence, to be buried. The clemency and mildness of this Prince extended to so high a degree, as he not only pardoned many, and moderated the rigour of the laws in cases of ordinary crimes; but two great men of Rome having conspired against him, and being thereof convict, so as they could not deny the fact, he would make no other inquisition, nor put them to any torments, or otherwise punish them, but only advised them in secret that they should altar their evil purposes; willing them to consider, that the Empire was given by God's providence and ordinance, and by the fates, and not by any humane industry; and if they desired any other thing, it should be more fit to sue to him, and he would not deny it: and saying this, he pardoned them, and used them lovingly, and afterwards entertained them with other compliments, which SVETONIUS writeth; so as he took such order, that they did repent and reform themselves: whereby he did better assure his life, than if he had put them to death. For, therein he should have had greater cause of fear, and more would have hated him. The like temperance he held with his Brother DOMITIANUS; who never left to lay snares Snares laid 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ther T●…. to entrap him, and to lie in wait for his life, and to practise his death, and to incense the Legions and Cohorts against him: yet for all this he would not put him to death, as he might justly have done, neither seclude him from him, neither diminish his reputation and authority wherein he lived; but made him his companion in the Empire, and proclaimed him for his successor. And the better to reclaim him, sometimes retiring him into a secret chamber alone, with tears in his eyes he would admonish and require him, not to attempt that by treason and fratricide, which he shortly should have voluntarily, and that which he already enjoyed with him by his good will. And, for conclusion, this excellent Prince TITUS, in the short time that he reigned, governed with such wisdom and in such manner, as he was through the whole Empire extremely beloved, and generally obeyed and served by all men: So as during his whole Reign there were no contempts, insurrections, wars, rebellions, nor contentions. But as men for their sins were not worthy of so good a Prince, so by God's secret judgement he was taken away from among them: for, being taken with a strong burning Fever, within few days he died The death of Titu●… thereof in the same village wherein his Father died, near Rome, being of the age of one and forty years, two months and twenty days, although EUTROPIUS sets down some months less, which may be through error in a letter. As soon as his death was known, there was the greatest lamentation and sorrow that ever was seen in Rome: and, the Senate being assembled, there was more spoken to his honour & commendation, being dead, than was of any man that ever lived before him, or was ever, spoken in his presence in his life-time: which happened in the year of our Lord 83. THE LIFE OF DOMITIANUS, ONLY OF THIS NAME, AND TWELFTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. DOmitianus, brother to Titus, after his death was made Emperor; who in the beginning of his government, feigning much goodness, was mild, pitiful, and above all, most just. He prevailed in all the wars he began, and in Rome finished many edifices already begun, and built many more from the ground: so as in the beginning of his reign he purchased much reputation, and the credit of a very virtuous and good man. But afterwards altering his conditions, he become so cruel, so insolent and so covetous, that putting men to death for very small and ridiculous causes, he usurped the goods of the dead, pretending that he was their heir. He persecuted the jews, and particularly those which were of the line of David; being informed that from him should descend a man which should be Lord of the whole world. He was also a great Persecutor of the Christian Religion, so as in his time many holy men were martyred. He made such war with flies, as a Courtier being demanded, who was above with the Emperor; answered, that there was not one fly with him. He made great show of Astrology, and was a great friend to those which made profession of that faculty: yet he dealt hardly with an Astronomer, which told him that he should dye shortly. He lived five and forty years, ruled the Empire fifteen; and by the conspiracy of one Stephen, who was Steward of his house, and certain others, amongst which his wife was an assistant; he was slain in his Palace. The common people were neither sad nor glad of his death: but the Gentlemen and Senators were so well pleased with it, that even the very same day they made all his statues to be thrown to the ground, which he would have of no other thing but of pure gold. TO the good Emperor TITUS, his brother and successor DOMITIANUS was fare unlike; for this Emperor D●…itianus was wicked, and fare unlike to his brother Titus. was wicked and lewd, although that in the beginning of his reign he did some things which were pleasing, and governed the Commonwealth reasonable uprightly; using clemency, humility, and liberality, deceiving the world with feigned bounty, clean contrary to future actions. When he came to the Empire, he was of the age of thirty years (little more or less) in his younger years, he lived in mean estate, and in evil fame, for the dishonesty of his person. His father being Emperor, in his absence he was called CAESAR, and to him was given the greatest dignity and authority in Rome, which he used licentiously and dishonestly, committing adulteries, with other vices and insolences: upon one day, he deposed twenty several persons from their charges and governments, and gave them to others: so as his father (when he understood thereof) said, that he marvelled, that his son DOMITIANUS had not sent one, to have succeeded him also: and wars then growing in Batavia, he attempted that which we have related. But when his father was come to Rome, to dissemble and cloak his wicked practices he gave himself to study, and to the exercise of poesy, although with little affection: for before that time he never regarded it, or any other learning, and so afterwards abhorred it according to that flattering age. For the small time which he spent in poesy, SILIUS ITALICUS, QVINTILIAN, and PLINY in the proem of his natural history, commend him: and MARTIAL forgetteth him not in his Epigrams. And much less did DOMITIANUS give himself to the practice and exercise of arms, but was much affected to shooting with bow and arrows; wherein he was so skilful, as he would oftentimes for his glory 'cause a Page to spread his hand open for a mark against a butt, and he standing a good distance off, would stick his arrows between the boys fingers without hurting him; and in like manner would do many other strange things, which SVETONIUS reporteth as an eyewitness, wherein and in dicing was his principal delight and pastime. After the death of his father and brother, for whose sakes he came to be Emperor, without any contradiction, he governed the same contrary to his natural inclination, as may appear by that which he did afterwards. But because we will not deprive him of the commendation, which his good deeds deserved; before that we will speak of his accursed cruelties, we will first speak of that which was good and commendable, seeing he lived in such manner, as his actions were intermixed with some blemishes of evil: wherein I cannot observe any order or time, as I always desire to do, because the authors which I follow writ it so confusedly and out of order. First, he made great show of liberality, and jointly therewith of clemency, justice, and Domitianus his good deeds equity, of either of which we will produce some examples. He shown himself so free from covetousness, and so willing to give, that he refused certain heritage's which certain free personages would have given him; and gave ordinarily gifts and rewards, and forgave penalties and tributes, and erected certain pillars and public buildings, which were very excellent, and of wonderful great cost, among which this was one: He repaired and new built the Capitol, which again had been burnt, wherein he caused a sumptuous Temple to be built to his god JUPITER, and other Temples and wonderful buildings. And to obtain the love and applause of the people, he ordained so many shows and games which were so rare and costly, as it is wonderful to read, and tedious to writ them. Frst he made a Lake, for a Naumachia or battle by sea, wrought all by man's hand, which was so great as it was sufficient to contain many galleys, wherein were such battles, as they wanted nothing to prove them to be in good earnest and not sergeant. He had also a very great number of Sword-players, and great rewards for those which did run with chariots. He had turneyes and battles of horsemen and footmen, and hunt of an infinite number of wild beasts, in such sort as other Emperors had done, and more than any other: for he had also women which like men fought with wild beasts, whereof SVETONIUS, IWENAL, and MARTIAL, make mention. He also made games and feasts which they called secular, represented but every hundreth year, which were the Secular games made but once in a hundred years. most solemn of all others: for than were accomplished a hundred years since the time that OCTAVIUS AUGUSTUS had celebrated them, although that the Emperor CLAUDIUS at another time commanded them to be made, without observing any order or time, wherein he made the addition of the two new colours, which the horsemen did before use to wear, whereof before hath been made mention, which were purple, and gold colour. And besides all this abovesaid, he caused disputations and arguments to be held, wherein great rewards were Gifts given by Domitiants. divided between Poets and Orators both Greek and Latin, and all kind of Music. There were also Comedies, dumb shows, tragedies, and wrestling games. In conclusion, there were made by his commandment all those feasts, games and revels that ever had been seen or known in Rome until that time, besides many which were newly invented. Among all which he made a distribution among all the Roman people, which they called Congiarij, of 300. dinars to every person: and during the time of these revels (which was not short) he made many banquets and public feasts, and there were thrown to the common people all kinds of coins, and clotheses, with other things which were cast from out the windows, this was called Missilia. I will not herewith forget one pleasant thing, whereof SVETONIUS writeth, which was, that in the beginning of his Empire he was wont every day one hour to be in some Domitianus delighted much in catching of flies. chamber or secret place alone, wherein he did nothing at all but catch flies, which he afterwards filled up upon a stiletto or long sharp needle: So as upon a day one ask whether any body where within with DOMITIANUS, answer was made, that there was not so much as a fly with him; meaning, that he had killed and th●…une them all away. DOMITIANUS did not only those things which were pleasing to the people; as making of feasts and sports, but in all other things he took good order, showing himself diligent in hearing complaints, and doing justice, and particularly in punishing such judges as received bribes and rewards, as well the Roman Magistrates, as the Precedents and Governors of Provinces. And herein concerning judges he persevered, not only before that he discovered his cruelty and wickedness, but even afterwards: and though that he were evil of himself, yet he forbore not to punish evil Governors: and so SVETONIUS affirmeth, that Governors were never so temperate, just and upright at any time as in his. He also caused himself to be chosen Censor, wherein he endeavoured to reform and correct the abuses and evil manners of the Romans, The justice of Domitian. as though that his own conditions had been good; and so he made many other good orders, and did justice in all things: and of the other side showing himself merciful and pitiful, in such sort that if he had persevered in that manner of government which he began, he had this day been held for a very good Emperor. But never any man fell from good to evil so notably, nor made so strange an alteration as he did, whereof in that which we have before said, he gave some indice and forewarning. For in those good things which he did, he used such pride and ●…lation, and shown himself so vainglorious, that a man of any judgement might well perceive, that what he did, proceeded not from any good mind, or from his natural inclination; which he manifested in some of his words and speeches: chiefly when he was made Emperor (without shame or blushing) he vaunted in the Senate, that he had given the Empire to his father and to his brother, which they had now restored unto him; this being as false, as by the history before doth appear. And those his statues which they commanded to be set up in the Capitol, he would not consent that they should be made of any other thing, then of clean Domitianus had his statues of pure gold. gold, and so in other things he shown extreme pride. But he did one thing which was so accursed and abominable, as to make mention thereof only, is a sufficient proof of the incomparable pride of this man: for he commanded by a public Edict, that in all Letters and Edicts they should writ our Lord and God, which both the christian and heathen authors do affirm: For which sin and wickedness it pleased God to suffer him to fall into those abominations which he afterwards incurred, as covetousness, cruelty, and other wicked actions: whereof before that we discourse, it shall not be amiss, to treat of the wars which happened in the time of his wickedness, although he prosecuted them not in his own person, which were three or four with strange nations, and one civil war. The first wars abroad were against the Sarmates in Europe, which invaded the Empire, with whom and also with those of Asia, there joined many of the ancient Scythians. That Province is situate in the north of Germany, and stretcheth to the sea called Mare Sarmaticum. On Sarmatia what countries it contained. the East it is bounded with the river of Tanais, and the lake Meotis: and on the West with the river Vistula. Under this Province are now contained Muscovia, Russia, Polonia, Lituania, and some other Provinces. This war was cruel and dangerous, and in the beginning it went ill with the Romans: for in a battle were slain the General of the Romans, and one whole legion: but DOMITIANUS afterwards reenforcing his armies, the Sarmates were overthrown and constrained with loss of many of their people to retire themselves. He had twice wars with the inhabitants of the great province of Dacia, the inhabitants whereof (as Pliny affirmeth) were called by the Greeks', Get●…. That province contained all that which is now called Walachia, and Transsyluania, and other countries. Of this war SVETONIUS, EUTROPIUS, and PAULUS OROSIUS make mention, but none of them reporteth how it Dacia how it is called at this day. passed, neither for what cause it was undertaken, although they affirm that it was very costly to the Romans: for in the first war wherein OPIUS SA●…IENUS was General, who had been Consul, whom EUTROPIUS calleth APPIUS, he was overcome, and the greatest part of his army slain. And, in the second, CORNELIUS FUSCUS, Commander of the Praetorian Cohorts, had the like fortune; whom DOMITIANUS made General of that war. In both the one and the other were great encounters and battles; wherein was spilt much of the Romans blood, as PAULUS OROSIUS relateth; and he saith, that CORNELIUS TAC●…TUS treateth thereof very largely and copiously in his Histories: but that perished with the rest of that Author's works, whereby we know not the discourse of those wars, but they all writ, that DOMITIANUS triumphed of that Province. And he also triumphed of a people in Germany, which they called Catti, with whom he also had a doubtful war. During the time of these wars, wholly discovering his wicked inclination, DOMITIANUS never ceased to commit murders, robberies, violences, and other vices, as hereafter you shall hear. Wherhfore, having freed himself from the wars aforesaid, therearose a civil war more dangerous: which was, that LVOIUS ANTONIUS (called also SATURNINUS) being General in Germany, rebelled against DOMITIANUS, usurping the name of Emperor; making profit of this occasion, that DOMITIANUS for his evil life was ill-beloved: against which SATURNINUS, DOMITIANUS sent APPIUS NORMANDUS for his General. This war was very doubtful and much feared: but, coming afterwards to a battle, LUCIUS ANTONIUS was slain, and APPIUS remained Victor. And heerin happened a most strange and wonderful Accident; which was, that the same day wherein this battle was fought in Germany, it was known in Rome how every thing particularly did pass: and DOMITIANUS, that same day seeking to know the Author of those news, could not find him, and therefore believed that it was false; so as preparing himself to go to those wars in person, messengers came which brought certain news of the victory, and they avouched that it was at the same instant according to the news then in Rome. After the wars were ended (as we have recited) and during the time thereof, DOMITIANUS Domitianus did put many Noblemen to death; with the causes. put to death many eminent men, Senators, and such as had been Consuls, for so light and feigned causes, as thereby he clearly manifested the cruelty of his mind. ELIUS LAMIA he commanded to be slain, for that he used pleasant speeches and jests: which although he suspected, yet were they offensive to none. He commanded SALVIUS CO●…EIANUS also to be slain, because he celebrated the birthday of his Uncle, the Emperor OTHO; and METIUS POMPOSIANUS, for that he heard that his constellation did prognosticate unto him Imperial dignity, and because he had given to some of his slaves the names of HANNIBAL and MAGO: And, in like manner, SALUSTIUS LUCULLUS, for that he caused certain lances to be made of a new fashion, which (according to his own name) he called Luculleian. He put JUNIUS RUSTICUS to death, because he published a Treatise in praise of PETUS TRASEA, and of VI●…IUS PRISCUS, very wise men; who had been of a faction contrary to his Father. How little love this tyrannous Emperor bore unto learning, may well appear by that which SVETONIUS and other Authors writ of him: for, he commanded to be banished out of all Italy the Philosophers, and with them (as EUSEBIUS writes) the Astrologers; of which banishment, Domitian banished Philosophhers and Astronomers out of Italy. AULUS GELLIUS and PHILOSTRATUS make mention: PHILOSTRATUS saith, that some fled into Spain, and others into the deserts of Libya and Scythia. And, having expelled the Philosophers and Wisemen, proceeding in his cruelty, he slew an infinite number of people (as SVETONIUS reports) forvery ridiculous causes: and his fury was such, that some whom he purposed to put to death the next day, he entertained over night in his chamber, and shown them many favours with a cheerful countenance. And, among these his cruelties, he gave himself to luxury and incontinency, and other dishonest exercises, conversing and keeping ordinary company with dishonest women; and heerwith committed many robberies & strange extortions, seizing upon men's wares and goods for feigned crimes; and those so light, as they deserve The cruelty and incontinency of Domitian. not to be mentioned. He would fain himself to be heir to those which were dead, seizing upon their goods, and suborning some to depose that they had heard the deceased in their life-time say, that they meant to leave him for their heir. With which devices, and as many more as he could imagine or invent, he never left robbing and spoiling men, as well in Rome and Italy, as in other Provinces subject to the Empire. But, amongst all other nations, those which endured the greatest oppression and tyranny were the jews, by God's permission for their sins: for, all those which were of that religion, or lived after their manner and custom, although they were not so, he made them pay a certain new and rigorous imposition and tribute by the head, over and above all that any other nation paid. And SVETONIUS and EUSEBIUS writ, that as HEROD when CHRIST was born, so was he in fear, that out of the stock of DAVID The fear of Domitian. one should come, which would bereave him of the Empire: for, he was informed that it was written, that from DAVID should descend a man who should rule and command the whole world. Wherhfore he commanded with all diligence all those among the jews, which were of the lineage of DAVID, to be fought out and slain: yet EUSEBIUS writeth, that he pardoned two which were of that lineage. And, to set his seal to all his wicked deeds, being induced by the devil or some of his angels, he gave himself to the persecuting of the Catholic Church, The second persecution of the primitive church and by his Letters and Edicts, both in Rome and out of it, an infinite number of Christians were banished and put to death: upon whom he executed horrible kinds of cruelties; written by EUSEBIUS, PAULUS OROSIUS, and other Catholic Authors. And this was the second general persecution of the Primitive Church; in which Saint JOHN the Evangelist was banished into the I'll of Pathmos, where he saw the Vision of the Apocalypse. How long this persecution endured, I cannot say: but by EUSEEIUS it seemeth, that it lasted little more than two years; for afterwards, in the thirteenth Chapter of his third Book, he saith, that DOMITIANUS did moderate this persecution, and commanded it to cease. So as by that which is written and hath been seen, DOMITIAN was one of the worst Princes that ever was in the world; and so bad, as he used to say, The vice of the flesh was but a kind of honest recreation: and such were those wherein he used to pass his time. For these causes, and many other which I omit, wherein DOMITIANUS spent fourteen years of his Reign, he came to be extremely hated and abhorred of all men. And as now it was grown to a custom in Rome, Not to endure wicked Emperors long; and as God also permitteth, that sometime wicked Princes come to evil ends: so those which were most private and nearest about him conspired against him; the Chief & Captain of which was STEPHANUS, who was steward to his wife and Empress DOMICILLA, whom they affirm to have been partaker in the conspiracy and practice to murder him: and they afterwards slew him in such manner as I will tell you. During the time this conspiracy was a plotting, there appeared certain signs in the skies, whereof all men conceited and prognosticated, that the death of DOMITIANUS was at Signs prognosticating the death of Domitian. hand: and he also stood in extreme fear thereof, as he which took great heed to auguries and signs, and presumed much to be an ginger and Diviner. And amongst other signs which then were seen, there appeared for many days together round about the Sun a great bright shining Crown that did compass it about, which resembled the Rainbow against foul weather; but that it was a whole Crown and did compass the Sun in such manner, as it bereft and eclipsed the same of his brightness: Which sign all men did interpret to signify a change and alteration in the Empire, with the death of DOMITIANUS. And for as much as STEPHANUS in Greek signifieth a Crown, there were some which conceived that the said STEPHANUS should kill him, notwithstanding they knew nothing of the practice. By means whereof, and of other things which then were seen, DOMITIANUS was in such fear and despair, that as upon a day there was a great tempest, and there happened certain flashes of lightning, which he and all others did presage to be against him: and he being very angry, they writ that he said, Let JUPITER then smite whom he will. Whereof, the fear which I told you of, was the principal cause: for even then was the time accomplished which the Astrologers, casting his constellation, had told him that he should die. But one thing above all the rest made him most amazed, which in truth was very strange, and for such (although it be of small importance) I will declare it, which was this: that he living in this fear, sent for an ginger, who at that time was very famous, and asked him many questions thereupon: who An ginger foretold Domitian of his death, and of his own also. answered him, that by his art he found that his death was near at hand. Wherewith DOMITIAN was so wroth, that having determined to command this ginger to be slain, he asked him, if he knew what end he himself should have. The ginger answered him, that by his constellation he knew, that he should shortly be torn in pieces by dogs. And DOMITIAN thinking to make him a liar in that which he had foretold, and that, what he had prophesied of his own death, should not come to pass, commanded him presently to be slain, and his body to be burnt, and his ashes to be buried, to the end that dogs should not tear him. And having begun to burn his body, there fell such a tempest & rain as quenched and dispersed the fire; and the body of the poor ginger remaining half unburnt, there came certain dogs which tare it in pieces, as he had prognosticated. Which (I think) was, by God's permission, a practice of the devil, as he which knew the secrecy of the conspiracy, which then was in hand to kill him. Now STEPHANUS and his consorts having agreed upon the day, wherein they determined to give DOMITIANUS his deserved death, one morning this STEPHEN came into his chamber, bringing a poiniard hidden under his arm, which for that purpose he had some days before feigned to before, and carried it bound: and coming to the Emperor (who was suspicious enough and very fearful) having opportunity to come to his presence, by reason of his office, with much dissimulation he told him that he had brought him certain intelligence of a conspiracy against him. Which when DOMITIANUS heard, as he was very jealous thereof, and believing his words to be true, without any further consideration, he withdrew himself apart to talk with him about this matter: and standing in that manner, the rest which were of the same confederacy, being all his ordinary servants, and at hand, this STEPHEN gave gim a memorial, such as he had devised; wherein he discovered a conspiracy, naming therein such at he thought good. And DOMITIANUS beginning to read it with great attention, STEPHEN at his pleasure stabbed him into the groin; and the Emperor feeling himself wounded, began to call and to cry out aloud: and as he was very strong and valiant, before that STEPHEN could give him another wound, he closed with him and threw him to the ground, and striving to take the poiniard from him, he cut and mangled his own fingers: And by this time before that any succour could come to him, there ran upon him SATURNINUS, CLODIUS, PARTHENIUS, MAXIMUS, and others which were of that conspiracy, being all his own servants: and there giving him many wounds, they The death of Domitianus. slew him. And so had DOMITIANUS such an end as his deeds deserved, which happened in the year of our Lord 98. in the five and fortieth of his age, and the fifteenth of his reign, leaving no son to succeed him: for althought that in his father's time, he had a son by his lawful wife, named DOMICILLA, that son died being a child. DOMITIANUS was a man tall of stature, and in his youth of a good constitution, and pleasing countenance, great eyes, and somewhat red: but coming to age, he lost his proportion and good grace, by reason of a long sickness, so as his legs become little and slender, and afterwards he had a great gorebelly, and a very bald head. His death was taken in Rome in diverse manners, for it grieved the Praetorian soldiers very much: so as if that day they had had any Captain that would have but made the motion, they would have slain all the conspirators. The common people took it indifferently, showing neither joy nor sorrow. The Senate was not only well content The Senate glad for the death of Domitia●…. therewith, but conceived exceeding joy thereat: and assembling themselves that same day, they caused all his statues to be thrown down, and all the inscriptions and memorial of him to canceled and defaced. THE LIFE OF COCCEIUS NERVA, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND THIRTEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. THis worthy Emperor was borne in the City of Narnie: it is not certainly known whether he were an Italian, or of some other Nation, yet all agreed that he was of a Noble house: he was advanced to the imperial dignity being old, and in the beginning of his reign he had news (though false) that Domitian was not dead, which much troubled him. He recalled the Christians from banishment, eased the oppressions of the city, and made the children of poor parents to be bred up at the public charge; and to be brief, did many good and virtuous deeds. There was never but one conspiracy against him; which had ill success: the conspirators in his time were contumeliously slain, which slew Domitian, though against his will: He adopted trajan for his son, having none of his own, to whom he might commit the charge of the Empire. He held the Empire thirteen months only, and died of choler, taken against a Senator, whose name was Regulus, which choler cast him into such a sweat that he died thereof; and the same day that he departed out of this life, there was a great eclipse of the Sun. THE death of the Emperor DOMITIAN was not only profitable for the Empire, being freed and delivered from his cruelty and tyranny, but for that it gave means to NERVA to succeed him: and that afterwards TRAIAN and ADRIAN should reign, who were most excellent Emperors, and honoured and enlarged the Empire. And although that NERVA reigned but a while, yet he did many good things: but the best that he did was, in that he made TRAIAN his successor, as when time serveth, shall be declared. The death of DOMITIAN, as I have said, did not grieve nor joy the Roman people, but pleased the Senate exceedingly: who having commanded the remembrance of him to be canceled, they presently took order to give him a successor, before that any one should be chosen by the army. COCCEIUS NERVA, being at that time for his many virtues, wisdom, experience, and age, a man of the greatest reputation and authority in Rome, was by the Senate chosen Emperor, having been favoured and assisted therein by PETRONIUS SECUNDUS, Captain of the Praetorian Cohorts, & PARTHENIUS, who was one of those which killed Nerua chosen Emperor by the Senate of Rome. DOMITIAN. This NERVA was of a noble family, borne in the city of Narnia in the province of Vmbria in Italy, his father's name was also NERVA. Saint JEIDORE only saith, that he was borne in Spain, I know no ground for it; neither have I read it in any other ancient author. Being received in the Senate and accepted to the Empire, upon a sudden without knowing who was the author, it was told him that DOMITIAN was living, and that the report of his death was untrue. This news did so much trouble NERVA, that all the colour went out of his face: and being unable to speak, he had much a do to stand upon his feet, until that PARTHENIUS did encourage him, assuring him of the truth. Whereupon he came again to himself, and set a good countenance upon the matter: presently they all came to him to do him reverence, and to receive him for their Lord and Emperor, showing great joy, in hope of good success. Only ARRIUS ANTONIUS, who was a very wise and just man and had been his familiar friend, spoke unto him in a more strange manner then any of the rest: therefore I will relate it. Truly NERVA, in that thou art advanced to this high degree, I will attribute the benefit and happiness thereof unto the Senate and people of Rome, and generally to the whole Empire (for such hath been their good fortune) but not unto thee. For thou having escaped Speeches used by Antonius to Nerva. with such honour and reputation by means of thy virtue, and wisdom, from the injury of those wicked Princes past, art now made subject to infinite troubles and dangers; and above all, to the infamy and hatred of thy enemies, and as much or more of thy friends: for they will presume that they have deserved all favour, in respect of the ancient friendship which they held with thee; and if thou shalt deny them any thing they shall ask, although it be never so unjust, they will become greater and more cruel enemies unto thee, than those which openly show themselves to be such. Now, as the solemnities and accustomed ceremonies for the new Emperor were ended, in the beginning of his Empire he began to do most noble and excellent works, whereof in sum we will make a brief relation, without distinction of time, seeing his Empire was so short, as in a manner not to be divided. And one of the best and first was, in releasing from banishment all the Christians, which from Rome and other Cities were banished in the time of the Emperor DOMITIAN, and to permit and give liberty to Nerva his good deeds. every man to hold what faith and religion he would: and in this time (according to EUSEBYUS, and other Catholic historiographers) Saint JOHN the Evangelist came from the I'll of Pathmos (whither he was banished) to the city of Ephesus in Asia. The like humanity did NERVA use in all other matters: First he released and discharged all the cities of the Empire from the new impositions, which VESPASIAN and DOMITIAN had laid upon them. And to many which by DOMITIANUS were unjustly disposessed of their goods, he commanded their possessors to be restored to all their moveables, which could be found in the imperial palaces. And he not only showed himself liberal to those which were oppressed: but to all poor men which had sons, he made them to be bred up at his charges. He made also a distribution among all the people of Rome in greater measure than was usually done by any others. And to some poor Citizens of Rome which he knew had no wealth, he made certain possessions, which he bought for that purpose, to be divided among them. And above all he did great favours, and bestowed great gifts upon those which had been his friends and allied unto him: and his liberality was so great, as DION writeth, that in the beginning and first coming to the Empire, he was constrained by necessity to cell his gold and silver plate, and other moveables of his house, to perform those his favours and good deeds. And in this manner he did many deeds of charity and piety; for it is written for certain, that he swore that no Senator of Rome should by his commandment be put to death, which he afterwards performed, although there were those which deserved the contrary. He also forbade many slanders and accusations used in those times; desiring, all men should live contented and at liberty. Athough that NERVA was so good a man (as we have said) and used so mild a kind of government, so as there was nothing in him to be reproved; yet there wanted not some which murmured against him, as wicked men use to do against the good, alleging that so great humility and mildness in a Prince was not profitable: so as FRONTON a principal man in Rome presumed to say openly, that it was an evil thing to have such an one for Emperor, which would suffer no man to do any thing that he desired; but it was a worse matter to have such an one under whom every man might do what he listed. When NERVA was advertised thereof, he was not angry, but forbade some things, which had given him cause to say so: and he desired so much to govern uprightly, as he did nothing of his own head; but had always about him, and sent for wise and good men, such as were of the greatest experience in Rome, by whose counsel he provided, ordained & dispatched all matters. He also made during the small time of his Empire some very good laws & ordinances; among which, he sharply forbade an abuse of those times, which was, to geld men & to make them Eunuches. He also forbade that any man should marry his niece, or brother's daughter; and many other things which wanted reformation. To conclude, this Emperor had in his short time all those parts a good prince aught to have; and so clear a conscience, that he oftentimes said, he remembered not to have done any thing (albeit he gave over the Empire) why he should not live secure, and without fear of any body. And, though all this was true, (as to the wicked, the yoke & sceptre of the just is a heavy burden, and Rome had then got such a custom, that it could neither endure an evil Emperor, nor obey him that was good) yet there wanted not some which practised his death, and conspired against him: the motor & head thereof was CRASSUS CALPHURINIUS; but it pleased God that it took no effect, but was revealed to the good Emperor; who without any rigour or bloodshed was freed thereof, contenting himself only (as SEXTUS AURELIUS writeth) with the banishment of those which were culpable, though the senate would have inflicted a more rigorous punishment. All these things being passed (as I have said) and all things succeeding well and prosperously both in Rome, and all the Provinces subject thereto, it happened that ELIANUS CASPERIUS, who at that time was Perfect, & Captain of the Praetorian Cohorts, incited the soldiers to revenge the death of the Emperor DOMITIAN, & to put all those to death which had been confederates therein; which they determined to put in execution, though NERVA gave them no leave. This motion was sudden, & NERVA was much troubled, & would have hindered it, and have defended those from whose hands he received the Empire, or have died in the quarrel; and so he said & published openly: but the matter came to such issue, as the old Emperor was not able to resist or prevent it: & so PARTHENIUS & PETRONIUS were slain, & all those which CASPERIUS would require or nominate of those which were culpable. With this contempt NERVA was so grieved & offended, that he was very sorrowful he could not punish it as the case required; for by reason of his old age & infirmities he was not regarded by the soldiers. Wherefore to redress the present, & provide for that to come, he determined to adopt & make TRAIAN his successor, who was then Captain & Governor in the neither Germany, & was at that time in the city of Colen; which charge he had executed with great honour & fame, & was the most excellent man then living, as well in peace as war: to whom he was no way allied, being a Spaniare, & a stranger to Rome & Italy. And although NERVA wanted not allies & kinsmen, yet he chose TRAIAN, having more respect to the public good, then to his own house & posterity: wherein how justly he made his choice, this history will hereafter manifest. Having put this his determination Traiane adopted and invested in the Empire by Nerua. in execution, & the accustomed solemnities performed, & adopted him in the Capitol, & made him CAESAR in the Senate, he presently sent him Ambassadors with the Ensigns & Arms of the Empire, & they invested him in the Empire: & herewith he sent him a verse in latin, Teli●… Phoebe tuis lachrymas ulciscere ●…ostras. wherein he briefly exhorted him to come & secure him. The adoption of TRAIAN was so great a bridle to the mutinies which were feared, as all remained still & obedient. But it pleased not God that NERVA should long enjoy his good resolution: for as SEXTUS AURELIUS writeth, he lived only three months after: in which time they writ not that there passed any notable matter, neither is it understood by the histories that TRAIAN came to Rome before his death, which happened (in a manner) suddenly, through anger and displeasure which he conceived against a Senator, whose name was REGULUS: for as he was old and feeble, he gave a great shout, and was taken with so great a sweat, that being unable to endure it, he died thereof. The same day there was a great Eclipse of the Sun, which might The death of Cocceius Nerua at the Eclipse of the sun, An, Dom, 100 be (in part) cause of his death; which was in the 100 year of CHRIST. He reigned 1 year, 4 months and odd days; according to SEXTUS AURELIUS, EUTROPIUS, and BEDA. About the time of his age there is some difference among Authors: for, some say, he was 71 years old; others, 76. But as it imports little, so I mean not to spend much time about contrarieties of so small moment: and heerin I hold decorum with my curious Reader, to the end he condemn me not of negligence, if he find me to differ from that which he shall read elsewhere. THE LIFE OF TRAIAN, ONLY OF THIS NAME, AND FOURTEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. AFter the good Nerua succeeded a better Traian, born (as is said) in the city of Italica near to Sevil: yet soni●… say that he was borne elsewhere, whose father's name was Traian; and his mothers, Plotina. He was advanced to the Empire with the good liking of all men, for that his goodness, clemency, liberality, and equity towards all men was publicly known; which virtues he lost not when he was Emperor, but rather seemed to have increased the same: neither did he omit them, although he were never so much busied in matters of importance concerning the wars, or standing for the recreation of his mind, to behold feasts and sports. The first action he undertaken, being Emperor, was against the King of Dacia rebelling the second time: and he likewise persecuted the Christians, but afterwards he mitigated the persecution, which was the third that the Church suffered, then daily greatly increasing. He also subdued Armenia. In his time there was a very great earthquake, which was in a manner general, but it did most harm in Antioch, where he than was. After this he made very great voyages. In his time the jews rebelled; whom when he had tamed, he returned to Rome, where there was a wonderful triumph prepared for him: but being ouerburthened with age, and infirmities, he died in the city of Seleucia, to the universal sorrow and grief of the whole world. He lived 64. years; and being dead and burnt, his ashes were carried to Rome, and set upon the top of a pillar, which is to this day to be seen in Rome, which was a wonderful piece of work, and truly worthy of so great an Emperor, who was a no less father to the country, then to all virtues and virtuous men. AFter the wise and good Emperor NERVA, succeeded TRAIAN, as he had ordained in his life time; who was the flower of all the heathen Emperors, and in his time was the Roman Empire at the greatest height: for never, either before or after, was it so great, so much feared or esteemed. The valour, virtues and excellencies of TRAIAN were so many & so great, that as SEXTUS The virtues of Traian. AURELIUS affimeth, the best writers of those times were hardly able to express and declare the same. For although that I would exceed in the history of this excellent Prince, for the love of my country, of whence I might say that TRAIAN wa●… (as presently shall appear) yet I could not do it according to my desire and his deserts, for the brevity of those authors which we have at this day which wrote of him: wherefore I hold it for a better course to observe the style and form already begun, then by breaking it, to be notwithstanding too brief and defective. I say then that TRAIAN was by nature and birth a Spaniard, whereof there is no doubt: for so do all ancient true authors affirm. EUTROPIUS in the life of him, and EUSEBIUS in his Chronicle, say, that he was borne in the town of Italica, which is subject and near to Sevil: the which is also affirmed by SEXTUS AURELIUS, although he name it not; and ANTONY LEBRISHA, whom we may allege among the ancient authors, calleth Italica The place of Traian's birth. TRAIAN'S country: wherefore I cannot conjecture by what authority he did it, which wrote that TRAIAN was borne in Cales. This town of Italica (according to PLINY in his third book) was in that time in subjection, and within the jurisdiction of Sevil: and ANTONY in his perambulation saith, that it was sixteen miles from thence: the same in a manner is gathered by PTOLEMY his geography, and that it lay Northwest from Sevil: but at what time it was ruinated, or where about it was, I could never certainly understand: so as Sevil may glory and vaurt itself to be TRAIAN his country: for although that he were not borne in it, yet he was borne in a place subject and near unto it. TRAIAN was also of noble blood and lineage, although not very famous for any great dignities. His father's name was also TRAIAN. When he came to the Empire, he was 42. years old, but not fully complete, and married to a woman of great account, whose name was PLOTINA. For the certain knowledge they had in Rome of his goodness and valour, he was by general consent joyfully received and obeyed: and he presently began to put his great virtues in practice, showing himself both in word and deed, good, affable, mild, merciful, very wise, and a lover of truth and equity, and of all other virtues; wherein he persevered until the end: it shall not be amiss if I recite part thereof in the beginning, seeing that all historiographers which writ of him do the like. TRAIAN, taking upon him the government of the Empire, first endeavoured to reform the laws, and to 'cause them to be observed, and that equity and justice should be used in all things. In public charges and offices he took care to prefer noble and virtuous men; and such as Traian his good deeds. were not so, he reform and reclaimed with gentleness and clemency, and not with rigour and extremity. He did so moderate and repress his wrath and choler, as he was never known to be overcome therewith; and was most abstinent from other men's goods, and free from covetousness. His liberality and bounty did exceed, bestowing benefits and favours upon all men, greatly relieving the poor and needy, imitating and excelling his adopted father NERVA. His liberality. He bestowed much cost and took great care for the bringing up & instructing of poor men's children in Rome and in all Italy. He was a great builder of public and necessary Edifices; and also made an infinite number of bridges, gates and temples, and repaired high ways & causeys; as yet is to be seen in many places in Spain; whereof one (as saith S. ISIDORE) is the bridge at Alcantara. In all his buildings he never made benefit of any man's goods or labour; as some of his predecessors had done. He was to the multitude and common people mild and courteous, and the principal personages he honoured and entertained with love and familiarity; and chief those which deserved it, he admitted to private conversation: whereof being upon a time reproved, he answered, that he desired to be such an Emperor towards his subjects, as he would wish they should be to him, if he were not so. In Arts and Sciences he was not very learned, by reason of his great affairs but he never left to practise when he had time; having for his master the excellent Philosopher and Historiographer PLUTARCH, whom, Plutarch wa●… Traian's m●…ster. and others for their excellent wits, he loved and honoured much, as IWENAL testifieth; besides other writers. To conclude, this Prince had all the good parts and conditions which an excellent King aught to have: in peace he was upright and just, and in war (whereto he was so affected as hereafter shall be declared) he was valiant; and in both the one and the other very wise and prudent. And for that we will not conceal the truth, of two vices and passions he was noted; and accused: the one was, that he did eat and drink much, and that very sumptuously; and the other, that he was much given to the vice of the flesh: the cause whereof was the want of faith, together with his great power and liberty; but it was never known that wine overcame his wits, or that by means thereof he committed aught that might seem unfit; neither through the other passion, that he ever used violence, or forced any woman, or offended any. With these conditions he began his reign and Empire, governing it most happily for some s●…ce. As he was a most excellent and valiant Captain, and addicted to the wars, desirous of honour and fame above all his predecessors, he resolved to extend and enlarge the bounds of the Empire by arms. His first enterprise was against the King and inhabitants of the province of Dacia, a very great and spacious country; ●…wherein are now included Walacia, and Transiluania, and other provinces, taking the occasion for the wars and spoils which that nation had done to the Roman Empire, in the time of the Emperor DOMITIAN. TRAIAN went to this Wars made by Traian against the King of Dacia. war with an exceeding great Army, and the King of Dacia, named DECEVALUS, had levied for his defence all his force and power, being very great: so as this war was very cruel. But the King of Dacia, being no other way able to defend himself, determined to come to a battle (as he did) wherein TRAIANE had the victory, with exceeding great loss to his enemies, and not a little to the Romans, for the battle was very cruel and bloody. This victory being obtained, and TRAIAN following the chase of his enemies, he pursued them so hard, that Decevalus demands peace of Traian. DECEVALUS, being in despair, sent to him, humbly desiring peace, offering to accept any conditions he should prescribe. And TRAIAN (who took as great glory in pardoning the humble and meek, as in taming and subduing the proud and haughty) notwithstanding that he had taken almost all his country, was contented to admit him to his grace and favour, sending certain conditions to be performed: which were, that he should presently deliver up all his Conditions prescribed to De●…ualus. instruments and engines of war, and the engineers and masters thereof, together with all fugitives that were within his dominion, which were Romans, or their confederates, and ran to the enemy. And that out of all the Castles an●… fortresses within his dominions, he should withdraw the garrisons, and should throw down such as should be appointed: and before all these things, that he should surrender certain lands which he held within the bounds of the Empire; and that he should ever hold for friends and enemies, those which the Senate of Rome held for such. These articles and conditions the King of Dacia accepted and promised to accomplish, more through necessity then for any good will; and having sworn to observe them, he came to the Camp to the Emperor; where prostrating himself upon the earth before him, he confessed himself to be overcome, and to be his vassal. This solemnity being ended, and other things done which were expedient, TRAIAN returned victorious to Rome, where he entered in triumph, as saith EUSEBIUS having reigned two years, and brought with him the Ambassadors Traian came into Rome in triumph. of the King of Dacia, to whom was given audience in the Senate; and the peace, which TRAIAN had granted, was there confirmed. And he for his victory was called Dacicus, for that he had subdued the country of Dacia, as the Romans in former time had usually done to some other excellent Captains. When TRAIAN had ordered all things in the province of Dacia in this manner, for joy & honour of this victory, and to please the Roman people, he made all manner of sports and games, which of custom were wont to be observed by the Emperors (as is above said) adding thereto such other things as he thought good. But these games and sports did not withdraw him from doing justice, neither from care of the government: but rather so long as they lasted, he spent the greatest part of his time in dispatching of business, and doing justice, going himself in person to the Tribunal and public audience, to judge and determine many causes: which he did most justly and wisely. Passing sometime in good quiet, rest, and general peace, the King of Dacia being as unable to endure subjection and servitude, as his predecessors, began some combustions and alterations; first secretly, and afterwards publicly: repairing and fortifying his Castles, The king of Dacia rebels against the Empire. providing arms and engines, and levying his neighbour forces against the Empire: whereof as soon as TRAIAN and the Senate had intelligence, he was adjudged the second time, an enemy to the Empire. And so with an equal army, but much more incensed then formerly, TRAIAN went this second time to the wars in person: in which the King of Dacia taking warning by that which was past, refused to come to battle, and used policies, stratagems and treacheries against TRAIAN; which were such and so many, as the Emperor was in danger to have been either slain or taken: and by treachery (upon a safe conduct) they took a singular good Captain and a great favourite of the Emperors called LONGINUS. The King of Dacia having so good a pawn, sent to TRAIAN to entreat a pardon, and to treat of peace, threatening that except he might obtain the same, he would put the said LONGINUS to death. Whereto TRAIAN gave such an answer, as the King understood, that he preferred his honour and the public good before any particular peril, and prosecuted the wars by all ways and means possible: During the which, within a very short space he built a bridge over the river Danubius, beyond which (parting from Italy) lieth the country of Dacia, which was one of the most stately bridges that ever was made in the world, all of squared stone of marvelous A bridge over the river Danubius. beauty. This bridge contained twenty Arches; each of which was one hundred and fifty foot high, besides the foundation, and sixty foot broad; the one Arch was distant from the other one hundred and sixty foot, which was the compass of the Arches of the bridge: which truly was a wonderful work, as well for the greatness thereof, as for the many difficulties, and the short space wherein it was made: Which among other things is an argument of the wealth and greatness of the Roman Emperors. Which bridge this Emperor made, to hold a free passage for his Armies to pass the river Danubius, against those barbarous nations: And ADRIAN his successor being of a contrary opinion, to bereave the barbarous of the like passage (as some say) commanded it to be broken. This bridge being finished, TRAIAN continuing the war, did many things, wherein he shown himself to be a valiant and excellent Captain: and so oppressed the enemy (notwithstanding that the country was great, and the people very fierce and hardy) that he conquered and subdued it all, and put their King DECEVALUS to such a strait, that to escape taking, being The death of the King of Dacia. in great danger thereof, he slew himself; and his head was carried to Rome, and the country of Dacia was made subject and tributary to the Roman Empire: the greatest part whereof at this time (for our sins) is subject to the Turk. After this, taking such order for all things in those parts as was requisite, TRAIAN came to Rome with great honour, bringing with him an exceeding great sum of money and wealth taken from that King and country, being now (as EUSEBIUS testifieth) the fift year of his reign. And his name and bounty was so famous through the world, that upon the way Ambassadors met him from the East Indies, and diverse other parts to sue for peace, and to acknowledge him for their Lord Being come to Rome, he entered in great triumph: and afterwards there were made great shows and feasts for joy of his Victory and Return; which did laste 120 days, which were four whole months: A feast of one hundred and twenty days continuance. which being ended, he applied himself to the administration of justice, and the tranquillity of the Empire. Remaining in Rome busied in these exercises, he made many bridges, causeys, and other public edifices both within Italy and without. About this time there died a great The death of Sura Li●…ius lamented by Traian. friend and favourite of his, whose name was SURA LICINIUS, whose death he took heavily and honoured his memorial with public statues, which he commanded to be erected to him, and other honours then used. This SURA was so good a man, and TRAIAN reposed such trust in him, that being told one day for certain, that SURA meant to kill him, he went that night to sup at his house; and commanding his guard to return, remained there alone amongst SURA his friends and companions, and commanded his Barber to shave his beard with a razor, which the Emperors then held for a custom, until the time of his successor ADRIAN, who wore his beard somewhat long: and having so much trusted and tried this SURA LICINIUS, he returned to his Palace; and calling those unto him which had told him thereof, he said to them, that he had made trial of LICINIUS loyalty, and that they should no more hold him in suspicion: and so he ever after loved him both alive & dead, as I have said. TRAIAN living in this prosperity without blemish or disorder in any thing that might deserve reproof, being deluded by the devil, or some of his ministers, he resolved to persecute the Christians, and made edicts and decrees against them, commanding them to adore his Idols; so as an infinite number of them were put to death upon that occasion. This was the third general persecution of the Christians, whereof EUSEBIUS treating saith, that it was in the tenth The third general persecution of the primitive Church. year of his reign, and so doth OROSIUS and other Christian authors. Which persecution TRAIAN commanded afterwards to cease, as it appeareth by some histories, and by the Letters written by PLINY to TRAIAN, and from TRAIAN to PLINY, which are extant to this day: Wherein he commanded, that if the Christians were not accused of any other crimes, they should be suffered to live at liberty, and according to their laws. In these and other things, and in doing justice, TRAIAN, busied himself in Rome, until that moved with desire of fame and glory, he resolved to make war against the King of Parthia, and against the King of Armenia, making this his occasion; that the King of Armenia had received the crown and ensigns of a King, from the hands of the King of Parthia (acknowledging him for his superior and sovereign) and not from the Emperor of Rome, as he was bound to have done, as appeareth by that which is already said. And having ordered his troops, and made such provision, as for so great an enterprise was requisite: he parted from Rome, with a very great army Traian made war against the Parthians. both by sea and land; and arriving in Asia, he invaded Armenia, where the fame of his coming was such, and there was so great a fear over all the Country, that but in very few places he found any resistance, aswell in Armenia as in countries adjoining. And the greatest part of the Kings, Nobles and Governors of the provinces bordering thereupon, came peaceably to him, humbly confessing themselves to be his subjects, and him to be their sovereign Lord, and bringing him many presents they made great show of subjection. Among many other things of great price which they presented unto him, there was brought him a horse, in greatness, colour and shape, one of the most fair in the world: which being taught before hand, A horse given to Traian. as soon as he came in the Emperor's presence, kneeled down upon both his knees, and bowed down his head to the earth; which although it were known to be artificial, yet it made a very good show, and did greatly delight the beholders, being a thing rare and vnthought of. TRAIAN having in short time subdued Armenia, and gotten the King thereof into his power, PARTAMITASITES by name, who had submitted himself, he seized all into his hand. And so (as EUTROPIUS and SEXTUS RUFUS testify) the country of Armenia was made a tributary province, and at that time he gratified and gave gifts and rewards to those Kings and Tetrarches, which had served him in those wars, and to many others. And others he condemned in great sums of money, according as each one had deserved. And setting all things in good order, leaving sufficient garrisons to defend the same, he marched forward with his Army; conquering Armenia and Mesopotamia made tributary to the Empire. the dominions of the King of Parthia, and particularly entered into the fertile country of Mesopotamia, and took the city of Nisibe, and other places there, and made that province, like Armenia, tributary and subject to the Empire; the King of Parthia being no way able to hinder the same, therein happening many skirmishes, encounters, assaults of cities, and feats of arms, TRAIAN showing himself in all things an excellent Captain, as well in travails and dangers, as in directing his army, in lodging it, in marshalling his men, and marching with them according to military government and discipline. For whom the Senate (being advertised of his great victories and good success) commanded great sacrifices to be made, after the manner of the Gentiles; and sent him new titles and names, signifying his victories, calling him Optimus, Armenicus, Parthicus, and other titles, for the conquest of Armenia, and other countries New titles given to Trajan by the Senate. of the Parthians. Having had in all things good success, increasing and enlarging the Roman Empire, desiring, for some respects, to repose himself for some few days, he came to pass the winter in the Province of Soria; where dispersing his Army in those marches, he lodged himself in the City of Antioch, whither came Ambassadors from many parts of the East: And being there in great prosperity and at rest, with a full determination to return to the wars as afterwards he did, the whole city being full of his Court, and of Ambassadors and Princes which came to see him, and to follow their suits unto him, there happened an earthquake which was in a manner general, which in that city and in a great part of Asia (but chief in those quarters) was the greatest that ever was seen or heard of, which began after this manner. On the 22 of October there did rise so furious and violent a wind, as it ●…are and turned up trees, made the birds fall to the earth, uncovered the roofs, and made the houses An horrible and fearful Earthquake in the city of Antioch. shake: then followed lightning and thunder, in such abundance, as being yet night, it seemed noon day; after which there fell from heaven such fearful thunderbolts, as with their violence they broke down stately buildings, and slew many men, so as it seemed the world had been set on fire, and that the earth had opened. The Sea was also wonderfully troubled; after all which there was such a violent heat, as, not able to endure it, men stripped themselves, and hide them under ground; and the sky was so dark, and the dust so great, as one could not see another, but shocking together fell down dead: But he that will know the wonders which passed therein, let him read DION, and COCCEIUS in the life of TRAIAN; for many cities were ruinated, much people perished; many mountains and hills sunk and become plain; many rivers were dried up; and many fountains and waters sprang where never had been any before. And in the City of Antioch, almost all the houses and buildings thereof fell to the ground; and the Emperor TRAIAN, escaped by flight, and was driven to leap out at a window into the fields, seeing that all his palaces fell down: in which fields he remained many days in Tents, until the earthquake was passed; so great fear possessed him for that which was already happened. This misfortune being past, and this City and others, which endured the like calamity, being repaired by TRAIAN, and summer being come, gathering together all his forces, he parted from Antioch to proceed in the war which he had begun, directing his journey towards the East, to make a conquest of Assyria and Chaldea, with the great City of Babylon, head of the ancient monarchy of the Assyrians. And being to pass the river Euphrates, at a great turning which it maketh, he underwent many difficulties and dangers; for the Parthians with all their whole power endeavoured to stop his passage: But TRAIAN knew so well how to use such industry, and to proceed so warily, as making boats and bringing A bridge over the river Euphrates. them in carts, from the mountains nearest at hand, he made a bridge, and passed his Army in despite of his enemies, although not without great slaughter and danger to both parts: And having passed the river, he marched forwards, conquering Cities and Castles on every side, and among other the great City of Arbela in Assyria, which MARCELLINUS calleth Arbela. Gandabela, in whose fields ALEXANDER the Great, overthrew King DARIUS. And from thence he went and took other countries, wherein never had any Roman ensigns been displayed: And from thence without finding any that durst to give him battle in his Babylon and Thesiphonte taken by Trajan. march, he came to the famous City of Babylon, of whose greatness and power we read marvels; and taking it by force of arms, he did the like by all the borders: and from thence he marched by land to the river Tigris, and assaulted and took by force the great city of Thesiphonte, which is in Persia, and other towns in those parts. But in what manner TRAIAN took this City, and what happened in the many assaults and battles given, and how long this war continued, we find it not written: for those authors which are come to our hands treat thereof succinctl●…; and the books of his life and famous exploits which FLAVIUS MARCELLUS and A●…URELIUS VERUS wrote at large and copiously, are perished, with other notable works, w●…ich time hath consumed and wasted; by which means the acts of this Emperor are unknown. Neither is he compared with ALEXANDER the Great, or the greatest captains of the world; notwithstanding that he was no less, considering the countries, the Seas, and Nations, which he traveled, tamed and subdued, with his army, his mind, his wisdom and bou●…ty. TRAIAN having made himself Lord of all those Countries, both on this side, and beyond the rivers Tigris and Euphrates, to wit, Syria, Babylon, Chaldea, and other countries and provinces, thereto adjoining; DION writeth that he went down the river Tigris, towards the Persian. Sea, to subdue a mighty King, named ATHA●…ILUS, who lived in an Island (which that river maketh, dividing itself into two arms) & coming to that country, the King and inhabitants of those countries not daring to make any resistance, yielded all those places into his hands. But here he was in the greatest trouble and danger of all others: for, winter coming on, there fell so much rain, and there were such tempests, and the river Tigris made such inundations, as he was in danger to have lost the greatest part of his army. After which, these authors affirm, that he rigged up a great fleet, wherewith sailing along the Persian Sea, he came into the main Ocean, Traian made war in Persia and the Indieses. conquering even to the Indieses, and subduing them to the Roman Empire: and finding by chance certain Merchants ships which sailed to the Indieses, on this side the river Ganges, they writ, that he informed himself thereof, and discoursed with such as were in those ships of all matters concerning those parts. And he sometimes said, that had it pleased God that he had been a little younger, and had more strength & health, he would not have stayed until that he had attained to the uttermost and most remote ends of the world: and that he accounted ALEXander the Great for very happy, in that he began to reign when he was but young; yet he purposed to pass further than he had done. And so he wrote from those Seas to the Senate of Rome, and sent them the relation and names of all the Nations which he had conquered and subdued; the number whereof was so great, as they could hardly be reckoned and known. Upon which news, there were made in Rome great joys, new sacrifices, and many other things to his honour; among which was a most sumptuous Arch. But this attempt and enterprise of the Indieses prospered not with TRAIAN, according to his expectation: for as those countries, which he left behind him in the East, were newly conquered; while as he continued his Navigation and conquest by Sea, many of those countries revolted, and thrust out the Roman garrisons which were left in them. Besides this (whereof he was advertised) he found not in those coasts and countries where he came, such fertility and abundance of victuals as he expected; neither were they answerable to the reports of writers, which fabled thereof: for he found there great scarcity and want of many necessaries, and the enterprise seemed unworthy of so great a Prince: for which causes, and for that that he was now old and unwieldy, he resolved to return with his fleet to the place from whence he came. TRAIAN returning in this manner by the Persian gulf, and taking land near to the river Tigris, he speedily took order for the punishing of those which revolted, and the recovery of those countries which had rebelled, whither he sent two Captains called LUCIUS and MAXIMUS, with two good armies, which in the beginning prospered ill; for MAXIMUS in a battle against the Parthians was overthrown and slain: but LUCIUS afterwards reinforcing and relieving his army, obtained some victories against the enemy, wherein he repaired the losses received, and recovered again by force of arms the city of Nisibe in Mesopotamia, and others which had rebelled; and did the like by the city of Edesta in the same province, which he set on fire and wholly ruined. While as LUCIUS was busy about these things, TRAIAN his other Captains and Lieutenants, named EURICIUS and CLARIUS, made war in other parts against such as had revolted, and took by force the city of Seleucia, which standeth upon the river Tigris, and other cities which the Parthians had recovered in those quarters: so as in short space TRAIAN not only recovered all those countries which had rebelled, but also conquered many other cities and provinces: so as he was Lord of the greatest and best parts of Asia. His wisdom and valour was so great, that during all the time that he followed these wars and conquests, so remote and fare from Rome, yet there was not any tumult or disorder in the City. But this sage and wise Emperor seeing himself now old and tired, and knowing how great the Roman Empire was, and that it seemed impossible (as indeed it was true) well to govern a state so large and great, chief those provinces which he had conquered from the Parthians, who were so hard to be tamed and kept under; he resolved to settle a King in Parthia and Persia of his choosing, and in some other countries which he had taken from the Parthians, which King should rule and govern the same, as before they were ruled, yet as a King which should be subject and a vassal to the Roman Empire, reserving to himself the supreme jurisdiction and sovereignty. And with this resolution he came to the great city of Thesiponte, which is in Traian in Persia. Persia: and calling thither the principal men of the Parthians, he conferred with them concerning the making them a King of their own stock and nation; they giving him great security to serve and obey the Roman Empire. This being concluded, he placed and established, in the royal throne with great solemnity, a great man of the royal house of the Parthians, whose name was PARTHENASPATES. And afterwards (as SEXTUS AURELIUS and EUTROPIUS record) he did the like in the province of Albania in Asia, near to the Caspian Sea, seating there a King to govern the same: and placing governors and Precedents in the other provinces, he enlarged and extended the bounds & limits of the Roman Empire beyond the river Tigris, where before his time the name of Roman had scarcely been heard of. And having ended all things in good sort in the East, with great glory and honour (for no place could defend itself against him, saving one little city in Arabia deserta, which the Agarenes had taken, which could not long be besieged for the great sterility and want of water in all the fields and marches thereabout) he resolved to direct his journey towards Italy, and so to Rome, with greater honour and triumph, than any of his predecessors had ever obtained. While as TRAIAN made provision for his journey towards Italy, it happened that the jews which inhabited the province of Cyrene, which is in Africa, to the East of Syrtis Magna, conspired The jews rebelled against the Romans. and rebelled against the Romans and Greeks' which lived in that province, and slew most of them. The like did those jews which dwelled in Egypt, and both the one and the other committed such cruelties, as were never seen or heard of: So as PAULUS OROSIUS writeth, that they left the land in a manner dispeopled; and that Nation was ever so ready and apt to rebel; as those jews which dwelled in the I'll of Cyprus, knowing what had passed in the province of Cyrene, and in Egypt, rebelled also, and committed greater cruelty and excess, than the The cruelty of the jews. others had done: so as DIDON saith (although it seemeth incredible) that there were slain by them 200000. persons, which inhabited that Island. Which is confirmed and made credible by that which EUSEBIUS and PAULUS OROSIUS report, who affirm, that they slew all those which dwelled in the city of Salamina, which is in that Island: upon which occasion there was afterwards an Imperial law made, that no jew upon pain of death should come within the I'll of Cyprus, upon what occasion soever. This law was afterwards so severely executed, that if any of them came thither, although through mischance or foulweather at sea, they were presently put to death. When the Emperor TRAIAN understood of this great rebellion and cruelty (being upon his way toward Italy) as a just prince willing and desiring to give condign punishment, according to the quality of the crime, he sent Captains with sufficient troops of soldiers into diverse parts, to put to death all the jews they should find in those countries before named, or in any other wheresoever: which they affirm, was the greatest execution and punishment that ever was done in the world, God permitting the same for their stubbornness, and obstinacy. A just punishment inflected by Traian upon the jews. This great slaughter & punishment being executed, taking the best order that might be for matters in Asia, the good Emperor began his journey towards Italy, leaving his Nephew AELIUS ADRIANUS, who was afterward Emperor, for General of the Armies in the East, and so continued his journey with infinite honour and joy; there being in Rome the greatest triumph and the most solemn reception prepared for him, that had ever been made. Coming into the province of Cilicia which is in Asia the less, as he was old and somewhat sickly, his disease increased upon him in such sort, as staying in the city of Seleucia, within few days after, he died there, of a natural sickness, although that some suspected that he was poisoned. And so The death of the Emperor Traian. ended this excellent Emperor, having reigned nineteen years and a half, and lived sixty and three, in the year of our Lord 119. leaving neither son nor daughter by his wife PLOTINA, with whom he was married; neither would he adopt or name any one that should succeed him, which he did in some men's opinion (as SPARCIANUS writes) to imitate ALEXANDER the Great, whom he ever sought to excel in honour and renown. TRAIAN'S ashes were afterwards brought to Rome, and set upon the top of a Pillar, which he had commanded to be erected in the marketplace: which Pillar was of one whole piece, containing one hundreth and forty foot in height. This Prince subdued many Countries and Provinces, and held the greater part of the world in subjection; or, to say better, was the greatest and mightiest Prince that ever was in the world, either before or after him; as he which is curious may find by this our History. True it is, that discoursing indifferently touching valour in Arms, and many other parts, he was not to be paralleled in greatness with JULIUS CAESAR. He governed the Empire with such authority and so much justice, and his virtues were so many, as he therein excelled all those which had not the light of our faith: for, therein is no comparison. And this was held for a custom in Rome after him, that, when they poured out their blessing upon their new-chosen Emperors, they would pray that he might be as fortunate as AUGUSTUS CAESAR, and as good as TRAIAN; accounting him to have attained to the height of all goodness. It is great pity To think that so excellent a man should be lost and damned, as doubtless he was: for, he not only was an Idolater, and held not our Christian faith (without the which there is no salvation) neither did he confess or profess it; but, persecuted and oppressed the Christians. And some men, being moved more with pity and compassion, than with any wit or understanding, feigned a fable and jest; saying, that, through the prayers of St. GREGORY, TRAIAN'S soul was released out of hell (from whence is no redemption) and carried to Paradise: whereof, beside that our faith doth control it, there is no Historiographer either ancient or modern, of any authority that ever I saw, that makes any mention thereof in their Treatises of TRAIAN, and of S. GREGORY: whereby it is clear, that those which maintain it bear false witness both against heaven and hell. TRAIAN was of a big stature, of a swarth complexion, and had thin hair on his head and beard; and likewise had a hook nose, great broad shoulders, and long hands; and, above all, had a very loving aspect with his eyes. He was born the one and twentith day of May, in the second year of the Reign of the Emperor NERO. THE LIFE OF PUBLIUS AELIUS ADRIANUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND FIFTEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. AFter Trajan, Adrian was advanced to the Empire, more through the policy of Trajans' wife, than by the election of the people or the Senate, or for that Trajan had adopted him. Nevertheless, after he was preferred to the imperial dignity, he gave so good an account of himself, as Rome had no cause to repent for having made him her Lord He made very great voyages, and in his person visited in a manner all the Roman Empire. He was very studious in all arts and sciences, and caused all such as were famous and excellent in any Art, to come to Rome. He happily ended all such wars as he began; and was very severe to the Christians. His many virtues were accompanied with many vices; nevertheless, he could so well dissemble the passions of his mind, as he seemed to contemn those things which he chief loved. He lived 62 years, and governed the Empire 12. In his old age he had so grievous an infirmity, as he desired to dye, and entreated his familiars to kill him; who having not the heart to commit so brutish an act, he was finally advised by his physicians to abstain from meat & drink, so as following their counsel he hastened his death by hunger. THe death of the good Emperor TRAIAN was much lamented and grievously taken through all the Empire; being for his bounty and goodness much beloved of all the people and nations subject to the Empire. And, as he never had any son, either natural or adopted, that might succeed him, and seeing his Nephew ADRIAN for his virtues, great wisdom, and the affinity between them, was much beloved and esteemed; PLOTINA, the Empress, wife to TRAIAN, who was with him at his decease, for the great love she bore unto ADRIAN, sought means to advance him to the Empire. To bring which her device to pass, she agreed with ADRIAN (who already was a man of great power, and had been very familiar with TRAIAN, and was his countryman) and took such order, that his death was concealed until he had sounded the good will of the Army which he led, and of such other great Personages as were in the Emperor's Court; feigning (after some Writers) that TRAIAN had adopted him for his son, showing a sergeant instrument or Writing to that effect. Finally, the matter was so cunningly handled, that it took such effect as they desired, and the Army presently swore obedience and did homage to ADRIAN; notwithstanding that he was absent, in the City of Antioch in Syria, where he was left (as is said) General. Who being advertised hereof, and the Legions whereof he was General consenting Adrian being in Antioch, was chosen Emperor. therereto, he presently wrote to the Senate, entreating to be confirmed in the Empire. When the Senate had received his Letters, and understood what passed, his request was easily granted, and so was he of all men obeyed and held for Emperor. ADRIAN was TRAIAN'S Nephew, as some say, by his mother; and some say, by his father: it may be that he was his kinsman of both sides, and so both the one and other may say the truth. He was also a Spaniard both by lineage and birth, and according to EUTROPIUS and EUSEBIUS, was borne in the same city of Italica: yet SPARTIANUS inferreth that his father in Rome was called ADRIAN as He was, but was borne in Italica, and his mother DOMITIA Adrian nephew to Traian and a Spaniard. PAULINA, was also native of Spain, and borne in the city of Cales. He was married to SABINA TRAIAN'S sister's daughter (as DION writeth.) And was a tall man of stature, of a good constitution and countenance; and of a very clean strength, which he much exercised. He is reckoned among the good and excellent Emperors; and with great reason, considering his many virtues and excellencies, his knowledge and wisdom wherewith he governed, and the peace and justice wherein he maintained the Empire two and twenty years, that he lived therein; whereof for that all authors writ briefly, I also purpose to treat thereof in sum, seeing I spent so much time in the last, so as except I use more brevity than hitherto I have done, the volume of this my book will grow to a greater proportion than I purposed, or is convenient. Wherhfore I will do, as he which within a limited time hath determined to travel a long journey, and having taken leisure in the beginning, deeming that travelling in this manner, he shall not be able to attain to that place at the time appointed, hasteneth his way with greater speed, until that he know that he may come to his journeys end before the time be expired: So will I do from henceforth. At the lest when I am past ADRIAN, I purpose to proceed with greater expedition than heretofore, until I come so fare on my way, that I may safely divide the process of this history, and hold the proportion which I have determined, presuming rather to make this inequality in the style, then to make a work so tedious and wearisome. I say then, that when-as the barbarous nations understood that TRAIAN was dead, notwithstanding they also knew of the election of his Nephew ADRIAN; the Parthians chief, The Parthians and other nations lately subdued, be a ring of Traian's death, rebelled. and other nations which were lately subdued, began to mutiny and rebel: and there were also some alterations in Britanny, and in some other parts. All which, ADRIAN might easily have pacified and subdued by force of Arms, and wanted neither courage nor means thereto: but he would not seek it by the extremity of war and rigour. For, truly, albeit these two Princes were both very valiant and excellent Captains and Governors, yet heerin they did much differ: for, TRAIAN, being greedy of honour and fame, desired by conquests and wars to increase and enlarge the Empire; but ADRIA'S care was To preserve the ancient limits without any greater ambition, and rather he diminished a great part thereof: and so presently in the beginning of his Reign, to the end he might live in peace, he left to the Parthians, and to other Princes of the East, all those Provinces beyond the River of Euphrates unto the Indieses which TRAIAN had conquered; nothing regarding Armenia, Media, Assyria, Persia, Mesopotamia, nor all the rest; and he set his bound and placed his Legions at the River Euphrates. Some thought and also wrote, that he did it of purpose, envying TRAIAN'S honour: but I truly attribute it to that he held it for the better and most assured course. And having taken such order in the East (as is said) and left CATILLIUS SEVERUS for Governor of Syria, and pacified the troubles lately raised by the jews; he took his way by land towards Italy, and sent the ashes of Adrian sent Traian's ashes to Rome. TRAIAN by sea: and, coming near to Rome, he was advertised that they had prepared a triumph for him in the same manner as it was provided for his Uncle TRAIAN, for that he was in the same wars and conquests with him. But he would not accept thereof, commanding that the same triumph and entertainment should be made and given to TRAIAN'S Image, and so it A triumph given to Traian's statue after his death. was done; and he (as far as I have read) was the only man that ever triumphed after that he was dead. And ADRIAN was received and obeyed with the greatest love and applause that could be, and presently performed many parts of an excellent Prince, conformable to the course of his life past, and the hope conceived of him for the time to come; so as all were glad and well satisfied with his government, with his manners and conditions: and truly with great reason, for he deserved no less. And because that the graces and excellencies of this Emperor were in the highest degree, besides the virtues and wisdom wherewith he was adorned, I hold it fit in this place to speak thereof, to the end that they may serve for an example to other Princes; whereby they may make themselves the more respected by his imitation. First, he was naturally inclined to learn all such sciences as apperteined to wit, and to the exercise both of mind and body, aswell in learning, as in the exercise of arms and other virtues, wherein he sought to excel all men. It is a wonderful matter to consider how God endued this Prince with wit and understanding, capable to comprehend whatsoever he desired, with skill, Adrian was expert in all faculties. strength and ability in all exercises: whereby he grew very learned in both the tongues, Greek and Latin, and compiled excellently well, both in verse and in prose. He pleaded causes and exercised himself in the art Oratory; and so much affected the style & phrase of ancient times, that he preferred CATO before CICERO, E●…NIUS before VIRGIL, and CELIUS before SALLUST. He was as skilful in other arts as herein: for he was a singular Mathematician, Arithmetician, Geometrician, and a great Astronomer, and took great delight in judicial Astrology, and would give his judgement: so as SPARCIANUS writeth, that the first day of the year he would cast the revolution of the whole, and foretold what would ensue, and did so by the same year wherein he died. He was very skilful in Physic, and knew the virtues and properties of herbs and stones. He was expert and very politic in wars and military discipline, and was very strong, able and skilful in arms both on foot and horseback: And besides all this, he could play on instruments, and sing marvelously well. He could draw and paint, aswell as the skilfullest master workman in that art. Finally, in all things he had so great skill, as any man could have in any one thing particularly: wherein, besides his deep understanding, his exceeding memory did much help him: for they affirm, that he forgot not any thing that he had either read or hard. He was of such capacity (as SPARCIANUS writeth) that he would both indite, writ, and confer of business all at one instant, and had a singular grace & promptness in using quick speeches and quips, either in earnest or in jest; and the like in answering upon the sudden, if he were touched by any. Of his quick and sharp speeches which they writ of him, I will recite one, as fitting this time, although it be none of the sharpest and subtlest of them, which was thus: A certain Roman Knight came to entreat a favour at his hands, who (according to his age) had a grey beard, and full of white hairs: and failing of that which he desired, within few days after he came again with a new petition to the same effect. But in the mean season (it seemeth that men were then as skilful in painting as now they are) he had died his beard, and looked young again: which was noted by the Emperor; who to gird him therewith, answered to his request, I would be very glad to do you the pleasure which you require, but a few days passed I denied it to your father who desired the same; wherefore it seemeth to me a matter unjust, to grant that to the son which I would not yield to the Father: and so the old man departed with shame, and in this manner he used many such like jests. Besides all that is spoken of him, he was very strong, and able to endure any labour; and was so active of his body, as he ordinarily went the greatest part of his way on foot, and bore headed, in the sun, in the rain and mists. He was much addicted to the chase, and was a great Hunter, and excellent therein: so as with his own hands he killed Lions, Bears, wild Boars, and other most fierce Beasts; he was oftentimes in great danger, falling once unawares from a rock; where he put one of his shoulders out of joint, and broke one of his legs, with some of his ribs. Finally, there was nothing wherein the Emperor ADRIAN was not excellent and very able, and in all things presumed to excel the wisest; as truly he did in the most. And although he were a great reprover of Masters in all Arts, and did often put them to their shifts with his questions and arguments, yet he did much honour them, and bestowed many gifts and rewards upon them; and had about him Philosophers, Astronomers, Poets, Rhetoricians, Grammarians, Musicians, Arithmeticians, Geometricians, and excellent Painters and Carvers: with all which he might compare, and the most of them he did fare excel; and did use to say, that He had not forborn to learn any thing more than other men did, that might be needful in peace or war, either for an Emperor, or a man of any other condition whatsoever. Being endued with these qualities above mentioned, he was not voided of other virtues & gifts of the mind, which he shown and put in practice during the time of his reign, more, and better than before; although in the beginning he was noted of cruelty, for that some special men, by his commandment and permission, were put to death. There were also some vices and bad Adrian taxed for cruelty. inclinations noted to be in him: but they all affirm he did suppress and dissemble them, and was so much master of himself, as he easily mastered his natural evil inclination; which well appeared in his manner of governing the Empire, and the good usage of his subjects, bestowing favours upon all men; abating the tributes and subsidies through all the Empire; ministering justice with indifferency; doing all things by the advice and counsel of the Senate, and of wise men which he kept about him, and carried with him whithersoever he went: for, he not only loved to be counselled, but also to be reproved and advised. He entertained all men mildly and courteously: and although to the common sort he shown greatness and majesty, yet men of note he honoured much, and visited them in their sickness, and invited them, and went to them when they invited him. And although he ever loved and procured peace, yet all his life-time he had exceeding great care of martial discipline; punishing the liberty and vices of men of war; reforming errors past, and prescribing rules for time to come. In this manner (as I have said) he had lived when he was private, and followed the same course after he was Emperor. ADRIAN having remained some space in Rome, governing the Empire in good form and Northern natio●… rose against the Empire. order, many northern Nations rebelled against the Empire, to weet, the Alanes and Scythians of Europe; and the Sarmates, which are now the Inhabitants of Russia, Muscovia, and Poland, and other Countries thereto adjoining; which, with intent to make war in the Empire, came down into the Provinces of the upper Missia (now called Servia) and the lower Bulgaria, both which at this day are in subjection to the great Turk. Against which nations, the Emperor ADRIAN parted from Rome with a mighty Army: but, coming near to those Provinces where the enemies were, there were certain treaties of peace propounded; and ADRIAN, who was addicted thereto, granted the same: and, making his abode for some days in those Quarters, he returned to Rome, leaving MARCIUS TURBO for Lieutenant and Governor of Pannonia and Dacia. In this journey there was a certain conspiracy against him; which being discovered, four principal men which had been Consuls (being guilty thereof) were put to death: which execution the Emperor ADRIAN afterwards denied to have been done by his will or consent. Being comn to Rome to purge himself of the infamy and envy thereof, he made a great congiary or distribution of money among the people, bestowing many graces and favours upon all men; and commanded also infinite games and sports to be made, such as were accustomed in Rome; not forgetting (nevertheless) the execution of justice in his government. Staying at this time a lesser space in Rome than at the first, he departed with a great Court and Army to visit France and the Provinces near adjoining; upon the Cities whereof, he bestowed many graces and favours. And from thence he went to visit the Legions and Armies in Germany; wherein he set good order in many things concerning military discipline: and, having remained awhile in those parts, having resolved to visit the whole Empire (as afterwards he did) he directed Adrian visited the Empire. his journey into Flanders, and from thence into Britanny; where he reform many things, and reconciled the Inhabitants, and the Romans which lived there; as well the garrisons, as the Inhabitants and Colonies. And, for their better quietness and security, SPARCIANUS saith, that he caused a strong wall of fourscore miles long to be built, to make a division of the lands of the one from the other; which was a marvelous great work. And, having made such provision for all things in that Island as he thought needful, he returned into France: where he erected some singular Buildings, and bestowed other graces and favours in that Country. After that the Emperor ADRIAN had visited France and the borders thereof, and the I'll of Britanny, he directed his journey for Spain; where he was joyfully received, as a man native and borne in that country: and after that he had visited some places, he went to winter in the city of Tarragona, where he called a parliament of all the provinces, and ordained many things for the public good thereof. After that the fury of winter was past, he traveled through all He comes into Spain, and dealt many favours to his Country. Spain, visiting the cities, and bestowing benefits upon them: principally unto his own country Italica and Sevil, he granted many privileges and exemptions, and did many great favours, as DION writeth; but would not come thither, notwithstanding that he was in the matches thereof. Thus having visited all Spain, he returned towards Rome, & at this time he set down the limits and bounds of the Empire, from the barbarous Nations: where there were no rivers, to divide them with notable marks of stone, pillars, trees, and other things; and his authority & reputation at that time was so great, that to the high Germans who were free, he appointed a King: and at that time some tumults were punished in Africa. The Emperor ADRIAN living now in peace, being the seaventh year of his reign, the Parthians a fierce and turbulent nation, began to arm and to make wars against the Empire; and ADRIAN making provision for all things accordingly, passed into the East, with a sufficient Army to follow that war in person: but seeing that he managed it himself, they propounded certain treaties of peace; which being concluded, he traveled peaceably through all the Eastern provinces, and came into Asia the less, and from thence into Graecia, where he did many favours to the Athenians, and other cities, where he remained some space. From thence he took his passage into the I'll of Sicilia, and visited the principal places of that Island, and desired to see mount Aetna, which is so famous for the fire which it continually casteth out. Setting all things in Sicilia in such order as he thought good, being very joyful he returned to Rome, now the fourth time after that he was Emperor. After his last coming, he stayed not long: for he had undertaken (for the better government thereof) to visit the whole Empire in person; and to that purpose preparing ships and galleys he passed into Africa: where the joy Adrian in Africa. is incredible that was conceived for his coming. For besides that ADRIAN was very much beloved, it happened (as SPARCIANUS and others do writ) that Africa for five years space had endured great want of rain, and by consequence hunger and famine; but as soon as he was arrived in that Country, rain fell plentifully: which made his coming most joyful. And the time that he was in that country, he spent in reforming of the government, in ending controversies, and commanding certain public buildings to be erected: among which was the re-edifying of a great part of the city of Carthage, which (according to my author) he commanded Carthage re-edified by Adrian. should be called Adrianopolis, after his own name. And all matters being ended in Africa at his pleasure, and having stayed there so long as to him seemed good, he returned prosperously to Rome, where he provided for all other matters of the Empire: yet the time was not long that he stayed there; and when every man thought lest of any journey, he again provided for his passage into the East. And within short space he went into Graecia; and travailing through it, stayed in some cities, and made those buildings & temples to be finished, which before he had commanded to be begun, and enjoined others to be built: and so continuing his journey he went into Asia the less, and did there as he had done in other provinces where he had travailed. Being come into Syria, by letters and messengers he invited the Kings and Tetrarches, as well those which were friends and subjects, as others which were neighbours and strangers, to come to see & speak with him. Among which; one was the King of Parthia, to whom he freely sent his daughter, whom the Emperor TRAIAN in the former wars had taken prisoner; for which generous act, many came to his Court to visit him and to do him honour: all which he so friendly and courteously entertained, as such which came not did exceedingly envy those which came, grieving very much that they had not done the like. These meetings and feasts being ended (which in truth were very great and memorable) ADRIAN took his way towards Syria, and came into Palestina and judea, visiting the principal cities thereof; and from thence went forwards, and did the like in Arabia. After which, he presently went into Egypt; where he remained longer than in any other part, and there commanded a most sumptuous Sepulchre to be built over the great POMPEY, for A Sepulchre made by A drian over the great Pompey. that his Tomb was ruined and decayed. He also caused a City to be founded to the name and memorial of a most fair young youth which died there, whom he dear loved. And at the same time he permitted and also commanded, that the holy City jerusalem, which (as is before said) was destroyed & laid desolate, should be re-edified & new built; which was presently done with admirable expedition, principally by the jews; and commanded, that (leaving the first name) it should be called Aelia Adria Capitolina: so great was then the power and wealth of the The power of the Roman Emperors. Roman Emperors, that it was as easy a matter for them then to build Cities, as now houses, or things of lesser moment. And although the jews did greatly rejoice for the new-building and restoring of jerusalem, yet afterwards they took it very grievously, that the Gentiles should jointly devil there with them; who built Temples to their gods and idols, not suffering the Christians freely to use their rites and ceremonies. And this is the cause of the rebellion which afterwards ensued. Truly, it is a thing much to be noted in this Nation; which become so stiffnecked, that when they were bound to keep and observe their law, being good and holy; for very light occasions they would forsake it, and take strange religions, and become idolaters: but after that it was abolished, and aught no longer to be observed, they would never leave it, neither receive The perverse perfidy of the ob●…matt jews. the holy Catholic faith; and yet, until this day, some of that generation in sundry parts of the world obstinately persevere therein. These and many other things being ended by ADRIAN in the time of his abode in Asia and in Egypt, he returned into Europe: and, arriving in Gracia, he stayed with his whole Court in the City of Athens. Being there (which was in the eighteenth year of his Reign) all the jews rebelled, and cast the Roman garrisons out of their Provinces of judea, Galilee, and the rest; kill as many of them as they could, with a very great number of Christians. This was a very dangerous war: for, with them did conspire all the jews that dwelled in any other Provinces, which were very many. ADRIAN considering the importance of this accident, provided a new Army, whereof he made JULIUS SEVERUS General against the jews, causing him to come from Britanny, where he commanded the Army; who came with great power, and passed into Syria, and made most cruel war: wherein, after the shedding of much blood on both sides, the jews were overcomn and destroyed, and the whole Country left in a manner desolate. So (as writeth DION) there were fifty excellent strong Castles and Fortresses laid The jews overthrown and destroyed by julius Severus and banished from the new jerusalem by Adrian. even with the ground; and nine hundred, fourscore and five Towns and populous Villages burnt; and there were slain in skirmishes and battles fifty thousand fight men, besides those which without number died of hunger, sickness, and misery of the war: and so was performed the subduing, and (in a manner) the total destruction of the jewish Nation. And ADRIAN gave commandment and made an edict, that the jews should be perpetually banished from the new jerusalem, and prohibited to inhabit there. Within few days after the war against the jews was ended, the Alanes and Masagets, which are barbarous and fierce Nations of Scythia Asiatica, came with great fury, and entered into Media making war, and afterwards into Armenia, and came as far as Cappadocia (where FLAVIUS ARRIANUS was General for the Empire) putting all the Countries thereabouts in great fear. But ADRIAN (who ever loved peace) used such means, as through the gifts which he sent to their King VOLOGESUS by his Ambassadors, they returned peaceably to their houses, loaden with spoils and riches which they got in other barbarous Countries. ADRIAN, having ended all matters to his best liking; after he had bestowed many gifts and favours upon the Cities of Gracia, came in the end to Rome, having (as I have said) traveled a long time through the world; where his coming was very grateful to all estates in that City: and although he were now old and unwieldy, yet he failed not to provide and take as good order for all things then, as when he was of greatest strength. But, considering his age, which was now above threescore years, that he had not any son, and that a disease he ordinarily had, which was much bleeding at the nose, did now more oppress him than ever; he took great care who should be his Successor, and therefore determined to adopt some excellent man to succeed him in the Empire; and heerupon took much counsel, and made many doubts before he would resolve. In the end, contrary to the liking of most of his Council, he adopted one LUCIUS CECINIUS COMMODUS, intituling him CAESAR, and nominated him for Lucius Cecinius adopted by Adrian to be his successor. his Successor; which (as SPARCIANUS reporteth) had not been used to be done in that manner until then: and changing his name, after his new Father he was called AELIUS VERUS. The same day he did this, he commanded SEVERIANUS to be slain (who was a great man in Rome) and FUSCUS which was his nephew, for certain evident signs and suspicions which he discovered, that they practised to tyrannize & usurp the Empire: and so likewise he commanded some others to be put to death, and made away. After this election and adoption, and great feasting for the same, this new-adopted CAESAR was overtaken with an infirmity, which was so grievous, and of so long continuance, as ADRIAN found himself deceived: and seeing that now he could not live long, he repent that he should leave so weak and feeble a successor. It is written, that he often said, he leaned to a rotten wall. But it so happened that within few days, he was eased of that care: for this LUCIUS CECINIUS, whom he had adopted and called AELIUS VERUS, died. And notwithstanding that this man left sons behind him, yet ADRIAN presently adopted ANTONINUS or ANTONIUS (for I find him written after both names) who was afterwards surnamed PIUS; upon condition that he should also adopt a son of the said AELIUS VERUS, who was called LUCIUS VERUS ANTONINUS, and MARCUS AURELIUS also; but in the first place ANTONINUS, of whose lineage hereafter mention shall be made, who were Noble, and very excellent and virtuous men. This being done to the good liking, and with the consent of the Senate, and of all the principal men in Rome, ADRIANS' infirmity increasing, he made himself to be carried to the city of Baias: where his grief so extremely tormented him, and therewithal came so many passions and convulsions, as he oftentimes desired to die, and procured his own death; and with gifts and flatteries, and sometime with threatenings provoked some to kill him: and seeing that no man would do it, and that he wanted strengthto do it himself, for the last remedy of his infirmity, by the advice of some of his Physicians (for he had many about him) he The death of the Emperor Adrian. resolved to forbear either to eat or drink, and so he died in the year of our Lord 140. using the common saying, Turba Medicorum interfecit Regem: which is, Amultitude of Physicians killed the King. ADRIAN at the time of his death was sixty two years old and five months, & had reigned twenty one years and eleven months: he neither left behind him, or ever had any son; he was but once married, and then with a woman whose name was SABINA; and after her death, he married no more. He was a man tall of stature and of a good presence, and did wear his beard and hair long, and took delight therein. He was as excellent a Prince as ever was any, although that he had some vices, which with his wisdom he covered and kept secret. As concerning the Christian faith, although in the beginning (as an Infidel) he did hate it, and was an enemy to it, yet afterwards he shown himself more temperate towards the Christians: foras EUSEBIUS and others do writ, QVADRATUS a disciple of the Apostles, and ARISTIDES a Philosopher of Athens and a Christian, did compile certain notable books in defence of our faith: wherewith ADRIAN being moved, wrote to MINUCIUS FUNDANUS who was Proconsul in Asia, and to other parts, that no Christian should be compelled to renounce his faith, neither punished, except he were accused for some other offence. So as the Christian faith was taught and preached freely, a great part of the reign of the Emperor ADRIAN. THE LIFE OF MARCUS ANTONINUS PIUS, FIRST OF THAT NAME, AND SIXTEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE AROUMENT. ANTONINUS was adopted by ADRIAN; and by reason of his adoption, succeeded him in the Empire: in which dignity he lived so virtuously, as it may be said, that he lived without example, and was compared to the good NUMA POMPIEIUS. There was no great war in the time of this good Emperor: for he with his authority bridled all Nations, and to him came Ambassadors, in a manner from the furthermost parts of the World. He would never be very fare from Rome, in such manner as his Predecessor had been, being of opinion that it was most fit for the Emperor to remain in that city, which was head of the Empire. He was liberal, courteous, just and pitiful, and a great lover of virtuous men, so as it might be said, that he was father of the virtuous. His life was not stained with any vice, as his predecessors were. And being of the age of 72. years he died in his City of a fever, when he had ruled the Empire 23. years whose death was much lamented by the world, for that they had lost an Emperor and a father, who, they might justly say, was Pius. ADRIAN was not only wise and fortunate in governing and ruling the Empire, the time that he held it; but he was also, in the successor whom he chose and left there: for he proved to be such, and so good, that after he had ended his days, ADRIAN was not more praised and remembered for his wisdom and good government, then for the succession which he left, by adopting ANTONINUS: who what he was we will presently tell you. The death of ADRIAN being known (which was greatly lamented) ANTONINUS PIUS, his adopted son, was presently without any contradiction admitted and obeyed for Emperor, accordingly as he had appointed by the consent of all the Senate, as in his life we have written. This ANTONINUS Antoninus' his descent. was the son of AURELIUS FULVIUS, and Nephew of TITUS AURELIUS FULVIUS, who had been Consuls and had held other offices and dignities, and were Noble men and of an ancient Family, whose original was in Gallia Cisalpina, now called Lombardie. His mother's name was ARRIA FATIDILLA, the daughter of ARRIUS ANTONINUS a Noble gentleman and twice Consul. This Emperor ANTONINUS was one of the most excellent princes in virtue and bounty, that ever was in the world; and who with greatest authority, justice, liberality, and clemency governed the Empire. He had a good aspect, was tall, and of a good constitution of body, of an excellent wit, mild of condition, moderate in eating and drinking, well learned, and singularly eloquent, very bountiful, and willing to give of his own, and very abstinent from taking from others. He was a great lover of husbandry, and delighted much in hunting; and he was so free from all manner of vices, as therein neither TRAIAN, ADRIAN, nor any of his predeeessors could compare with him: Wherhfore Antoninus' compared with Numa Pompilius. the wisemen of his time compared him with NUMA POMPILIUS, who was second King of Rome, and deserved to be called PIUS, for which they show many reasons. Before that he was Emperor he had been Questor, Praetor, and Consul, and had held some other charges and magistracies. In his time their was little war, or at lest little spoken of; and those troubles which were, he easily pacified by his Captains: and therefore the most that Historiographers writ of him, is of his good conditions and bounty: and so will I; although it will not be so pleasing to the Reader as to discourse of wars; yet to follow the truth, and principally to show the fruit which is to be gathered out of this history, which are examples to live well: as for the rest there will be sufficiently enough found in the process of this book, and that is not a little which is already written. ANTONINUS, as soon as he began to rule, he presently made show of his natural goodness: for he removed not any of those from their offices and charges, which he found placed and established by ADRIAN; but rather confirmed them therein: and ever held it best, to suffer those which proved good Governors to continued long in their charges and governments. He commanded also his rents and services (besides that they should be moderated) to be favourably and temperately collected. He presently did so many favours, and gave so many gifts of his own goods which he had before, that his wife ANIA FAUSTINA daughter to ANIUS VERUS reproved him for it: to whom he made answer that she knew not what Antoninus' answer to Faustine. she said, and therefore he did let her know, that at what time he attained the Empire, he had lost all that which before he enjoyed living private. In matters of equity and government, he was as vigilant, and took as good order as ADRIAN did. He resolved never to departed from Rome during his reign, except it were to recreate himself, and sometime to hunt, being herein contrary in opinion to his Predecessor ADRIAN: for he said that the Court and people, which traveled with the Emperor, were troublesome and prejudicial to the Countries and Cities by which they passed: and that in visiting some parts, he was far from others; and therefore the most fit and convenient place for the Emperor to stay and make his abode in, was in Rome, which was the Lady and head of the Empire, and in the midst thereof, and most fit to receive Ambassadors and messages from all parts. So as following this counsel (which indeed proved not ill) the Wars and Insurrections which happened, he suppressed and pacified by his Captains; as the Britain's, which rebelling in part of that Island, the Rebels were defeated by his Captains, and the Island brought to subjection. And within a little afterwards, the like happened in the Country of Dacia, and also in Germany, which took Arms; but through the victory of his Legions, peace was established: whereby he won so great reputation, that during the rest of his reign, there happened no dangerous war, and all men feared and honoured him for his goodness; and therewith he was so much beloved, as he was held and esteemed, for Father, Lord and Emperor. The barbarous Nations which were unknown to the Romans, did so much love and esteem him, as in contentions and matters in controversy which fell out between them, they chose him for their judge and Arbitrator, submitting themselves to his censure. And so those of Hyrcania, (which is a Province of Asia, near to the Caspian Sea) and the Bactrians which are more to the Eastwards, and both very fare and remote; and also the East Indians sent to him their Ambassadors, offering Ambassadors and princes from ●…ar countries came to see Antoninus▪ amity and obedience. And from other Countries which were exceeding far, there came some Kings to do him honour: among which, they make mention of STANGORUS from India, and of King PHARASMANES, and others. And in other Countries, he settled Kings at his pleasure: whereto the Inhabitants did consent, notwithstanding that they were not subject to the Empire. And the King of Parthia resolving to make war, being with a great power entered into Armenia, one Letter from the Emperor sufficed to make him retire and to discharge his Army. ANTONINUS being in this manner beloved and feared by Strangers, was no less esteemed and beloved by his Subjects and Vassals, but rather without comparison fare more; as by those which knew and enjoyed his goodness and equity: and seeing that he was such, he was by the whole Senate entitled, Father of his Country, which he much refused, but yet in the end he accepted thereof, with great courtesy and humility: for he was naturally mild, and Noble of condition; and therewith so courteous, as he entertained the Senators and principal men gently and lovingly, with great honour and courtesy; and never did any thing of importance, without their counsel and consent, and towards all men generally he sought to moderate the state and majesty of an Emperor, showing himself affable and pleasant. And above all, he took order that no man should make benefit of his favour to another; neither take bribes from such as were Suitors unto him: for he gave audience and answer to all men himself in person, and in this he knew the quality and difference between men, using herein sometime the opinion of others when need required. Whereto, besides the ordinary counsel of the Senate, and his own skill and knowledge in the laws, he had always some excellent Lawyers near unto him, as VLPIANUS, MARCELLUS, JABOLENUS and others: By which means and such others as shall be declared, the Provinces and Cities in his time flourished and grew rich, which he relieved with his own rents towards the buildings thereof, aswell such as were necessary as others, to beautify and adorn the same. And when any misfortune or calamity happened, he repaired and reedefied it with money out of his Exchequer: as, a great fire which happened in Rome, wherewith were burnt three hundred and forty principal houses, and a great part of the City of Narbone in France, and the City of Antioch in Asia, with the Marketplace Great harm done by fire in several places. in the City of Carthage. In time of great famine which was in Rome, he provided for their wants, and maintained the people with bread and wine, the most of the time that the famine lasted, making Victuals to be brought from all parts, paying for the same at his proper cost: so as generally through the whole Empire, all men were well content with him; for he maintainned them in peace, quietness and equity. And doubtless in this place there is to be observed (as touching the power and government of humane things) how great and potent the Roman Empire then was; and how contentedly, A wonderful obedience, and universal peace. and at what liberty the Subject lived in the time of ANTONINUS, TRAIAN, ADRIAN, and other good Emperors; and to see the greatness and riches of that Court frequented by the worthiest and best men in the world: and to observe the greatness, buildings & wealth of that most populous City of Rome, beautified with the goodliest Statues and Pictures that ever Eye had seen; so as at this day her ruins are more esteemed than all the stately buildings in the world: and to consider the liberty and security wherein men might travail, through the world, no man being tied to obey more than one Lord and King, and he good and just, without fear of wars, thiefs by Sea or Land, without finding every where new Laws, new Lords, Kings and Tyrants, needing no security or safe Conducts, without being taken prisoners, and made Captives, or ill used by enemies, strangers and unknown persons, but using all men as friends and neighbours in the greatest and best parts of the World, which as a little Kingdom was quietly and justly governed. One Country was furnished from another, with such things as in the one did abound, and the other wanted; Merchandise and Traffic passing through the World without so many Impositions, molestations and troubles, as we see now adays, all living then under one law; being in the best and most habitable parts of the Earth in union and peace: which they more perfectly enjoyed, after that the Emperors were Christians, as hereafter shall be declared. But as this was but humane power, so could it not continued long without alteration and change: for such is the condition of this world; nothing can continued long in one estate. But returning to our ANTONINUS, among his other virtues wherewith he made the time of his reign happy and pleasing, one was his clemency; wherewith he greatly moderated the rigour of the laws, punishing offences with pity, or pardoning them, ever desiring and procuring peace: So as to such as sometimes discoursed with him of the valour of JULIUS CAESAR and HANNIBAL, he did commonly answer with that saying of SCIPIO, that he more desired the preservation of one friends or subject's life, than the death of an hundred enemies. This Emperor ANTONINUS was a great friend to Learning, and much honoured learned men, giving them great rewards and pensions, drawing them from all the parts of the world; among which he caused to come from Chalcide a great Philosopher which was a Stoic, whose name was APOLLONIUS, whom he sent for to be Master to his adopted son MARCUS ANTONINUS, who afterwards was Emperor. This Philosopher being come to Proud speeches of Apollonius 〈◊〉 Philosopher, with Antoninus his answer. Rome, ANTONINUS sent for him to come to see him, seeing that he stayed long ere he did it of himself: whereto the Philosopher made answer, that with greater reason the scholar aught to come to the master, than the master to the scholar. This arrogancy did nothing offend ANTONINUS: but laughing thereat, he said to those which were with him, that he marvelled that APOLLONIUS should deem it a shorter way from Chalcide to Rome, then from his lodging in Rome to his Palace. This Emperor, among the weighty affairs and matters of importance, forgot not to please and recreate the people; but (as the custom than was in Rome) at certain times caused feasts and solemn sports to be made. In conclusion, he was an excellent Prince, and left nothing undone, that was behooveful for the good government of the Empire: and having ruled the same 23. years, being above threescore and ten years old, he was The death of Antoninus Pius. taken with a burning fever, whereof within three days he died in peace and rest; first recommending the Empire to MARCUS ANTONINUS, who was his son in law, and married to his daughter FAUSTINA, and is commonly called MARCUS AURELIUS, commanding that the image of FORTUNE which the Emperors did use to have in their chambers, should be carried to ANTONINUS chamber, which happened in the year of our Lord 163. Some time before he died, being a man of great stature, and by reason of his age unable to go upright, A●…i. Dom. 163. but stooping, he ware upon his breast certain thin boards, whereupon he made fast his clotheses with such art, that it covered the defect of nature. His death was generally lamented, and the Romans did him great honour, and made sacrifices unto him, canonising him for a god, and builded a Temple also unto him, as they did to the vanity of their other superstitious gods. THE LIFE OF MARCUS AURELIUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, ALTHOUGH SECOND OF THE antonine, CALLED THE Philosopher, and of LUCIUS COMMODUS VERUS, ANTONINUS his companion, and seventeenth Emperor of ROME. THE ARGUMENT. MArcus Aurelius being adopted by Antoninus Pius, succeeded in the Empire, and was endued with so much bounty and virtue, as he was worthily called the Philosopher: and considering the many calamities which in his time oppressed the Roman commonwealth, there needed a man no less good and vertnous. In his time were most dangerous wars, very great earthquakes, inundations of Rivers, pestilence, and most extreme famine; all which he, through his singular wisdom, remedied. He made the Christians to be persecuted, whereby the Church endured much. He was unhappy in his wife, and in wise children: and notwithstanding that she was dishonest, yet he would not put her away, accounting to have had the Empire for her dowry. This good Emperor died in the wars against the Germans, taken with a most grievous infirmity, when he had reigned 18. years. His death was deplored through the whole Roman Empire, where he had ever showed himself a good Prince, and loving father. WHen as the Emperor ANTONINUS PIUS was dead, MARCUS AURELIUS ANTONINUS VERUS, without any contradiction succeeded him, who was called the Marcus Aurelius called the Philosopher. Philosopher, whom (as we have said) ANTONINUS PIUS had adopted for his son in the time of the Emperor ADRIAN, and afterwards married him to his daughter FAUSTINA. This man when as he was confirmed in the Empire, and began to govern, took for his companion and equal, LUCIUS VERUS COMMODUS ANTONINUS: who together with him, was adopted, by ANTONINUS, by the commandment of the Emperor ADRIAN, being the son of LUCIUS CECONIUS COMMODUS, Lucius Commodus taken by Marcus Aurelius for his companion in the Empire. whom ADRIAN had first adopted, but died before him. These two were the first that ever ruled in Rome together with equal power. This excellent Emperor MARCUS ANTONINUS was also called AURELIUS ANTONINUS. I would that the Reader should understand, that this confusion and variety of names is caused by reason of the adoptions which then were made: for the Romans did use to have Adoption in what manner. three names, a forename, a name, and a surname. And to declare it more plainly, when any one was adopted for a son, he received the name and surname, and sometime changed all the three names. Sometime they held one, and changed the rest, to continued the memory of both fathers: and from hence grew so many names, which obscure the history, and oftentimes deceive the Reader. To be eased of this trouble, I will call this excellent Emperor, MARCUS AURELIUS; and his brother and companion, LUCIUS VERUS, giving to them both sometime the surname of ANTONINUS. MARCUS AURELIUS was the natural and true son of ELIUS VERUS, who died Praetor. And his Grandfather's name was ELIUS VERUS, who had been twice Consul and The origine of Marcus Aurelius. Perfect in Rome, and was ennobled and made Patrician by the Emperor VESPASIAN, as JULIUS CAPITOLINUS relateth. His mother's name was DOMITIA CAMILLA and was the daughter of CALVISIUS TULLUS, who had been twice Consul. By his father's side he was of so ancient a lineage, as it was reported that he was descended from NUMA POMPILIUS the second King of the Romans. This Emperor was endued with so many virtues, good qualities, and rare parts, as there will not any be found that hath excelled him, and hardly any to be compared unto him. In his time there were such dangerous wars, and so many calamities, as there was great need of his virtue, wisdom and valour, to resist so many perils, and to prevent so may ill fortunes. He was so addicted to the study of Philosophy, and all Arts and Sciences, as he was surnamed the Philosopher, and he did honour and greatly enrich wise and learned men. His chief masters in Philosophy amongst others, were APOLIONIUS CHALCIDONENSIS; in the Greek tongue, SEXTUS CHERONENSIS, nephew to PLUTARCH; and in Rhetoric, FRONTO an excellent Orator in that time, by whose instructions he greatly profited. And beginning to govern in company of his adopted brother L. VERUS ANTONINUS, as he did in all things fare excel him, so (in a manner) he had the administration of all matters: for which cause, of him chiefest mention is made; as also for that he lived longer, and remained alone in the Empire; governing them with the good liking and contentment of the whole Senate and people of Rome, for the great experience they had of his virtue and bounty. In the beginning of his reign, there happened so great an inundation and overflowing of the river Tiber, as it overthrew many buildings in Rome, and drowned The overflowing of Tier. many people, with a great number of cattles; and spoiling the fields caused an extreme dearth and famine. Which, MARCUS AURELIUS through his great liberality, with the consent of his brother LUCIUS VERUS, sufficiently repaired, relieving and victualling the City at their own proper cost and charges, making provision of corn to be brought from all parts. After this, in the third year of his reign, followed the dangerous war against the Parthians (a nation which the Romans ever feared) which war was raised by their king VOLOGESUS; War with the Parthians. who, levying an exceeding huge Army, came against the ordinary legions in Syria, where ATIODIUS CORNELIANUS was Captain, and governed that country for the Empire: who having no sufficient Army to make head against the Parthians, was driven to retire, and VOLOGESUS took some Provinces. At that time also rebelled a certain people in the I'll of Britanny, and in Germany in like manner: and northern people called Catti, invaded the borders of the Empire, against all which MARCUS AURELIUS made speedy provision. Into Britanny was sent CALPHURNIUS AGRICOLA with new supplies; who joining with the ordinary legions of that Island, pacified those troubles. Against the Cattis, was sent AVEIDIUS VICTORINUS for General. To the war against the Parthians, because it was important and more dangerous, it seemed requisite to the Emperors and to the Senate, that one of them two should go, and it was concluded that LUCIUS VERUS ANTONINUS should undertake the charge, because that MARCUS AURELIUS could not be spared: for his presence was very needful in Rome for the general government, and to provide for all occurrents. And so LUCIUS VERUS with great provision, and a great Court, departed, whom MARCUS AURELIUS accompanied to the City of Capua: but LUCIUS fell sick by the Lucius Verus against the Parthians. way (as some writ) through his disorders, riot, & surfeiting; by reason whereof and his long linger, the Roman legions were put to the worse, and were overthrown by the Parthians, and their General slain in a battle which was fought between them. But LUCIUS VERUS being arrived with his great Army, the war was managed with apparent advantage to the Romans; not by the endeavour of LUCIUS VERUS, but of his Captains ESTACIUS PRISCUS, AVIDIUS CASSIUS, and MARCIUS VERUS, valiant commanders; he giving himself to his pleasures and pastimes; in Summer, in the City of Antioch; and in winter, in Laodicea, for four yeeeres' space, that these wars continued: wherein passed many great conflicts, skirmishes and battles between the said Captains, and the King and Nation of the Parthians. But succeeding prosperously with the Romans, they obtained many victories in diverse parts: so as recovering what was lost in Syria, they did the like in Armenia, and entered the province of Media: finally, being masters of the field, they came with their Ensigns displayed, even to the City of Babylon. While as these things were in action, the Emperor MARCUS AURELIUS continued in Rome, applying himself with great care to the good government, providing all things necessary for the wars, with great wisdom and foresight; dissembling and with patience enduring the vices and neglect of his Companion LUCIUS VERUS, to whom at that time he sent his daughter LUCILLA to be married unto him in Syria, where he than was; which he did, the better to confirm the friendship and brotherhood betwixt them. And, during the time of these wars with the Parthians, EUSEBIUS and PAULUS OROSIUS The fourth persecution of the primitive church writ, that the Christians were persecuted by the commandment of the Emperor, chief in Asia where LUCIUS VERUS was: which was the fourth persecution the Church endured. Wherhfore (as it is to be supposed) God sent a general pestilence, and other calamities, which afterwards ensued. Having obtained so many victories against the Parthians, LUCIUS VERUS ANTONINUS resolved to come to Rome; leaving that Country quiet and in subjection: and, setting the affairs of Asia in good order, he divided the Kingdoms among those which to him seemed to have most right, leaving them as subjects and vassals to the Empire; and in other Provinces and Countries he made the Officers of his House and Court, Governors; which were called Comites or Earls: from whence the title and dignity of Earls nowadays might have the Original. Being comn into Italy, with the new surname of PARTHICUS, for the victory attained against the Parthians, which was also given to MARCUS AURELIUS, with the triumph, they both together triumphed with great solemnity: and so this enterprise was happily achieved and ended. And although this coming of LUCIUS VERUS from the East was very joyful, by reason of the many victories obtained by his Armies, yet was it otherwise the cause of much sorrow and heaviness: for, when he came out of Syria, the plague was very sore there, and he dispersed the same into sundry places by the way as he came; so as many of his Soldiers, and of his Court and Company, died thereof: and, doing the like in Italy and Rome, he infected the whole Country; in such sort, that it was the greatest and most furious pestilence A great plague in Rome and all Italy. that ever was seen until that day. For remedy whereof, MARCUS AURELIUS used all care and diligence possible, as well in preserving those which were infected, and avoiding further infection, as in curing the living, and burying the dead; to his great cost and hazard of his life. This calamity being past, before it, and whilst it continued, he omitted no time nor care that was necessary for the government and good of the commonwealth; hearing and dispatching all causes in general; seeing in person what was done in the Senate; without whose opinion (and of the principal and wisest men) he did nothing: for, he used to say, that there was greater reason he should follow the counsel of so many and so good friends, than that so many and so wise men should do after his will alone. At the meetings wherein Magistrates were chosen, he was ever present; and in all things caused the ancient order and liberty to be observed. In Courts and judgements he increased the number of the judges and the judicial days. He also increased the alms and rewards of his Palace; and, in a time of famine and want of corn, he spent an infinite treasure, providing for many Cities a sufficient quantity of grain. And in Spain Marcus Aurelius relieved many cities with corn in time of scarcity. (being more fruitful than the rest) where his Predecessors had too much gleaned, he mitigated great part of the tributes, releasing many taxes and services. And heerin he was so temperate and pitiful towards his subjects, that whatsoever briberies and extortions were committed by his Collectors and Receivers, he most severely punished: yet in all other crimes and offences he ever used great clemency, and ever inflicted less punishment than the laws commanded. This Emperor not only tasted of adversities (as we have said) as, famine and pestilence, with inundations and earthquakes; but within his own house he endured a greater plague with his wife FAUSTINA, who was (as all Writers affirm) dishonest Faustina, Marcus Aurelius wife, dishonest and dissolute. and wonderful dissolute; which he sought by all means possible to reclaim, although not by such rigorous punishment as she deserved. And, being by some persuaded to put her away, and to divorce himself from her, seeing that he would not put her to death; he remembering, she was ANTONINUS PIUS his daughter, who had left him the Empire, they writ that he answered them in this manner: If We put away FAUSTINA, We are also bound to leave the Empire; which was the dowry We had with her at our marriage. There ensued so many calamities after that LUCIUS VERUS ANTONINUS came from the East, as well by means of the general and cruel pestilence, as by earthquakes, famine, inundations, and caterpillars, not only in Italy, but in other Provinces of the Empire; as that all Writers affirm, that if it had not happened that MARCUS AURELIUS had been so diligent, so wise, and worthy an Emperor as he was, the Roman Empire had been ruined and rend in sunder, and barbarous Nations had subdued the greatest part thereof. For taking occasion of that which is aforesaid, seeing the Countries wasted and unpeopled, many northern Nations conspired against it, as the Sarmates, Vandals, Marcomans, Suevians, and in a manner all Germany Northerly nations conspired against the Empire. who seized upon the Provinces of Pannonia, which were Austria, Hungary and other countries, threatening Italy and France. Whereto the Emperor MARCUS AURELIUS desirous to yield redress, thought it not sufficient to sand thither his companion, and much less durst he leave him in Rome, he was so reckless and vicious, and therefore resolved that they would both go together: Which putting in execution, with all provision necessary, it happened that upon the way, LUCIUS VERUS ANTONINUS was taken with an Apoplexy, The death of Lueius Verus. whereof he died suddenly, having reigned abount nine or ten years in company with his brother. And so MARCUS AURELIUS remained alone in the Empire, who only was worthy thereof, prosecuting his journey with his Army, and began the war with great courage and judgement: in which, the infection did greater harm to his Army, than the force of his enemies; although it passed not without many battles and encounters. And so with great difficulty by reason of the pestilence, he maintained this war three years: and wanting money to pay his soldiers (for the Provinces, by reason of the miseries past, could not pay their taxes) he was constrained to cell all his jewels, vessels of gold and silver, the furniture of his chamber, and his own proper possessions, therewith to pay his Army, which was greatly diminished of the chief commanders and valiantest men which died of the plague, whereby it received much more harm than by the enemy: Wherefore he was often counselled to leave the wars and to return. But he, willing rather to die then to loose any jot of his honour, continued it with a very great resolution, until that (after many great perils and extremities, which were such that Historiogriphers describe this war to be as dangerous as the wars of Hannibal) he obtained the victory, which he throughly accomplished in a great battle. Wherein (as it was thought) through the prayers of the Christians which were in his Army, unto which he recommended himself, God shown a most evident miracle; which was, That he and his people being ready to perish through want of water (the passages being on every side stopped by his enemies) there A most manifest miracle. fell such abundance of rain from heaven, that his Army was sufficiently relieved with drink: and therewith there fell such lightning and so cruel a tempest amongst his enemies, that he then setting upon them overthrew and slew a great number; as EUSEBIUS and JULIUS CAPITOLINUS report. And this being past, he recovered the Pannonies, and the rest which they had usurped; and had done much more, but that at that instant AVIDIUS CASSIUS, before named, who was Captain and Governor in the East, rose against MARCUS AURELIUS, proclaiming himself Emperor, taking occasion for that he was so much troubled in A rebellion against Marcus Aurelius. so doubtful a war: Wherhfore the Emperor was constrained to leave the best order he could, concerning Germany, and to return into Italy, from thence to take his way towards AVIDIUS CASSIUS; whereupon he came to Rome, and he entered in triumph for the Germane, and jointly with him his son COMMODUS, whom he had made CAESAR, and nominated for his successor. The triumph being ended, and leaving in Rome such order for the government as was most expedient, with part of his victorious Army which he brought with him out of Germany, and with other forces which he had newly levied, he departed towards the East, against AVIDIUS CASSIUS; where being arrived, the matter went so well of his side, as before that he came to any conflict or battle, the same Legions which AVIDIUS CASSIUS commanded, rebelled against him, and slew him, without the commandment or knowledge of MARCUS AURELIUS: For, he was rather displeased therewith then otherwise; so mild and noble he was. And his head being brought unto him, he commanded it to be honourably buried, and therewith seemed to be very sorrowful, saying, That they had bereft him of all means to show him mercy; and that he much desired to have had him in his power alive, to have given Marcus Aurelius pity towards Cassius a rebel. him his life, and to have reproved him of his ingratitude. And those Cities which had conspired with him, he easily pardoned, and commanded that they should not be rigorously dealt withal. And of their goods, which the Senate had commanded to be confiscated, and put into his Exchequer, he would not receive any part; but commanded that they should be put into the public treasury of Rome. And being by one of the Council reproved, for showing such clemency in a crime so notorious, telling him that he aught not to have done so, and that AVIDIW CASSIUS would not have dealt so by him if he had been overcome, he answered with great constancy and assurance, that AVIDIUS had not so well served the gods, nor lived in such sort, as to be able to have overthrown him. BULGACIUS GALLICANUS, who is an Author very ancient, and lived in the time of the Emperor DIOCLESIAN, in the life which he wrote of this AVIDIUS CASSIUS, reporteth, that the Emperor commanded to be given to his sons and daughters the one half of their father's goods, and that there should not any injury or disgrace be done unto them; and that they should be admitted to magistracies and dignities, if they were thereto chosen: and so to others which were guilty, he used the like clemency and grace. This rebellion being pacified, MARCUS AURELIUS withdrew himself to the City of Antioch in Syria, now called Soria; whither came unto him many Kings and Ambassadors from the East; where, treating of peace & amity, and concluding the same with them, he was greatly esteemed and beloved of all men. And, setting all matters of the East in good order, being now old and wearied, he made his return into Italy; and by the way, his wife the Empress FAUSTINA died, whom he buried sumptuously and with great honour. Being come to Faustina the Empress dies. Rome, he entered in triumph for the victory obtained against AVIDIUS; and returned to his accustomed goodness, and upright government of the Empire, as he was wont to do. When he thought he should now have rested from his former toils, there began new alterations and insurrections in Germany: which he fearing (as was reason: for, that Nation had always been feared & doubted) determined in person to go to that war, and did so with a very great power, and prosecuted the same for the space of three years together; wherein were done many Feats of Arms on either side, and he obtained some notable victories. But, being ready to have fully concluded his conquests (they being as it were in his hand) he was taken with a grievous pestilent Fever; which perceiving to be mortal, he commanded all the principal men which were with him to come before him: to whom he made a notable speech, which HERODIANUS reciteth: wherein he recommended unto them the Roman Commonwealth, and his only son COMMODUS, whom he left for his Successor; and him he charged very effectually to end that war which he left in so good terms; concluding, that he should not suffer the enemy which was brought low, and well-nigh to confusion, to recover force and courage. And The death of Marcus Aurelius, Anno Domini 182. then, being no longer able to resist his sickness, he died, having reigned eighteen years, in the year of our Lord (as EUSEBIUS reconneth) one hundred, fourscore and two, being threescore and one year old. Yet SEXTUS AURELIUS saith, two years less. His death was extremely lamented and bewailed through the whole Army, and afterwards in Rome, and generally through all the Provinces of the Empire: for, in them all he was infinitely well beloved. MARCUS AURELIUS had had another son, whose name was ANTONINUS or VERISIMUS, who died young; and one daughter named LUCILLA, who married with a great and mighty man called POMPEIANUS. THE LIFE OF COMMODUS ANTONINUS, ONLY OF THIS NAME, AND EIGHTEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. AFter the good Marcus Aurelius, succeeded his wicked son Commodus: who, for that he was held to be the Son of so good Father, was without any difficulty saluted Emperor: and for that when his Father died he was in Germany, when he returned to Rome all the City made great joy. But, being comn to the City, giving himself over to all the wickedness that man could imagine, he behaved himself so, as some conspired against him; which escaping, he took occasion to show his cruelty. He was very active of his body, and so expert in casting of darts, as he would openly kill wild beasts in the Amphitheatre. Finally, his wife Martia, finding a book wherein were written the names of such as he had resolved to put to death, and her own name among the rest, she took order for his dispatch: and giving him poison, whilst he was vomiting it up again, she made him to be stabbed. And so died that monster; to the great contentment of the whole Empire, which he had wickedly governed thirteen years. THE good MARCUS AURELIUS being dead, his Son COMMODUS was by the whole Army obeyed and acknowledged for their Lord and Emperor; and so he was afterwards by the Senate and people of Rome, and likewise by all the Provinces: for, no man would deny obedience to the Son of so good a Father. But he proved so lewd and wicked, as he seemed not to be his son: and, considering the adultery of his mother FAUSTINA, he Commodus suspected to be a bastard. was suspected to be the son of some base fellow. The ancient Authors which writ of him (which are many) in a manner treat of nothing else but of his abominable vices and cruelties; which were so great, as it seemeth he exercised himself in no other thing, neither left any other memory behind him. He came to the Empire being of the age of nineteen years, and was of a good constitution of body, of a very fair complexion, cleer-eied, and had a flaxen hair; all (in truth) ill bestowed upon him, seeing that these gifts and such exquisite corporal beauty, he employed so filthily & dishonestly; being a Gamester, incontinent, negligent, slothful, a glutton, a drunkeard, and (above all) cruel. Within some few days after his Father was dead, he came to the Camp where the Army lay, accompanied with all the Roman Nobility; and made a good speech to the soldiers, promising a good hope of him, and matters clean contrary to that which followed; and he gave such donatives to the soldiers as the new Emperors were accustomed to give. In these good beginnings he continued some few days: which being expired, through the the counsel of some lewd persons, he resolved to leave the wars, and to return to Rome. And the advice and counsel of POMPEIANUS, being his brother-in-law, a man of great authority, could no way persuade him to stay, neither other wise men and his loyal servants; who were of opinion that he aught to stay, and to see an end of the war. With this resolution he presently wrote to Rome, advertising them of his coming; making such a truce or peace with his enemies, as was rather to their advantage than his. HERODIANUS writes, that he bought it with money: yet only EUTROPIUS affirms, that he first won a great battle. He then, leaving Captains on the Frontiers of Germany, held on his way towards Rome; and in all the Cities through which he passed, was received with incredible joy and solemnity, ●…odus, 〈◊〉 ●…ars 〈◊〉 Germany, returned to Rome. for the great love they bore to his father, and for the hope they conceived of him; not yet knowing his conditions. In Rome he was received with exceeding great joy, triumph and blessings, generally of all men; they strewing the ways with flowers where he went, making all the demonstratives of ●…oy that were possible; hoping and assuring themselves that they should have a good Prince, being the son of MARCUS AURELIUS ANTONINUS, and nephew to ANTONINUS PIUS; who were good and excellent Emperors. But it was not long before he put them out of doubt, making frustrate their good hope: for, he openly gave himself to vice and incontinency, going by night with others of his condition (as there never want those which will imitate the prince, although in doing evil) to brothel houses, and public taverns; spending also whole days and nights in banqueting, feasting, bathe and most abominable luxury. And as wicked men never love any, but such as are like themselves; so he sent for Governors into the Provinces, such as were his companions in his villainies: whereto he was so much addicted, and spent so much time in them, as he took no care for the government; leaving all to the disposition of a Favourite of his, whose name was PERENIUS (whom he afterward made Praetorian Perfect, which is, Captain of the Praetorian Cohorts) who was a most covetous, vicious, and cruel man; yet very expert in the wars. This man governing all things, the accursed Emperor COMMODUS increased so much in his vices and lewd life, as they writ he kept three hundred Concubines, and as many boys, for detestable uses: for which cause he Commodus his concubines. grew to be so odious, that certain eminent men conspired against him, resolving secretly to have slain him, his sister LUCILLA who was wife to POMPEIANUS being a partaker in the action: Whereby it may well be imagined what he was; seeing that his own sister held Lucilla, Commodus his own sister, conspired against him. him worthy of death. All being concluded how it should be done, and the charge of the execution being given to one, whose name was QVINCIANUS (as HERODIANUS reporteth) yet LAMPRIDIUS saith, that the charge was given to POMPEIANUS, that he should first strike him, and should have been seconded by the rest of the conspirators; It happened that this man, as he was very bold and hardy, failed in the action: for having had sufficient opportunity to have slain him, and being come near, he would not so dispatch him, but in a braving manner, being somewhat fare from him, he set his hand upon his poiniard; and going towards him, said, here COMMODUS, the Senate hath sent thee this poiniard; and for any haste that he could make to stab him, with greater haste he was prevented by some of the Emperor's guard, and by them was taken; so as the conspiracy was presently discovered, and a great way laid open to COMMODUS his cruelties. For after that all such as were guilty, had been executed, together with his own sister LUCILLA, and her husband POMPEIANUS, by the hand and direction of PERENIUS, many Senators and a great number of other Noble and prime men, were also put to death, and their goods seized upon, by producing false witnesses, which were suborned to accuse them: Wherewith PERENIUS become so rich, as he practised, and was in hope to have made himself Emperor. But COMMODUS being advertised of these and other his Commodus slew his favourite Perenius and his son. treacheries, made him and a son of his to be slain. After which he suffered himself to be governed by another favourite, named CLEANDER; who was so wicked and extreme in cruelty, rapine, and bribery, that he surpassed PERENIUS. And this fellow did so exceed, as the people of Rome unable to endure him, took Arms, and in a tumult, went to a house of pleasure in Rome, where the Emperor was, and required to have CLEANDER'S head; and notwithstanding that the Emperor's guard began to make resistance, yet the matter came to such issue, Cleander slain by the people. that COMMODUS was constrained in despite of himself to deliver him, and so were both he and his two sons slain. This tumult being pacified, which COMMODUS durst not punish, he was so incensed and therewith so fearful, that from thenceforth he trusted no man: but as a Swine drawn out of the mire, so returned he to his abominable vices, taking care for no other thing. Within a while after, according to his accustomed manner, he suffered himself to be abused by another favourite, whose name was JULIANUS, and another called REGILIUS, both which he afterwards caused to be put to death, with other his favourites which succeeded them; together with a multitude of great men, which LAMPRIDIUS reciteth: and all things were so fare out of order, that magistracies and the governements of Provinces were sold for money; and they which bought them were oftentimes slain. Matters being thus managed by the Emperor, and by those which ruled him, he spent his time only in vices, and most dishonest and effeminate pleasures; colouring his hair, and often bathing himself in company of others of his condition: whom he called by most dishonest names, to the end they should be conformable to their lives and actions. And he was not ashamed (notwithstanding these his vicious and abominable courses) to take the name and habit of a man who was a great enemy to those vices, which was HERCULES: so as for COMMODUS ANTONINUS, son to MARCUS Commodus changed his name. AURELIUS ANTONINUS, he commanded himself to be called HERCULES the son of JUPITER; and cladding himself in a most ridiculous manner with the skin of a Lion, and a club in his hand, like HERCULES, he so used to go abroad; whereat some laughed, and others murmured. And sometimes he went clothed like an Amazon woman, which was more correspondent to his condition: which he did for the love of one of his Concubines Commodus attired like an Amazon. whom he much loved, whose name was MARTIA, whose picture he ware, drawn at life, upon that habit. After this, as if he had as well deserved it as AUGUSTUS CAESAR, he commanded the month of August should be called Commodus; and September Hercules; for he had taken that name: and December Amazonius, after the name of an Amazon: But this was observed no longer than he lived. This accursed man, among his vicious parts, had a strange ability of body, which was, to cast or hurl a dart or a lance, better than any man of his time: he was a most certain shooter, either in crossbow, or long bow; and so skilful, that (in certain feasts and hunt, which according to the custom were then made in Rome, whither came an infinite number of people to behold the same) he commanded a gallery to be made round about the Amphitheatre; within which he might run freely and in safety; and there running round about with exceeding swiftness, hurling his darts or javelins, he killed almost all the Stags and Hearts that were let lose, without missing one throw, or needing any more than one shot; he was so sure to strike them, either in the heart, in the forehead, or any other part wheresoever he would: and he did the like by Lions, Panthers, and Ounces, which to that end, were brought thither that day. With his bow and arrows he would kill birds flying in the air, and did such other active exercises, as in truth were very strange: Whereby it appeareth that this man wanted not wit and ability to have applied himself to goodness, as well as to sin and wickedness. And as cruelty was the thing wherein he did principally delight, so it pleased the most merciful King The cruelty of Commodus was the cause of his death. of heaven, that the same was the cause of his death. For it happened, that having resolved to put a great number of the best reputed Citizens to death, he wrote a memorial of those which he purposed should die, amongst which was his loving friend MARCIA, and AELIUS LETUS Captain of the Praetorian Cohorts: it happened that this his beloved MARCIA upon some occasion came to the sight of this note; who seeing herself condemned to death, determined with herself to assure her life by the death of COMMODUS. And taking counsel with AELIUS LETUS, and with another whose name was ALECTUS, who was also condemned, Commodus poisoned by his friend Marcia. concerning the contents, they agreed among themselves to poison him, which as speedily as might be, was given him by the same MARCIA in a cup of mingled wine which he did use to drink: and being presently taken with a heavy slumber, MARCIA commanded all the company to go forth of the chamber, under colour to suffer him to take his rest. This being done, within a little while after he awoke, extremely vomiting; and MARCIA and the rest fearing that he would again have cast up the poison, in all haste called in a valiant young man named NARCISSUS, showing him the note, and how the Emperor would have put him to death also; and making him large promises, they concluded that he should go in and kill him, which he did: and so this unhappy and wretched COMMODUS vomiting and strangely tormented with the poison, was by this NARCISSUS stabbed and slain, to the good liking of the Roman people, and generally of all the world. When his death was known, there was oh Commodus slain by Narcissus. man but did commend and approve the fact. He died, being of the age of 32 years, and in the year of our Lord 194. having reigned twelve years and eight months. The joy which afterwards was conceived in Rome when his death was published, was incredible: and although that An. Dom. 194. at the present it was not certainly known, but that he died suddenly of an Apoplexy, which EUTROPIUS affirmeth in his life; They ran up and down the streets that night, crying and calling one to another with joy, and went to the Temples to tender thanks to the gods for so joy conceived by the Romans for the death of Commodus. great a benefit: and others went to the Palace to behold his dead carcase. The Senate and Roman Nobility conceived no less joy than did the people, which may sufficiently appear by the number of cursings which the Senate gave him, when PERTINAX was chosen Emperor, and his successor: which M. MAXIMUS writeth, and AELIUS LAMPRIDIUS maketh relation thereof, which is a pleasing thing to read. THE LIFE OF PUBLIUS AELIUS PERTINAX, ONLY OF THIS NAME, AND NINETEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. AFter Commodus, Pertinax was Emperor: who being borne of base condition attained to the Imperial dignity, more by his virtues, than the Nobility of his blood, or the glory of his ancestors; being the son of a Libertine. He was first a Doctor of the Law; and afterwards leaving that profession, he gave himself to Arms; wherein he behaved himself so excellently, as he deserved to be made Emperor, to which dignity those which conspired against Commodus advanced him; who went to him, he lying in his bed, expecting death rather than the Empire. And, notwithstanding that he carried himself excellently well in the government of the Empire, and never sought to be revenged on those which had offended him, yet there failed not some which envied his goodness, and desired his death; which was given him with many wounds, when he had reigned the space of three months, being of the age of sixty seven years: for whose virtues, the Senate resolved to place him in the number of their gods. THE good and valiant PUBLIUS AELIUS PERTINAX succeeded the wicked and tyrannous Emperor COMMODUS, being almost threescore and ten years old; and held the same but three months. The manner how he attained thereto, I will presently show you, when we shall briefly have declared the wars, the offices and troubles, which he first passed: for, they were such and so divers, as he was therefore called The wheel of Fortune. Truly this Emperor Pertinax called the wheel of Fortune. was a notable example of humane changes. He was the son of a Libertine, which had been a slave and made free, called AELIUS; and being a child was taught to writ and read, and cast account; which his father did, to the end he should help him in his poor Mercery-shop. Afterwards he came to learn the Greek and Latin Gammer; so as he came to be a Master, and to keep a school in Rome. After this he gave himself to the study of the Laws; and, by the intercession of LOLIANUS AVITUS who had been Consul, and his father's master, he obtained liberty to pled, and to defend men's causes; which he did for some space. But, being naturally a man of strength and courage, and more inclined to Arms than Letters, he gave over that exercise, and went to the wars; wherein he carried himself so well, as within few days he was made Captain of a Cohort in Syria against the Parthians: and, increasing in credit or estimation, he was sent to the wars in Britanny, and afterwards to the wars of Missia, and was made a Captain of horsemen in the wars which MARCUS AURELIUS waged against the Germane; and afterwards was Admiral of a Fleet in the Flemish Seas: and, that charge being ended, he continued in the wars of Dacia; where through sinister informations he was deprived of the charge he held, by MARCUS AURELIUS: although afterwards Pertinax deposed from his charge by Marcus Aurelius. he returned into grace by the intercession of POMPEIANUS the Emperor's son-in-law, and was made a Senator, but then he used it not: and, in recompense of the disgrace past, the Emperor made him Colonel of a Legion; so as in the wars which were in the time of MARCUS AURELIUS he performed many notable feats of Arms, as well against strange and barbarous nations, as against AVIDIUS CASSIUS; who (as we said) rebelled against MARCUS AURELIUS. His valiant acts were so many and such, that he was many times publicly praised by him, and made Consul of Rome. After that, he had the government of both the Pertinax made Consul by Marcus Aurelius. Missias; and of Dacia: in all which charges he carried himself so valiantly, and with such equity, as the same Emperor honoured him with the government of all Syria & Asia; which was the greatest charge the Emperors gave. And, MARCUS AURELIUS being dead, and the time of his office expired; he came to Rome, after that he had governed four consulary Provinces, and had himself been Consul; besides other commands, governments, and charges of greater quality, with great renown and fame of bounty and valour. But, coming to Rome during the Reign of the wicked Emperor COMMODUS; by the instigation of a certain favourite of his, he was banished from Rome. But, he being dead who was the causer of his banishment, COMMODUS sent Pertinax banished from Rome by Commodus. him into the I'll of Britanny, to reform the abuses of an Army and certain Legions which were there: whither he went, and settled all in good order; but he was first in great danger, and hardly escaped with his life: for, a Legion being in mutiny slew some of his people, and used him in such manner that he was left for dead in the field among the dead: and, having escaped this danger, he resolutely punished the offenders, and pacified the Legions. At his especial request there was one sent to succeed him, and he was sent Proconsul into the Province of Africa: wherein he likewise passed many dangers in mutinies, in seditions of the people, and of the ordinary Pertinax Proconsul in Africa Legions; for, as long as COMMODUS was Emperor, there was no such order in any place as was convenient. And Writers affirm, that had it not been for PERTINAX & such other Captains as lived after the death of his father M. AURELIUS, the Roman Empire had been exposed to great danger. But having performed his charge in Africa with honour, although not without much trouble & difficulty, being now old and spent, he came to Rome, and COMMODUS made him Perfect thereof; being in this estate, death seized upon COMMODUS by reason of his cruelties, PERTINAX daily expecting when COMMODUS would have bereft Pertinax made Perfect o●… Rome by Commodus. him of life. This valiant man ly●…ng one night carelessly sleeping in his bed when COMMODUS was dead; MARTIA, his friend, which had plotted his death, and AELIUS LETUS Captain of the Praetorian Cohorts, and those which conspired with them, agreed together to cause PERTINAX to be chosen Emperor. And to this effect about midnight, before that the death of COMMODUS was published, the said Captain AELIUS LETUS with some of his soldiers of the Cohorts, came to the house of PERTINAX, who (as I said) lay secure in his bed; and in great haste causing the door to be opened, went up into his chamber: whom when he saw, yea and before, when he but understood that he was coming up, he assured himself that by COMMODUS his commandment he came to kill him, not knowing him to be dead: and resolving to suffer death with courage and patience, he lay still, without any show to be moved thereat, but said unto AELIUS LETUS; I have for many days expected to end my life in this manner, and I marvelled that COMMODUS hath deferred it so long: and The speech and great courage of Pertinax. seeing it is so, why stand you still? Make an end with me, and do that which you are commanded. Whereto AELIUS LETUS answered, persuading him to put away all such fear, and not to think that he came to kill him, but to desire safety of his own life, for that the tyrannous Emperor COMMODUS was dead, and that they came to offer the Empire unto him, who was only worthy thereof. PERTINAX could hardly believe what he heard with his ears: but in the end the matter being declared unto him more at large, and the occasion which induced them to kill the Emperor, he accepted of their offer; and was carried by them to the Cohorts Camp: where the soldiers being assembled, their Captain made a speech unto them, containing the wickedness and vices of the Emperor COMMODUS, and how that he by means of his excess was dead of an Apoplexy; and reciting the virtues and excellencies of PERTINAX, counselled them to make him Emperor. Which they presently performed joyfully, and calling him AUGUSTUS, swore to him as the custom was; yet PERTINAX remained still doubtful; and accepted thereof with fear, and against his will. This being ended, and the day coming on, they came with him into the city: and assembling the Senate, this old new Emperor came thither, unwilling they should bear before him the Imperial Ensigns, neither the fire, as the custom was; until such time as the Senate had agreed and given their consent. But when as he came into the Senate house, all the Senators saluted him Emperor, CAESAR AUGUSTUS, and with great acclamations and blessings Pertinax after many changes of fortune is made Emperor. swore and yielded to him obedience: which he still withstood, saying, that he deserved it not, alleging his old age, and nominating others, which he said were more worthy of that dignity. But in the end being overcome and forced by them, he sat down in the Imperial chair, and made unto them a solemn oration (which HERO DIANUS writeth). His oration being ended, he went forth of the Senate house (accompanied with all the Senators and Roman Nobility, with an infinite number of others, to the exceeding joy of all men) to the Temples, as the custom was, and from thence to the Imperial Palace. And so he began his reign and obtained the Empire, to the general good liking and contentment of all men, and was obeyed in like manner in all the provinces of the Empire, in all which he was well known: and truly they had not been deceived in their opinion and great hope which they had of him, if the wickedness of the Praetorian Soldiers had not hindered his good thoughts and resolutions. The first thing he attempted in the government of the Empire, was to bridle the licentiousness of the Praetorian Cohorts, and the insolences and wrongs which they did to the citizens and people of Rome; by means of the favour and lose life of COMMODUS. The like he also performed in all other disorders and abuses which in his time were tolerated; seeking to reduce all things to that form and manner of government which was used in the time of his father MARCUS AURELIUS ANTONINUS. He entertained all men honourably and lovingly, which had any occasion to negotiate with him: and he divided the fields of Rome, and of the provinces which lay untilled and waste, granting that for ten years space no rent or tribute should be paid for the same. With these and such other things, this excellent and gracious Emperor so won the hearts and love of the common people, that all men held themselves happy in such an Emperor: for which occasion, besides the ●…o nourable titles which were given him by the consent of the Senate, the same Senate entitled his son, CAESAR, and to his wife LICINIA was added the name of AUGUSTA: the good Emperor said, That his wife's name he did accept, because her virtue was worthy thereof: But for his The Senate made Pertinax his son Caesar, and his wise Augusta. son's name, he would that it should rest until that he had better deserved it. Persevering in his good works, all the goods and movables, which COMMODUS had escheated and taken, he made to be restored to their owners, for which they should pay some small matter in exchange. Every day when the Senate did ordinarily sit, he went thither; and in his house he never refused to give audience to any person at what time soever. When as the barbarous Nations and enemies to the Roman Empire had intelligence, and did certainly know that he was Emperor, they laid down their Arms, and ceased to make war against the Empire; and many sent Ambassadors unto him (if they had found him living) to treat of peace and friendship: so as the small time he reigned, was to the general good liking and contentment of all the world, Pertinax hated by the Praetorian Cohorts. excepting the men of war, principally of the Praetorian Cohorts which lay about Rome; who presently began to abhor him for that he kept them in quiet, bridling them with justice, not suffering them to commit such riots, abuses and outrages as they did in the time of COMMODUS: and in like manner he was not beloved by the officers and ministers of the Imperial Palace, for the like reasons. The shameless audaciousness of the soldiers grew to this height, that one day they would have taken a Senator of a very Noble & ancient house, named T●…LARIUS Triarius Maternus, not to yield to the will of the soldiers which would have made him Emperor, fled to Pertinax, and so from Rome. MATERNUS, and have carried him to the Camp to have made him Emperor, to the end he should have rebelled against PERTINAX: But this MA●…NUS (as a good and loyal servant) escaping out of their hands, came to PERTINAX, and thence fled from Rome: which put the Emperor in great fear and amazement. And to content and pacify them, he made donatives and distributions amongst them. But that li●…ailed: for they esteemed it not, but sought means to live dissolutely at their liberty. PERTINAX reigned about three months: in which small time he had set all things in so good order, as the state of the Empire seemed to be changed, and not the same. And although he were so good, yet was there one whose name was FALCO, which practised his death, with a conceit to have been Emperor: which being discovered to him, he came to the Senate, and would not endure they should proceed against him as against a tyrant. And notwithstanding that the proofs were so plain and manifest, as the offence was apparent; yet he pardoned him: but justice was done upon certain soldiers which had practised this treason; which the soldiers took so ill (their hatred and presumption daily increasing) as they concluded to kill him; and being so resolved, they cared not to conspire, or to use any cunning or deceit: But openly a great troop of them went from their lodgings in a tumult with their Swords drawn, and with Halberds and other weapons, and came into Rome, and without resistance (as the matter was sudden) they entered the Palace. The Emperor being advertised hereof, sent AELIUS LETUS to stay and pacify them; The wickedness of Aelius ●…us who forgetting that he had made PERTINAX Emperor, cared not to perform his commandment; but rather approving the fact, being (as some say) a partaker in the action, went forth another way to his own lodging, at such time as the soldiers came into the Palace, where there was no means to make any resistance, being taken suddenly and disarmed. Wherefore the greatest part abandoned the Emperor and fled; and those which remained counselled him to The high mind of Pertinax being assailed by 〈◊〉 fly, which he might easily have done, and the people would have defended him. But notwithstanding that he knew their counsel to be good and profitable, and that they spoke the truth; yet would he not follow the same, alleging it to be unworthy the majesty of an Emperor and his acts and life past, to save his life by flight, or by hiding himself: and so he resolved to go forth unto them; conceiving, that with his presence they would be ashamed, and so return. And truly this conceit was ready to have taken effect: for, coming forth of his chamber, and meeting with a multitude of them in the Court, they made a stand, and gave him place to speak unto them; which he did with great courage, without any show of alteration; First, ask them what might be the occasion of their coming in such a tumult, and without any respect? And afterward (without show of any humility or fearfulness, but with as great gravity and authority, as best fitted the dignity of his person) he began to say to them: Soldiers and companions, if you come to kill me, and do put in execution what you have Speeches used by Pertinax to the Soldiers. determined, you shall perform no act that is valiant, great, or commendable; neither very grievous unto me, which am now so old, and have gotten so much honour and fame, that I regard not my life: for every man's life hath an end. But you to whom belongeth the guard and defence of my Person, seeing your charge is to free and deliver the Emperor from perils and treason, and shall be the first to lay your hands upon him; consider, that for the present, it will be shameful and odious, and hereafter in time to come, dangerous, and prejudicial: For I have done you no displeasure nor injury. If the death of COMMODUS offend you, it was no new matter to dye, seeing that he was a man: if you suspect that he was murdered, I am guiltless thereof; and you know that I am free from all suspicion in this case: what then passed, you knew before me; if there be any suspicion of his death, it concerneth others, and not me. But I say this, and assure you, that by reason of his death, there shall nothing be taken from you that you shall require, or that shall seem necessary for you; requiring such things as are honest and possible; and not by force and violence. PERTINAX herewith ending his speech, some of them began to altar their minds and to departed, moved thereto by his words and gravity: but the fury of those which came behind them was so great, as they could not do it nor defend him; so as one of them called TRUCIUS charged him and wounded him in the breast with a Lance: and he seeing The miserable death of Pertinax. their determination, covered his head with his Robe, suffering himself to be wounded by them all; and so they slew the poor and innocent Emperor. And ELIUS LETUS, who had been one of the chiefest in making him Emperor, going about to help to defend him, was also slain; having first with great courage and resolution slain two soldiers: and so they also flew some others which were his chamberlains and other officers. A son and a daughter of his escaped, for that they were not lodged in the palace. This Prince in his gesture, shown great grace and majesty: his stature and constitution did well represent his state and dignity. He ware his beard long, and his hair curled, his breast was large and full of flesh, and he was indifferently eloquent, using smooth and loving speeches. This Accident was so sudden, that he was slain before the people knew of any mutiny, or the coming of the soldiers: and the soldiers fearing the people, who they knew would take it grievously, returned with as much or greater haste than they came; and, fortifying their Camp, they set out sentinels, and held guards in the Bulwarks and Towers, fearing to be assaulted. As soon as the death of the Emperor was known in the City, the sorrow and lamentation which was made for him was extreme; the people running up and down the streets with incredible wrath and fury, seeking the murderers to be revenged of his death. Thus they went unadvisedly, without any certain knowledge of what passed, doing nothing but weep and complain one to another. But, when they understood what happened, they saw they neither could or durst proceed any further. This Emperor died in the year of our Lord 195: some say less. He governed the Empire (according to EUSEBIUS) six months: JULIUS CAPITOLINUS in his life saith, 85 days, and no more; with whom agrees SEXTUS AURELIUS VICTOR. All which writ, that his Successor JULIANUS was of counsel and accessary to his death. THE LIFE OF DIDIUS JULIANUS, ONLY OF THIS NAME, AND TWENTITH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. DIdius julianus took the Empire, being a man proud, rich and ambitious; and, seeing that the Empire was set to sale by the soldiers which murdered Pertinax, was so presumptuous, as to go to buy it, with one other who would have had the same for money; who was son-in-law to the murdered Emperor. But the soldiers doubting, that, making Pertinax his son-in-law Emperor, he would revenge his death, they agreed to cell it to julianus; who was confirmed contrary to the will of the Senate, and in worse manner accepted by the people. Nevertheless, as though he had obtained that dignity by his virtue, or that it came to him by inheritance, he gave himself to pleasure, respecting no man's envy. But Septimius Severus, a man of much wisdom and great power, being Captain of the Legions in Germany, hoping to be able to get the Empire by force of Arms, came to Rome with his Army: of whom julianus standing in fear, would have sent the Vestal virgins for Ambassadors unto him. But the Senate, refusing to yield thereto, deprived him of the Empire, and proclaimed Septimius Severus, Emperor: who sending to julianus (the palace being abandoned, and he retired to weep) caused him to be slain, having been 7 months' Emperor. AFter the good old PERTINAX, JULIANUS succeeded in the Empire; having obtained the same for money from those soldiers which slew the Emperor PERTINAX. This JULIANUS The line of Didius julianus. was native of Milan by his Father's lineage, who was called PETRONIUS DIDIUS SEVERUS: his mother's name was CLARA EMILIA: his grandfathers name was SALVIUS JULIANUS, who had been Perfect of Rome, and twice Consul; which did ennoble his house. This JULIANUS was brought up in the house and service of DOMICIA LUCILLA, mother to MARCUS AURELIUS ANTONINUS the Philosopher; by whose favour he attained to offices, and was made Questor, Edil and Praetor, in Rome. Afterwards he followed the wars, and proved a good Captain, performing many notable exploits, which in the time of MARCUS AURELIUS were in Germany and other parts. He was in the beginning Captain of a Legion, and afterwards with an Army he had the charge and government of Dalmatia, and then of low Germany; and, after that, he was made Governor of Bythinia in Asia, although in this government he did not bear himself with so good fame as in the rest. He was jointly Consul with PERTINAX, and afterwards Proconsul in Africa; and, having executed these charges and offices, was now grown old, and very rich by means of his possessions and money which he had in Rome. When PERTINAX was dead, he obtained the Empire in such manner as was shameful, and unbefitting the greatness of Rome. For, after that the soldiers had murdered the Emperor PERTINAX (as is said) they fortified their camp and lodgings for fear of the people: and the people durst not assail them, for that they were too strongly defensed with great bulwarks and turrets. The Senators and Nobility knew not what to do in this so cruel an Accident; but retired themselves to their houses, wherein they fortified themselves; and many of them went to their Castles and Possessions in the Country, holding themselves not very safe in Rome: and so they passed that day, and the next after PERTINAX death. The Praetorian Soldiers (as writeth HERODIANUS) seeing no man durst attempt to offend them, become yet more audacious: for, some of them, standing upon the Ramparts of their Camp, cried out with loud exclamations, that they would give the Empire to whosoever would buy the same, and pay best for it. This sale was presently published in the City, and this Proclamation was so odious and full of scandal and reproach, and also there were so few rich men left in Rome by reason of COMMODUS his cruelty and tyranny, that there were but two merchants to be found to buy the Empire that was to be sold. The one was SULPITIANUS at that time Perfect of Rome, a man who had been Consul, and was son-in-law to the late Emperor PERTINAX; and the other was DIDIUS JULIANUS, of whom we now speak. Truly, it is a matter worthy of great consideration, and a notable example for Princes: whereby it plainly appears, how little constancy there is in their greatness, and generally in all things in this life; and how little they aught to esteem the power, the kingdoms and dominions of this world, and all those other things called goods which are gotten in this world. For, considering that a Roman Emperor, being a wise old man, redoubted, beloved, and known to be good and valiant by long experience, who (as we may say) was Lord of all the world (for, he peaceably governed (in a manner) all that which the Kings in Christendom hold in Europe, and the Infidels in Africa, and as much as the great Turk possesseth in Asia, Graecia, and Egypt, and many other Princes and Lords beside) only three hundred, or few more soldiers, sufficed to bereave him of his life & dominion; being in Rome itself, which was the head & strength of all the Empire; and that they should escape free without any punishment, no man then seeking any revenge of his death. Who would regard or greatly esteem the riches and dominions of this world, or accounted the dignities, estates, and riches thereof to be great, and loose his own life, and pawn his soul to get them; seeing that a Throne, and so great a power and majesty as was the Roman Empire, was set to sale at an Outcry; and there were but only two that came to buy it, and it was sold for a little money? Truly, in my judgement, it was handled as it deserved. And this may suffice for a warning and example to us, that there is nothing in this world that is ought-worth, and to be held of price; nor aught to be gotten and held with the danger of the soul: and therefore men aught lightly to regard the losing or winning of the goods of this world, so as they may increase the riches of the soul, and live virtuously as Christians aught to do. He that can attain heerto, is rich and mighty: and all the rest without this are miserable, beggarly and unhappy, although they command and reign over the whole world. To return to our History: HERODIANUS writeth, that the same of the soldier's proclamation came to the house of DIDIUS JULIANUS, being held the richest man in Rome: who with his wife and daughter sitting at dinner, very merry and pleasant in the midst of his favourites and pleasant company, was by them all counselled, that, seeing he had more money than any other man in Rome, he should not let slip so good a bargain, and so precious a jewel as was the Roman Empire; but that he should go to the Camp to confer with the soldiers, and to procure himself to be chosen and sworn Emperor: Who, presently arising from the table, went thither accompanied with his friends and servants. ELIUS SPARCIANUS (who wrote Didius julianus went to buy the Empire. his life) saith, that the first which persuaded him heerto, were PUBLIUS FLORIANUS, and VECTIUS APER, Tribunes. But, whosoever were his counsellors, they all agreed, that when he came thither he found SULPICIANUS the Perfect of Rome there before him, soliciting the soldiers to make him Emperor; promising them a great sum of money, with other favours and rewards: And the reason why his offers were not accepted, was, for that he was son-in-law to PERTINAX whom they had slain, and therefore they suspected him. Whereof, DIDIUS JULIANUS put them also in mind; willing them to take heed that they made not choice of one who another day would revenge the death of PERTINAX; He promising to give them an infinite sum of money which he had in a readiness; and that he would restore all things to that order and form wherein COMMODUS had left the same, and would presently bring them a great sum of money to be divided among them. His offer at last was accepted by the soldiers, and he with ladders was received into the Fort, where they swore obedience unto him: and, there having done certain ordinary ceremonies and sacrifices, he went into the City, accompanied with the Praetorian Cohorts in Arms; ranged in so good order, as if they had been going to a battle: for, they were in great fear of the people. And so julianus being made Emperor caeme into Rome. JULIANUS entered the City, all the soldiers proclaiming his name, and calling him Emperor: the citizens durst not make any resistance, neither did they approve his election, as they used to do by other Emperors, but cursed him and threw stones at him. JULIANUS then went to the Senate: where assembling such Senators as were present, by their decree he was proclaimed Emperor, and they presently made his son in law CORNELIUS REPENTINUS Perfect of Rome, putting SULPITIANUS out of that office: and from thence he was carried to the Imperial Palace, and held for Emperor, more through force, than the good will of any honest men. And he as though that the Empire had descended to him by inheritance from his father, and that he had peaceably obtained the same with the good will of all men, gave himself to riot and pleasures, showing himself negligent and reckless in matters of government. And notwithstanding that he was mild and affable, and did no harm to any man in all the time of his reign; yet he presently began to be hated of the soldiers, for that julianus generally hated. he did not perform that which he had promised. The people of Rome hated him, because he was chosen and made Emperor by those which murdered PERTINAX whom all the world loved; and they were of opinion that he was guilty and accessary to his death. So as whensoever he went out of his Palace, the people openly poured out their curses against him; which he patiently endured, sometimes with laughter, beckening with his hand that they should come to him, making show of love and goodwill unto them: yet it little availed him, but rather increased their hatred; in such manner, as standing one day to behold certain games and sports, the people of Rome proclaimed PESCENIUS NIGER who was Proconsul, and Governor Pescenius Niger proclaimed Emperor in Syria. of Syria, which was the greatest charge and government of the Empire, calling to him that he should come to their rescue and to procure their liberty; of all which insolences, JULIANUS made little reckoning. And it happened that as soon as the Armies which were on the frontiers of Germany and in Syria, understood how ill JULIANUS was beloved in Rome, and how carelessly he governed, each of these Armies presumed to make their General, Emperor. In Syria PESCENIUS NIGER was Governor, who was a man of good years, and had held great commands and governments, and had done very many notable feats of Arms: it was reported of him, that he was mild and wise, and seemed to imitate the life and government of the Emperor PERTINAX. This man knowing the goodwill which was borne him in Rome, and that his Army and soldiers loved him, determined to proclaim himself Emperor, and presently took the ensigns thereof: and all those nations, Kings and Potentates of Asia, yielding obedience, came or sent Ambassadors unto him. The Army in Germany held for their General SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS, borne in Africa, a man of great courage and counsel, Septimius Severus a valiant Captain of great experience, pretended title to the Empire. and above all, very double and subrile, and of great experience, who had had many governments, magistracies, and commands, and had been Consul in Rome, and Proconsul in the governments of Sicilia, Africa, and the Pannonies, and was also very well beloved of his soldiers, by whom he was importuned: and seeing the occasion and opportunity, he resolved also to proclaim himself Emperor, taking upon him the state and ensigns thereof: and publishing that he would revenge the death of the Emperor PERTINAX, he made himself beloved of the men of war in Germany, and of the Roman people: so as there were at one time three Emperors, or to say more properly, three tyrants. JULIANUS (who was Emperor in Rome) notwithstanding that he knew what passed in Syria, when it first began, made no great account thereof, holding it sufficient to sand to kill him: but knowing what SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS did in Germany, it troubled him very much; and he dealt with the Senate to proclaim him rebel, and that they should sand certain principal men Ambassadors to procure the Army to abandon SEVERUS, and to hold him for Emperor whom the Senate had approved, which was himself: and he sent VALERIUS CATULINUS to further the business, and to succeed SEVERUS in his government. But SEVERUS had taken so good order, that this did little profit him: for he had already obtained their obedience, and had assured unto himself the love of all that country and the marches thereof; resolving to march with his Army towards Rome, where he knew that JULIANUS was not beloved. Now PESCENIUS NIGER who was called Emperor in Asia, was not so circumspect as he might have been: for, seeing himself served by Kings, rich in gold and silver, mighty in Armies and men of war, confidently trusting in the love of the people of Rome; he gave himself to feasting and banqueting in Antioch. When it was known in Rome that SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS came thitherwards, JULIANUS awakened from his drowsy sleep, began to put himself in Arms, and applied himself wholly to make provision for the wars; and, mustering his Troops, took the Fields with the Praetorian Army which had made him Emperor; which he found very feeble, as well for want of experience and exercise in Arms, as for that they were ill paid by him: and the people of Rome repaired also unto him with a very ill will, for that he was made Emperor against their liking: and the Cities of Italy had a long time lived in quiet and peace, and were not accustomed to the wars. In this manner all went ill with JULIANUS; and well with his enemy: and JULIANUS was generally ill obeyed; whom his friends counselled, that, with the best forces he could be able to levy, he should meet SEVERUS upon the way, and stop his passage over the Alpss: but either he would not, or durst not do so, but made the best provision in Rome he could; and, before he was ware, he understood that SEVERUS was already entered Italy, and that the most part of the Cities had received him, and yielded him their obedience. The people of Rome seeing this, and that PESCENIUS NIGER whom they desired remained in Asia, began to like of SEVERUS his coming. JULIANUS, seeing himself driven to this straight, obtained of the Senate to writ and to sand Ambassadors to SEVERUS, offering to make him equal and companion in the Empire with JULIANUS. But SEVERUS, not contented with part, but with the whole, would not Severus refuseth to be partner in the Empire with julianus. accept thereof, holding himself to be of greater power than JULIANUS, notwithstanding that until then the Senate held with him: but they, seeing the little counsel and less strength of JULIANUS, began to abandon him. And although he desired that the Vestal Virgins (which was the most precious and highly-esteemed thing in their vain religion) should be sent to pacify SEVERUS, and to work some means of peace; yet the Senate would not yield thereto, alleging that he was unworthy to rule, who durst not defend the Empire by force of Arms. And the matter came to this pass, that disguised persons daily came into Rome from SEVERUS, and others went from thence to him; and JULIANUS, voided of all relief and succours, remained in his Palace generally abandoned, saving of a very few soldiers. The Senate was assembled, and by the common consent of all the Senators it was decreed, The Senate abandons julianus. that JULIANUS should be deprived of the Empire, and SEVERUS proclaimed Emperor; and there were of the principal of the Senators sent to SEVERUS in ambassage, to yield to him their obedience, with the ensigns of Emperor, CAESAR, AUGUSTUS: and spreading a rumour abroad that JULIANUS had poisoned himself, they commanded him to be slain in his Palace, where the infortunate Emperor was found disarmed, and with some few of his friends weeping like a child. And so was JULIANUS slain at the age of 57 years, having julianus slain by the Senators. reigned only seven months, in the year of our Lord 195. THE LIFE OF SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS, ONLY OF THIS NAME, AND ONE & TWENTITH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. SEptimius Severus having taken the Empire more by force of Arms and fear, wherein he did put the Senators and people of Rome, then for any right he had; the first thing he did, was to revenge the death of Pertinax, by depriving all those which had slain him and sold the Empire, of all Military dignity. Afterwards, entering Rome with great pomp, he persuaded the Senators and people to hope well of him, and to bend their weapons against Pescenius Niger, who was called Emperor: Whom finally after many changes of fortune, he overcame. He likewise overthrew Artabanus King of Persia, and took the City of Tisiphonte, wherein was all that King's treasure, and overcame Albinus, who was made Caesar. This Severus was a man addicted to the wars, ambiguous, ambitious, constant in his resolution to bring any thing to pass that he had once undertaken, and therewith very wise and circumspect in all matters appertaining to the preservation of his estate, and government of the Empire. Finally, oppressed with a long infirmity, and particularly with anintolerable pain in his feet, he died, having ruled the Empire eighteen years; using no less wisdom in preserving it, than he had showed boldness and courage in getting it. AFter JULIANUS, SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS succeeded in the Empire, who only among all the Emperors was borne in Africa, in a city The lineage of Severus. called Leptis. His father's name was GETA, and his mother's FULVIA PIA. He had two Uncles by his mother's side, which were Consuls in Rome; his grandfathers name by his mother was MACER; and by his father's side, FULVIUS APIAS. JULIANUS being dead insuch manner as we have declared, and SEVERUS marching with his Army towards Rome, as against his enemies; upon the way certain Ambassadors met him, which in the name of the Senate and people of Rome yielded to him their obedience, and gave him the title and ensigns of Emperor, certifying him of the death of JULLANUS. He received this Ambassage in presence of the Army, being marshaled and in Arms, and gave gifts to the Ambassadors; and entertaining them with great honour, continued his journey towards Rome: where aswell the Praetorian soldiers stood in fear of him, for that they had slain the Emperor PERTINAX whom they knew he loved, as also all the Roman people, for the desire they had that PESCENIUS NIGER should have been Emperor; who in the East (as is said) was called so. SEVERUS, when he came near to Rome, sent commandment that all the Praetorian Soldiers should come forth to receive him, clad in show of peace, leaving their arms in their camp; which they did, hoping thereby to have pleased and pacified him by joyfully obeying his commandment. And he conealing what he purposed to do, having only acquainted some of his favourites and captains therewith, attended their coming, in field, in a place which he had chosen for that purpose; where they coming to do him reverence, were compassed about by his The punishment of the Pretoriax soldiers which slew Pertinax. Army: and making a short speech unto them, he reproached them with the cruelty and treason which they had used in kill the Emperor PERTINAX: Which being ended, he made them to put off the clotheses and apparel which they ware, and to put away their daggers and poiniards from them (for other weapons they had none) and then he pronounced sentence against them; wherein he deprived them of the honour of soldiers, and banished them from Rome and a hundred miles about. He presently sent to their Camp to take their arms from them, and the imperial ensigns; and so they were punished and disgraced, although not so much as they deserved, for the cruel murder which they had committed, and the selling of the Empire. This being done, SEVERUS entered into Rome, with his whole Army, with their Ensigns Severus entered Rome with ensigns displayed. displayed, and his soldiers in arms, appparelled in the best and most solemn manner they could. The number of his men was so great, that it was a most fair and stately spectacle to behold. The Senate went to the gates of the city to receive him, and there saluted him after the accustomed manner: and the people received him with blessings and applauses; notwitstanding that it was odious unto them to see him come armed, and in warlike manner. Having performed the solemnities, and visited the Temples, as the manner than was, he went to his lodging in the Imperial palace: and the next day he commanded the Senate to be assembled, whither he also went accompanied with armed men; wherein (as he was a wise man and well advised) he made a very smooth speech, giving them great hope of good government, and excusing himself for taking upon him the name and authority of Emperor, without their His speech to the Senate. consent and good liking first obtained; pretending that he did it, to revenge the death of PERTINAX, and to free them from the tyranny of JULIANUS: for that it was a thing unworthy the Roman Empire, he should live which had bought it with money. In conclusion, his words were of such efficacy, as the Senate went thence satisfied and well content: yet some of the old Senators which better knew his condition, gave little credit to his words; for they held him for a man that was very double, subtle and a great dissembler: and notwitstanding that he was so, yet in truth he was a most sufficient man in any thing, very valiant in arms, and before The valour and learning of Severus. that he was Emperor had governed great provinces, and attained to be Questor, Tribune, Praetor, Proconsul, and Consul; and had held Commands and charges, wherein he purchased the name and reputation of a valiant, wise, and excellent Captain. And if a man well consider how the Empire was then divided between three Lords, and with what valour he subdued the whole, with the other wars and accidents which happened in his time; he may well be esteemed for a very valiant Emperor and excellent Captain, and may be compared with any of those in ancient time. Besides all which, he was very learned, and a great Mathematician, a good Orator and Philosopher. But his prowess in Arms was so great, as it cannot be written by me (considering the brevity which I use) but cursorily, and so to express such things as are most clear, although in haste: yet will they glister in their sight which shall behold the same. After that he had taken upon him the government of the Empire, he set speedy order for the reformation of abuses in the City, by reason of the dissensions and tumults passed. He also presently honoured and buried the Emperor PERTINAX: and in remembrance of that good old man, he took to himself his surname, calling himself SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS PERTINAX. He paid and gave gifts and rewards to his men of war, and also to the people of Rome; and as the custom of the new Emperors was, he made distributions and gave large donatives. He also married two daughters which he had, with two principal men, one called PROBUS, and the other ECIUS: and after that he had given great dowries with them, he used such means that they were both chosen Consuls. And whereas at that time there was great scarcity of corn in Rome, he took such order, and that with such expedition, as the City was sufficiently provided for and furnished: which course he held ever during all the time of his reign, in such sort as there was never any want. All these things and other, concerning the government of the Empire, he performed with such expedition, in thirty days only that he remained there: for from the first day that he was Emperor, he determined to address his journey towards the East with his Army against PESCENIUS NIGER, who (as is said) was Severus goes against Pescenius. called Emperor, and was very powerful, and an excellent Captain. Having made preparation for his journey, he sent a Captain and new legions into the Province of Africa, to guard the same; to the end that by the way of Egypt and Libya, PESCENIUS NIGER should not make any profit of that Province. And the better to leave all things in safety behind him in the West (for he was in fear of CLODIUS ALEINUS a Nobleman and a Senator of Rome, who was Captain of the Legions in Britanny, and was a man of a great parentage, rich, and well beloved, he bethought himself how he might compass him and make him his friend, by giving him the name and title of CAESAR and his successor, whereof he advertised him with very loving and gracious speeches: by which means for that time he remained in quiet and in peace. This being done, leaving the best order in Rome he could, and such as was most expedient (nominating and choosing companies and Praetorian Cohorts to remain in the City, in the Severus against Niger. place of those which he had cassiered and degraded from the honour of bearing Arms) he departed thence, continuing his journey with the best and greatest force he was able to levy. PESCENIUS NIGER being advertised of the coming of his enemy, as until then he had lived idle and careless; so now with great diligence & expedition he levied soldiers: and beside Pescenius levies what for●… he can. the ordinary Army which he had, he sent some Captains speedily to stop the passages out of Europe into Asia the less; and also sent to crave aid of the Kings of Parthia, Armenia, and other Kings and Tetrarches of the East; from whom, and from the Provinces which were under his obedience, there came great power and relief unto him: and so the world was divided into two factions; so as there began one of the most cruel wars that ever had been, as well for the valour of the Captains, as for the power and multitude of soldiers; which war was continued in many parts, both by sea and land. SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS passed out of Europe into Asia the less, but with great trouble and difficulty, having many skirmishes, and being often assailed by PESCENIUS his troops, who sent against him an excellent Roman Captain called EMILIANUS, who was General of all his forces. This EMILIANUS having drawn together all the power which PESCENIUS sent him, and all the rest that he was able to levy out of Cappadocia, Galatia, Bythinia, and other Provinces of Asia the less, took the field, in the way where SEVERUS was to pass: where followed many great skirmishes and encounters, and in the end a most cruel and terrible battle, wherein EMILIANUS was overthrown. After this battle, the conquered troops which escaped, went to PESCENIUS NIGER, Emilianus overthrown by Severus. who with all his power was in the City of Antioch in Syria; from whence he departed to meet with SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS upon the way as he was coming: and marching towards him (after some matters of lesser importance which passed) the two Armies drew near the one to the other in a great Plain by the Sea side in the country of Cilicia (as HERODIANUS reporteth, A battle between Septimius Severus and Pescenius Niger. yet SPARCIANUS and EUTROPIUS differ therein) in the same place where DARIUS was the first time overthrown by ALEXANDER the Great; where (by the consent of both the Generals) they came to a battle with the greatest numbers and best soldiers that then were in the world; which by reason of the experience, valour, and wisdom of the Captains, was most cruel. For, fight the greatest part of the day without any apparent advantage, the number of the slain and wounded was so great, that the streams of waterwhich ran through the fields, were so full, and died with the blood of men and horses, as there seemed to be no water therein; A great number of disarmed people of the inhabitants thereabouts, standing upon the tops of the hills to behold the battle, and to see whether party should have the victory. Which when either party by all means possible had endeavoured to obtain, in the later end of the day PESCENIUS NIGER was overthrown, without failing in any point in what he aught, and was most expedient for a good Captain to have done: for in truth SEVERUS his soldiers were more expert and better trained in the wars; and seeing there Pescenius Niger overthrown and slain. was no other remedy, he fled, but was followed and afterwards found by SEVERUS his soldiers, who smote off his head, and carried it through the Camp upon the point of a Lance. This PESCENIUS NIGER was a man of mean parentage; yet some say that he was Noble The lineage of Pescenius Niger. and ancient: his father's name was ANIUS FUSCUS, and his mother was called LAMPRIDIA. He was a man indifferently well learned, and obtained great riches. He was sharp and quick witted, ever followed the wars, and was an excellent soldier; and afterwards performed the charge committed to him, with great discretion and courage: for, they writ of him, that he was a valiant and much commended Tribune; a very singular and excellent Captain; The wisdom and valour of Pescenius. a most severe and upright Lieutenant General; a most wise and prudent Consul; and in all things happy and fortunate, but only infortunate in being Emperor, not knowing how to govern himself therein. So as it plainly appeareth, that men do often times desire and purchase to themselves shame and perdition, by presuming to attain to honour and greatness. SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS, having obtained so notable a victory, with all speed advertised the Roman Senate thereof, and as a conqueror did his will upon the conquered, cruelly kill many of those which had taken part with NIGER: and principally he ruined the City of Antioch, by reason that it (more than any other) had aided and assisted his adversary, whose wife and children he commanded to be banished from Rome. And to the contrary, he gave gifts and rewards to those which had done him service and assisted him; and repaired the harms and damages which some Cities, which held with him, had received by NIGERS soldiers. For in truth this man was very cruel in punishing offences, and in persecuting his enemies; and very liberal and grateful to his friends, and most bountiful in rewarding those which had done him any service. In all the Provinces of the East, after this victory, he found no resistance, saving among the Parthians, the Persians', and the Adiabenians, very mighty Nations: who for the love they bore unto NIGER, and the ancient hatred to the Roman name, presently took Arms against SEVERUS; and he in person went against them, and had many battles and encounters, and obtained great victories, which I have no time to relate: so as he enlarged the Empire and the Roman name, and pacified the Provinces. SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS having brought all his purposes to so good and prosperous estate, The fift persecution of the Primitive Church. being seduced by the devil, he resolved to persecute the Catholic Christian Church, so as an infinite number of the faithful were put to death; and this was the fift persecution of the Church. For which occasion (as PAULUS OROSIUS noteth) God would not permit that he should long enjoy the Empire in peace: for he was advertised from Rome how that ALBINUS, who (as we said) was Captain in great Britanny, and whom he made CAESAR when he went for the East, was risen in Arms, and proclaimed himself Emperor; and that he was Albinus in Arms against Severus. of very great power, and much beloved of the Roman Nobility: for he was native of Rome, and of a great and Noble Family. But he being of a haughty mind little regarded those difficulties: and setting all things in order in the East, with his Army, took his way towards Rome, to the end he might go against ALBINUS, as against a tyrant and a rebel. And passing from Asia into Europe over the straight at Byzantium, which is now called Constantinople, he wholly ruined that City; for that when he went towards Asia, that City would not receive him; and so he left it level with the ground (which was one of the most famous Cities in the world) and it remained so desolate until the time of CONSTANTINE the Great; as in his time we will declare. SEVERUS travelling thus towards Rome, his Adversary ALBINUS being advertised thereof, came out of Britanny into France, where he raised a mighty Army; part whereof he sent to keep the passages of the Alps, thereby to hinder him, who was arrived at Rome, and was now upon his way coming to meet him: before which time he put PESCENIUS NIGERS children to death, thereby wholly to extinguish all remembrance of him. And going to the wars, he appointed his son BASSIANUS ANTONINUS for his successor, Severus put to death Nigers children. and entitled him CAESAR; and changing his name, he commanded him to be called, AURELIUS ANTONINUS. Drawing near to his enemies, the wars began in a most cruel manner between them; where in the beginning in some encounters, SEVERUS his Captains were overthrown by those of ALBINUS his party. But after that he had passed the Alps, and was entered into France, the war was kindled in many parts; and in many conflicts and skirmishes fortune shown herself variable, the victory inclining sometimes to one side, and sometime to the other; until at last near unto the City of Lions, (wherein ALBINUS was) either party drawing together his whole power, they fought one of the most bloody battles that ever was written of: which continued the A great battle between Severus and Albinus. greatest part of the day without any appearance of advantage. First, the victory seemed to be of ALBINUS his side: for his Battalions were of such force, as they forced SEVERUS Troops to retire; in such sort, as his Soldiers began to fly: and it so happened that SEVERUS horse fell with him, and every man held him for dead; and ALBINUS his Soldiers began to cry Victory, victory; taking no care but to follow the execution. Than LEON, one of SEVERUS his Captains, who until then had never charged; with a very great Troup of armed men which he brought with him, renewed the fight in such sort, as SEVERUS was The valour of Leon, one of Severus Captains. rescued: and being remounted upon another horse, charged with such fury, as he took the victory out of ALBINUS his Soldier's hands, who accounting themselves Victors, observed no order: and the matter was so handled, that ALBINUS his Troops were driven to turn their backs; and SEVERUS followed the execution, kill them even to the gates of the City of Lions. The number of those which were slain and wounded, was infinite: and the city was presently entered, and ALBINUS taken; and his head being stricken off, was brought to SEVERUS. A man may well believe that he was not a little joyful when he saw it, considering that a little before he was wounded and cast to the ground, and by all men accounted for dead, and his enemies victorious; but escaping all this, he now saw himself an absolute Lord, and his enemies confounded. Wherhfore let every Christian reader consider how inconstant all things are in this life; and that a man neither can, or aught to repose his assured confidence in any thing in this world. Great were the cruelties which SEVERUS committed after that he had obtained this victory: and truly if this Prince had not been so cruel and greedy of bloody events The cruelty of Severus. both in war and government as he was, I am of opinion that no man either before or after him, had excelled him; considering the actions and enterprises which he brought to an end, whereof I writ but the sum. These things being past, SEVERUS presently wrote to the Senate and people of Rome, advertising them of his victory, and sending them ALBINUS his head, which he commanded should be set upon the end of a pole in the public place: and all those Senators which of ALBINUS his party were slain in this battle, he commanded to be quartered; and those which were taken alive, he commanded to be slain. He was so cruel and vindicative (as some writ) that he mounted upon a very furious great horse, and road manytimes over the dead body of ALBINUS: which is not much to be marvelled at, considering from how cruel and barbarous a Nation he was descended. Some writ, that he first caused his body to be torn in many pieces, and to be thrown into the River Rhodanus. And SPARCIANUS saith, that he commanded his wife and children to be slain, and did by them as he had done by ALBINUS: and so he made a number of his kinsmen and friends which were found with him in Lions to be slain, and with them other principal Noble men of France and Spain. He concluded the victory which he got near Lions only in Rome, there to make an end of the war: and after this victory he presently assaulted certain cities and holds which continued friends to ALBINUS; which he subdued, not without great trouble and danger. And as he was busy in these matters, news was brought him that one of those Legions which he had left in Arabia, did mutiny, and took part with ALEINUS before this battle: and so he leaving France and Germany in peace and quiet, and sending into Britanny the ordinary Captains, to keep the inhabitants in subjection and peace, he came triumphing to Rome, bringing his Army with him; Severus came triumphing into Rome. where he was most solemnly received, with great show of joy and contentment, although that in truth they stood in great fear of him: whither when he came, he paid his soldiers with larger allowance, than ever had been seen; and the first day that he went to the Senate, in disgrace and despite thereof he renewed the titles and memory of the wicked Emperor COMMODUS, and made him to be canonised, and adored as a God. He also condemned to death, and confiscated the goods of a great number of Noble Personages of Rome which had been Praetors, Consuls, and Senators, for that he found they had been friends to ALEINUS, and of his faction, showing letters which he said were written by them, wherein they had offered their persons and goods to ALBINUS service; alleging other reasons and proofs, which peradventure were forged. Finally, he used great cruelty, and put many to death; whereby he extremely enriched himself in treasure, whereof some he distributed and gave to others: but principally he enriched and and advanced in the highest degree, one whose name was PLANCIUS, a great favourite of his, who also was an African, and his countryman, whom he made Plancius 〈◊〉 great favourite of Severus. Perfect of the Praetorian Cohorts: and afterwards he married his son BASSIANUS ANTONINUS, whom he had made CAESAR, with his daughter, whose name was PLAUTINA; and then he made him his companion and equal, and made the Senate to give him the ensigns and prerogative of the Empire; by reason whereof PLANCIUS grew yet more proud and insolent. Matters standing in this estate, the cruel SEVERUS stayed but a small time in Rome: in which space he executed many cruelties upon those which had been friends to NIGER and ALBINUS, putting to death a great number of Noble Personages most cruelly, together with many Matrons, and Roman Ladies: and to the contrary, he shown himself very liberal and bountiful, and bestowed many favours upon others, and become also very popular, and sought to be pleasing and acceptable to all men, and to that end made the greatest and most costly feasts and games that ever were made in Rome, and divided money amongst the people. But he stayed but a little while there, as I said: for knowing that matters were in no security in Asia, principally that the Parthians infested the bounds and frontiers of the Empire, and desirous to be revenged of certain Kings, which had assisted his enemy NIGER; as he was most valiant and desirous of honour, although old and gouty: yet with his accustomed celerity he departed towards the East; and being come into Asia sooner than any man expected him, he presently began the war in Armenia, marching against BARZENIUS, King of the Atrenores', who had been PESCENIUS NIGER'S friend: The King of Armenia durst not make any resistance, but sent him presents, suing for peace, and gave him such hostages as he required. Whereupon finding no resistance, this valiant Emperor returned against Arabia felix, wherein there was a mutiny, and there took and sacked some Cities: And Severus his enterprises. Tesiphonte with the King of Parthiaes' children taken by Severus. from thence returned to the frontiers of the Atrenores', and besieged the City of Atras, or Atramas. But being unable to take it, for that it was very strong and well furnished, in great fury he went against the Parthians, and the Persians', and besieged the famous City of Tesiphonte, wherein King ARTABANUS lay with all his power and household: and after many assaults, encounters, and slaughters of men of either side, he entered the City by force of Arms; and the King escaping by flight, his children and treasure fell into the hands of SSVERUS, which was held for a very great victory: for the Romans stood in greater fear of the Parthians, then of any other nation of the world. SEVERUS presently wrote to Rome, advertising them of his victories and good success, and sent them the description of the countries, cities, rivers, battles, and assaults which he passed, drawn and painted in tables. When he had ended all things at his pleasure, he bountifully paid his soldiers: and coming into Palestina, and from thence into Egypt, he was desirous to see the Pyramids, and other great and ancient monuments in that country: And from thence he returned to Rome in great triumph, loaden with the spoils and riches gotten by his victories in the East. At this his return he married his eldest son to PLAUTINA, daughter of his great favourite PLANCIUS, which marriage BASSIANUS ANTONINUS solemnised much against his will; and so would not converse or keep company with her. Whereupon there began great dislike and dissension between PLANCIUS and BASSIANUS: PLANCIUS knowing himself the richest and most mighty man of the Empire; and seeing that SEVERUS was now old (with whom he was in great favour) and fearing that if BASSIANUS should succeed him and inherit the Empire, he should be ill entreated at his hands; he resolved to kill both the father and the son, and to make himself Emperor, making choice (for the effecting this exploit) of a Tribune of the Praetorian Cohorts, whereof he himself was Commander. But it pleased God that this his treason was discovered by the same Tribune. SEVERUS held this in a manner incredible, conceiving it to be some practice of his sons, who loved not PLANCIUS. But being assured thereof by the Tribune, it was concluded, that he should go and bring him into the Emperor's chamber. The Tribune, coming to PLANCIUS, told him that he had slain SEVERUS and BASSIANUS; and that if he would go with him, he should see them dead: which having delivered, he made a reverence as to the Emperor. As PLANCIUS desired their deaths, so he easily gave credit to his words, and went with him. The Tribune (it being late in the night) brought him to the Emperor's chamber; where he found him and his son living, amongst many of their confident friends, the chamber being full of torches. Which PLANCIUS seeing, he was much amazed: and being demanded by the Emperor what he did there at so unseasonable a time; not knowing what to answer, but confessing his error, and craving pardon, he was slain by BASSIANUS. After that SEVERUS had escaped this danger, he spent his time in visiting some Cities in Italy, in hearing complaints and doing justice, and in most sumptuous Works and Buildings in Rome, and other Cities; and, seeking to bring up his sons virtuously, and (by abating their pride) to reconcile them, and make unity between them; for, they did ill agreed, and were very unquiet and ill-affected the one to the other. He desired to establish peace and amity between them, having determined that after his death the Empire should be divided between them; and to that end invested them both therein. And so this poor old Emperor laboured in vain to reform the bad inclination of his sons. And, living in rest from war, although not without domestical care, he received Letters, importing, that the Inhabitants of great Britanny were in Arms and rebelled, in such sort, that his Legions there were in such danger, as they were at the point either to be overcome and lost, or at lest to flee and abandon the Country; wherewith he was much displeased. And to the end that the Empire in his days should not be diminished by the loss of that Island (it being of such importance) he determined to go thither himself in person to pacify the same. And, without any delaying of time, he went thitherwards with all his forces. Being arrived in Britauny, the Inhabitants conceived such fear, by reason of his sudden coming upon them, that, as he was a warrior, if he had been inclined to peace, they would have comn to any reasonable composition: but he, rather desiring to punish them, made cruel war against them: which was both tedious and dangerous, by reason of the lakes and many ill passages for his men in several places of that Country; so as he was constrained to make many bridges and other devices, with wood and timber, for his soldiers to pass. And so he obtained many victories, and subdued the Inhabitants. And to the end that his Legions from The Britan's subdued by Severus. thenceforth might live in greater safety, and that the Picts and Scots should not so freely pass their bounds (as SEXTUS AURELIUS VICTOR and EUTROPIUS report) he commanded a strong wall to be made, which did cross the I'll from sea to sea; which wall was two and thirty miles in length; wherein (as I conceive) he did but finish or repair that wall which the Emperor ADRIAN had made before: which truly was a work worthy the greatness of SEVERUS his mind, and the mighty wealth of Rome. Which when he at his pleasure had ended in like manner as he had done all his other enterprises, his old grief did so much torment him, that he desired and sought means to end his own life: and, having reigned 18 years and ten months, he died in the same I'll of Britanny. The death of Severus. This Emperor was one of those which fought as many battles, and obtained as many victories, as any other that ever ruled the Roman Empire: for, he overthrew and brought to confusion three Roman Emperors, and many other Kings, and subdued an infinite number of Provinces and Cities. He took so good order for the preservation of his treasure, and was so covetous and greedy in gathering the same together, that, notwithstanding his great expenses, and the infinite great gifts and rewards which he bestowed, yet he left more ready money and treasure in his Treasury and Exchequer than any other Emperor of his Predecessors. He paid and maintained so many Legions of soldiers, as there was no cause to fear any King or Nation in the world. He left in Rome so great abundance of wheat, wine and oil, as was sufficient (as SPARCIANUS writeth) to maintain and victual the same for five years. He erected wonderful works and Buildings in Rome and in other parts, and in many things performed the part of a good governor, and of a wise and prudent Prince: So as the Romans used to say of him (noting his cruelties and covetousness; and afterwards his provisions and victories) That it had been good that this Emperor had never been borne, or that he should never have died: and so after his death he was highly extolled and commended. He left for his equal successors in the Empire his two sons, the one called BASSIANUS, and the other GETA; and when he lay a dying, the last words he spoke to those which were with him were these: When I took upon me the government of the Empire, I found it tyrannised and out of order; and now being old The words of Severus at his death. and gouty, leave it in peace and subjection to my sons (if they prove good) a firm and settled Empire: but if they prove evil; feeble, and without force, and ready to fall. This good Prince was so temperate and spare in his diet, that he did seldom eat any flesh: for his common food was salads, pulse and first-fruits of his country; but he used to drink somewhat deep: yet never so that he was at any time distempered therewith. He was of a very comely personage, representing authority and majesty, and was tall of stature, and used to wear a long white beard; his hair was curled and grey, and he spoke with a deep sounding voice. Finally, his personage and mind were fitting for an Emperor. He lived (as SEXTUS AURELIUS VICTOR and others do testify) seventy years, and died in the year of our Lord, two hundred and three. THE LIFE OF BASSIANUS ANTONINUS CARACALLA (THE FIRST OF THAT NAME, AND FOURTH OF those which were called ANTONINI) and of his brother GETA, being the two and twentieth Emperor of Rome. THE ARGUMENT. AFter the decease of Severus, his two sons, Bassianus Antoninus Caracalla▪ and Geta, took the Empire: which two being borne of several mothers; as brothers oftentimes use to do, the one deadly hating the other, sought one another's death and destruction. But Caracalla, who was a warlike man and bloody, unable to endure the company of his brother, who led the life of a Philosopher rather than of an Emperor: or that for his good parts he should be so much beloved by the Roman people as he was, failing to kill him secretly with poison, in the end sl●…w him openly in the lap of his mother in law, which was Geta his mother; remaining sole in the Empire. And knowing himself to be generally hated, he disposed of himself to visit the Empire: wheresoever he came, he sought to imitate the fashions of the country wherein he was; sometimes attyring himself after the German fashion; then after the Greek: besides that he would be called Alexander, and be reputed another Achilles, for that he had travailed the countries of those Princes. He was very inhuman and cruel; and so dishonest in his life, as he shamed not to marry his stepmother julia, who was mother to his brother Geta, who also was so shameless as to consent to so wicked a marriage. But they both ended accordingly as they deserved: for the Emperor was slain by the practice of Macrinus, at such time as he went to ease his body; and she hearing the news, falling into despair killed herself, he having held the Empire six years. SEVERUS being dead, his two sons, which he had by several women, according as he had ordained, remained Emperors. One of them he had by MARTIA, which was his first wife; and the other by JULIA, as is already said. The eldest had to name BASSIANUS ANTONINUS, and the other GETA; both very young men, and in virtue fare unlike to their father, chief BASSIANUS CARACALLA which was the eldest: Bassianus at the first virtuous and beloved. Although that in his youth being but a child, he seemed to make better show of himself, to be of a mild condition, and of a good wit; he profited very much in learning (as SPARCIANUS writeth) and therefore was much beloved and greatly accounted of: but afterwards, with his years, and the Empire, he altered his condition, and in cruelty not only surpassed his father, but any other cruel Prince of all that ever were; as if he had been borne at one birth with NERO. As soon as he was sworn Emperor in England, where he than was (for his father carried both his sons with him, and his wife JULIA also, which was mother to the second son) ANTONINUS CARACALLA practised with the Army to choose him Emperor alone, and to disinherit his brother GETA. But the men of war would not consent thereto, because that GETA was chosen CAESAR and successor to his father by them; and BASSIANUS ANTONINUS was nominated by his father SEVERUS. Whereupon being out of hope to bring his purpose to effect, accompanied with his brother and mother in law, they agreed to come to Rome, and brought with them the body or ashes of their father SEVERUS. But there presently grew so many jealousies between the two brothers, that it was daily feared the one would kill the other; notwithstanding that JULIA (as though she had been mother to Inmity between Bassianus and his brother Geta. them both) used all possible means to have pacified them, and to have brought them to live lovingly and like brothers together: which she could never bring to pass, and so upon the way either of them did lodge and eat apart; and either of them stood upon his guard, for fear of the other. Being come to Rome, they were received with great solemnity, triumph and joy; but in their palaces they took their lodgings apart, and each of them had his guard and particular officers from the other: and they never visited, saw, or spoke the one to the other, except when they went to the Senate: so great was the hatred which the one bore to the other. The first thing they did after their coming to Rome, was to bury their father, whom they canonised for a Saint, placing him among the Gods, as the custom was to do by those which were good Emperors. And seeing that occasion will often be given to read of some Emperors which have been deified; in my opinion it shall not be amiss, in this place to recite the ceremonies which were then used therein. The order which they held (the Emperor being dead) was In what manner the Romans deified their Emperors. to assemble the Senate, to consider whether such an Emperor had deserved or were worthy to be placed among the Gods or no: and finding him to have been wicked, the Senate would not be present at the ceremonies used at his funeral: but if he had been a good Prince, they all went in mourning attire to do him honour at his consecration. The manner to consecrated him, was first to bury him without any ceremonies; then they made his image of wood, which resembled a pale sickly weak man, which they placed upon a high scaffold over the entering into the Palace; which image was clothed in rich attire; and on the one side thereof, sat the Senate, and on the other side the Roman Matrons, where they continued from the Sun rising until the evening, doing nothing but groan and sigh. This order they observed the space of seven The folly of the ancient. days, in which the Physicians came and felt the pulses of this Statue, saying, that the Emperor would surely die: at which words, they lamented and scrieched out. The sixt day the Physicians said that he was dead: then the most ancient men carried the image on horseback in a beer to a place which was called the old place; passing through that way which was called Via Sacra. In this place was erected an edifice after the fashion of a throne, with stairs round about it, and upon this throne they placed the Image: on the one side of the stairs were many children, which were gentlemen's sons of Rome; and on the other, a number of young Roman damsels which sung some heavy and sorrowful songs and ditties; and the boys sung hymns in praise of the dead Emperor. From thence they carried the Image with the beer to the field of Mars, where was another scaffold made of most dry wood, upon which they placed this Image. Upon that day people came from all parts of Italy to Rome to see the solemnity: and every one there present, was bound to cast upon the stairs, certain precious odours of sundry sorts. After this the Senators made show of a skirmish on horseback; and after them the two Consuls gave a turn upon their chariots richly adorned, being followed by the most ancient men in Rome, and those which had been Captains in the wars, on foot: all which after they had go round about this scaffold, making sundry shouts and exclamations, fell to the ground. Than came he which did inherit and succeed in the Empire, and with a burning torch gave fire to this throne or scaffold; which, for that it was made of most dry wood, in short space was set all on fire. But before any of these ceremonies were performed, the Senate provided a great Eagle: which being set on that side where the Image of the dead Emperor was, while as this image did burn, the Eagle was very cunningly let lose; which, according to her nature, mounting aloft into the air, the people said that it was the Emperor's soul which flew to heaven, there to devil amongst the gods▪ which HERODIANUS doth writ at large in the history of these two Emperors. GETA the younger brother was of a more gentle nature: for showing himself mild and courteous, he began to be generally well beloved of all men. ANTONINUS CARACALLA was sour, and would be obeyed for fear. Envying the love which he saw all men bear to his brother GETA, and the reputation wherein he was held, he devised with himself how he might secretly kill him with poison, or otherwise howsoever: he also sought to get the good will of the Praetorian Soldiers, giving them many gifts, doing them many favours, and Bassianus sought means to put his brother Geta to death. giving them leave to do what they listed. So as it was easily perceived, what manner of government there would be in the Empire, where were two Emperors with equal power and authority, and so contrary in condition each to other, that being brothers they practised and desired each others death; and in matters of justice and government were ever contrary in opinion; and for Captains and governors which were to be made, each sought to prefer his friends and favourites, and did the like in choosing of Consuls and other Magistrates: And so all things went by favour and in contention. There were committed intolerable disorders, and wrongs, either of them persecuting the contrary faction, without daring to punish those which were of their own party, for fear to make them their enemies: whereof grew an universal prejudice to all the provinces, and generally to the whole Empire. Wherhfore to avoid these troubles and inconveniences, some practised to make a division of the Empire; and that ANTONINUS BASSIANUS should remain in Rome and govern the West; and that GETA should govern Asia & all the East. But this took as little effect: for JULIA, mother to GETA, hindered it, thinking to draw them to some composition and make them friends: and when she thought herself to be in the right way to have brought them to concord and agreement, BASSIANUS CARACALLA (who was more proud and presumptuous, and who in truth did scorn his brother, as well for that he was his younger, as for that he gave himself more to his book & to civil discipline, then to Arms and chivalry; having always about him honest and learned men) resolved to kill him in what manner soever; which he had till then attempted to do by secret and coloured means, thinking with himself that he was and aught to be sole Emperor, and could not endure any rival or companion in command. And with this cruel determination, as they were lodged both in one palace, GETA being one day with his mother, nothing suspecting any open violence, although he mistrusted secret practices; BASSIANUS just Bassianus slew his brother Geta in his mother's arms▪ at the time when every body was at dinner, suddenly entered his brother's lodging, and with the aid of those which came with him, slew his brother in his mother's Arms, before that he was able to put himself in defence, or could be rescued. And having committed this detestable murder; with the like fury and haste as he had done this fact, he went forth at his palace gates, compassed about with his friends and servants; and showing great amazement, cried out, that his brother would have slain him, and he said to those which saw him, that he had escaped an extreme danger of death, but his innocence had preserved him. And calling to his guard, he commanded them to convey him to his Praetorian Cohorts, where he might remain in safety; for whilst he continued within the city he stood in fear of his life. Those which heard him, not knowing what had passed, believed what he said: and both those which heard him, and heard him not, followed him; and the people began to be much troubled to see their Emperor, so out of season, and in such haste and manner go to the Camp. When he came to his Camp, where in truth by reason of his former practices, he was better beloved then his brother, the first thing that he did was to go to a place apart, where their ensigns and banners were, which they held for religious and sacred; and then he began with great exclamation to say, That he gave infinite thanks to the gods for delivering him from such and so imminent a danger. And the soldiers flocking about him, marvelling at his so unseasonable coming, he put himself in the midst of them, and with a huge voice began to implore their aid and succour, telling them that his brother would have slain him; and being assailed by him, was rescued, and had fought, and God had given him the victory, although with great difficulty; and that he now fled unto them from the fury of those which would have slain him. He spoke and feigned the matter with such efficacy, as the soldiers believed him: and notwithstanding that he expressed not so much, yet they plainly perceived that he had slain his brother, as he gave them to understand: and incontinentlie he promised them, seeing he remained sole Emperor, that he would bestow upon them the accustomed favours, gifts & rewards; and presently sending for a mass of money which remained of his father's treasure, he divided it among them: wherewith having got their good wills, although some were hard to be persuaded, and did contradict it, yet in the end they proclaimed himsole Emperor, and approved the death of his Brother GETA, pronouncing him a rebel, and an enemy to the Roman Commonwealth. BASSIANUS, remaining all that night in the Camp among the soldiers, the next day compassed with men of war, returned into Rome: and, assembling the Senate, he went thither, and brought in his guard with him, wherein he made a set Oration (which HERODIANUS writeth at large) excusing himself, and grievously accusing his Brother, affirming, that he was openly assailed by him; but being rescued, in defending himself, he had slain his Brother. The Senators, some for that they were his Favourites, and others for fear; approved his death: and he, to justify his wickedness with greater cruelty, began to proceed against men of all estates, as though they all had been guilty, and had practised his death, committing infinite murders and cruelties. First, he commanded all his Brother's servants to be slain, together with many Senators Cruelty used by Bassianus, in putting many great men to death. and Roman Knights, which had taken his Brother's part. He also made PLAUTINA, the daughter of PLANCIUS, which had been his wife, to be put to death. He slew POMPEIANUS, nephew to the Emperor MARCUS AURELIUS the Philosopher, and son to LUCILLA and POMPEIANUS. He caused all the Governors and Captains to slain, which his Brother had placed in the Provinces. To conclude, he murdered an infinite number of men of quality; so as in all parts of Rome most horrible murders and cruelties were committed: for which he is accounted one of the worst and most cruel Emperors that ever governed the Roman Empire; and was generally hated and abhorred of all men, saving of the Praetorian Soldiers only, whose love and good will he bought with his money, and therewith did continued them for his friends (by suffering and enduring them, and giving them liberty in all things) permitting them to commit whatsoever outrage or insolency they would. Having exercised himself in these abominable cruelties, his own conscience accusing him, and knowing how much he was abhorred in Rome, he resolved to departed from thence, and to go and visit all the Provinces of the Empire, which he did, and in his journey played many mad pranks, some of which in truth were very ridiculous. Purposing to go into Germany, whereas Bassianus travels & fashions Rome ever maintained great Armies against the northerly nations, who could never be brought to any perfect subjection; he gave it out in speeches, that he went to reform the Legions, and to visit the Provinces: and, taking his way towards the River Danubius, where (to win the hearts of that Countrypeople) he followed the fashions used in that Country, hunting and kill wild beasts, and apparelling himself like a Germane, praising and esteeming their fashions better than the fashions of the Romans he chose such of the Germane Soldiers as seemed to be most strong and active, for his guard. He sought also to win the good will of other men of war, showing himself very affable and sociable, helping them in person in their bodily exercises; eating and drinking with them such things as they did, and doing many other things like a soldier and a man of war: whereby he made himself beloved both of the one and the other, although he forbore not to commit sundry cruelties, kill certain eminent men among them. Having set all matters in such order as he thought good in Germany, taking his way towards Thracia, he passed through Macedonia, where a notable folly possessed him: for, here he made show to be much affected to ALEXANDER the Great, and to publish his Noble acts; sending commandment to erect his statue in many parts of Rome: amongst which he set up one with two faces; the one resembling ALEXANDER, and the other himself, desiring to make others believe (himself being so persuaded) that he did very much resemble him; and, because he had read that ALEXANDER'S neck stood a little awry towards one shoulder, he counterfeited the like: and so within few days, of an Almain, he was becomn a Macedonian in apparel, behaviour and fashion; and one squadron of his Army he commanded to be called Phalanx (for so were they called in that Kingdom) and some of his Captains he caused to be called by the names of some of ALEXANDER'S Captains. Having made this show in Graecia, he took his way towards Asia; where he desired to see the ruins of Troy: and, seeing the Sepulchre of ACHILLES, another humour took him, which was, to resemble ACHILLES; so as he seemed to travel the Countries like a Player, with Comedies and making shows: at which his lightness and in constancy, the Romans which were with him, laughing to themselves, were much discontented and ashamed. Travelling through Asia the less, and thence into Soria, he went into Egypt (as he said) to see the City of Alexandria, because ALEXANDER the Great was Founder thereof: where he was most solemnly received, and with great joy; for which he ill requited them: for although that he shown them a pleasant countenance, yet secretly he was much displeased with them: for he understood that they had used quips and jests of him behind his back, and gave him nicknames conformable to his vices, and the cruelties which he committed; Matters, in truth, not so heinous as could deserve so cruel punishment, as that which he inflicted, which was: that the people being upon a day assembled together to see certain public pastimes, he made them to be compassed about by his soldiers, and an infinite number of them of all ages, Extreme cruelty executed by Bassianus upon the citizens of Alexandria. conditions, and degrees to be slain, to the great fear, grief, and terror of the whole City. After this his great inhumanity done in Egypt, he returned by Palestina: and travelling towards the East with a very mighty Army, of his father's old soldiers, he invaded the Parthians country, which suspected no such matter; and did great spoil there (as SPARCIANUS SEXTUS AURELIUS VICTOR, and HERODIANUS do writ) for upon safe conduct and assurance of peace which he made to the Parthians, he obtained some victories, deceining their King ARTABANUS, giving him to understand that he came of purpose to marry with his daughter; and the other coming to receive him in peaceable manner, was suddenly set upon. But the King (by great hap) escaped by flight. And although that this his victory whereof small importance, yet he made great boast, writing to Rome tedious and proud letters thereof; and in all these actions he forbore not to be cruel: but to govern uprightly, and to do justice, as he aught to have done, he took no care. He was very gluttonous, and unmeasurably given to wine, luxury and dishonesty of life, so as he married with his own mother in law, Gluttony and incontinency of Bassianus. JULIA: yet HERODIANUS maketh no mention thereof, but seemeth to be of a contrary opinion; for he ever speaketh of JULIA, as though she had been mother both to BASSIANUS and GETA: But SEXTUS AURELIUS writeth it; and also EUSEBIUS, EUTROPIUS and SPARCIANUS say, that it passed in this manner. JULIA was a very fair woman: and upon a day, the mother and the son in law standing talking together, she carelessy or dishonestly, as it afterwards appeared, letting fall a veil which she ware, discovered part of her breast, which when BASSIANUS saw, he said, If it were lawful, I would have that which I see: she, forgetting all honesty, and that she was mother to GETA whom BASSIANUS had stain, answered, To thee any thing that thou desirest is lawful: dost thou not know, that the A monstrous fact. Emperor maketh laws and is subject to none. When he heard her say so, setting aside all duty and loyalty which he aught to his dead father, and his living mother in law, he resolved to marry her, and celebrated his nuptials with the mother of his brother, whom he had bereft of life. But to return to the History of his life, it passed in this manner; That coming from his invasion against the Parthians, he stayed some days in Mesopotamia: For, that country was very pleasant and commodious for hunting & other sports; where, within few days having reigned full six years, he was slain by treason. The manner whereof HERODIANUS writeth, saying that he was much addicted to Mathematicians and Astrologians, and gave great credit unto them; and in all matters used their opinions and judgements, and had in Rome and with him all the Astrologers that he could get; wherein he resembled his father SEVERUS, who did the like. Being fearful of conspiracies, knowing what he had deserved; he sent to MATERNUS who was the greatest and most confident friend he had, whom he left governor of Rome, commanding him secretly to assemble all the best Astrologers he could get, and demand of them what death he should die; and procure them to give their opinions, whether any conspired or practised his death or no. MATERNUS did what the Emperor commanded in the foot of his letter, and with great haste answered him (either feigning it, or being so advertised by the Astrologers) that MACRINUS which was his Perfect, and with him in Mesopotamia, went about to kill him, and therefore he should in any case presently dispatch him; for so did the Astrologers advice him. Which letter he sent sealed, and made it up amongst other letters, to be the more secretly conveyed. The whole packet was delivered to the Emperor as he was going into his chariot, to run for a wager with other chariots; which was a kind of sport, wherein he took much pleasure, and was greatly used in those days. And he, for that he would not give over that which he had pretended, gave his letters to the said MACRINUS to read, and afterwards to make relation to him of the contents thereof. MACRINUS reading all these letters, met with that wherein BASSIANUS was counselled to put him to death: whereat he was much astonished; and concealing that letter, made relation to the Emperor of all the rest. And considering with himself, that he which wrote that Letter would doubtless writ another, and that length he should surely die; he resolved first to murder the Emperor: and, ruminating upon the matter, he bethought himself of a ●…stie strong fellow, a Centurion of the Emperor's guard, called MARTIAL; who, being discontented, murmured against the Emperor, and secretly hated him, for that he had caused a Brother of his to be slain, and he himself was ill-intreated and disgraced. MACRINUS, conceiving this man to be fit for his purpose, after some other discourse told him, that seeing he had opportunity to kill the Emperor, being ever near unto him having charge of his Person, he aught to revenge the death of his Brother, and then flee to him; who, with others of his faction, would protect and defend him against all such as might seek to offend him. Some days after MACRINUS had laid this plot, it happened that the Emperor, coming from a Temple wherein he had been, near to a City called Carras, and riding smally accompanied towards the City, withdrew himself out of the way behind a bush, to do such things as nature required; with one Page with him to hold his horse, the rest for manners sake being withdrawn. Which when MARTIAL perceived, being one of them, feigning that the Emperor had called him upon some necessary occasion, he ran hastily unto him; and, before he was perceived, stabbed him in behind, whereof he presently fell down dead. SPARCIANUS saith, that, coming to help the Emperor to horse, he stabbed him in with his poiniard; and that MARTIAL, returning to take horse from which he was alighted, by little and little withdrew The death of Bassianus Caracalla. himself from the company: but the Page bringing news of the Emperor's death, he began to flee so fast as his horse could run; but could not make such speed, but that he was overtaken by the German horsemen of the Emperor's guard; who presently slew him. The death of BASSIANUS being understood by those which accompanied him, there grew a great tumult among them, not knowing with whom to be angry: for, as than it was unknown by whose order he was slain. And, they approaching to the dead body of the Emperor, the first that came to have aided him, was MACRINUS; who, weeping and lamenting, seemed to be very sorrowful; no man suspecting him or any other, all men conceiving that MARSHAL had murdered BASSIANUS upon passion, and for some private revenge. Taking the Emperor's dead body they burned it, according to the custom then; and, putting his ashes into a pot, they sent them to his wife and mother-in-law JULIA, who was in Antioch; who being in despair poisoned herself: and so they both had such ends as they deserved. BASSIANUS at the time of his death was full three and forty years old, having reigned six julia poisons herself. year's Emperor. He left one son very young, whose name was ANTONINUS HELIOGABALUS, by his wife whose name was SEMIRA, as SPARCIANUS writeth. AUREIUS VICTOR calls her SEMEA, a very dishonest woman, and his cousin German; who lived like a strumpet. ANTONINUS BASSIANUS was by his surname called CARACALLA, for a certain kind of apparel which he gave to the people of Rome. He died in the year of our Lord 219. THE LIFE OF OPILIUS MACRINUS▪ ONLY OF THIS NAME, AND THE THREE AND TWENTITH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. ONE Audentius having refused the Empire; for his excuse, alleged his old age to be unfit for the troubles of so important a government: but Macrinus without any such consideration accepted thereof, it being offered him by the Soldiers, notwithstanding that he was the Author of the death of Caracalla. He took the Empire, made head against Artabanus King of Persia, who rose in Arms against the Romans in revenge of the injuries done by Caracalla; and being come to a battle, which continued two days, in the end they came to an agreement; Artabanus understanding of the opprobrious death of his enemy. But fortune, which had prepared a troublesome reign for Macrinus, saw him no sooner out of one danger, but it cast him into another fare greater, which was this; that Heliogabalus a Youth of fifteen years old, being by the means of an old woman made Emperor, it behoved him to fight with him; and being overthrown, fled unknown through Asia the less, with an intent to come to Rome: but being overtaken by the Soldiers which pursued him, in a City wherein he fell sick, he was slain, together with his son Diadumenus; whom he had made his companion in the Empire: Having reigned only fourteen months. BASSIANUS being dead, a council was held in the Army concerning the election of a new Emperor: for there was little account made of his son ANTONINUS HELIOGABALUS; aswell for that he was but a child, as also for that his mother led such a life, as it was doubted whether he were the son of BASSIANUS or no. In the Army, besides MACRINUS which was Praetorian Perfect, was AUDENTIUS, a man of good sort and of years, very expert in the wars, and an excellent Captain: of these two they were in great doubt whether they should choose, and in this doubt they continued two days: and in the end they resolved to choose AUDENTIUS, Audentius refused the Empire. who was a discreet old man, and little regarded the Empire; who considering the perils and disorders, would not accept thereof, excusing himself by reason of his great age, alleging, that he was not able to govern the Empire as it aught to be, a thing seldom seen that any man would refuse the Empire of the world. The men of war perceiving that AUDENTIUS would not accept of the Empire, presently made choice of MACRINUS, who was the author of the murder Opilius Macrinus chosen Emperor. and death of BASSIANUS; and so was chosen, and he gladly accepted of their election. This MACRINUS was of a very base stock and parentage, who with small deserts, and by way of favour attained to the office of Praetorian Perfect. As soon as he was chosen Emperor, he made a notable flattering Oration to the Army, and paid the Soldiers, and distributed much money among them, thereby to purchase their love and good will, and addressed himself with all haste against ARTABANUS King of Parthia, who came with great power against the Romans, to be revenged of the injury which BASSIANUS had done them, knowing nothing of his death. He also presently nominated and chose a son of his for his companion in the Empire whose name was DIADUMENUS, whom he made to be called ANTONINUS, aswell to takeaway the suspicion of the death of ANTONINUS BASSIANUS, as for that the name of ANTONINUS was very acceptable to the Romans, in remembrance of the good Emperor's ANTONINUS PIUS, and MARCUS AURELIUS ANTONINUS: for all these Emperors did leave their own names, or together with them did take the name of ANTONINI, until that for the abominable and execrable life of ANTONINUS HELIOGABALUS, they left it, as we will presently declare. He also wrote long letters to the Senate and people of Rome, reciting the manner of his election, and desiring them to approve the same, with many solemn oaths that he was not guilty of the death of BASSIANUS. The Senate being certified of the death of BASSIANUS, approved the election of MACRINUS, and the election and company of his son in the Empire. This new Emperor MACRINUS, and his son DIADUMENUS, going against ARTABANUS and the Parthians, who came very strong both in foot and horsemen, and also brought many camels with them, the two Armies came to a most cruel battle which continued two days, wherein both the Romans and the Parthians fought so valiantly, as in both days the A cruel battle between Macrinus and Artabanus. dark night parted the fray, and either party cried Victory, victory, although that in truth there was none: for the slaughter and number of the dead and wounded was equal. MACRINUS, knowing that ARTABANUS came greatly enraged by reason of the injury done him by BASSIANUS, sent him Heralds and Ambassadors, certifying him of the death of BASSIANUS: and moreover, that if he desired the friendship of the Romans, he would grant it ARTABANUS, being advertised of the death of his enemy BASSIANUS, was very joyfully of the news: for until then he had no intelligence thereof, and was also glad of the peace offered him, which he accepted, upon condition that all such prisoners as were taken Peace between Macrinus and Artabanus, upon conditions. by BASSIANUS through treachery in time of truce, should be restored; which was accordingly performed, and they concluded a peace; and the King of Parthia returned home to his country; and MACRINUS, to Antioch in Soria: Where he gave himself over to lust & sensuality, forgetting the government of the Empire, delaying his going to Rome, whither by letters from thence he was daily solicited to come; wherein he committed a very great error: for if he had left his Army, and had gone to Rome, and there settled himself in the government of the Empire, without all doubt both his reign and life had lasted longer; but he taking no care of that which he aught to have done, and which most concerned him, gave himself in Antioch to ●…ot, pleasures, and banqueting: whereat the Roman soldiers began much to murmur, The causes of the death of Macrinus. and to make little account of him, moved thereto through their desire to return into their country. They also much abhorred him for that he did most cruelly punish them: for in those time's loyalty was so out of use, and men of war had such liberty, were so audacious, and had taken such a custom to make Emperors, as they presently began to repined and murmur, yea and boldly to speak ill of MACRINUS, and to wish his death, within alittle more than one year after they had given him the Empire, and within few days after plotted the same in in this manner. In a city of Phoenicia called Emesa, was young ANTONINUS HELIOGABALUS, who had there a Grandmother, sister to JULIA wife to SEPTIMUS SEVERUS, which afterwards married with her son in law BASSIANUS, son of the same SEVERUS. This his Grandmother, whose name was MESA, had there another nephew called ALEXIANUS, of whom more shall be said hereafter, and she also had in her company SIMIAMIRA, mother of the said ANTONINUS, and another which was sister to ALEXIANUS. This MESA was a very rich woman both in jewels and money: for she had been mother in law to two Emperors, the father and the son: and it is to be believed that in their life time there were infinite bribes & gifts bestowed upon her, and so she remained there after the death of BASSIANUS with her daughters and nephews. These two cousins, her nephews, MESA made Priests in a most sumptuous Temple which she built and consecrated to the Sun; from whence it grew that this ANTONINUS was called HELIOGABALUS, which is as much to say, as a Priest of the Sun: for the Phoenicians did call the Sun HELIOGABALUS, to which Temple for their vain devotions' sake came many Roman soldiers of the Legions which lay there in garrison, and many from MACRINUS his camp also; whom this MESA, Grandmother to these youths, entertained very courteously, bestowing many gifts upon them; and showing them her nephew HELIOGABALUS, she used to tell them that this her nephew was son to their Emperor BASSIANUS, whom MACRINUS had slain by treason. With these and such like effectual speeches, she brought the matter to such pass, that what The policy of Mesa to make Heliogabalus Emperor. with the courtesy which she used towards them, and also for that the boy was a most fine child, they generally began to affect him, some by seeing him, and others by report of him; so as the whole Army loved him, and desired that he might be their Lord and Emperor. And to the contrary, MACRINUS being generally hated of all men, some Colonels and Captains moved by the gifts and large promises made by this MESA unto them, the greatest part agreed that she should sand ANTONINUS to their Camp, and then they would proclaim him Emperor. The good old woman, who had been accustomed to Emperor's Courts, setting all other matters apart, took her nephew by the hand & went with him to the Camp, and he presently was received for Emperor, and they swore obedience unto him (as writeth HERODIANUS). Heliogabalus made Emperor. But JULIUS CAPITOLINUS saith, that certain of MACRINUS Legions being in a mutiny came to seek HELIOGABALUS. But howsoever, as both the one and the other might be, HELIOGABALUS accepted of the Empire, being but fifteen years old: and the matter being published abroad, the news thereof caused great alteration in men's minds; and all men began to affect him, for that he was both son & nephew to Emperors, and for the names sake of ANTONINUS, which they held for sacred and happy. MACRINUS presently understood these news in Antioch, where he than was, and made less account thereof then he aught to have done, jesting at HELIOGABALUS, for that he was but a child, and at his mother and grandmother; deeming it sufficient to sand a Captain of his whose name was JULIANUS, with certain Legions to besiege, and so to ruin him: which (as it was thought) he might easily have effected, if he had himself go presently in person. When JULIANUS with his troops came, HELIOGABALUS forces were not of sufficient power to give him battle; but being in their Camp, which was well forttfied and victualled, they suffered themselves to be besieged: but the soldiers of the one side conferring with those of the other; and those of the Camp showing young HELIOGABALUS to JULIANUS his soldiers, putting them in mind of his father, persuaded them to follow him. Whereof it ensued, that they not only julianus, a captain sent by Macrinus, slain by his own soldiers. did so; but apprehending their Captain JULIANUS, smote off his head, and went over to HELIOGABALUS; and the one and the other made such such an Army, as MACRINUS resolved with his whole power to make head against HELIOGABALUS. Doing so, they joined battle in the confines of Syria and Phoenicia; in which, conscience and fear made HELIOGABALUS soldiers to fight valiantly; and of MACRINUS side only the Praetorian soldiers fought well, but all the rest of his Army fought faintly; and a great part thereof abandoning him A battle where Heliogabalus had the victory, and Macrinus fled. went over to HELIOGABALUS: wherefore he accounting himself lost and forlorn, fled from the battle, and so HELIOGABALUS had the victory. MACRINUS and his son, with certain of their friends which would not forsake him, travailed with the greatest speed they could make, secretly, through the city of Asia the less, and came into Bythinia, with a determination to get to Rome; where MACRINUS knew that his coming was much desired. But falling grievously sick in the city of Chalcedonia, those which HELIOGABALUS sent to Macrinus fallen sick in Chalcedonia, being overtaken by such as Heliogabalus sent after him, was by them slain. pursue him, found him there; and bringing letters and commandment to the city, through the fame of HELIOGABALUS his victory they were obeyed; and MACRINUS lying sick, voided of all favour and friendship, together with his son, was there put to death, within one year and two months after that he had been chosen Emperor. And being dead, all men fixed these eyes and thoughts upon HELIOGABALUS. Surely, it is a pitiful thing to consider of the infelicity and misery of those times, to see how many Emperors were murdered, and how wicked and vicious the most part of them were, and how little time they reigned; and that which maketh me most to admire, is, to think how lightly they were slain, notwithstanding that they were Lords of the whole world; And how easy a matter it was for a Captain, having the favour and friendship of five or six Legions, to make himself to be obeyed. So as it seemeth that he which first had intelligence of the Emperor's death, and was any thing friended, and therewith durst adventure, was commonly chosen for his successor, as we said of JULIANUS: And that which is worse, that he which murdered the last Emperor commonly become his heir; as we see in MACRINUS and others. And touching him of whom we now discourse, one feeble old woman, and child of fourteen or fifteen years old were sufficient to overthrew and ruin him, being an ancient, wise and mighty Emperor, and to bereave him both of his life and Empire, and quietly and in peace to enjoy the same, if the contentment and rule of the wicked may be called peace and quietness. By this aforesaid it appears more clear than the light, how variable and inconstant all things are in this world: and that there is no other firm and stable dominion or kingdom, but the service of God: whereof the faithful Christians in those days had especial care, and sought no The service of God the surest command. worldly dominion, Magistracies nor Empire, but to live holily and uprightly; and so, contemning the world, attained the everlasting Kingdom of heaven. But these unhappy Infidels forbore not to commit any cruelty or treason whatsoever, so as thereby they might get the supreme government and command, although it were but for three days. God for their sins permitted (for the example of others) that by the same means whereby they obtained it, by the self same they commonly lost it; being either put to death by the sword, or else by treason, as they had done by others. And, that which is worst of all, together with their bodies they lost their miserable souls: in such sort, as is said, it happened to the Emperor MACRINUS, who died in the year of year of our Lord 220. THE LIFE OF HELIOGABALUS, ONLY OF THIS NAME, FIFT OF THOSE WHICH WERE CALLED ANTONINI, AND FOUR AND TWENTITH EMPEROR OF ROME. THE ARGUMENT. HEliogabalus, being a Priest of the Sun, attaining to the Empire, as soon as he had taken the Imperial dignity become so wicked, that in filthiness he far surpassed all his Predecessors. He was most dishonest in his life, more than befitted a lascivious and intemperate man; and was so addicted to women, that he granted them to hold a Senate by themselves. When he was near to the sea, he would eat no meats but such as were bred far within the land: and when he was fare from it, he would eat nothing but sea-fish; neither would he eat of any thing that was not of an excessive price. He was inclined to no kind of virtue, neither regarded any but parasites, russians, bawds, and such like persons: and all his actions were so abominable, and his riotousness so great, that to writ the same, were to amass an heap of villainy. He made one which was his cousin german, Caesar; a very honest and virtuous young man, whose name was Alexianus. He was slain by his soldiers; who, because they could not cast him into a most filthy ditch, trailed him through the City, and threw him into the river Tiber, he having held the Empire for a certain time: the truth whereof is uncertain, Writers do so much differ; and had such a death as his filthy life had deserved. MACRINUS dying as he deserved, ANTONINUS HELIOGABALUS, without any contradiction, was made Emperor: who in truth proved to be such, that in Histories there aught no memorial to be held of him, nor mention to be made of his life; to the end, that if it were possible, none should know that such a monster had ever attained to the Majesty of the Roman Empire, if we had not already written the lives of CALIGULA, NERO, VITELLIUS, COMMODUS, and such others. But as one and the same ground commonly produceth unwholesome herbs full of poison, and which kill; and likewise good and wholesome, which heale, and feedeth both sheep and serpents: So in our History, in recompense of these wicked Princes, we will oppose OCTAVIAN, VESPASIAN, TITUS, TRAIAN, ADRIAN, ANTONINUS PIUS, M. AURELIUS, and (in part) SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS; who were singular Emperors, and governed the Empire with great wisdom and equity. And so the vices of the one are to be laid open, as well as the virtues of the other; to the end, that if any Prince of our time shall read their lives, he may see how abominable and detestable their actions were; and so, eschewing the evil, and making choice of the good, may follow the same; and may consider how short a time those cruel and vicious Emperors reigned, and what shameful and fatal ends they had; and how that the good lived and governed longer time, and ended their days in peace and quiet, dying their natural death: except some which were murdered by traitors, to usurp the Empire. But, coming to HELIOGABALUS: when he had obtained the victory, and that MACRINUS was slain, and he chosen Emperor, he wrote the most loving and kind Letters to Rome that could be devised. But the Senate and people of Rome did hardly digest the news; for, they would rather have had MACRINUS: but, daring to do nothing to the contrary, they yielded obedience to HELIOGABALUS; of whom they presently conceived a good hope, for that which they heard of his gallant feature, and of the good constitution of his body, and for the names sake of ANTONINUS, which in Rome was exceedingly much beloved and respected. In the beginning of his Reign (by reason of his young age) all things were ordered by the counsel Mesa grandmother and governess 〈◊〉 Heliogabalus. and direction of his grandmother MESA, and her favourites: who, taking order for all matters in the East, determined to come speedily to Rome with the young Emperor, which she put in execution; but was driven to stay longer than she purposed, by reason of the winter which was very tempestuous. Wherhfore she wintered in Bythinia; where he began to discover his wicked inclination, giving himself to most odious luxury: and apparelling himself in such attire as was far unfit for an Emperor, and feeding on most delicious fare, he gave himself over to all sensuality: which faults his prudent old grandmother endeavoured by speech and good admonishment to reform and amend; but she prevailed nothing. Being comn to Rome, he was most solemnly received; where he spent the whole time of his Reign in such manner, as we have nothing else to writ of this Emperor, but of his abominable vices: which were such, that I neither can nor will describe them for the filthiness thereof. The first thing he took in hand after his coming to Rome, was, To build a Temple to his god the Sun, or HELIOGABALUS, whose Heliogabalus built a temple in Rome, and dedicated the same to the Sun. Priest he had been in Phoenicia. He procured that the Christians (whose number at that time was infinite) should also hold that for a Temple, and therein should use their ceremonies, make their prayers, and do their devotion to CHRIST. But it pleased not God to permit, that the Sun, being a creature, should in worship be made equal to the Creator. He shown himself so effeminate, and so addicted to women, that the first time he went to the Senate, he carried his mother SYMIAMIRA with him, and took order that her opinion should be demanded in all causes; and that from thenceforth she should be present when any matters of importance were determined: a thing never seen, that any woman until then had any voice in the Senate of Rome. After this, he made a Chapterhouse or Senate apart; where women should meet A Senate of women made in Rome by Heliogabalus. and consult, what apparel and attire the Roman Matrons should wear. And, proceeding to a far more shameful practice, he commanded certain Stews to be made in his Palaces, of common women, for his friends and favourites. And, delighting himself so much in the company of such, he commanded upon a day all the women that could be found of that name and life, to be assembled together; and he, clad in womens' attire, came into the place where they were, and made a very set and studied Oration unto them, calling them Commilitones; a word used by Captains to their soldiers when they would do them honour, by calling them their fellows and companions in Arms. The matters which there were treated of, were inventions & means how to practise their filthiness and abomination: and thither he brought with him ruffians and bawds, which were his Brokers in those detestable actions and assemblies. In truth, this HELIOGABALUS was so detestable in all manner of vices, that it cannot be sufficiently expressed. He was so great a spender, and so prodigal in his attire, and in the furniture of his house, in his fare and diet, and his other follies, as that which is written of him seems incredible. HERODIANUS and AELIUS LAMPRIDIUS writ his life; wherein they recount most strange matters, besides what other Author's report of him. All his study and care was, To device The prodigality of Heliogabalus. how he might spend excessively, and to find out such dainties and delicates as never had been thought of. He never sat but among sweet-smelling flowers, mixed with Amber, Musk, and other most exquisite sweet odours; neither would he eat any thing but should be of an excessive price, and sought means to make all those things which he did eat to be most costly; and used to say, that that meat had no taste, which was not dear bought. He attired himself in cloth of gold and purple, set with pearls and most precious stones: and even on his shoes he wore stones of inestimable value. The chamber wherein he lay and all his palace, was furnished with cloth of gold, silver, and of silk,; and his beds were of cloth of gold, of silver, and of silk, coveted with Roses and sweet flowers; among which were strawed many jewels and pearls: And all the way whereupon he should set his feet, between his chamber and the place where he took horse or coach, when he would ride abroad, he made to be covered with the powder of gold & silver: for he disdained to tread upon the earth, as other men did. All his tables, chests, chairs, and vessels of service for his chamber, even to the basest offices, as close stools, chamber-pots, and such like, were all of fine gold. He made no account of wax light, but had in his hall and chambers great lamps, which in steed of oil burned most excellent Balsam, brought from judea and Arabia: and even his very urinals were made of Onyx and other most precious stones. His expenses were so infinite and so excessive, as no Kings revenues in the world were sufficient to defray the charge thereof, but his only: for he devoured all the revenues of Spain, France, Africa, part of Germany, Italy, England, Sicilia, Grecia, Asia, Syria, Egypt, Arabia, and of all the Lands and provinces of the world; and yet all this was not sufficient but that he endured want, by reason of his prodigious expenses: for he never ware any one suit of apparel twice, being such as we have said. His fingers were ever full of rings; and those which he had had once put off, he never ware any more: and so in plate of gold or silver, he would never drink twice of one cup: which he gave to him that served and attended on him that day. And the very Baths wherein he did use to bathe himself, must be new built, and furnished with perfumes, and most precious odours; and after once bathing they were to be thrown down: so as they built new Baths continually. His matteresses and beds were neither of wool, flocks, nor feathers; but of the down growing under the wings of Partridges. He made certain feasts in Rome, which were the greatest and most sumptuous that ever were: and he gave to the citizens and soldiers a donative and distribution of money and corn, to an infinite value. After the feasts and sacrifices were ended, he gave to the people (as HERODIANUS reporteth) great store of plate, gold, silver, and other jewels; which truly was the cause why they endured this detestable man the the little time he lived in the Empire, for the desire of of those gifts and benefits which they enjoyed by him; as also for that his grandmother, being a most wise and discreet woman, sought by all means to reform his voluptuous sensuality and rioting, and to procure a good order in the government. But there were great oppressions in the provinces; and the barbarous nations invaded the frontiers of the Empire. For he gave all offices and places of charge unto wicked men, which did accompany him in his abominations, and by their counsel he was governed: for, depriving all good and virtuous men from all charge, he sent them into exile. Among which his favourites, one whose name was ZOTICUS was so private, and in such favour with him, that he was held as a Lord over all the rest. Zoticus a favourite of Heliogabalus, This man's counsel was as a law unto him, and by his direction all offices and Magistracies were sold; and he made Consuls such as were the sons of slaves, and men of most base condition. The like order he observed in the choosing of Generals and Lieutenants, giving those charges unto base and simple men: for which and his other vices, notwithstanding that they made benefit of his prodigality, yet both the people & soldiers began to wish his death, so as he was oftentimes in great danger. Which when his mother & grandmother perceived, they persuaded him to adopt his cousin german ALEXIANUS, and to make him his companion in the Empire, who was the son of MAMEA his mother's sister, which he performed accordingly, and ALEXIANUS Alexander Severus chosen by Heliogabalus for his companion in the Empire. was called ALEXANDER SEVERUS; ALEXANDER after the name of the great ALEXANDER K. of Macedonia; and SEVERUS after SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS, grandfather to HELIOGABLUS. This young man was so well inclined, and so well bred, that during the time his Cousin led a wicked and infamous life, he spent his time in learning, conversing with learned men, and such as were good and honest, and exercising himself in Arms and in such other The credit of Alexander Severus. practices, as were fit for a Knight and a virtuous Gentleman, and sought excellent masters to instruct him in all those faculties. Wherhfore, all men, conceiving good hope of him, began to love and affect him; and the hatred which they bore against HELIOGABALUS daily increased. Which he perceiving, sought means to kill ALEXIANUS, or at the lest to deprive him of the name of CAESAR, and his successor: But he could not effect it, by reason of the diligence used by his Grandmother in protecting him: and also for that the men of war dearly loved him; but upon a time they would have slain HELIOGABALUS for that cause, as he was walking in a garden: where he escaped by hiding himself in a corner, so as he was not seen; and through the entreaty of ANTIOCHIANUS who was his Praetorian Perfect, the soldiers returned to their Camp, where remaining in a tumult and mutining, they threatened him; and upon composition, they required that HELIOGABALUS should put from him, certain vicious and wicked persons which were very private with him, and which sold and gave offices for bribes; and after this manner dispatched the business which men had with the Emperor. They also required that certain of their companies might have the particular guard of ALEXANDER SEVERUS, to the end that HELIOGABALUS should not kill him; and that his favourites and familiars should not converse with him, for corrupting him with their evil conditions: all which demands were presently put in execution. But after that the fury of the Cohorts was pacified, HELIOGABALUS returned to his former abominable vices, gluttonies, and incredible expenses. First when he went forth of Heliogabalus his progress. Rome (as sometimes he did) he had with him six hundred chariots and horselitters: the principal carriage was most dishonest young boys and wenches, with bawds and their interpreters, and all was little enough, considering his insatiable beastliness: for as he was most luxurious, so did he accounted it for a greatness, to have the company of one woman but once; except her two whom he was married, and that one he neither loved nor regarded. For as HERODIANUS Heliogabalus his wives. reporteth, he fitst married a Roman Lady, of a Noble house, to whom he gave the name of AUGUSTA, and other titles; and within a while after he forsook her and deprived her both of her name & honour; and married himself to a Vestal virgin: which in the vanity of the Gentiles was held for a matter so religious, that she which had carnal knowledge of a man, was buried alive. And so he left her and took another; behaving himself as a most beastly barbarous man. And amongst other matters, he did one thing which the devil himself would never have Heliogabalus turned the day into night, and the night into day. imagined, which was, he commanded that all businesses to be done by day, should be dispatched by night; and those that were to be done by night; should be done by day; and so he arose from his bed at the sun setting, and was then saluted as other Emperouts were in the morning: and he laid him to sleep about day breaking, so as it seemed that the world went backwards. All his study was to find means to spend excessively, in his diet, and in all other things. That supper Heliogabalus his diet. which was of lest price did commonly cost thirty pound weight of gold, which after our computation, might amount to the value of above a thousand pounds' starling; and there were some which did cost threescore thousand crowns. Sometimes he promised to give his guests a Phoenix to eat, whereof (they say) there is but one in the world, or else he would give them a great quantity of gold for it: which he afterwards performed. When he was near to the sea, he would never eat any fish, but land fowl, and other flesh which should be brought from fare. And when he was fare from the sea, he would eat nothing but fish, which by Posts was brought fresh and alive, to the end that it should be dear and costly. And for the same reason he would eat such things as were never thought of, and had a great quantity of every thing: as, of the combs of Cocks, the tongues of Peacocks and of Nightingales. To all his whole Court (which was without number) he made ordinarily to be given to eat, certain great beasts, stuffed or farced with puddings, made of the livers and lights of Peacocks, of small birds brains, Partridges ●…ggess, Parrots, and Pheasants heads. He also kept certain dogs and hounds, which did eat nothing but the souls of Geese: and his Lions (which were many) were fed with Pheasants and other costly birds, for this was all his study. Truly▪ who shall well consider of this man's expenses▪ may conjecture what the charge might be; and how hard they were to be gotten. He also spent infinite sums of money in keeping of all kinds of the most fietce wild beasts in the world, which were brought from fare countries, as Lions, Panthers, Ounces, Tigers, Hippotames, Crocodiles and many other such like. And if he were by the sea side, he accounted it a special greatness of mind, to sink such shipping as he should find there laden with merchandise, paying afterwards the worth both of ship and goods. And being upon a time reproved thereof by a friend, who asked him what he meant to waste and consume so much, warning him to take heed that he stood not in need hereafter; he answered what better thing can there be, then for a man to be heir to himself living: And said moreover, that he desired not to have any children, for that they peradventure through desire to rule would conspire against him. Finally, the vices and lewd conditions of this wicked Emperor were such; as in that kind, none either before or after him was to be compared with him: wherefore I will not spend any longer time in so bad a subject; for the rest of his doings were so filthy and abominable, as they neither may well be written, neither aught to be published; and so could not long be endured: neither were the means used by his grandmother MESA sufficient to protect him; nor to pacify the wrath & rage the people had conceived against him. Having (according to HERODIANUS) reigned six years (yet AURELIUS VICTOR, and EUTROPIUS say, that he reigned but two years and eight months) the Praetorian Soldiers conspired against him. And as AELIUS LAMPRIDIUS reporteth, they came one day armed from their Camp; and having slain most of his servants, and such as were his companions in his beastly actions, they The vituperable death of Heliogabalus. killed him in this manner. First they haled him out of a Privy, wherein he (flying from them) had hidden himself; and then drawing him from thence, they threw him into a most filthy sink: from whence (for that therein was not room enough for him) they trailed him like a dog through the principal places of Rome, and threw him into the river Tiber, and tied great stones and weights about him, to the end that his body should never be found again, and so want burial. All this was done to the good liking and contentment of the people; and the Senate also approved the same, and commanded that he should no more be called ANTONINUS; and that in detestation of him, no other Emperor should ever afterwards be called by that name; and that he should be called TIE●…RINUS, according to the manner of his death. HERODIANUS writeth, that he was slain in the Camp out of Rome, whither he went with his cousin ALEXANDER SEVERUS: and that they killed his mother also, who went with them. Wheresoever it was, it was in this manner, and he died according to his deserts, and conformable to the life which he had led: for it is the will of God, that wicked princes make evil ends. For being by his divine providence made lords to govern and give good example to their people, to minister justice and equity, and to correct and punish the wicked and malefactors, these by their own evil example hurt and corrupt others; and protect and support the wicked. Let Kings and great Lords and Princes know, that as they have greater power than others, so have they less liberty to sin and to commit wickedness; and so God inflicteth greater shame and punishment upon them, then upon other men. HELIOGABALUS, after the opinion of HERODIANUS, died at the age of twenty years: for he saith that he reigned six years; and all agreed that at the age of fourteen years, he came to the Empire. AURELIUS' VICTOR saith, that he died in the seventeenth year of his age, and is of opinion that he reigned not fully three years; which (according to EUSEBIUS) was in the year of our Lord 224. whereby it appeareth that this Emperor reigned not above four years, and so the same EUSEBIUS affirmeth in his ecclesiastical History. Ann. dom. 225. THE LIFE OF ALEXANDER SEVER US, ONLY OF THIS NAME, SECOND OF THE SEVERI, AND FIVE AND TWENTITH EMPEROR of ROME. THE ARGUMENT. AFter the death of Heliogabalus, his ●…sen Alexander Severs taken the Empire; under whom it seemed that the Roman commonwealth had a breathing: for he retaining in the imperial dignity, those good parts which before he had learned▪ desired, that all things should be ordered and governed by wise and learned men. He was very severe to judges, sharply punishing those which for bribes or other means had swerved from the right line of reason and equity. In wars he was most fortunate, as a man which governed with wisdom, and he returned to Rome triumphing from the East, to the great contintment of the Roman people. He was no enemy to the Christians, but gave liberty to such as would become Christian, setting up the image of Christ in his Temples: and he had an intent to have erected a particular Temple to his name, but was diverted by his Priests. Finally, the German soldiers, unable to endure the severity of his military discipline, slew him, together with his mother Mammea instigated thereto by one Maximinus. His death was much deplored in Rome; for it was hoped, that seeing in his youth he governed so well, he would do much betterwhen he should come to riper years. AFter the dark clouds of the forepast miseries and sorrows which miserable Rome had endured, it pleased God to sand them joy, and contentment: for when this accursed HELIOGABALUS was dead; by the common consent of the Senate, and of the Roman people, and of all the men of war, his cousin german ALEXANDER SEVERUS, was sworn and obeyed for Emperor, who was the son of HELIOGABALUS mother's sister called MAMMEA; and his father's name was VARIUS, borne in Mammea was Severus his mother. Syria, in a city called Auersa. He came to the Empire being of the age of 16. years, and governed the same little more than 13. years, with such wisdom and integrity, that he is accounted one of the best Emperors that ever hath been in the world: whereto was a great help the discretion and good advice of his mother, who was a good and discreet woman, unto whom her son was most obedient. AELIUS LAMPRIDIUS, and HERODIANUS report so many excellencies of this Emperor, that of necessity I must needs make some little stay, as on a pleasing subject. First, he was much affected to learning; and having excellent men for his masters and tutors, he was very skilful in all the liberal sciences: for he was a good Mathematician, and did prefectlie understand the rules of Geometry. He was much delighted with Music, and could paint and carve very well, and had good skill in Song: but he never sung but in secret, in the hearing of some of his chamber. He was a very good Poet, and wrote some works in verse, and could play on the viol, the organs & the flute, more than indifferently well: but after he was Emperor, no man ever saw him do it. Unspeakable was the joy which was in Rome upon the day of his election, and coming to the Empire; and infinite were the blessings which by the Senate & people of Rome were poured upon him that day. Beginning his reign with the love and good will of all men, he governed the same with such discretion, as he rather seemed a wise old man then a youth: and by the advice & counsel of his wise mother, he chose the wisest, best, and most experienced men that could be found for his counsellors: and he neither did, nor decreed any thing without their opinion and advice; notwithstanding that of himself he was of singular judgement, and so wise, as no man could deceive him. He had ever near unto him DOMICIUS VLPIANUS, a wise man and excellent Lawyer, and of a good & holy life, by whose counsel he did chiefly dispose of all Wise and learned men, Alexander Severus his Counsellor●…. matters in his government: although that at that time there were of his counsel FABIUS SABINUS a just and upright man, who was called the CATO of his time; and with these, POMPONIUS and ALEPHENUS, AFRICANUS, VENULEIUS, MODESTINUS, JULIUS PAULUS, MEGIANUS, CELSUS, PROCULUS, MARTIANUS, CALISTRATUS FLORENTINUS; all noble, virtuous and learned men in the laws, and which had been scholars to the great PAPINIANUS: unto which he joined other most noble men; as his kinsman CATILIUS SEVERUS, CAIUS MARCELLUS, AELIUS SERENIANUS, which were good and upright men, and others whom he found out, to the end he might in all things follow their directions & advice as he ever did; by reason whereof, his government was highly extolled and pleasing, and there was a sudden alteration in all things: for in the time of HELIOGAEALUS, and of his father BASSIANUS, many insolences and disorders were committed and tolerated. Wherhfore the first thing that ALEXANDER SEVERUS did, was, To reform all the Alexander first reform his own house. offices and magistracies in his own House and Imperial Palace, displacing and discharging all those vicious and dishonest persons which HELIOGABALUS had established there; neither would he admit any man to his service, or to any office in his house, that was not an honest man, and of good fame and behaviour. The like he did by all the judges which HELIOGABALUS had made; and also, in the Senate and in the order of Knighthood, he restored to their offices and dignities those which unjustly had been deprived. He observed so good a rule and order in his government, that all matters of justice were to be determined by men learned in the laws: and matters concerning the wars were managed by wise men, and such as had experience therein; and by such wise old men as were well read in Antiquities and in ancient Histories. Finally, he never gave any charge to any man either for favour or reward, but for desert and sufficiency only; being thereto chosen by him and the Senate. He held another custom which in my opinion was very commendable; that when he resolved to sand to any City or Province a new Governer, he gave them to understand thereof, making his name known to them before hand; to the end, that if any man could except against him why he aught not to be preferred, another might be provided; but the allegation must be just and true: otherwise, they were grievously punished who did falsely slander or defame him. This custom it may be he learned of the Christians of that time, who chose their Priests and Bishops by voices, for their virtues and good works; and in no case he would permit, that any office of justice, of what kind soever, should be bought or sold; and he made diligent inquiry thereof, and did rigorously punish the offenders: for, said he, He that buyeth his office, must The sayings of Alexander. cell justice; and I cannot endure merchants of charges and offices: for, if I tolerate them, I cannot afterwards condemn their doings; and I shall be ashamed to punish him that bought, seeing I permitted him to buy. Besides all this, he was a most severe punisher of such judges as took bribes; and used to say, that he always had his finger in a readiness to pull out that judge's eyes which was partial, or a receiver of bribes & rewards; wherein he was so extreme, that, among other Senators, one coming to do him reverence who had been accused thereof, he cried out aloud, that ARABINU●… (for, so was his name) did not only live, but hold him for senseless and of no worth, seeing he dared to appear in his presence. Also they writ of him, that he, seeing an unjust judge, was so troubled therewith, and choler did so much abound and overcome him, that it made him to vomit. To the contrary, he did greatly honour those Governors and judges which were good; and, when he passed through their Provinces, he took them into his litter or chariot with him, and bestowed many favours and rewards upon them; and, the better to understand the truth concerning these men, he used singular diligence and care, the manner whereof was this: He had certain secret and unknown chosen honest men, which diligently looked into the dealings of Magistrates, and sought to know the truth of all that passed in all the Provinces of the Empire. Which care I would to God the Princes of our time had; for, besides that justice should then be duly executed, they should know the good from the bad: and then they should be informed of many injuries done in secret, which for fear are concealed by those which endure them; so as the truth never comes to light, and the errors and abuses are seldom punished. SEVERUS desired also that good judges, Governors and Magistrates, should remain long in their offices and charges; and did use to say, that it was not a sufficient punishment to deprive an evil Governor of his charge, but to give him most severe punishment; yea even to bereave him of life. When he sent any one to succeed in the place where had been a good judge, he sent to him to give him thanks in the name and behalf of the whole Commonwealth, and bestowed rewards upon him; as, possessions, herds of cattles, and corn, with many other things. As for money, he gave but little: for, this Prince although he was very liberal, yet was he nothing Alexander liberal, but not prodigal. prodigal; and the gifts which he gave were for the most part such goods as fell to him by confiscation, and by order of law and justice, and such things as become voided by some men's death which died without issue or heirs, and so fell to him. But of his money he was ever very sparing: for, he used to say, that the public rents and revenues aught not to be spent, but in public Buildings, in the wars, and in public occasions; and not upon the Prince's Favourites and Familiars: and so both within and without Rome he built most sumptuous and stately edifices of Palaces, Baths, Theatres, Courts of Audience, and many other. He abated the ordinary charges of his house, and reduced it to a convenient order, abolishing the superfluous Expenses of his Predecessors. He apparelled himself decently, but not costly, and never ware any precious stones or jewels, neither would he have any in his chamber; holding it for a vanity, that a thing of so small a quantity should be of so great a price. His diet was ordinary, neither delicious nor costly. He was a great feeder: for, he had a good stomach, not that he took any delight therein. In drinking he was very temperate, and never exceeded mediocrity. And although he were very careful of his public Rents, and the Revenues of his Exchequer, yet he never increased the same, neither invented any new impositions; but rather mitigated and limited those which HELIOGABALUS had imposed: so as in his time the third part of the tribute was not paid, as was in the time of his Predecessors. He also reform the coins of gold and silver, and the value thereof; so as, although it cannot be denied but that he was most careful in augmenting his treasure, and in preserving the same, he cannot be charged to have wronged or endamaged any man. He punished all offences ordinarily, but without cruelty: and above all he was most severe against thiefs: upon whom he had no mercy; but was very liberal to such as he knew to be poor, to the end they should have no occasion to steal, or to covet other men's goods. In all other actions he was very merciful, and shown great clemency; in such sort, that in his time time there was nor any Senator put to death, neither any other man, but that his accusation was throughly heard, and his offence sufficiently proved. He never gave any office, or charge of government, for favour, or in reward of service done him, but for desert; and used to say, that offices and places of charge were not to be given to such as sought or laboured to have them, but to those which refused them. He never chose any Senator, but by the voice and consent of the whole Senate: much less made he any man a Knight that was the son of a bondman, or of base condition, as other Emperors had done. Besides all this, he was so affable and mild in condition, that he admitted any man to his presence, and heard him willingly. He lovingly visited all men of esteem in time of their sickness, and permitted any man to inform him in person of his affairs: and, having understood the demands to be reasonable, he performed their requests; if otherwise, he debated the matter with them, and made them to see their error. Being sometimes reproved by his mother and wife, who was the daughter of SULPITIUS (a man worthy to have been, and had been Consul) alleging, that he being so private and familiar made his Reign of less authority and reputation: he answered, that it was true; but yet it was thereby the more firm and durable. Among all his virtues he had one which did excel; whereby it is to believed, that although he were an Infidel, yet God gave him the grace to govern well: which was, that he permitted all those that would, to become Christians; so as in all his time there was no persecution, neither were the Christians grieved: and in his Temples he had the image and picture of CHRIST, and of ABRAHAM. But, as a blind man without knowledge, he accounted him among his Alexander 〈◊〉 the image of Christ and of Abraham in his temples. other gods; and would have acknowledged and adored CHRIST for a God, and have built him a Temple apart, if he had not been dissuaded by his Priests. Notwithstanding all these good conditions wherewith this Prince was adorned, the people did not forbear to murmur against him; complaining, that he was too much ruled by his mother, who was reported to be a most covetous woman, although in all other matters she was held for excellently wise, and very honest and virtuous. ALEXANDER, holding so good a form and rule of government in time of peace, failed not to do the like in time of war, and in the exercise of military discipline; so as in the wars which happened he throughly performed the office & duty of a good and most valiant Captain, especially in those which were most dangerous, as in brief I will declare; particularly in that which he had against the Persians', wherein he obtained most noble victories: and although HERODIANUS writeth otherwise, yet in this place he is not to be believed; for, all other Writers affirm the contrary. And this his notable victory against ARTAXERXES the mighty King of the Persians', is recited by AELIUS LAMPRIDIUS, EUTROPIUS, SEXTUS AURELIUS VICTOR, EUSEBIUS, PAULUS OROSIUS, and other ancient Authors: so as HERODIANUS only writeth this war after another manner, to the dishonour of ALEXANDER, being deceived by false information or report; or otherwise of malice, or upon some particular occasion. To the end that the Reader may the better understand this war which ALEXANDER had with the Persians', it shall be requisite he call to memory, that in ancient time, when the mighty King CYRUS translated the Monarchy from the Medes to the Persians', overcoming King ASTYAGES: this their Monarchy and power lasted 200 and odd years, and they grew very rich and powerful; until, in the time of DARIUS, who governed infinite Nations and The original, succession, and continuance of the kingdom & monarchy of the Persians'. provinces, ALEXANDER the Great took Arms against him and entered Asia: where coming to a battle with him, DARIUS was overthrown and slain, and ALEXANDER made himself Lord of Asia; and so the Monarchy of the Persians' ended, passing to the Grecians: and the kingdoms of Asia remained for some space under the successors of ALEXANDER the Great; until that a valiant man whose name was AR●…ACESES, borne in the country of the Parthians, arose and made himself King; whereby the dominion of the descendants and lineage of the Greeks', was transported to the Parthians, and it become a most famous kingdom, and greatly feared during the time of his successors, which lasted above four hundred years; and the most of them (after his name) were called ARSACIDES. With this Nation of the Parthians, the Romans had often very dangerous wars, and they ever stood in fear of them. ARTABANUS being King of the Parthians, of whom in the life of BASSIANUS and of MACRINUS we made mention; a Persian borne, being a man of base lineage, but of great courage and very politic, whose name was ARTAXERXES, took Arms and rebelled, and by Artabanus the last king of the Persians'. little and little grew to be very powerful; and coming to a battle with ARTABANUS, he overthrew and slew him, and made himself a mighty King. And so he again restored the Kingdom of the Persians', and defeated the kingdom of the Parthians: Which the Romans were never able to do. And he gave it out, that he would restore the kingdom of the Persians' to their ancient power and greatness: and not content herewith, he began to invade the borders of the Roman Empire, infesting the countries of Syria and Mesopotamia. These news being brought to ALEXANDER, who was then in Rome, and had therein reigned three years in peace, exceedingly beloved of all men; and having intelligence of the power and forces of this King: duly considering thereof, and holding the action to be very honourable, he presently with all expedition made preparation for this war, and went himself in person into Asia with an infinite number of men of war. HERODIANUS writeth, that he first sent his Ambassadors unto ARTAXERXES, requiring him to contain himself without the bounds of the Empire, and to live in peace with him. Which request ARTAXERXES (seeing himself rich in treasure and very mighty) would not perform; persuading himself that it was an easy matter for him to become Lord of all Asia. SEVERUS being come into Syria, the wars began on either side to be very cruel and bloody. In which war he observed so good order and discipline, that it hath not been read or heard, that any other excellent Captain hath showed Wars with the Persians'. greater judgement, or used greater diligence. First, he maintained such justice in his Army, and so severely punished theft, robberies, violences, injuries and misdemeanours committed by his soldiers, that his Camp seemed to be a very well governed City. He was very careful The singular good orders and provision for the Army. concerning munition and victuals, as well to provide them, as to preserve them; and that no man should rob or defraud any man: so as if any Captain or Corronel detained never so small a quantity of his soldier's allowance in any thing, he was condemned to die. And in other things he was very diligent and careful, principally in curing those which were sick or wounded in the Army. He endeavoured that all his soldiers should always be in very good order, well apparelled, and well armed, and their horses very ready and well furnished, their Ensigns and Tents very neat and good: He behaved himself very familiarly with his soldiers, and when he was at dinner or supper, his Pavilion stood ever open, and he sat in the view and sight of all men, having no other meat, but such as all the rest did eat. Besides all this, he Note the martial discipline of Alexander Severus. paid his soldiers with advantage, and bestowed many rewards upon them: and otherwise he was very severe in punishing offences; so as if his Army marched among gardens and orchards, they did not any thing that might deserve to be reprehended; and he that did otherwise, was whipped with rods of iron. But if he were a man of worth and quality, he reproved him with The piety of Alexander. sharp and reproachful speeches; having these words ever in his mouth, Do not that to another, which thou wouldst not another should do unto thee: which he learned (as he said) of the Christians. Other more heinous offences or mutinies, he punished with such rigour, that sometimes he tithed whole legions; which was, to put to death the tenth man of all the legion. He did as little endure that any Captain or Colonel should wrong a soldier, or that he What it is to tithe a Legion. should diminish the lest part of a soldiers pay, or allowance. And if he saw that a soldier was poor and out of apparel, he relieved him with what he thought necessary for him: for (quoth he) how can that soldier live under due command, which hath not clotheses on his back, and money in his purse? for hunger and penury will put him in despair, and make him adventure to do that which he aught not. For these and such like matters, which would be long to relate, this Emperor was infinitely beloved, and feared by all his men of war: and in his time soldiers were better ordered, governed and trained then in the time of any other Emperor. Returning to the Persian war; during the time it lasted, there passed between the Armies of the one and other party, many great skirmishes and encounters; wherein were many notable feats of Arms, until that at the last they came to a battle wherein they joined with all their whole forces; ARTAXERXES bringing in his Army an innumerable company of footmen, and 130000 horsemen (a proud and bold nation, for the victories which they had lately 130000 horsemen in one army obtained against the Parthians) and had moreover in his Army seven hundred Elephants, and one thousand and eight hundred Chariots armed with scythes, which the Persians' then used in the wars. The Emperor of the other side brought so many men, both of foot and horse, as he who was Lord and Commander of the Roman Empire might be able to levy. SEVERUS, in this battle performing the office of an excellent Captain, visiting every squadron, encouraging the soldiers with most kind speeches, calling them by their proper names, promising them A most great battle fought between the Romans and the Persians'. great rewards, and fight in person a great part of the day like a valiant Knight; in the evening (for, so long did the Fight continued) he won one of the most fierce and cruel battles that ever was fought in the world. King ARTAXERXES escaped by flight; and there were slain in that battle ten thousand horsemen, and so many footmen that they could not be numbered: as it appeareth by the Oration which SEVERUS made in the Senate after his return to Rome; which is recited by LAMPRIDIUS. And by the same it appeareth, that there were slain by the Romans two hundred Elephants, and that three hundred were taken, with one thousand armed chariots, and a great number of Persians'; which afterwards were ransomed for a great sum of money. So as after this victory, the Emperor, without any resistance, recovered those Countries which ARTAXERXES had taken: and, passing through Mesopotamia, he enlarged the bounds of the Empire; and, leaving therein such a guard as he thought fit, he returned to the City of Antioch. Being in that City (according to the custom of the Roman Generals) he paid his soldiers, and gave them great rewards, dividing the spoils of the victory among them; soas they remained infinitely joyful and well contented. And so, leaving all parts of the East in peace and quiet, he returned to Rome; where he entered in triumph with greater solemnity and pomp than ever any had triumphed before him; Alexander came into Rome in triumph. his chariot being drawn (to the wonder of the behoulders) by Elephants which he had taken: and all the people and Senate of Rome blessed him, and received him with unspeakable joy. At that Instant, FURIUS CELSUS obtained a great victory against the Mauritanians and The victory of Furius Celsus in Africa. Tingitanians in Africa, which rebelled. And, in Germany, VARIUS MACRINUS had very good success: and, from Armenia, JUNIUS PALMATUS returned with victory. After this triumph was ended, SEVERUS made the accustomed donative and distribution among the soldiers and people of Rome, with the feasts and ordinary hunt; remaining in Rome certain years, in hearing causes and doing justice. And in such sort he divided the hours, as there was no jot of time lost, and the time of leisure he spent in reading of excellent books; principally, PLATO'S Commonwealth, and TVLLIE'S Offices: and he did often use to read HORACE and VIRGIL. He living thus in peace and tranquillity, dear beloved of the Romans, and by all the Provinces subject to the Empire; it being about the thirteenth year of his reign, the high Germane and other northerly Nations, with such fury and such infinite numbers of men (as in former time they had used to do) took Arms against the Empire; soas, having past the rivers of Danubie and the Rhine, they put all Italy in great fear. By reason whereof, the good Emperor ALEXANDER SEVERUS with all haste departed from Rome, with the greatest forces he then could levy: which was not done without great grief and heaviness of the Roman people; Wars between Severus and the Germane. so dear was he generally beloved. And then the wars began between his forces and the Germane; wherein, notwithstanding his enemies were very mighty, yet through his great diligence and valour he suppressed their fury, in such sort that they were daily put to the worse in all skirmishes and encounters. But the ordinary Legions which lay there in garrison, accustomed to rapine and other disorders permitted in the time of HELIOGABALUS; the Emperor was neither able to endure their insolency, neither they his equity: for, virtue and vice cannot devil together. Whereupon, they conspired among themselves to kill him, and to choose one MAXIMINUS, a most valiant old soldier, for Emperor; whom SEVERUS had made a Captain of Tyrones' (for, so did they call new soldiers) which their conspiracy they afterwards put in execution. Others writ, that the cause of his death was, for that following his mother's counsel in gathering of treasure, he was not so liberal to his men of war and others, as he aught to have been; and also for that he had determined in his council to leave the wars of Germany, and to go into the East: for which cause the soldiers conceived great hatred against him. But Alexander Severus slain by his Germane soldiers, together with his mother Mammea. I hold the first for the most certain cause: of which opinion were LAMPRIDIUS and JULIUS CAPITOLINUS, writing his life, and the life of MAXIMINUS. Finally, whatsoever the occasion were, the Legions of Germany slew him; the good Emperor being in his Tent, voided of all fear and suspicion, near to the City of Maguntia or Mentz. And, together with him, they slew his mother MAMMEA; which they did by the counsel and advice of the accursed MAXIMINUS, who was afterwards his Successor. HERODIANUS and AURELIUS VICTOT writ, that before they murdered him they made the other Emperor. SEVERUS was twenty nine years, three months and seven days old when he was murdered, and had reigned thirteen years and nine days. His death was more lamented in Rome, then ever was any Emperors before him; and all the Cities and Provinces of the Empire were extremely grieved thereat. In this manner was this most excellent and virtuous Prince slain by treason, who never had commanded any man to be slain, in the year of our Lord 237. And although that we read that he was married, yet we read not of any children that he left behind him. THE LIFE OF MAXIMINUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND SIX AND TWENTITH EMPEROR of Rome. THE ARGUMENT. Maximinus' was a Thracianborne, of a base and ignoble house: but he attained to credit through the activity of his body, which brought him into favour with many Emperors; yet Heliogabalus did not greatly please him, being riotous and lascivious. But fortune, as she is blind, so doth she blindly bestow her benefits and favours, and advanced him in the end to the Imperial dignity: wherein he carried himself so cruelly and tyrannously, that poor Rome could never have had a worse, or more wicked Prince. First, upon sundry occasions he put to death all Alexander's friends; and being ashamed of his own lineage, he also slew all such as had known his father, showing himself very courteous: he turned his spleen against the Christians, and afflicted them with new and unaccustomed torments. He discovered a conspiracy, which he punished severely; and sought to maintain the love of his soldiers, being of opinion that it lay in them as well to support him in the Empire, as it did to give it him. He warred against the Germane; and was of so hateful a disposition and so cruel, that in a manner all the whole Empire rebelled against him: And in his life time old Gordianus was made Emperor in Africa. But above all the rebellions, that of Rome did most displease him; against which, coming in a great rage, and having in a manner besieged it, he was slain by some Roman soldiers, considering the miseries which their country was likely to have endured, if Maximinus obtained the victory. And to the end that no memorial should remain of so wicked and cruel a man, they slew his son also; whose heads being carried to Rome, brought great contentment to the City. HOw great good, a good Prince bringeth to the world, and how prejudicial and hurtful it is to loaf him; the death of ALEXANDER SEVERUS did sufficiently manifest to the Roman Empire; which (during his life time) enjoyed all the contentment that could be desired, for his equity, clemency, and justice: but he dying, and that cruel monster MAXIMINUS succeeding (who reigned but three years) in exchange of these and other blessings, there ensued discord, civil wars, insolences, robberies, cruelties, seditions and other calamities. Wherefore, in my opinion, men aught more earnestly and with greater instancy pray to God to sand them a good King and governor, then for health, wealth, or long life: for in the reign of a wicked and unjust Prince, vices abound, which corrupt good customs and manners, and virtue is suppressed, and men live in danger both of life and goods. And in the time of a good Prince and Governor, all these defects are repaired: for, the just reigning, the wicked amend and become virtuous. For (as the Philosophers say) Such as is the Prince, such will be the subjects: so he which prayeth for a good king, may be justly said to pray for the benefit of the whole kingdom: For it doth often times plainly appear, that the diligence and industry of a good husbandman doth more avail, than the fertility of the soil: and so we see that some places which are barren, do abound with necessaries to the use of man's life; and to the contrary, other places which are most fertile, through evil government, become wild and overgrown with weeds, yielding little profit. And so histories, and experience do teach us, that in time of good and peaceable Kings, men grow rich and mount to estates and dignities: And in time of troubles and calamities which happen when the Government is in the hands of Tyrants, many men loose their estates and lives, and sometime their Souls, by their means, and all things go to confusion and out of order. But coming to our History, the good Emperor SEVERUS being dead: as he had neither son nor brother that might challenge the Empire; and MAXIMINUS being the chief man in the Army, and of greater power than any other, they all agreed to choose and swear him Maximinus' chosen Emperor Emperor, willingly yielding obedience unto him, which they aught not to have done: for he proved wicked, cruel, and covetous; notwithstanding that he was old and laden with years. And because that this man was of a goodly stature, and came to the Empire by great adventure, I will briefly declare the success of his life, which I presume will be a pleasing History. This MAXIMINUS was the son of a man whose name was NICAEA, borne in Gotland, Maximinus high lineage. and his mother's name was ABABA, of the nation of the Alanes, which lived in a village in Thracia; so as of either side he descended of barbarous nations: and he afterwards grew to be so tall of stature, as he seemed to be a Giant: for (as JULIUS CAPITOLINUS reporteth) he was eight and a half Geometrical foot high; which is two foot and a half more than we The stature of Maximinus. see any man ordinarily to be in these days. And as he had a great body, so had he all parts thereof proportionable to his greatness: for he had a good face and was very fair, with great full eyes; and was so extremely strong, that a cart heavily laden, and which two oxen could hardly move, he would easily draw and turn at his pleasure; and with his fist he broke a horses leg: and (as JULIUS CAPITOLINUS saith) striking a horse in the chap with his fist he broke out all The force and bodily strength of Maximinus: his teeth; and with a spurn with his foot, he split him in pieces: also with his fist he broke a stone, and with his hands cloven a tree, and did many other things, which were they not recorded by very true authors, would be accounted fables. And besides all this, he was of so great courage, that he was never known to stand in fear of any thing, and was naturally fierce, proud and presumptuous, and made no account of any man. His bringing up when he was a boy, was in keeping of beasts (for his parents were poor, and lived in the country) and afterwards his mind increasing with the strength of his body, he came to the Roman Army to seek entertainment to be a soldier, and to follow the wars: where by reason of his greatness of body and his extreme strength, he was soon known, and admired of all men, which was in the reign of SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS, who was father to BASSIANUS and GETA. CAPITOLINUS writeth, that SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS being in Soria with his Maximinus began first to follow the wars in the time of Septimius Severus Army, celebrating the birth day of his son GETA, with many sports (which was a thing much used in ancient time) and giving the winners for reward jewels, collars, bracelets, soldiers girdles, and such like things; MAXIMINUS, who was but newly come to the Army, and could scarcely speak the Latin tongue (which was then the vulgar Roman speech) came before the Emperor, and entreated him to give him leave to try himself in those exercises. The Emperor meruailing at the unmeasurable proportion of his person, and seeing him so fair and well proportioned, granted his request; but upon condition, that he should not encounter & contend with any Roman soldier, but with such as were water-bearers, and servitors of the Camp, among which were many very valiant and strong men. MAXIMINUS coming to handy gripes with them, overcame 16 of them which were of greatest strength, and sought out for that purpose, without resting, or once taking any breath, not being moved by any of them: for which victory, the Emperor caused some jewels of small price to be given him, but not any such as were usually given to the soldiers; and commanded also that he should receive pay; and be entered in the muster role to serve as a soldier. Upon a day the Emperor riding to view his Camp, he saw this MAXIMINUS (who was yet but a raw soldier) out of order; wherefore he willed a Colonel to call him into his rank, and to instruct him in the duty that he aught to observe in the wars: and MAXIMINUS, imagining that the Emperor spoke of him, came before him, and kneeled down at his feet. The Emperor, desiring for his pastime to see whether he could run well or not, spurred his horse, and gave sundry turns in the field; and seeing that MAXIMINUS ever kept even with him, and that his horse was tired, and he running afoot shown no sign of weariness, he reigned his The footemanship of Maximinus. horse, and asked of MAXIMINUS whether he could wrestle: whereto he answered, that he would wrestle so long as it should please his Majesty. The Emperor, marvelling at his strength, made choice of certain of the strongest men in all his Army to wrestle with him; and MAXIMINUS, without breathing or any resting, overcame seven of them. Whereupon, SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS commanded a collar of gold to be given unto him, and certain pieces of silver, and made him one of his guard, and commanded that he should attend in the Palace: and by this means he came to be much esteemed among the Colonels and men of war. And he daily increased both in stature and strength: for, when he came to the Camp he was but a boy; and sometime in wrestling he would overthrow twenty or thirty of the strongest men in the Army: and in battles and encounters he ever bore away the prize and chiefest honour, performing strange things. Wherefore SEVERUS favoured him very much, and gave him good places and charges in the wars. He did eat and drink according to the proportion of his body, or rather more: for, CAPITOLINUS writes, that he did daily use to eat 40 pound weight of Maximinus' his diet. flesh, and to drink a measure of wine which contains about 6 gallons of our English measure. SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS dying in England, as we have said, he served his son ANTONINUS BASSIANUS, and was a Colonel, and had other offices and dignities in the wars. And, after the death of BASSIANUS in Syria, he would not serve MACRINUS, because he held him guilty of the death of his Lord: but, returning to the village wherein he was born, he there purchased certain possessions, and lived there some time in rest, until MACRINUS was dead, and that the young vicious HELIOGABALUS came to the Empire. At which time he came to Rome, as to the son of BASSIANUS, and nephew to SEVERUS, both which had been his Lords; imagining, that he should have been as much respected by him, as he had been by them. But HELIOGABALUS more regarding lascivious and dishonest men, than such as were of worth and valorous, he found with him no such entertainment as he expected. For, when he came to kiss his hand, HELIOGABALUS said unto him; MAXIMINUS, it is The dishonest speeches used by Heliogabalus to Maximinus. told me that in wrestling thou art too hard for twenty or thirty men: I would gladly know, whether thou darest in amorous assaults encounter as many women. Which speeches did so much displease MAXIMINUS, that he would presently have abandoned the Court; but that certain of HELIOGABALUS friends (for his honour's sake) stayed him: for, they held it a shame to him, that one which was held to be the most valiant and strongest man of his time (and who for that cause was by some called ACHILLES, and by others AIAX) should not be entertained in his pay to serve in his Army. And so there was given him by HELIOGABALUS the leading of certain footmen. But MAXIMINUS, abhorring and not able to endure the behaviour of this effeminate Emperor, in all the time of his Reign after that time, never came into his presence; sometimes feigning himself to be sick, and othertimes seeking occasion and means to absent himself; until the good ALEXANDER SEVERUS was made Emperor after the death of HELIOGABALUS; and then he returned to Rome: where SEVERUS received him very gladly, commending him highly in the Senate; and made him a Colonel and Commander of the fourth Legion, which he had raised of new soldiers. MAXIMINUS' accepted Offices given by Severus to Maximinus. the charge, and performed his duty singularly well in the wars of Germany, where he shown great prowess: by means whereof, and of the gifts which he used to bestow upon his soldiers, and of the Emperor's favour, he won such honour and reputation with all men, that ALEXANDER (as we have said) being slain by his soldiers, he was by them created Emperor: and some writ, that he was one of those which conspired his death. Of such force is the desire of rule, that men forgetting the duty and loyalty they own, and the benefits they have received, practise notable villainies, and commit horrible treasons, to the end they may reign and command; not remembering, that by what means they obtain rule and dominion, by the self same they commonly loose their governments, and are thrown down by the same means that they mounted. After that MAXIMINUS saw himself an Emperor; as he was naturally proud and fierce, and as base of condition as he was high of stature; so was he of opinion, that his best course was to make himself obeyed rather for fear, than for love; and presently began to show himself most cruel. His election being known in Rome (after they had lamented the death of ALEXANDER Maximin●… 〈◊〉 lection g●… disliked in Ro●… SEVERUS) was generally displeasing to all men: and, upon report of his cruelty, they stood in great fear of him; insomuch that both men and women made vows and prayers to their gods, to the end he might never come to Rome. The first cruelty this fierce Barbarian committed, was, To put to death all those which had served and been familiar with ALEXANDER SEVERUS: and then he banished an infinite number of others, and would not suffer that in the Army there should be any Captain, or in the Senate any Senator, that had been advanced by him. And, for as much as he was ashamed of the baseness of his own parentage, he commanded all those which were near about him, and had known his parents, to be slain: among which were many who in time of their poverty had relieved them, of compassion and in charity. And to all these his cruelties he added a greater: for, he persecuted the Christians which were favoured by ALEXANDER; and by his The sixt persecution of Christians commandment was the sixt persecution of the Church of God: principally those were persecuted which had the charge and government of others; wherein he used strange kinds of cruelties, and new devices in putting people to death; reposing such confidence in his own strength and courage, that he held no man able to kill him. Wherhfore, as CAPITOLINUS reports, he held himself for immortal: yet one day in his presence upon the Theatre these verses were recited in the Greek Tongue; Whom one man cannot bereave of life, many his blood may easily spill. The Elephant is great, yet done to death: strong is the Lion, and men him kill. If through thy valour thou fear not any one, beware what a number may do to thee alone. The cruelty of MAXIMINUS did principally extend itself against such as were rich, and in high degree and authority; whom he entreated very ill, and for very slight occasions put them to death, and confiscated their goods; which the common people little regarded: for, the rich are commonly odious and hateful to the base sort, and to such as are poor. On the other side, he cunningly held himself in the love and good liking of the men of war; for, besides their ordinary pays, he gave them many pensions and rewards, and provided all things necessary for them; and took as great pains as any ordinary soldier, with incredible courage and diligence: and as he was a strong man, and had a very able body; so he ever went armed, and upon all occasions was as ready as any soldier in the Army, and had always valiant men about him, although of base degree and condition. Finally, the effect of all his actions was, To be feared and to command like a tyrant: which was the occasion that a noble Roman Gentleman called MAXIMUS, who had been Consul, conspired against him, and practised with the old A conspiracy against Maximinus. soldiers which had served SEVERUS, and with some others (to whom, MAXIMINUS behaviour and conditions were nothing pleasing) that whereas he with his Army was to pass a River upon a wooden Bridge, as soon as he should be comn to the further end thereof, the Bridge behind him should be broken or drawn away, and so he abandoned to his enemies. But this was revealed to him: or else (as some surmised) it was a matter feigned by him, thereby to have the better colour to shadow his cruelties; which he executed in so high degree, that he caused 3000 persons to be slain, which he said were guilty of that treason. After this, a great multitude of SEVERUS old soldiers mutined; and, withdrawing themselves from the Camp, proclaimed one QVARCIANUS for Emperor (as HERODIANUS writeth): but CAPITOLINUS saith, his name was TICUS, and it may be he was called by the one and the other; who, for that he was a man of great account, was by MAXIMINUS Quarcianus proclaimed Emperor, and then murdered in his bed. deposed from the charge which he held. And the soldiers (against his will) forced him to accept the Empire; which he not without great reason refused: for, one MACEDONIUS, who seemed to be his great friend, and was one of those which had advanced him to that dignity, within few days after murdered him as he lay sleeping upon his bed; and, having stricken off his head, carried the same to MAXIMINUS: who greatly rejoiced to see himself freed from so great a danger. And although he then gave him a good countenance which brought it, yet he afterwards put him to a cruel death, as for his treachery he had deserved: first, for murdering his Sovereign; secondly, for being a traitor to his friend. With these two good fortunes, the tyranny and cruelty of MAXIMINUS increased. But following the wars he went out of Hungary into Germany; and, making most cruel war against the Germane (having in his Army those soldiers which ALEXANDER SEVERUS had left, being many, very well trained, and of great experience) the number he increased; so as with them he won many battles, putting all to fire and sword where he came, spoiling all that was in that Country: and in all the encounters that ever happened, he ever fought in person: and performed more in Fight than any man in the whole Army. Having pacified all matters in Germany, so as he found no more resistance; by reason of winter which then came on, he returned into Hungary: from whence he wrote to the Senate, extolling his victories; and sent unto them all his battles and skirmishes painted in Tables. I cannot particularly set down the murders and cruel slaughters of men which he commanded to Executions done in Rome by Maximinus' order. be executed in Rome at this time, they were so many: for, he did put to death many men which had been Consuls, and confiscated their goods, using infinite other tyrannies against the noblest and of most esteem; presuming only upon his own personal strength, and the power of his Army; to which he gave many great gifts. And yet among his men of war he forbore not to execute notable cruelties: for, he more desired to be feared, than any thing else. Wherhfore both in Rome, and in divers parts of the Empire, they studied how they might be rid of him, and to find out some other man fit to be Emperor; which began in Africa, and passed after this manner: In the Province of Africa MAXIMINUS had a Procurator, who with great rigour and authority gathered his Rents and Tributes; and, being of his master's conditions, committed incredible extortions and outrages, robbing and pilling the Country, doing wrong to all men: and not content therewith, but as he spoilt many of their goods, so he bereft them of their lives. And he continued so in his rapine and cruelty, that the people could no longer endure his oppression: wherefore the chief among them concluded to kill him, and did so. Afterwards Maximinus' his rent-gatherer slain in Africa. considering with themselves how great and how dangerous a crime they had committed, they resolved to commit yet a greater, which was, To created an Emperor. Wherhfore, conferring with the soldiers of those Legions which lay in Africa, who detested MAXIMINUS for his cruelty, they all agreed to choose GORDIANUS, a Nobleman, who was Proconsul of Africa, and to make him Emperor, being a man welnie fourscore years old. Gordianus chosen Emperor GORDIANUS (as I said) was of a Noble house, by his father's side descended from the GRACCHIS; and, by his mother, from the most excellent Emperor TRAIAN. He had been Aedil, Questor, Praetor, and Consul, in Rome; and had held many other offices & dignities, and had been Commander and governor of many countries and provinces, which he had governed with great wisdom and authority; and at that time was Viceconsull in Africa, by the appointment of ALEXANDER SEVERUS, who was MAXIMINUS his Predecessor; by whom, for his deserts and virtues, he was greatly honoured and esteemed: for, GORDIANUS was a virtuous and most temperate man in all his actions. He was a man of a tall stature, rather inclining to be fat than lean, and of a goodly presence. His face was high-coloured, representing great authority. He was in his fare and diet (as in all other matters) very temperate; and was learned, and much given to the study of Philosophy. He was married to the daughter of SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS, and by her had sons and daughters, and by chance had with him when he was chosen Emperor a son, whose name was also GORDIANUS; who had been Consul, and was held in great honour and reputation: whom they also chose Emperor together with his Father. The soldiers and the countrypeople being assembled together (whereof, one MAURICE, a Decurion was chief & first motive of the matter) they entered tumultuously into GORDIANUS house: who, not thinking of any such thing, in the beginning was in great fear and trouble, conceiving that they came to have slain him: but after that he understood wherefore they came (for, they told it him) he utterly refused their offer, excusing himself by reason of his old Gordianus refused the empire age. But they came so resolute, that notwithstanding his opposition, yet he could not otherwise choose, but he must accept of the Ensigns, and title of Emperor; which they gave him, together with his son. GORDIANUS, although he were thereto compelled, and accepted thereof against his will: yet he presently wrote with all speed, giving the Senate advertisement of his election, and how he had consented thereto, and accepted of the Empire, that he might free the same from the cruelty of MAXIMINUS. Having published the same in the city of Tisdro, where he was chosen Emperor, he took his way towards Carthage, with the magnificence, Ensigns, and officers of the Empire, where he was with great joy received. From thence he sent his Ambassadors to Rome with particular letters to many his friends and kinsmen; and likewise took order that VALERIANUS the Praetorian Perfect of the Legions & companies which lay near Rome should be slain: whom HERODIANUS calleth VATALIANUS (who was a most cruel man) a favourite and great friend of MAXIMINUS. These letters were received with incredible joy and gladness, for the great hatred they bore against MAXIMINUS: and VITALIANUS or VALERIANUS was slain accordingly, by those which were sent for that purpose. The Senate and people of Rome approved the election of GORDIANUS and his son: and MAXIMINUS and his son (who was already made CAESAR, and named his successor) were adjudged enemies and rebels; and the people with great fury tare in pieces many ministers Maximinus and his son adjudged for rebels and enemies to the Roman common wealth. of MAXIMINUS his cruelty, among which were some which were not culpable. They also slew SABINUS the Perfect of the city, for that he laboured to have hindered the approbation of GORDIANUS: and the Senate elected for CAESAR a young man whose name also was GORDIANUS, who was nephew to old GORDIANUS: and so there was a sudden alteration in all things, for there was a general fear and confusion. The Senate considering then in how great danger the city was, and what might ensue by reason of the great power of MAXIMINUS, they made great preparation, writing their letters into all the Provinces, commanding that all those governors which were placed by MAXIMINUS, should be displaced, and therewith also they proclaimed GORDIANUS for Emperor. This order and direction (as HERODIANUS writeth) in the most part of all the Provinces was obeyed, and in the most of them they slew the governors set there by MAXIMINUS. And in some places they did the contrary, kill or apprehending the messengers; so as every where was bloodshed: for the cruelty of the Emperor had made all men cruel. When as the news of that which happened in Rome and Africa came to MAXIMINUS (CAPITOLINUS writeth) he was therewith so troubled and enraged, that he cried out like a man distempered: and running his head against the walls, he tumbled in the floor, rend his clothes, and made many other shows of fury and passion. This Fit being past, the next day he assembled his whole Army, whereto he made a speech, complaining to them of the treachery of the Africanes, and of the lightness and inconstancy of the Romans, provoking them all he could to be revenged; and making great promises, assured them that they should possess the goods of all those which had offended. And when he had ended his oration, he presently gave them their ordinary pay with great advantage, showing himself very bountiful: so as they all promised to serve him faithfully, notwithstanding that many among them hated him deadly. In this manner using all possible diligence, MAXIMINUS directed his journey towards Rome, with the best soldiers, and the greatest provision of munition he could, with intent to assuage his wrath, by the execution of his extreme cruelty: and so he began to march; not so fast as he would, for the great number of men, of carriages, and baggage which went with him, and want of victuals: for all the cities (being risen against him) had put all the victuals and fruits of the earth in safe keeping. While as these things passed in Germany and Rome, CAPELIANUS, who was Governor of the Provinces of Numidia, and Mauritania in Africa, rebelled against GORDIANUS, aswell for that they were ancient enemies, as for that CAPELIANUS was a very great friend unto MAXIMINUS, and had been settled there by him: who, as soon as he heard that the GORDIANS were chosen Emperors, put those Legions which were under his command in order, levying thereto the greatest forces he could, and took his way towards Carthage; against whom came young GORDIANUS, with all the forces he could levy (the old man remaining in the city in great care and fear of that which afterwards followed) and these two Armies joining battle (which was very bloody) CAPELIANUS in the end had the victory, and GORDIANUS was overthrown and slain: for the greatest part of his people were Bisonious, Young Gordianus slain in a batiaile. or raw soldiers, and not accustomed to the wars. The father hearing of the death of his son, and of the loss of the battle, seeing no hope of relief, and the victorious enemy at the gates of the city, with the girdle which he ware hung himself: and so died he with reproach & And old Gordianus hung himself in ●…is girdle. dishonourably (having a few days enjoyed the name of Emperor) who had lived fourscore years very honourably & in great reputation. And CAPELIANUS following his victory entered Carthage: where he slew the principal of those which escaped from the battle; and rob many houses & temples, showing great cruelty both within the city, & abroad in the country; robbing & sacking towns & villages, in colour of revenge for the wrong done to MAXIMINUS, seeking by all means possible to please his soldiers, with a desire to make himself Emperor. The fame of this adventure came speedily to Rome: wherewith the Romans were incredibly troubled and perplexed, to see themselves deprived of the favour and secure which they hoped for from GORDIANUS and his son. And knowing that MAXIMINUS came like an enraged lion against them (for redress and remedy against so great a danger) the Senate assembled in the Temple of JUPITER; and after many cousultations held between the principal & best experienced men of the city, they chose MAXIMUS PUPIENUS, and CLODIUS BALBINUS for Emperors; both which had held great offices, and had been valiant Captains and governors, and lived with great fame. And to please the people which consented Maximus Pupienus and Claudius Balbinus chosen Emperors, and Gordianus the nephew of old Gordianus made Caesar. not to this election, the Senate named young GORDIANUS, nephew to that GORDIANUS who hanged himself in Carthage, CAESAR, who was his daughter's son, and of the age of eleven years. These two being created and sworn Emperors, and having taken the Imperial robes and ensigns, they levied the greatest forces that in Rome and the borders thereof they were able, MAXIMUS PUPIENUS, who was the wiser and more sufficient man, left the city, to make head against MAXIMINUS; who with great haste and fury came towards Italy, and had conceived incredible joy, for that he was given to understand of the death of GORDIANUS and of his son, and of the victory which CAPELIANUS had obtained against them: but after that he knew of the election of the new Emperors in Rome, his rage and wrath redoubled. And understanding that PUPIENUS came against him with a sufficient Army, he put his troops in order; and having passed the Alps, entering into Italy, where he thought to have found great Maximinus' entered Italy. plenty of victuals, he found all clean contrary: for all sustenance was carried away, and those places and towns which were not fortified, and able to defend themselves, were abandoned and left desert: wherefore the soldiers for the hunger and want which they endured, began to murmur and to speak ill of MAXIMINUS; and he punishing some of them for it, grew hateful to all. Drawing near to the city of Aquileia, which he made accounted to enter without difficulty, he found very great resistance: for besides that the city was very populous and rich, there were within it for the defence thereof, two Roman gentlemen, which had been Consuls; the one was called CRISPINUS, and the other MENEFILUS: who had in such sort furnished the city with men and munition, that MAXIMINUS with great difficulty passing the river, and encamping himself before it, gave a very cruel assault, in which much people died of either side: but those which were within, defended themselves so valiantly, as he was enforced to altar his determination, to raise his siege, and to retire. While as MAXIMINUS lay before Aquileia, and PUPIENUS with his Army marched toward him, Rome endured a great affliction: for there grew a contention between the Praetorian soldiers and the people of Rome, about two soldiers which had been slain by two Senators, whose names were GALLICANUS and MAECENAS. And both parties taking Arms, there were slaughters and cruelties committed, the like whereof have been seldom heard of: for the city was set on fire, & a great part thereof burnt, the new Emperor BALBINUS not being able to quench or stay it: who seeing that he could not redress so great an inconvenience, retired himself to his palace. So as whosoeever shall well consider hereof, shall find that the three years tyrannous government of MAXIMINUS (for so long it lasted) was the cause that the city of Rome and the whole Roman Empire were never free from wars, tumults, robberies, murders, and all manner of calamities. And he (as I have said) lying before Aquileia, prevailing little by the assaults which he gave, by reason of the great resistance made by the besieged, and wanting victuals (for PUPIENUS, and the Senate had commanded all to be carried away out of that territory, and the borders and marches thereabouts) and jointly herewith his soldiers daily hearing that all the East had revolted and rebelled against him, by letters sent from the Senate of Rome: With this fear and for the secret hatred which the old Roman Soldiers bore against him, they agreed to mutiny and to kill him; seeing that Rome (wherein were their parents, their wives, children and kinsfolks) and also that all Italy was enemy unto them, and had proclaimed them rebels. It happened that MAXIMINUS and his son one day about noon reposing themselves in his Tent, the soldiers and many others with them, came very boldly to his pavilion, and without any resistance slew him: the like they did by his son, saying, That of an evil fire Maximinus and his son slain in his Tent. could never prove good whelp; when he had reigned three years, and was sixty and odd years old; and his son nineteen, and somewhat more. His death was approved by all the Army: and as soon as it was known in the City of Aquileia, they opened the ports, and become all friends. They sent the heads of this tyrannous Emperor and his sons, to Rome; where with unspeakable joy they were received: and by the way they carried them to PUPIENUS; who was in Ravenna. This happened in the year of our Lord 240. THE LIFE OF MAXIMUS PUPIENUS AND CLODIUS BALBINUS, ONLY OF THOSE NAMES, and seven and twentith Roman Emperor's. AFter the death of MAXIMINUS; MAXIMUS PUPIENUS & CLODIUS BALBINUS, without any contradiction continued Emperors; which (as I said) were so already created: and PUPIENUS, who then was in Ravenna, with all speed went to Aquileia, to content the Army which MAXIMINUS had left there; where, by those of the City and of the Army, he was with great joy received, sworn, and obeyed: and he paid the soldiers, and gave them great rewards, and afterwards dispatched and sent the Legions very well contented to their Provinces and places where they used to remain. And himself came to Rome with some companies of Germane for his guard, by reason of the discord between the Praetorian soldiers and the Citizens; who, understanding of the death of MAXIMINUS, pacified themselves, and went with the Senate to receive BALBINUS into the Empire, and GORDIANUS for CAESAR, as is aforesaid: and so they were most solemnly entertained. And being comn into the Senate, besides the ordinary acclamations, blessings and applauses, in remembrance that these Emperors were created by the Senators, they used such like speeches: Princes, wisely chosen, rule accordingly; and those which are chosen by Speeches used by the Senate. unwise men, and such as know little, in like manner end their days: wherein they seemed to note the men of war, who made choice of MAXIMINUS. Which speeches the Praetorian soldiers took in so ill part, that they presently began to missike and to be discontented with the Reign of PUPIENUS and BALBINUS; and they held themselves for scorned and disgraced, in that the Senate should seem to triumph over them, and to have taken from them the authority to make Emperors: so great was their pride and ambition, that from thencefoorth they not only wished, but practised the death of them both, who governed all things most excellently and prudently, and made very good and profitable laws and ordinances; and into all the Provinces where need required, sent ordinary Legions, doing justice to all men indifferently, greatly honouring the Senate; and generally to all men shown themselves gentle and courteous. But all this sufficed not to get the good will of the soldiers: for, virtue and goodness do not pacify the hatred of the wicked; and by so much their envy & malice the more increaseth, by how much they see those whom they hate, exercise themselves in virtuous and good actions: In such sort, that as those accursed men in time of peace were not so much esteemed, neither had the liberty to live so dissolutely and licentiously, as in the time of wars; all their care and study therefore was (although they did dissemble it, and keep it secret) how they might without any danger to themselves, kill those two virtuous and honourable old Princes, PUPIENUS and BALBINUS. Whereto, the emulation, jealousy and contention, between these Emperors, although in secret, opened the way to their determination; for BALBINUS held himself for fare more Noble and of a more ancient house and family, than PUPIENUS: For it was three hundred years or little less since that his ancestors came from the Isle of Cales in Spain, with the great POMPEY; and being made citizens of Rome had lived ever Emulation between Balbinus and Pupienus. honourably and richly: and therefore as PUPIENUS was but of a new risen family, he made accounted to be more regarded than he, and disdained him. And PUPIENUS notwithstanding that he was a newer citizen and lately risen: yet was he of greater courage, very grave and severe, and had held many offices and magistracies; which with great valour and wisdom he had discharged; and therefore was of opinion that in true nobility, which wholly consisteth in the virtue of the person, he did fare excel BALBINUS. And thus their vain presumption cost them both their lives. Notwithstanding that they stood upon these points; yet they no way forgot aught that might concern the good government of the Empire. These two wise Emperors agreed between themselves, to go the one into the East against the Parthians; or to say better, the Persians', which ruled in the East, as I have already declared, andby means of the civil discords passed, had entered the bounds of the Empire, and taken certain Cities: And the other to the wars of Germany. And as one day all the whole City was busy in beholding certain games and pastimes which were made, with them was also the greatest part of the Emperor's guard and household; so as they remained in their Palaces smally accompanied, without any mistrust or suspicion of any treachery. Whereof the Praetorian soldiers being advertised, they came with great fury fully armed in order of battle, towards the Emperor's Palace: Which when PUPIENUS understood, and that they came to kill him, he commanded in great haste the companies of Germans which were his guard, to be called: the which truly had been sufficient to have defended them. And he also gave BALBINUS to understand thereof, desiring him to do the like. But BALBINUS entering into a fond suspicion, that PUPIENUS sent for his guard to have done some thing against him, did not only leave that undone which was requested at his hands, but hindered it, so as the guard was not called. By which means the Praetorian soldiers had opportunity to enter the Imperial Palace in safety: and there finding none to resist their fury, they took both the Emperors and dispoyling them of their Imperial robes, used the poor princes with all kind of villainy, as if The Emperors Balbinus and Pupienus slain by the Praetorian soldiers. they had been two thiefs; carrying them through the midst of the City towards their Camp: But hearing that the Almains came to rescue them, they slew them upon the way; leaving their dead bodies in the streets. And the young GORDIANUS meeting them by chance (who, as we have said before, at the request of the people was chosen CAESAR) was by them hailed AUGUSTUS and Emperor. And they crying to the people said, that seeing those two Emperors were dead, which in despite of them were chosen by the Senate; they should now receive GORDIANUS for Emperor, which they themselves had desired Gordianus Nephew of the old Gordianus proclaimed Emperour●… to be made CAESAR; and so they went to their lodging leading the youth with them, who yet was not fully fourteen years old. The Almains after they understood of the death of PUPIENUS and BALBINUS, seeing there was no hope to rescue them, returned to their lodgings, which was in the fields ●…eere to Rome. And so these two good Emperors ended their lives, having reigned two years: and in reward for pacifying the Empire and delivering the same from the tyranny of MAXIMINUS, these base rascals murdered them, which PUPIENUS (as saith JULIUS CAPITOLINUS) The words of Pupienus to Balbinus when they were chosen Emperors. did before Prognosticate: for when they were chosen, he said to BALBINUS; Tell me BALBINUS, what good shall we reap, if we kill this accursed cruel beast MAXIMINUS? BALBINUS answered; We shall win the love of the Senate & of the people of Rome, and generally of all the world. It is true quoth PUPIENUS, but I fear me we shall incur the hatred of the men of war, and that it will cost us our lives. Which happened as we have declared, in the year of our Lord 242. THE LIFE OF GORDIANUS THE YOUNGER; SO CALLED, FOR THAT HE WAS NEPHEW TO THE OLD GORDIANUS, being only of this name, and the eight and twentith Emperor of Rome. AFter the death of these two good Emperors PUPIENUS and BALBINUS; GORDIANUS being chosen by the This Gordianus was Nephew of the old Gordianus who died in Africa. Praetorian soldiers (who in their life time was CAESAR) the Senate and people of Rome, seeing no other remedy, willingly approved his election; for he was generally well beloved of all men for the deserts of his Uncle and grandfather: and through this election ensued concord and agreement between the soldiers and the citizens; and so he began his government in good order and had good success. The first thing he did, was to make many feasts, games and shows, and to give many donatives and rewards both to the citizens and soldiers; whereby he made himself exceedingly well beloved. This happened, by reason that this young Prince followed the counsel of wise men. Presently in the beginning of his reign a certain Captain named SABINIANUS rebelled in Africa: and it succeeded so well, that the Governor of Mauritania by the commandment of GORDIANUS, coming against him; those which conspired with him, took him prisoner, and craving pardon for their offence, brought him to Carthage; and there delivered him into the hands of GORDIANUS his Captains. Who being freed from this care, there remained yet another, which was for the wars against the Persians', who (as we have said) usurped certain Lands of the Empire; against which it was concluded that the Emperor GORDIANUS should go himself in person: and notwithstanding that he was then very young, having married the daughter of a most learned and eloquent Gentleman, whose name was MISITHEUS, whom he presently made Perfect; the authority and counsel of the father in law made the reign of the young Emperor GORDIANUS very fortunate, and much esteemed. For, notwithstanding that MISITHEUS was but of a mean parentage, yet he was a man of Misitheus father-in-law to Gordianus. much virtue; and so discreet and considerate in all his actions, as, notwithstanding that GORDIANUS was but a child and very young, and somewhat inclined to vice and sensuality, yet he made him an excellent Prince and Governor, both in peace and war. Whereby it plainly appeareth, that the principal and most necessary thing that appertaineth to any King or Prince to make him good, is, to have good and wise men for his Counsellors, and that his Court be replenished with honest men, and of good conversation: Which the same GORDIANUS apparently manifested in a letter written by him to his father in law, in answer to another written by him, wherein he had counselled him what he aught to do, and had reproved him for some thing that he had done, in this manner: The Emperor GORDIANUS AUGUSTUS, to his Father, and Praetorian Perfect, greeting. If the Almighty Gods had not defended and protected the Roman Empire, I had truly by this A Letter written by Gordianus to his father in law Misitheus. time been deceived, and sold by these wicked and dishonest men: for I now know, and do very well comprehend, that I aught not to have given the charge of the Roman Cohorts to FELIX, neither to SERAPIO of the fourth legion: And because I will not recite all my errors, I acknowledge that I have done many things that I aught not. But thanks be to the Gods, that thou guiding and instructing me, which dost nothing for covetousness or reward, I have learned and understood many things, which being shut up in my palace with my servants, I should never have learned, neither was it possible for me to have known. For consider a little I pray thee what I could do, being blinded, and sold by MAURUS, who was confederate with GUNDIANUS, REVERENDUS and MONTANUS; so as whatsoever they commended or reproved, trusting to their judgement, I presently accepted and allowed. The truth is, Father, That Prince is very infortunate, who hath not about him those which may plainly tell him the truth: for, as the King cannot be among the people, neither can he know what passeth and what is said, of necessity he is to understand it by the relation of those with whom he is conversant; and according to their information, good or evil, to govern and dispose of all matters. God give thee health. By this letter is confirmed that which I said; and how that the good counsel of his father in law, was of great efficacy to make him a good Governor. In the beginning of the reign of this good Emperor, there were seen certain signs and tokens in the air, and upon the earth, whereby many men did prognosticate that his reign should not long continued. The first was so great an eclipse of the Sun, as the day seemed to be turned to night: so as every where the people kindled lights, thereby to see to do their necessary A great eclipse of the Sun. business, so long as the Eclipse continued. And, about one year after, there was so great and terrible an earthquake in a manner through all the provinces of the Empire, that many cities and towns were destroyed, and some were swallowed up by the earth, which did open in A great earthquake. many places. This being past, and the losses repaired in the best manner that could be, GORDIANUS departed from Rome towards the wars of Persia, with great provision and infinite Gordianus going to the wars against the Persians'. sums of money to pay the soldiers which he carried with him, which were many in number, and excellently well armed and trained: for he had as good an Army as ever had any Emperor; and marching over land from Italy to pass the straight of Hellespont, he took his way through Missia, to stay the Goths and other nations which came down with intent to have inhabited Thracia: against which he obtained some victories, and left those provinces free from troubles, and in peace. Having past that straight, he marched with his Army through Soria, and came to the city of Antioch which the Persians' had taken, and fought some battles with the mighty SAPOR King of Persia, who succeeded his brother ARTAXERXES in that kingdom; Gordianus his victory against Sapor King of Persia. where obtaining some notable victories, he recovered the city of Antioch. From thence he went further, and conquered the great cities of Carras, and Nisibe: for being terrified with the first battles, SAPOR was in so great fear, as notwithstanding that he had levied a very sufficient Army, yet he not only durst not fight with GORDIANUS; but leaving the said cities and others, he retired himself into his kingdom, abandoning the limits and confines of the Roman Empire. In this war all things were governed and managed by the counsel and direction of MISITHEUS, GORDIANUS his father in law, who was his Perfect and captain general: who governed all things so well, that he failed not in any thing; and so by his counsel and valour GORDIANUS obtained many victories: and the Roman Army proceeded, being excellently well instructed and trained, aswell in the discipline which appertaineth to soldiers, as in all other things which were requisite for the wars. The like happened in all other matters, which were expedient for the good government of the whole Empire: for h●… was so good and so wise a man, and therewith the good inclination and disposition of the Emperor did so concur, in whom wanted no sufficiency nor discretion for his age, that all the time of his reign (which were six years) the Roman Empire enjoyed peace, rest, and all happiness. And while as all things were in this estate, MISITHEUS fell sick and died. JULIUS The death of Misitheus. CAPITOLINUS writeth, that he was secretly poisoned by PHILIP, who succeeded him in his charge, and was afterwards Emperor, and who also was the cause of the death and ruin of the Emperor GORDIANUS; who as soon as MISITHEUS was dead, made PHILIP his Perfect and Captain general, nothing suspecting him of treason. This PHILIP was borne in Arabia, of a base and dishonourable parentage; but a very valiant man, and bred up in the wars in the Roman Armies, and had held many offices and governments. As soon as this barbarian was advanced by GORDIANUS to that high dignity, he practised how he might obtain the Empire for himself, and sought by all means to win the good will of the soldiers, and to make them enemies to GORDIANUS. It happened that in the Army was great scarcity of victuals; which was done by the secret practice of PHILIP: and the soldiers imagining the negligence of GORDIANUS to have been the cause thereof, determined to make PHILIP equal with him in the Empire, and that he should be as his tutor and governor: which the virtuous young GORDIANUS patiently endured; For he could not withstand the audacious determination of the soldiers: and PHILIP, seeing himself equal with him, become presently so insolent and audacious towards GORDIANUS (by reason of his young years, and the favour of the Army) as he began to command all, as though he had been sole Emperor. But GORDIANUS being unable to endure this disgrace (for great and Noble minds can hardly suffer themselves to be despised and oppressed) assembling the Army, The wickedness and ingratitude of Philip, and the misery of Gordianus. complained openly to the Captains and soldiers, of the pride and ingratitude of PHILIP, calling to mind the benefits which he had bestowed upon him, and sought to persuade them to depose him from the Empire. PHILIP seeing this, setting all shame apart, assembling together such as were of his faction, and seeking to get the good will of all men, brought his purpose to so good issue, as the miserable Emperor GORDIANUS being abandoned, was brought to such extremity, as he sent to entreat PHILIP, that if he would not permit him to be his equal, yet at the lest that he would be pleased to allow him the dignity of CAESAR: which seeing he could not obtain, he desired that he might be his Praetorian Perfect. Which being also denied, he requested him to do him the favour, that he might be one of his Captains so long as he should live. To this his last petition, his cruel mind seemed to yield: but afterwards considering how much GORDIANUS was beloved in Rome, in Africa, and in all the other Provinces, as well for his The death of Gordianus. natural virtues, as for the nobility of the house from which he was descended, he commanded him to be slain. And this was the end of the Noble and worthy young Emperor GORDIANUS; who reigned six years: four alone, and two in the company of PUPIENUS and BALBINUS, in the year of our Lord 247, and in the twentith year of his age. Ann. Dom. 247 GORDIANUS was of a pleasant and very Noble condition, of gentle behaviour, very studious, and given to learning; so as they writ, that he had in his Library threescore and two thousand Books. He was infinitely beloved of the Senate and people of Rome, and generally of all nations of the Empire, and no less by the soldiers and men of war, who called him their son. Although in this short sudden fury, after the manner of beasts they murdered him by the procurement, practice and treason of PHILIP; yet their fury being past, they made him a sepulchre in the confines of Persia, whereupon they wrote this inscription in the Lati●…, Persian, Hebrew, and Egyptian tongues, to the end that of all men it might be read and understood: To the sacred GORDIANUS, who overcame the Persians', the Goths, and the Sarmates, extinguished the Roman Civil discords, and likewise subdued the Germans, but not the Philippics. Which seemeth to be annexed thereto, for that in the Philippicque fields he was put to the worse by the Alanes; and also for that he was commanded to be slain by PHILIP. THE LIFE OF PHILIP THE FIRST, AND NINE AND TWENTITH EMPEROR OF ROME. BY the subtlety and wicked practices (which we have already before declared) this traitor PHILIP came to the Empire, and was sworn and obeyed by the whole Army: he presently advertised the Senate of his election, and of the death of GORDIANUS, concealing the manner thereof; alleging that he died of a natural infirmity. The Senate giving credit to his letters, approved his election, and gave him the name of AVOUSTUS: which when he understood, having a great desire to come to Rome, and to see himself Lord thereof, he Philip made peace with the Persians'. made a dishonourable peace with the Persians': and leaving unto them the Province of Mesopotamia, and part of Syria, he came with his Army towards Rome. But first he desired to visit his country Arabia; wherein, for a memorial of his name, he builded a City, which he called Philopopolis, near the place where he was borne; and made his son his companion in the Empire, whose name was also PHILIP, a child of six or seven years old: who (as AURELIUS VICTOR, and EUTROPIUS do writ) was naturally so sad and sour, as he was never seen to laugh, neither could any man by any device provoke him to laughter. PHILIP being come to Rome, although he was received as sovereign Lord, yet was his coming nothing pleasing to the Senate nor Roman people, considering that he had given away the Province of Mesopotamia to the Persians'. Which when he understood, after that he had made a great donative, and distributed much money and other gifts among the people, thereby to get their good wills and love; he sought occasion to make war against the Persians', and proclaimed the same; with a resolution to recover the honour which he had lost. But that war ended before it began, without any breach of peace: for the Persians' promised to restore the Provinces without war or any opposition. PHILIP having now reigned two years (and a thousand years being expired since that Rome was founded) he commanded certain feasts and games to be made, which they called Secular, which was (as it were) to celebrated the birth day of Rome; which feasts were made in Secular games, and why so called. Rome every hundred years. Yet concerning the time there were many opinions; and some Emperors celebrated these feasts and shows before their time: as, the Emperor CLAUDIUS before remembered. But the truth is, that they were called Secular, for that they could be made but once in a man's whole life time. Finally, they were the most sumptuous and solemn that were made in Rome: for so did OCTAVIUS make them, and CLAUDIUS also, as I have said. And afterwards the Emperor DOMITIANUS, although he observed not the just computation of the years, as did the Emperor CLAUDIUS, but followed the account of AUGUSTUS CAESAR: and after that, SEPTIMIUS SEVERUS; and now this PHILIP celebrated the same, with the greatest pomp & magnificence that ever had been seen before this time, as EUSEBIUS recordeth; who saith, That in the place called Circulus Maximus, were hunted and slain an infinite number of wild beasts; and there also fought two thousand Sword-players, who (as we have said) slew one another to give delight to the beholders, in as furious manner as men now adays use to fight upon challenges in single combats. It is also written, that in POMPEY'S Theatre were such shows and games, that they lasted three days and three nights continually; wherein were so great lights that men might see as well at midnight as at noone-days; whereof EUTROPIUS and POMPONIUS also make mention. In these sports and about the end of them; as they were many, there being little heed taken, POMPEY'S Theatre took fire, and the greatest part of the timber work was burnt, with other sumptuous buildings near unto it; which fire was hardly quenched. PAULUS OROSIUS writeth, that this PHILIP was the first Christian Emperor that was truly baptised, and that believed, Philip baptised a Christian. and received the faith of CHRIST. Other authors affirm, that both he, his mother and his son were christened; and that ORIGEN wrote certain letters to him; wherein he persuaded him to believe and to observe the Christian faith. Others say, that he did but fain and dissemble it, thereby to make himself the stronger against DECIUS, through the help of the Christians, which DECIUS rebelled against him: But I rather believe OROSIUS and EUSEBIUS. PHILIP and his son living thus in the quiet possession of the Empire, the Goths, which in the time of GORDIANUS had infested Thracia, came now from Scythia with a very great Army through Missia into Thracia, and did much hurt there, burning many cities and towns: against whom, the Emperor sent for Captain one MARINUS, a man very expert in the wars, and very valiant of his person; who when he was settled in his charge, with the aid and favour of the men of war, whereof he before was Captain, and of the ordinary Legions of Illyricum, leaving the service wherein he was employed, resolved to rebel, and to make himself Marinus rebelled against Philip. Emperor, holding it lawful to betray him, that had been a traitor to another; and for such was presently sworn and proclaimed by the Army. When PHILIP understood hereof, he was much troubled: and in great fear complained to the Senate of the ingratitude and presumption of MARINUS. Some writ that DECIUS was there present: who being a man of great wisdom & experience, very Nobly descended, and was afterwards Emperor, did comfort and encourage him, and persuaded him not to be grieved therewith: for (quoth he) MARINUS his presumption will shortly cost him very dear, which happened so indeed: For, within few days after, the same Army which had chosen him, being discontented with the manner of his carriage toward them, were as ready to bereave him of his life, as they were to make him Emperor; and accordingly slew him. Which news being brought to PHILIP, and he remembering what DECIUS had said in the Senate, gave him the charge and command of the Army against the Goths and Scythians, with a great increase both of men and munition, and of all things necessary for such an enterprise. DECIUS as a man of experience and discretion, and sufficiently able to discharge that office, came to the Army: where within few days all the soldiers, as well for the worthiness of his person, as also for that they stood in fear of PHILIP for those matters lately passed, resolved Decius made Emperor by the soldiers against his wil to make him Emperor: and so indeed by force and against his will they made him to take the ensigns, name and dignity of Emperor. When DECIUS saw himself advanced to so high an estate, he practised a cunning policy, which was thus; He privily sent a secret messenger to tell PHILIP that he had accepted the title of Emperor, being perforce constrained thereto, as was well known; but held no man for Emperor but PHILIP; and that he therefore should not be offended: for he did assure him, that as soon as he could possibly get any liberty, he would renounce the Empire. This he did to the end that PHILIP should take no care, nor make any such preparation against him, as reason required; and finally, to temporize until that he might increase his power, and make himself able to defend his cause. But PHILIP (whether he gave credit to his speeches or not) forslowed not his business, but determined with himself to repose no trust in Preparation made by Philip against Decius. any other Captain, but to go against him himself in person: and to that end levied many new troops, and sent for the ordinary legions out of sundry Provinces, threatening and swearing that he would tear DECIUS and the rebellious legions which were with him in pieces; And so departed from Rome, commanding his men of war with such choler and in such haughty manner, as he become hateful to all men, And they holding, DECIUS more worthy of the Empire, before he went out of Italy, in the City of Verona proclaiming DECIUS Emperor, his own soldiers slew him, cutting his head off, by the midst of his face, just with the Philip slain in Verona by his own soldiers. upper row of his teeth. When as the news hereof came to Rome, the Praetorian soldiers killed his melancholy son, who was never known to laugh; being (according to some writers) about the fift year of his and his father's reign; and after some other writers, the seventh: Which happened in the year of our Lord two hundred, fifty and two, after EUSEBIUS his computation. Truly, it was the just judgement of God, that by the same means that he obtained the Empire, he lost the same: and the same soldiers by whose hands he put his good liege Lord GORDIANUS to death; even the very same soldiers murdered him: and, as he was a traitor and disloyal to his sovereign; so found he none faithful to him being Lord THE LIFE OF DECIUS, ONLY OF THIS NAME, AND THIRTITH EMPEROR OF ROME. PHILIP and his son being both dead (in such manner as before is expressed) DECIUS without any contradiction was confirmed Emperor: for the Senate presently chose him in his absence, and gave him the title of AUGUSTUS, and so did all the Provinces and the Armies. For, all writers affirm, that morally this DECIUS was an excellent man, and was endued with many virtues and sufficiencies: he was very wise and discreet, and of great experience, and had held many offices and dignities before he attained to the Empire; which he obtained not by favour or any sinister means; but for his deserts and goodness: And so governed the same wisely and uprightly, with singular equity and authority. The like he did in the Empire, during the small time he enjoyed the same: and above all, he was a most politic, valiant and excellent Captain; so as he might justly have been numbered among the good Emperors, if he had not (as an infidel) persecuted the Church of God, and all Christians, with most barbarous cruelty; such, as the like thereof had never been seen: the which (as some writers affirm) he did of malice, and for the hatred which he bore against his predecessor the Emperor PHILIP, for that he was a Christian: And so in his time the Church of God suffered the seventh persecution. In such sort he persevered in his cruelty, staining therewith his other virtues, that he The seventh persecution of the church of God. crowned many with martyrdom; leaving to us examples of their holy and virtuous lives and end. This Emperor was borne in a City called Cabali in the lower Pannonia, which we call Hungary, and (as we have said) was of a very Noble and ancient Lineage. As soon as he saw himself an absolute Lord, through the desire he had to come to Rome, he made CORNELIUS LICINIUS VALERIANUS General of his mighty Army, who was a wise man and of great experience: so as for his good conditions, and his age, being threescore and six years old, he was of great authority, and to all men seemed most to be fit for that charge. When DECIUS was come to Rome, he shown himself in all things a very good Governor, and preserved the authority of the Senate; following their counsel in all matters of government. And among other things, he permitted them to choose a Censor at their pleasure, which was an ancient Magistracy of great authority; for his office was to correct the manners and customs, and to reform the abuses and disorders of the people, and therefore had supreme jurisdiction over all men: and this office, from the time that Rome came to be commanded by one head, the Emperors usurped, and made themselves Censors. Whereupon the Senate chose the said VALERIANUS for Censor, notwithstanding that he was absent; and, moreover, without Valerianus made Censor by the Senate. The Senate chose young Decius for Caesar, and his father's successor any request made by DECIUS, they nominated his son (whose name was also DECIUS) CAESAR, and his Successor. And so he lived in the City about one year, governing all things with great wisdom and equity, by the advice and consent of the Senate; to the great contentment of all the Roman people, excepting the Christian Commonwealth: against which, he (as a blind man) made general edicts and decrees; whereby he commanded them to be slain and persecuted, as EUSEBIUS writeth. And whereas the Goths, at this time invading Thracia and Misia, had subdued the greatest part of those Provinces, DECIUS determined in person to make head against them; and, carrying his son with him, he left the government in the hands of the Senate: and, levying new forces, he marched against the Goths; and, coming A battle between Decius and the Gothe●… where his Legions were, within few days after he joined battle with them: in the which although it were very doubtful, yet in the end he had the victory, and slew thirty thousand of them; constraining the rest to fly to the mountains and other places of hard access, not daring to come into the Plains; and he brought them to such extremity, as he had easily ruined them, if he had not been betrayed, as you shall hear. For, the King of the Goths sent him word, that if he would give him leave quietly to departed, he would abandon that Land, and return to his country. But the Emperor having taken the passages, imagining that he might easily kill them, or take them prisoners, and so punish their breach of peace granted them in the time of BALBINUS, would not yield to the King's request. Having brought them to such a straight as they could not escape out of his hands, he gave the charge to a notable Captain of his, whose name was TREBONIANUS GALLUS, being a Roman Gentleman & Governor of the frontiers of Misia, to keep certianes passages, through which the Goths might pass; and to that effect gave him the command of a great number of soldiers. Who, having a desire to make himself Emperor by such means as then were used, not only discharged his office wherein he was employed, very ill; but gave secret intelligence to the King of the Goths, that he would let him pass, advising him therewith to divide his Army into two parts; the one half Trebonianus Gallus betrayed Decius, and was the cause of his death▪ whereof he should lay in ambush, and with the other he should assault the Emperor's Camp, who mistrusted no such matter; and that, feigning fear, he should flee back, and draw the Emperor into his ambush, where he might in safety kill him. This contract being made, the effect followed, as writeth POMPONIUS LETUS: but JORNANDES relateth it after another manner. Yet all Authors agreed, that, through the treason of his Captain GALLUS, the Emperor DECIUS came to a battle with the Goths, to their great advantage: wherein notwithstanding A battle betwixt Decius and the Goths. that he and his soldiers fought most valiantly, yet both himself and his son therein ended their lives. JORNANDES writeth, that, before a man could well judge of the victory, the young DECIUS was so mortally wounded with an arrow, that he fell from his horse in sight of his father the Emperor; who with a loud voice called to his soldiers, willing them not be dismayed: for, the death of one Knight would be no hindrance to the Commonwealth, The gen●…rous speeches used by Decius, seeing his son mortally wounded fall to the ground. The miserable death of Decius neither to the battle. But in the end foreseeing his ruin, and that the Goths apparently had the victory; to the end he would not fall into his enemy's hands, he clapped his spurs to his horse, and (giving him the head) leapt into a deep lake of water that was thereby; wherein, through the weight of his armour, he was soon drowned: so as his body was never found. The Goths, following the victory, made great slaughter in the Roman Army, which was put to rout; and those which escaped fled to the Legions which TREBONIANUS GALLUS commanded, who as a confederate with the Goths, was in safety; and sought no revenge for the death of the Emperor. And in this manner ended the life and reign of the Emperor DECIUS, who had oftentimes deserved the same for the cruelties which he commanded to be executed upon the Christians, which happened in the year of our Saviour 254. and in the fiftieth year of his age, when he had reigned but two years. It is not known who was this Emperor's wife, An. Dom. 254. neither what his father and ancestors names were, or who they were; neither can we set down any particularities, as we have observed in the lives of other Emperors, for that no author maketh any mention thereof, and all writ very little of him. I say this, to the end that the reader may understand, that I will not presume to writ at large in a matter wherein I found such brevity used by authors: for I seek rather briefly to set down the naked truth, then to beautify the History with fictions, as I have seen some men do. My purpose from the beginning hath been to be brief: for I do not properly writ an History, but the sum and an abbridgment of Histories, containing the lives of the Emperors, whereof we will writ more largely when it shall seem more expedient; although that in the times whereof we now writ, Historiographers wrote so negligently, and observed so little order, as a man can hardly draw that little out of their writings which we treat of. THE LIFE OF TREBONIANUS GALLUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND ONE AND THIRTITH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE Goths having by the means above mentioned obtained this victory, wherein both DECIUS and his son died, those soldiers which thence escaped recovering GALLUS his Camp, hailed him Emperor, knowing nothing of the treason which he had committed: and he which desired nothing more, accepted the same, and took the Ensigns of the Empire. When the news of the death of DECIUS and of his son came to Rome, and of the slaughter made in the Roman Army (before that GALLUS his treason was discovered) the Senate understanding that the Army had chosen him for Emperor, and that his companies had rescued those which escaped from the battle, confirmed his election, and gave him the name and title of AUGUSTUS. But this GALLUS, notwithstanding that he was a Gentleman and descended of an honourable house, was not contented with A dishonourable peace made by Gallus with the Goths. the treason which he had used towards his Emperor and sovereign Lord, but through a desire to come to Rome, made peace with the Goths; the most shameful and dishonourable, that ever was made by any Roman since that Rome was first founded: for he promised to pay them yearly a great sum of money; making that people which was held for Lord of the world, and Subduer and Tamer of all other Nations, tributary to the barbarous: so as, to the end he might be called Emperor, he made both himself and the Empire tributary and subject to the Goths. Such power hath ambition and desire to reign, that men thereby make themselves slaves to some, conditionally that they may command and have authority over others. And he prospered as ill therewith as he had deserved: for, the Goths afterwards broke the peace, and did more harm in his time than in any Age before, sacking and spoiling the Provinces The Goths broke the peace made with Gallus. of Thracia, Misia, Thessalia, Macedonia, and the Confines and Frontiers thereof: for all which he took little care. And, on the other side, the Persians' in Asia, seeing the good success of the Goths, entered with great power into the Countries of Mesopotamia and Syria; which were provinces The Persians' entered the provinces of the empire of the Empire: and afterwards, passing forwards, they subdued Armenia. But GALLUS, taking no care for these things, made his son BOLUSSENUS his companion in the Empire, who was a very child. And afterwards he not only permitted the persecution inflicted by DECIUS upon the Christians, but increased the same. There began also in his time a most cruel general pestilence, whereof died an infinite number An universal plague in the time of Decius. of people; which began in Ethiopia in the Confines of Egypt, and from thence infected all parts of the world, and continued ten years. During which time (as PAULUS OROSIUS recounteth) there was no Province, no City, nor private house, which was not left in a manner desolate with this universal plague; whereof he compiled a Book, as EUSEBIUS and S. CYPRIAN bear record, who lived in those times. So as all the Reign of this wicked Emperor was infortunate and mournful; as well for the Provinces which he lost, as for the calamities before recited. Only he had one notable victory in the Province of Misia against the Goths, under the leading of EMILIANUS a Captain of his: where he slew many thousands Emilianus overthrew the Goths in a battle. of them, and followed the execution for certain days. This overthrow was the ruin and total destruction of GALLUS: for, EMILIANUS, waxing proud for so great a victory, and returning from it with an imagination of that which afterwards ensued, gave great gifts among his soldiers; and so, getting their love and good will, was chosen and sworn Emperor. Which when GALLUS understood, with all the haste he could make he parted from Rome with a Emilianus chosen Emperor. great Army, leading his son with him. Against whom EMILIANUS boldly came to a battle, and had the victory: wherein GALLUS and his son were both slain, and their soldiers went The Emperor Gallus and his son both slain in battle. to serve EMILIANUS. This happened in the year of our Lord 256; GALLUS being then (as testifieth AURELIUS VICTOR) at the age of seven and forty years, and in the second year of his most unhappy Reign. THE LIFE OF EMILIANUS, ONLY OF THIS NAME, AND TWO AND THIRTITH EMPEROR OF ROME. EMILIANUS succeeded GALLUS in the Empire. Some Authors accounted him not in the number of the Emperors, and show a reason for it, considering the small time that he held the same; which was rather in name than effect. But, seeing he was so, I have thought good to make particular relation of him, for as much as EUTROPIUS and other Authors have done the like. I say then, that the Emperor GALBUS being overthrown and slain, and EMILIANUS▪ remaining victorious; joining both Armies in one, he began to use the name and authority which was given him. But, seeing the time of his Reign was so short that it lasted not above four months, there can no worthy thing be written: for as his time was very brief, so do authors briefly writ. He was by birth an African, borne in the country The origine of Emilianus. of Mauritania, of base and obscure parentage, and from his youth was bred up in the wars: and as he increased in years, so did he in honour and offices. At length the Emperor DECIUS made him Captain General, and Governor of the frontiers and confines of Sarmatia; in which charge GALLUS left him, and there succeeded that which we have recited, which was to obtain a victory against the Goths, and to rebel against GALLUS; and afterwards to overthrew and kill both him & his son, and to make himself Emperor. When as these matters were ended he wrote with all speed to the Senate, giving them to understand of his victory and election, putting them also in mind of the negligence and evil government of GALLUS, and of the Provinces which the Roman Empire had lost in his time; promising very confidently to recover Thracia from the Goths, and Mesopotamia & Armenia from the Persians', and to clear all the confines of the Empire Large promises made by Emilianus. from their enemies: which his purpose as he would have put it in execution, he was prevented; for the Army which was in the Alpss (whereof VALERIANUS, a man of Noble birth and of great authority, was General) opposed, and in no case would allow the election of EMILIANUS, but rose against him, and chose their commander for Emperor. Which when EMILIANUS soldiers understood, moved with the reputation of VALERIANUS, which (as we will declare in his life) was very great, and to avoid civil wars; they resolved to confirm his election: and so in a manner by the Common consent of them all, EMILIANUS was slain, being 40 years old, Emilianus slain by his soldiers, & Valerianus made Emperor. when he had reigned little more than 3 months. All his troops went to serve VALERIANUS, to whom they swore, and obeyed him for their Lord and Emperor. And this was the end of the reign of EMILIANUS, because his end should be answerable to his beginning. And in truth, writing this discourse, and considering of the estate & condition of things in those times, I was moved with great admiration and pity, to think of the miseries of that age: for where there was such insolency and disorder, as soldiers did daily murder their Emperors, and choose others as they pleased, and no man sought to punish them, or to revenge the wrong; what shall a man think was done in particular provinces? what robberies, what rapines and outrages were there used? What execution of justice could that Emperor command to be done, which came to the Empire by treason, and kill his sovereign Lord? It is easy to be believed, that he would willingly pardonall Offences, upon condition that he might be obeyed; especially such as were committed by powerful and mighty men. And moreover, oftentimes the news of the election of an Emperor was scarcely published, and his election confirmed, before that the like news came, that he was slain by those which had chosen him, or by some other personage of more power. And it may be that it happened so unto them, for that they took no other care, nor busied themselves about aught else, but how they might support themselves in the Empire. And so the reader shall found that thirteen Emperors which preceded VALERIANUS, of which we will treat, died violent deaths; and none of them naturally, in his bed, beginning from the time of the good MARCUS AURELIUS, until this man. And so the same VALERIANUS, together with his son, & other Emperors also died by the sword. In the time that this VALERIANUS & GALIENUS reigned, there were thirty tyrants which usurped the name of Emperor, who kill one another, or plotting it by some other means, none of them died his natural death; so as, when one was proclaimed Emperor, he might be assured to come to an ill end; in such sort, that among all the miseries of those times, the greatest was, To be an Emperor: and the Emperors were such, and came to that dignity by such means, that by God's just judgement they made such ends. And though in all estates there were disorders and confusion (and so it appears by the histories of those times) yet only the holy faith and Christian doctrine increased, as well in virtue and holiness of life, as in number of people: but they escaped not free from persecution. This I thought good to note & observe in this place, thereby to show that men aught not so much to blame these times wherein we now live, as some have done; commending the customs of ancient times, diffaming and reproving all that passeth in our time. I deny not but we now are wicked and sinners: but let the discreet Reader make a comparison of the order now observed in all things, with the government of those times; and he shall clearly perceive the difference, and how fare this doth excel those times past. God grant that we may equal the good and happy times, in virtue. THE LIFE OF VALERIANUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND THREE AND THIRTITH EMPEROR OF ROME. WE have already declared, how that VALERIANUS was chosen Emperor, by the soldiers whereof he was General; and how that EMILIANUS was afterwards slain, by the hands of his own soldiers; and that all reduced themselves under the service of VALERIANUS; and that in this manner he was held for Emperor both in Rome, Valerianus favoured of all men. and abroad; with as great favour and good liking of all nations, as ever a●…y had been. VALERIANUS when he was chosen Emperor, was of great age: for all authors which writ of him affirm, that he was then fully three score and ten years old, which time he had spent with great honour and same both under good and bad Emperors, by means of his virtuous qualities and valour; and had attained to many dignities, and had held many magistracies and offices: among which, in the time of the Emperor DECIUS he was made Censor of Rome, and was highly honoured by the same DECIUS, and by all the Senate; and was also of a very Noble and ancient house and family. Finally, in all his life time before that he was Emperor, he was honoured and happy in all his doings; and so there was great hope that he should have repaired all the calamities and miseries of his time; which happened clean contrary: for after his joyful beginning, in all the rest of his age he was miserable and unfortunate. When he came to the Empire he had two sons, the one called GALIENUS, and the other (as himself) VALERIANUS, which he had by several women. TREBELLIUS POLLIO and others say, that VALERIANUS was but his nephew. His victory and election being known in Rome, and with great joy and gladness applauded; GALIENUS being there, was by the Senate and people chosen CAESAR, and his father's successor, as afterwards he was, as EUTROPIUS writeth: but SEXTUS AURELIUS Galienus made Caesar by the Senate. VICTOR saith, that his father made him AUGUSTUS, which was his equal and companion with him in the Empire: both the one and the other might well be. His second son VALERIANUS (as some say) was made CAESAR; and others name him not. VALERIANUS beginning to take upon him the government of the Empire, the first thing he did, was to nominate and appoint Captains (men of experience, and that had showed themselves valiant) chosen among many Noble men, which had served in the wars against the Parthians, the Persians', the Goths, and other northerly nations: and so he determined to go himself in person (and did so) to the wars of the East, against the Persians', which was most dangerous: for SAPOR K. of Persia had invaded & taken certain provinces of the Empire. There was also Corialus chosen Emperor by the consent of the King of Persia, and hi●… death. then in the East, one CORIALUS, an audacious man, and of great account, who by the consent of SAPOR K. of Persia, proclaimed himself Emperor, seizing on Caesarea, Antioch & other cities and places in the borders; but his prosperity soon ended: for his own people of malice & fearing VALERIANUS coming, slew him ere the Emperor arrived: who, EUSEBIUS saith, in the beginning of his Reign was so mild, and so great a friend to the Christians, that he suffered not any wrong or violence to be done unto them; but favoured and honoured them in so high degree, that his House and Palace was as a Church and Habitacle for them: but afterward, through the policy and persuasion of a Magician or Necromancer (who was an Egyptian born, an arrant cosener, and a notable Master in sorcery and witchcraft) he not only desisted from favouring them, but used extreme cruelty in all places wheresoever he found any of them; so as in his time was the ninth persecution of the Catholic Church, whereof PAULUS OROSIUS in his Histories maketh particular mention. For which sin it was supposed, that God plagued him with The ninth persecution of the Christians. the great miseries that befell him, which were; that He passing with a great Army into the East against SAPOR King of Persia, SAPOR, who was a man of great courage, and very mighty, came to encounter him; between whom it was supposed there would have been a very great battle: but it happened otherwise. For, the Emperor through the negligence, as some say, of the General of his Army who conducted it; but, as others say, through the treason and deceit of the same General, was set in a place without any sufficient guard: where being compassed about by SAPOR'S men of war, all the passages were taken; in such sort, that, being unable to Valerianus taken prisoner by Sapor King of the Persians'; and his usage. make any resistance, he was taken prisoner by SAPOR, who was a proud Barbarian: besides the other injuries which he used to the poor old imprisoned Emperor, every time he took horse he made him to stoop down; and he, setting his foot upon his neck, mounted on horseback. In this sorrowful bondage and misery lived this poor old man six or seven years: and his son GALIENUS took no care to procure his liberty; to the great shame and disgrace of the Imperial Majesty. This imprisonment of the Emperor was so much abhorred through the world, and SAPOR was so much blamed for the excessive cruelty which he used towards him, that not only those which were subject to the Roman Empire, but also the barbarous Kings which were friends to it, were greatly displeased therewith: so as presently, when they understood thereof, they wrote their Letters unto him, that he should freely without any ransom set him at liberty: of which Letters, TREBELLIUS POLLIO translateth one, which I will set down verbatim; whereby it may appear, how much the power of the Romans than was by them esteemed. BELSOLUS King of Kings, to King SAPOR, greeting. If I were assured that the Romans A Letter from King Belsolus to Sapor King of Persia. might at any time be wholly overcomn, I would rejoice with thee for the victory which thou hast obtained against them; whereof thou makest such vaunts, accounting thy particular good to be profitable for us all. But, seeing that through their fortune, or their force and virtue, that Nation is so mighty; consider and take good heed, that the taking of an old Emperor (and that through treachery) redound not to the ruin of thyself and thy successors: and consider how many people and nations the Romans, of enemies, have made subjects and vassals to their Empire; by which in former time they have been overcome. We have heard and know that in times past the Gauls overcame them, and that the great and mighty City of Rome was entered, yea and burned by them; and now it is manifest, that the same Gauls are subject to the Romans. And have not the Africans overthrown them sometimes? Yet at this day they are their subjects, and do serve them. I will not make mention of any more ancient and farther remote examples: only I will say, that MITHRIDATES, King of Pontus, was Lord of all Asia; and yet in the end was overthrown by them: and at this day all that part of Asia which he commanded, is subject to the Romans. If thou wilt follow my counsel, make benefit of the occasion which is offered thee, to obtain a perfect peace with them; which thou mayst do, by restoring VALERIANUS to his people. And so I conclude, that thou hast had great fortune: whereof I am glad if thou know how to use it. This is the contents of this Letter, and of others which he received from other Kings; which in effect do import the same. And the Bactrians, the Albanians, the Iberians, the Scythians of Mount Taurus, and other nations of the East, were so much displeased with the taking of VALERIANUS, that they would not receive the Letters wherein SAPOR wrote unto them of his victory: and so they sent their Ambassadors to the Captains of the Romans, offering them their aid and assistance for the delivery of the Emperor. But all availed not to mitigate the pride and presumption of that cruel King: for, all the time that VALERIANUS lived in his power, he used him worse than if he had been the basest slave in the world; and in the end (as EUSEBIUS writeth) having commanded his eyes to be pulled out, he died of age and sorrow in The death of Valerianus. prison. And AGATHUS (an Author of no small authority) writeth, that before he died, SAPOR caused him to be flaied alive: such was the pride and cruelty of this barbarous King. VALERIANUS died in the eight year after that he was chosen Emperor: and because that the most of the time he lived in prison, the rest of his reign they put to the account of his son GALIENUS, who was chosen Emperor at the same time with him. THE LIFE OF GALIENUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND FOUR AND THIRTITH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. VAlerianus being taken prisoner by the King of Persia, his son Galienus, in whose company he had ruled the Empire the space of seven years, neither made any preparation to revenge the wrong done to his father, neither took any care to redeem him from imprisonment with money or any other means: and so seeing himself alone in the Empire, wholly forgetting his father, leading a life no less careless than dishonest; spending his time in banqueting, bathe, lasciviousness, and in beholding sometimes bloody and cruel, and sometimes pleasant and ridiculous spectacles. This Emperor made so small account of his own honour; and was so careless of the Empire, as notwithstanding that he understood of the rebellion of many Provinces, and that many men were made Emperors, yet he seemed not to regard the same; alleging that he could live well ●…nough without them: In so much as a woman, Queen Zenobia, presumed to make head against him, and to defend herself against his Armies. Finally, going against Aureolus, who made himself prince of Slavonia, he was besieged in Milane, through the conspiracy of some which aspired to the Empire; and was slain in battle, when he had reigned eight years alone, and seven together with his father: whose death, although it was displeasing to his soldiers▪ was not much lamented by the Romans; who under his government had seen in a manner all the whole Empire reinated, together with his own greatness. WHen VALERIANUS was taken prisoner, his son GALIENUS was admitted for sole and absolute Emperor; although that in his father's time he was but AUGUSTUS. I have already declared how offensive the imprisonment of VALERIANUS was, and how that all the world surmised that GALIENUS would have employed all his power, for the liberty of his father, and to have been revenged of the injury done unto him: but he put no such matter in practice, for it was the lest part of his thought▪ so as it is to be presumed, and many were then of opinion, that he was rather glad that his father was a slave to the King of Persia, then otherwise: for by that means he was sole Lord of the Empire; which he commanded fifteen years: seven years in the life time of his father, although in prison; and the rest afterwards. The History of which Emperors, is the most confused and hardest to writ, of all that ever I have read or treated of for in the space of these fifteen years, there were more excellent men which took upon them th●…●…me of Emperors, or were so, although tyrants; then in three hundred years before, after that JULIUS CAESAR had opprossed the liberty of Rome. For, in the time of GALIENUS there were thirty Emperors chosen, and obeyed in divers places. In the time of Galienus were thirty Emperors in sundry parts. Let the discreet reader then consider, that where there happened so many accidents, which often came together, what order can be observed, but that there will be confusion and obscurity in the History: especially considering the brevity I am to observe; and having so little light from authors. For I say, that although many have treated of the life of this Emperor, yet no one hath written so plain & distinctly as he aught to have done: and besides this, in some thing●… the one writeth clean contrary to the other. Therefore I will use my best endeavour The author's excuse. to ●…ing this obscuri●…ie and confusion to light: wherewith let the Reader rest satisfied, seeing I cannot possibly do otherwise; except I should writ the matter very much at large: which were to disorder the whole, thereby to set one part in order. I say then, that in the reign and time of GALIENUS, there were greater wars and calamities, than the Romame Empire had eve●… 〈◊〉. ●…or VALERIANUS (as PAULUS OROSIUS noteth) having generally persecuted the Church in all places and parts under his subjection; it pleased God, as well in his own person, as in his ministers and officers, and in all those which therein were confederates, to use public and notable punishment in all parts, in the time of his son; and the greatest part thereof in his own time, living in captivity. And notwithstanding that GALIENUS as soon as 〈◊〉 alone swayed the sceptre of the Empire (as EUSEBIUS and OROSIUS testify) commanded the persecution inflicted upon the Christians to cease, sending his letters and edicts to all parts: yet as he did it as an Infidel, and for fear only, so the divine justice ceased not to punish the excessive cruelties passed, for a feigned present amendment. So as during the whole life time of GALIENUS, the Empire was usurped by diverse tyrants, which were called Emperors: only Italy and Rome continued firm to him. And in that time also, strange Nations entered and invaded the Empire with fire and sword; of one side the Germans came down into Italy, and passing the Alps came as fare as Ravenna: Harms done in the Empire by strange nations, in the time of Galienus. The Goths rob and spoiled all Pontus, and a great part of Asia the less; and in Europe all Graecia, Macedonia, and their confines: The Sarmates subdued and rob Austria and Hungary: The Germane passing through France entered Spain, to the city of Tarragona, which they ruined. The Persians' and Parthians, already possessing Mesopotamia, seized upon the greatest part of Syria. So as in conclusion all things went so to wrack, as all writers affirm, that the Roman Empire had then ended and come to confusion, had not those tyrants, which in many places rose and called themselves Emperors (some of which were very valiant and worthy men) helped to defend and pluck the Empire out of the hands of those strange Nations, as we will declare. And the Emperor to whom it belonged to provide for all things, although that in the beginning he made some good show of himself, performing some things as a valiant Captain, and overcame and slew INGENWS a wise and valiant Knight, which rebelled and was called Emperor, being Captain and governor of Hungary and Austria; and also fought a battle wherein he overcame the Goths, in which victories he used incredible cruelty, so as in one city he left no man living, of what age soever: Yet afterwards he gave himself so much to vice and sensuality, that when as the world was infested with wars and combustions, he continued the most part in Rome, taking his pleasure among whores and bawds, compassed about with roses and flowers; seeking new delights; oftentimes bathing himself; studying how he might keep figs and other fruits green all the year; and how they might last two or three years; having ordinarily at his table most exquisite and delicate meats, and of great cost. And in such manner he passed his time, that nothing troubled him, neither took he any care for the losses which daily ensued in the territories of his Empire. It is strange, To consider, that the Roman Empire at that time was not only molested with wars and persecutions by men, but even the very heavens and elements did seem to conspire, and to plague it: for TREBELLIUS POLLIO writeth, that the heavens were darkened in such so●… that for many day's space, Great harms done in sundry parts of the world in the time of Galienus, by Earthquakes and other fearful things. they never saw the Sun; and therewithal the earth did oftentimes shake in Rome, in all Italy, in Africa, and other countries: and with those Earthquakes, many great buildings fell down, and slew an infinite number of people. Principally in Asia many cities were destroyed, and the earth opened in many places, and shown great vaults and caves; and there sprang out at them great streams of salt water. And there were heard thunderings and roar in the bowels of the earth, without any thunder in the air, as is usual: whereat many were so amazed, as they died with fear. The Sea exceeded the bownds, and overflowed and drowned many cities; and many prodigious and wonderful things happened. After this followed the most cruel pestilence that ever was heard or written of: so as in Rome there died in one day thereof five thousand persons. For all which accidents GALIENUS took so little care, as though there had been no such matter. And when it was told him that the whole kingdom of Egypt rebelled against him, he answered; And what then? Cannot we live without the linen cloth of Egypt? Being advertised of the spoil and loss of other provinces, he answered so scornfully, that he seemed not to care for any thing: which was the occasion that so many tyrants made themselves Lords and Emperors in his time. Of which it shall not be amiss to say something, seethat we have showed the life and conditions of GALIENUS, and of his reign; to the end that his history may be the better understood. If I should speak of them all at large, and describe their parentage, and all their acts; it would be an endless work: for (as I said) they were in all, thirty. But let the reader understand, that all the accidents and occurrences cannot be set down in order as they passed: for they were so many, and happened in so many places, and many of them at one instant, that it would be impossible to be well understood, if I should observe the order of the time, wherein every thing happened: for to speak of one matter I must leave another; so as the history would be abrupt and very confused. And therefore we will begin with those matters which happened in the East; and when we have briefly given notice thereof, we will pass to other parts. Wherhfore let him that shall read it understand, that many of these things came to pass at one instant; and sometime before those which are treated of. VALERIANUS then (as we said in the beginning) being taken prisoner, and his son using no industry to set his father at liberty, the soldiers and Captains which remained in the East, went dispersed and scattered with great sorrow for the disgrace they had received; greatly offended with the carelessness of GALIENUS. Wherhfore BALISTA, who was Perfect and General of VALERIANUS Army, an excellent man of war, very sufficient, and diligent in making provision for the Army, and in all other things requisite for the wars; and another singular Captain of great experience and age, who was of greatest estimation of any man of his time, whose name was MACRINUS, assembling the Roman Legions and cohorts together; with the consent and good liking of them all, they agreed to choose an Emperor, to defend and preserve the bounds of the Empire, to recover what was lost, and to set VALERIANUS (if possible) at liberty; seeing that GALIENUS took no care thereof. And after long consultation between BALISTA and MACRINUS, in the end MACRINUS was chosen and obeyed for Emperor; and with him his two sons, the one named. MACRINUS, and Macrinus made Emperor, in the East, together with his two sons. the other QVIETUS, were made his companions in the Empire: and he presently made BALISTA Perfect or General of his Army. When MACRINUS saw himself an Emperor and mighty by reason of the Armies in the East, which he speedily drew together and put in good order; he marched with them to the confines of Persia, and in some battles stayed their insolences by reason of their former victories. But standing in fear of a valiant Captain whose name was VALENS, who was Proconsul in the province of Achaia in Graecia; he sent against him a great Army under the command of PISO, who had been Consul, and was a Noble and valiant gentleman, to seize on that country, and thence to pass into Italy. When VALENS understood thereof, to the end he might be of greater authority and power, he caused himself Valens made himself to be chosen Emperor. to be chosen Emperor, and took the ornaments and ensigns of the Empire: wherewith he drew so many men unto him, that PISO was driven to retire with his troops into Thessalia, and there was overthrown and slain by such as VALENS sent against him; PISO having Piso slain by Valens his soldiers. first proclaimed himself Emperor, using the same policy which his enemy had done. But VALENS did not long enjoy this victory; for within few days after, he himself was slain by his own soldiers. And MACRINUS, who reigned Emperor in the East, having notice Valens slain by his own soldiers. what had passed concerning VALENS and PISO, not contenting himself with that which he held, determined with a great Army to go to Rome, to ruin the Emperor GALIENUS (if he were able) and other tyrants which rebelled; leaving behind him QVIETUS one of his sons, and with him BALISTA, with certain troops of his best soldiers, for fear of ODENATUS, of whom we will speak hereafter. He began his journey with five and forty thousand good men of war: and marching over land through Asia the less, passing the straits of Constantinople, he entered into Thracia. But before all this, there arose another tyrant in Slavonia and Dalmatia, whose name was AUREOLUS, and was commander of those men of war, which for the Empire were in those quarters, who (as some say) against his will, was constrained by his soldiers to take upon him the state and ensigns of the Empire. So as it appeareth, Aureolus Emperor in Dalmalia. that in that small time, every one held himself sufficient to be an Emperor; and that Army which made none, was held to be of little worth and of no reputation: but truly the world paid them their due; for none of them died of their natural death, and most of them were slain by those which chose them. MACRINUS being to pass with his Army through those countries which were in subjection to AUREOLUS; as both of them sought to be sovereign Lords, they fell at variance, and MACRINUS fought a battle with AUREOLUS his forces, A battle between Macrinus and Aureolus, wherein Macrinus was slain. whereof an excellent man called DOMICIANUS was General: wherein MACRINUS and his son were overcome and slain, there ending their high dessignes and great power: But before he fought this battle (in his way passing through the province of Achaia) he overthrew the Goths, who had made great spoil and slaughter in the lands of the Empire: whereupon they retired, and a little withdrew themselves. And of MACRINUS his soldiers which escaped from the battle, 30000. went over to AUREOLUS; and so where AUREOLUS thought he should have lost, from thence arose his gain. Which news when the lawful Emperor GALIENUS understood in Rome, finding himself too weak to subdue AUREOLUS, he made with him a kind of league and peace, thereby to end the wars which he had begun A peat made by Galienus with Aureolus. against POSTHUMUS, another great Captain who rebelled in France, and was called Emperor: of whom (although this be his place) we will speak hereafter, first to make an end of Posthumus Emperor in France. the troubles in the East, notwithstanding that in all parts of the Empire there were tyrants; neither can we make an end of AUREOLUS, because he outlived GALIENUS, and died in the time of his successor CLAUDIUS. I say then, that in the East there was an excellent man, whose name was ODENATUS, who was Prince and Captain of a certain people called Palmerini, inhabiting a province in Syria, who seeing all things out of order (as all the rest did) sought to make himself absolute, and in the beginning (as writeth TREBELLIUS POLLIO) had the title of a King: but afterwards things succeeding prosperously, he took upon him the name and state of an Emperor, imparting the title and dignity with HERODE the eldest of three sons which he had by his first wife. This his tyranny was both honourable and Odenatus taketh the name of Emperor. profitable to the Roman Empire: for he performed many notable exploits against SAPOR King of Persia, who held VALERIANUS prisoner: so as saving the setting of his person at liberty (for that could not be done) in all the rest he got sufficient satisfaction for that which was lost, and recovered what SAPOR had usurped. For, raising many troops of excellent good soldiers, he gave him many battles, in which he got the victory, recovered all Mesopotamia, and the noble cities of Nisibe and Carras, and compelled King SAPOR to fly (having first The prowess of Odenatus. overthrown him) and taking his wives, his treasure and riches, he marched to the city of Tesiphonte, and had other great adventures and victories. But for as much as his chiefest purpose was against MACRINUS and his sons, he sent a great present of the jewels and prisoners which he had taken from the Persians', to the Emperor GALIENUS: and GALIENUS was so inconstant and so base minded, as he not only accepted the presents, but confirmed his election, giving him the name of AVOUSTUS and his companion in the Empire, and he triumphed in Rome for the victory which the other had obtained in Asia. While as ODENATUS got these Odenatus accepted by Galienus for his companion in the Empire. victories in the East, other great multitudes of Goths (besides those which were already entered by Thracia into Graecia and into Europe) came down into Asia the less, and so in Bythinia, burning and spoiling the countries. When ODENATUS understood of the death of MACRINUS and of his son, (as I have declared) he presently resolved to march against QVIETUS, who was his other son, whom he had left in the East with BALISTA the Perfect of his Army, when he was proclaimed Emperor. And this journey proving so prosperous to ODENATUS as the rest had done, with little difficulty he got QVIETUS into his power, and caused him to be slain, and afterwards did the like to BALISTA. And although that some say, BALISTA was consenting to the death of QVIETUS, and that afterwards he attempted to make himself Emperor; yet all agreed that he was put to death by ODENATUS: and in this manner remained he without any contradiction Lord of all the Provinces of the East, and valiantly warred against the Persians'. He had two other sons, the one called HERENNIANUS, and the other TIMOLAUS by his second wife ZENOBIA, the most manly and valiant woman that ever was in the World. ODENATUS living in this prosperity feared of all the Princes of the world, it happened that a cousin german of his, whose name was MEONIUS, practised his death in hope to have had the Empire of the East after him, and used such means that ODENATUS and HERODE, Odenatus and his eldest son brought to their end through the treason of his cousin german Meonius. his eldest son (who by his father's order was also called Emperor) were both found dead: and MEONIUS the traitor and murderer, as he was wickedly moved to kill ODENATUS; so it pleased God to permit him to be slain in the like manner, who was within few days after put to death by the same soldiers which holp him to execute his treason, being a man which no way deserved the Empire, except by being of kin to ODENATUS: for he was a most vile and wicked man. ZENOBIA, ODENATUS wife, remaining with her two young sons a widow (seeming rather to have need of a tutor and governor, then to be able to rule and govern others) with courage and judgement more than manly began to rule, and carried herself therein with such wisdom and valour, as is incredible: and to the great disgrace The valour of Zenobia. of GALIENUS in his life time, and of CLAUDIUS his successor, she possessed the Empire of the East many years, on the one side making war against the Persians', and on the other defending herself against the Roman Emperors. The virtues and noble acts of this woman were so many, that I would I had longer time to describe them: but because they require a particular history, we will with our wont pace hold on our way; wherein of force we must return to meet with her, because that she lived in her prosperity until the time of the Emperor AURELIANUS, of whom we are to treat hereafter, where we will speak of her fall and end, if God permit. But to the end that the excellencies and virtues of this woman may be the The stature and beauty of Zenobia. better known, seeing we recite not her acts, I say first that ZENOBIA was of an excellent good constitution of body, and was exceedingly fair and beautiful, not very white, but somewhat brown. Her eyes were great and black, very clear and bright, and in all parts of her body she was proportionable. And as she was very beautiful and amiable, so had she an honest countenance, and had such white and bright teeth, that they rather resembled pearls than teeth. Her voice was clear, but sounding deep more like a man then a woman. Herewith she was most honest and continent, and would neverly with her husband after that she was conceived The chastity of Zenobia. Her learning. with child; neither twice, until that by natural signs she knew whether she had conceived or no. She was very wise, and learned, and spoke the Latin, Greek, and Egyptian tongues perfectly, and was very liberal and temperate in all things; somewhat severe, and yet Her moderation in her diet. pitiful. In her diet she was most temperate: but yet when she invited any guests, she would a little exceed, more to please others, then for any natural desire. She was served very ceremoniouslie, and with great honour, after the custom of the Kings of Persia. When she made any speech to her soldiers, or sat in council among them, she came armed Zenobia delighted 〈◊〉 hunting. with a cask upon her head, and road in the like manner. She delighted much in hunting, and did other things showing strength and courage, as though she had been a valiant and gallant Knight. She vaunted much that she descended from CLEOPATRA, and from the PROLOMYES', Kings of Egypt; and she said, that she also descended by another line from great SEMIRAMIS Queen of Babylon. By means of this her prowess and valour, she held the Empire of the East, and was calldd AUGUSTA, the space of many years. As for her two sons HERENNIANUS and TIMOLAUS, I found not written what their end was, but only that they had the habit and ensigns of Emperors, and are reckoned in the number of the tyrants of those Herennianus and Timolaus called Emperors. times. TREBELLIUS POLLIO writeth, that the Emperor AURELIANUS caused them to be slain. Others affirm, they died of their natural death. When as the Emperor GALIENUS (being in Rome) understood of the death of ODENATUS, thinking to make a better hand against ZENOBIA, he commanded soldiers to be levied, and to be sent into the East Heraclianus overthrown by Zenobias forces. against her and the Persians', and sent with them a Captain whose name was HERACLIANUS; who with his troops was overthrown by ZENOBIAS forces. The Goths also in those times made another incursion into Asia the less, sailing through the sea called Mare Euxinum, and were overcome by ATHENUS and CLEOPHANUS, Captains sent by GALIENUS: but yet for all that, they made great spoil in those coasts, and were also again overcome by sea, by another Captain called VENERIANUS; and so that nation did much harm in the confines of the Empire, although that sometime they were overthrown. About this time there was in the kingdom of Egypt another Captain of certain companies of Romans, whose name was EMILIANUS, who after some tumults which happened there did as he saw others do, and proclaimed himself Emperor, and with great courage and audacity seized on that most ancient kingdom. But as these buildings had but weak foundations, so small force and a little foul weather overthrew them, which was in this manner. GALIENUS (notwithstanding that he was careless and negligent) sent from Rome against him a Captain called THEODATUS; who took such a course, that, EMILIANUS friends failing him, he was apprehended by THEODATUS, and afterwards put to death in prison. I presume, that the Reader will imagine me to be very tedious in writing the life of this Emperor, The Author's excuse. seeing he was so remiss and negligent; having briefly written the lives of others which were good and excellent. But, if he shall consider, that in this History are comprehended the lives of thirty Tyrants (whereof many did better deserve to have been Emperors, than GALIENUS) he shall have greater reason to accuse me of brevity, than of being too tedious. But, to avoid the breach of order, I will be as brief as possibly I may. While matters passed in the East in this manner, the other Provinces of the Empire were neither in rest nor peace: but rather there was not any of them wherein were not wars, battles, and tyrants which called themselves Emperors; the right Emperor GALIENUS solacing himself in Rome, contented with Italy, which only obeyed him in peace. The rest sometimes obeyed him, and sometimes they denied him their obedience: and he, taking no care to find any redress, sent only certain Captains which did something; whereof we will say somewhat. In this general combustion Africa forbore not to make some alteration, although not so much as other Provinces did: for, at that time there was for Captain-generall thereof, a Roman Knight called FABIUS POMPONIANUS; and for Proconsul and Governor, another, whose name was VIWS PASSIENUS; who, for that they would have an Emperor of their own making, agreed to choose and nominate a Tribune whose name was CELSUS, a man much esteemed and commended as well for his excellent good carriage, as for his virtue Celsus made Emperor in Africa, and put to death by a woman. and justice, and also for his personage: for, he was exceeding tall of stature, and of an excellent good constitution. Having effected their purpose, the poor man's majesty lasted but seven days: for, he was put to death by the order of a woman dwelling in those Countries, who was a kniswoman to the Emperor GALIENUS, whose name was GALIENA: and, after he was dead, they shown extreme cruelty to his body. After whom, I find not that any man rebelled against GALIENUS in Africa: yet great and many scandals, and much trouble, ensued in that Country. While these things passed in the places aforenamed, in Hungary, and the marches thereof, there was a Captain of the Armies in Dalmatia and Slavonia, called REGILIANUS, which rebelled; and, with the consent and good will of the Inhabitants of those Provinces, he was proclaimed Regilianus called Emperor in Hungary and Dalmatia. Emperor: for, they were greatly incensed against GALIENUS for the cruelties by him used in those Countries, when he overcame EUGENIUS; who in the beginning (we say) had rebelled in that Country, and been overthrown and slain by GALIENUS. Truly, it is a troublesome piece of work, To make relation of all the Tyrants; and it is as strange a thing to consider, that of all the Captains that VALERIANUS, father to GALIENUS, made, there was not any one of them but in the time of GALIENUS was called Emperor; wherein they shown little loyalty to their Country and their Lord: but it was grown to a custom so to do; so as they seemed to have right of inheritance. Nevertheless, it argued the great judgement of VALERIANUS, in choosing for his Captain's men of so great courage and valour. There were also, besides these Captains, others, who in this confusion of the Empire were called Emperors: among which was one TITUS a worthy man, who in the time of MAXIMINUS had been Tribune; but he continued with this title but six months: for, the same soldiers Titus' made Emperor by his soldiers, and slain by the same which had elected him, slew him. And in the same manner began and ended CENSORINUS; a man which had been Consul, and had held other offices and dignities. And another Captain, called TREBELLIANUS, was chosen and proclaimed Emperor by the Ysauris, Censorinus began and ended in the same manner. which are a people inhabiting the mountains, bordering upon Cilicia in Asia the less; who many times governed those Quarters: against whom, GALIENUS sent a Captain called GAUSISOLEUS, born in Egypt. Between which two was fought a terrible battle; wherein TREBELLIANUS was overthrown and slain. Yet, for all this, the Ysauri continued not in peace; but rebelled many times afterwards, more for that their Country was of hard access, than for the valour or virtue of the Inhabitants. And, to make a conclusion, let us writ of those which in France, and the marches thereof, were called Emperors, from the time of the imprisonment of VALERIANUS, until the death of his son GALIENUS: which of purpose I have left till the last, because in those wars GALIENUS employed himself, and finally therein ended his days. There was for Captain-generall of the Armies in the Provinces of France, an excellent and valiant man, whose name was POSTHUMUS, of whom (speaking of the Tyrant AUREOLUS) we made mention; whom VALERIANUS did highly honour and esteem: and for that cause his son GALLIENUS held him in great reputation, and as soon as he came to the Empire, he sent him his son SALONINUS, whom he entitled CAESAR, to be brought up and instructed by him: But afterwards seeing the neglect and ill government of his father GALIENUS (forgetting the loyalty which he aught to his sovereign Lord) putting the son to death, he sought to get the Empire for himself. Yet others writ, that he was provoked and compelled by the inhabitants of that Country (which hated GALIENUS) to accept the name of Emperor; and that they slew SALONINUS, scorning to have a boy for their Lord But howsoever it was, POSTHUMUS with great courage and discretion Saloninus son of Galienus put to death by Posthumus who also was called Emperor. made himself Lord of all France; and so governed the same for the space of seven years, defending it valiantly, and obtaining many great victories against the Barbarians and northern nations, which continually invaded it and made in cursions. Against POSTHUMUS, GALIENUS levied an Army, for that he was so near to Italy: and notwithstanding that he was vicious and careless, yet he wanted ●…ot sufficient courage for the wars; if he would have followed them, as he did his pleasures and ease. He went against POSTHUMUS, having with him for General of his Army, a Noble man called THEODOTUS; and also another called CLAUDIUS, who was a man of great probity and virtue, and was afterwards Emperor. Being come before a City wherein POSTHUMUS was, the Frenchmen did not only defend him, and the City, showing great courage and love; but the Emperor GALIENUS in a skirmish was wounded with an Arrow, by means whereof he was constrained to raise his siege. And holding this for a very doubtful war, he made peace with AUREOLUS, who at that time was called Emperor in Slavonia. But that was not sufficient to defeat POSTHUMUS: for he was supported by VICTORINUS, who was an excellent Captain, and a young man, whom POSTHUMUS made his companion in his Empire; with whose aid and diligence (although that most commonly his side was overthrown) he defended himself and prolonged the wars many days; having sometimes prosperous and sometimes adnerse fortune. GALIENUS returning to Rome, as if he had left all in peace, entered in great triumph, giving himself over to his old course of life and accustomed pleasures; whither daily news were brought unto him (besides the strange Nations which molested the Empire) of captains and other notable men which entitled themselves Emperors: whereof his wickedness was the occasion, being hated and scorned for his little care and stupidity; which are things which make wicked men audacious; and give good men hope and means to seek redress. POSTHUMUS living all this time (as I said) in great prosperity, together with his son of his own name whom he entitled CAESAR, and afterwards Emperor, and his companion in his Empire; he governed with great justice and severity. But the Frenchmen, desirous of innovations, rebelled against him and chose for Emperor a Captain whose name was LOLIANUS, The French rebelled against Posthumus, & in his place chose Lolianus. Posthumus & his son slain in the war against Lolianus a man of good sort, very valiant and of great experience: and these two, warring one against the other, POSTHUMUS and his son were slain by him and them; and so he was paid for the treason which he committed against GALIENUS. And LOLIANUS remaining Emperor in those parts, notwithstanding that he was very valiant and of great power, yet he could never attain to that authority which POSTHUMUS had; as well for that he was not chosen by common consent, as for that VICTORINUS, whom (as we have said) POSTHUMUS proclaimed Emperor and his companion, held a great part of the country and was called Emperor. This VICTORINUS was a woman's son, whose name was VICTORIA or VICTORINA; which was so valiant and manly, and so desirous to reign, that she was therefore called mother of Armies, and VICEORINUS was altogether ruled by her counsel; and she afterwards after the death of her son, took upon her to make an Emperor of her choosing: so great was her mind and policy. VICTORINUS with the favour and reputation of his mother, made resistance against LOLIANUS the new Emperor, which slew POSTHUMUS, so as VICTORIANUS obtained a victory against LOLIANUS and slew him; and remained sole Lord, together with his mother whom he called AVOUSTA. To say the truth, VICTORIANUS was an excellent and valiant Prince; yet luxurious, and therefore reigned but a little: for by the treason of a soldier (from whom he had taken his wife) he was slain in the City of Agrippina, now called Colleine in Germany: which when his mother understood, with the aid and assistance of some of her friends she proclaimed her nephew VICTORINUS Emperor, who was the same VICTORINUS son. But the fury of the men of war was such, as they presently slew the son as they had done the father. Yet for all this, VICTORINA gave not over her desire to rule and command: for by the means of her friends and favourites▪ she persuaded TETRICUS, a Senator of Rome, who had a certain government in France, to proclaim himself Emperor, and his son CAESAR; which he did, and proved an exeellent and valiant Prince, and made Tetricu●… chosen Emperor by the means of Victorina. himself Lord of all France, and of the greatest part of Spain, obtaining some victories against the Northerly nations: whose reign continued long, even until the time of AURELIANUS. The right Emperor GALIENUS enjoyed Rome and all Italy; which never forsook him: and the other tyrants (by turns) the one destroyed the other▪ or else were slain by their own soldiers. I guess that I have very near treated of all the tyrants, except of one whose name was SATURNINUS, and of another called MARIUS. Of SATURNINUS I say, that the soldiers Saturninus and Marius called Emperors, the one was slain presently, and the other reigned 〈◊〉 days. which chose him, presently bereft him of his life: and MARIUS his Empire lasted but seven days. Through all parts and provinces of the Empire there were committed infinite murders, robberies, violences, insolences, and all kind of cruelties, tyrannies and treasons, with famine, pestilence, and other miseries and calamities, seldom heard of, but in the time of this GALIENUS; and the greatest part thereof caused through his vice, cruelty, and negligence: and so it pleased God that he had the like end as other evil Emperors had; which was complotted in this manner. A great Captain (whereof the wars produce abundance) called MARTIANUS, compounding with another called HERACLIANUS, and one other whose name was A conspiracy against Galienus. CERONIUS, determined to kill GALIENUS, to the end that one of them might have the Empire; either of them pretending that they did it for the general good of the Empire. And having laid their plot, they presently put it in execution: for it happened that GALIENUS went from Rome with a great Army against AUREOLUS, who (as we have said) was called Emperor: and they two had been companions in the Empire. But afterwards falling at variance, AUREOLUS took the city of Milan; and GALIENUS having besieged it, MARTIANUS and the other traitors, which had agreed with AUREOLUS, feigned that the said AUREOLUS was making a salie, and came to charge that place where GALIENUS was: whereupon he with greater haste then good speed, went from his lodging smally accompanied; but before that the rest of the Army could come together, he was slain by those which came with him, together with a brother of his, whose name was VALERIANUS. And so GALIENUS Galienus and his brother Valerianus slain. ended both his life and reign, when as the Empire was little less than rend in pieces and usurped by foreign nations: for the Goths and Scythians held a great part of Thracia, and of Macedonia in Europe, and some provinces in Asia. ZENOBIA reigned and ruled all in the East: and in France and part of Germany, TETRICUS and VICTORINUS: and in Slavonia and Illyricum, AUREOLUS, who was besieged in Milan; and so all the rest lived, part under the obedience of GALIENUS, and part under tyrants. The soldiers of his Army were greatly offended with his death: for they hoped to have had the sacking and spoil of that city; so as MARTIANUS and his companions were driven to satisfy them with ready money: but none of those conspirators could attain to the desired title of Emperor. This happened in the year of our Saviour JESUS CHRIST 271, after EUSEBIUS, in the fifteenth year of the reign of GALIENUS. THE LIFE OF CLAUDIUS THE SECOND, AND FIVE AND THIRTITH EMPEROR of ROME. JAM now freed from no small labour, having finished howsoever the life of GALIENUS; whose history is confused and out of order, and by authors written obscurely, as it appeareth: which being ended, I come now to relate the life of CLAUDIUS the second, who was one of the most virtuous and valiant Princes that ever was in the world. As soon as the Emperor GALIENUS was dead, the Soldiers of his Army were so displeased, as neither MARTIANUS nor any of those which conspired with him in his treason, could or durst take upon him the name of Emperor; but rather by the common consent of all men, CLAUDIUS who came thither with GALIENUS, one of the most excellent Captains of them all, as well for his bounty and virtues, as for the worthiness of his person, and the great and notable services which he had done in former times, was chosen Emperor. It cannot distinctly be set down of what lineage or country he was: for some affirm, that he was born in Dalmatia; and was descended of an ancient family: others say, that he was of Dardania, and descended from the blood of the Troyans': and some (as AURELIUS VICTOR saith) affirmed, that he was the son of the Emperor GORDIANUS. He was a very tall man of person, his eyes were clear and bright, and he had a The stature and strength of Claudius. great and full face, and was very strong and of marvelous ●…orce: so as in wrestling and other exercises, which young men did use, he ever won the prize; he was also virtuous, and had excellent good parts. He was very chaste and continent, temperate, just and upright, both before that he was Emperor, and in the time of his reign. He dearly loved his friends and kinsmen, and greatly honoured strangers. He hated the evil, and severely punished them; and was an extreme enemy to unjust judges. He made excellent laws and ordinances, and in very short time reform the Commonwealth: so as when he died, it seemed to be another world. Before that he was Emperor, he did many noble feats of Arms in the service of GALIENUS, against POSTHUMUS in France, and against the Goths in many parts, and likewise in other wars. Wherhfore he was worthily chosen by all men to the dignity of the Empire. For which occasion, as soon as his election was known in Rome, the joy was great which was conceived thereat by all estates: and they confirmed his election, with great applauses and bessings of the Senate. When CLAUDIUS was invested in the Empire, he governed the same with so great wisdom and courage, as in a good Prince was requisite. The first enterprise he had being Emperor, was against AUREOLUS, who (as we said) was in Milan. Who, understanof the death of GALIENUS, fortified himself in such sort, as he made accounted to have remained sole and absolute Emperor. But CLAUDIUS, having reinforced his Army, fought many battles with him; amongst which, in one which was very famous, he obtained the victory The victory of Claudius against Aureolus. worthily, fight therein most valiantly. Whereupon AUREOLUS retired into Milan, and from thence sought to come to some composition with CLAUDIUS, as he had done with GALIENUS: but CLAUDIUS, as a virtuous and victorious Prince, would not hear of any agreement with a tyrant; but answered, That such demands might well have been made to GALIENUS, who could have endured AUREOLUS his conditions, and stood in fear of him: but of him he was not to expect any unjust or unlawful matter. AUREOLUS was afterwards slain, as some say, by his own soldiers; and as others say, by CLAUDIUS his commandment, fight at the foot of a bridge. But wheresoever, CLAUDIUS become Lord The death of Aureolus. of his Army, and of all the countries which he held: and going with this victory to Rome, he was there received with great tiumph and feasting; where he settled the affairs of the Empire in such sort, as could not be bettered: he did nothing without the consent of the Senate. And his goodness coming to be known, he was obeyed in all parts of the Empire, saving in such as were usurped by tyrants and barbarous nations. And as all his study and care was, how he might restore the Empire to her former liberty, and to recover what was lost, exposing his person to all kinds of dangers; it was debated in the Senate, and that very doubtfully and with diverse opinions, what war was first to be undertaken, and whether he should go against THTRICUS and VICTORINA, which held France and Spain; or into the East against ZENOBIA; or else against the Goths and other nations, which also usurped and infested sundry parts of the Empire. But the good Emperor CLAUDIUS soon resolved them of that doubt, saying; That the first war that he would undertake should be against the Goths, and other barbarous Nations, for they were enemies to the Commonwealth; but as for the Tyrants they were enemies to him only: wherefore, he was bound to revenge a public wrong before a private injury. This his resolution being approved by the Senate and people of Rome, he with all possible After su●…drie arguments Claudius prepared himself to go against the Goths. diligence raised the greatest Army that ever was levied by any Emperor for such a war; and truly he could not well have had any less, considering the present necessity: for the Goths (as JORNANDES in the acts of the Goths, and PAULUS OROSIUS, and others do writ) had for the space of fifteen years usurped many parts of the Empire, and had destroyed many Cities; amongst which some were very great, and of special note. And notwithstanding that by MACRINUS, and by CORNELIUS AVITUS, and in one place by the same CLAUDIUS in the time of GALIENUS, they had been sometimes defeated and overthrown; yet nevertheless they still held all Thracia, and in a manner all Macedonia and other provinces. At such time as CLAUDIUS resolved to make war against the Goths, they through their greedy desire of spoil and booty, and for revenge of some battles which they had lost, believing that CLAUDIUS would be sufficiently busied in warring against TETRICU●… and other Tyrants, moved many northerly people and Nations to come against the Romans. Whereupon they joined themselves with the Heruli, Trutangi, Virtungi, and other Nations, New commotions made by the Goths. exceeding, in all, the number of three hundred thousand fight men besides servants and disarmed people: and taking their way through Hungary, and down the Danubie, they freighted two thousand Barks and Ships with men and munition. Some are of opinion (as I say) that this Fleet came down the Danubie; and others affirm, that this was a Fleet that the Goths had by Sea: ancient Authors wrote it so confusedly, as I continued of my first opinion, that the Goths were never mighty by Sea, neither then, nor at any time before. In conclusion, they brought so many men, and so great store of Arms and victuals, as they made the whole Empire to quake for fear; only the invincible Emperor was not dismayed, but with a gallant Army marched against them: and being ready to come to blows with them, he wrote a brief Letter to the Senate, wherein he shown the great difficulty and danger wherein he was; and yet wanted not courage to assault his enemies, the effect whereof was this: Fathers conscript, I do give you to understand, and hold it for certain, that into the Claudius' his Letter to the Senate of Rome. bowndes of the Roman Empire are entered three hundred and twenty thousand men of war; I go to fight with them; if I overcome them, it is reason that you give me such thanks and reward as such a deed shall deserve. But if it happen otherwise, consider I pray you that I fight after that. GALI●…NUS hath reigned, the commonwealth being rend in pieces, and almost ruinated, and that I shall fight after the tyrannies and rebellions of EUGENIUS, REGILIANUS, LOLIANUS, POSTHUMUS, CELSUS, and many others, which in contempt of GALIENUS rebelled against their country and commonwealth. And we may well say that we now have neither whole sword nor lance: for France and Spain which are the sinews and strength of the Empire, are usurped by TETRICUS, and the crossbows and archers (although it be a shame to speak it) ZENOBIA hath them all: so as having such want of all things necessary, whatsoever small matter shall be by us performed, is to be reputed great. Notwithstanding all these difficulties, CLAUDIUS led with him an excellent and well governed Army: and by his wisdom and good direction, coming to a battle, the Goths A most noble victory obtained by Claudius against the Goths. were overthrown, and an incredible slaughter made of them. This was one of the most noble victories that ever was gotten, wherein there was a great number of enemies slain and taken prisoners, and great abundance of spoil taken by the soldiers: Insomuch as the same CLAUDIUS in a letter (extant to this day) sent by him to JUNIUS ●…ROCHUS, writeth, that he had slain, taken, and put to flight three hundred thousand men, and taken two thousand ships: so as the houses were filled (almost to the tops) with swords, lances, shields and targets of the subdued: and the banks of rivers, the seashore and the fields were full of bones, and the ways covered with the dead carcases of the enemies. For this victory there was conceived great joy in Rome: and for that cause they made many vows and supplications to their gods. In this battle were taken many barbarous Kings, and other men of great account; and there were so many prisoners, as there was neither province nor city wherein were not many slaves of that nation. After this victory in Thracia near to Constantinople, and in Macedonia near to the city of Thessalonica, CLAUDIUS his Captains fought sundry battles with the Goths which were possessed of those cities: in all which, through his good fortune, his enemies were overcome, in such sort, as he restored to the Roman Empire all that which they had usurped; so as the Goths were wholly driven out, and in long time after durst not hold up their heads. Likewise this most valiant Prince (as EUTROPIUS and AURELIUS VICTOR report) had another Claudius. his victory against the Germans. very notable victory against the Germans, near to a Lake called Venacus (now Garda) the enemy being little less than two hundred thousand strong: so as having freed the Empire from strangers, and meaning to have gone against TETRICUS and ZENOBIA, or against some other tyrants remaining, it happened that the good Emperor fell sick in such sort, that (as TREBELLIUS POLLIO saith) within few days after he died of his natural death; a thing The death of Claudius. which I most desire to see in an Emperor, which seldom happeneth but in such as are good and just, as this Emperor was. When he died he ●…ad reigned only two years, and for his death (except TETRICUS and ZENO●…IA) all were very sorry: which happened in the year of our Lord 27●…. and by a decree made by the Senate, he was horoured with all kind of honour, and placed in the number of the gods. His statue made of gold was set up in the Capitol, and his target of gold was set in the Senate. Truly they did in with great reason: for considering his high attempes in the beginning, without all doubt if it had pleased God to have given him longer life, CLAUDIUS had wholly defeated all the tyrants of the Empire, and had again set it in perfect liberty. THE LIFE OF THE EMPEROR QVINTILIUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND SIX AND THIRTITH EMPEROR OF ROME. THE Emperor CLAUDIUS had a brother whose name was QVINTILIUS: who as he was his brother by nature; so was he in behaviour, condition, and virtue▪ for he was very wise, and as expert in the wars as in civil government: by reason whereof he was much esteemed and beloved, and was left with certain Legions to guard Italy, when his brother went to the wars against the Goths. The death of CLAUDIUS being published, the little Army which QVINTILIUS commanded, moved thereto by his deserts and virtues, chose him Emperor; and his election was approved by the Senate of Rome being advertised thereof, and they gave him the name of AUGUSTUS, after EUTROPIUS: and having accepted the Empire, and beginning to make a good show of his valour, having reigned only seventeen days, news was brought him that the victorious army which his brother had with him, as soon as he was dead had made choice of a Noble man called AURELIANUS for Emperor▪ of whom we will presently discourse. Wherhfore QVINTILIUS bring out of hope to be able to make his party good against him, as well for that he was a man of great valour and courage, as for that his Army was the whole power of the Roman Empire, desiring to die in his estate rather than to live deprived thereof, having first ●…ounded the will of his soldiers, and finding no hope in them, he caused his veins The death of Quintilius. to be opened, and so died voluntarily bleeding, having reigned as some say, twenty days; and as others say, but seventeen. THE LIFE OF AURELIANUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND SEVEN AND THIRTITH EMPEROR of ROME. AFter QVINTILIUS, AURELIANUS succeeded in the Empire; or to say better, after CLAUDIUS: for as soon CLAUDIUS was dead, in the same manner as the Army in Italy chose QVINTILIUS, the other great Army which CLAUDIUS led, chose AURELIANUS, and he remained Emperor; and was one of the most mighty that ever reigned in Rome; and is by Historiographers compared in his feats of Arms with the two greatest and best Captains of the world, which were ALEXANDER the Great, and JULIUS CAESAR, for the great victories which he obtained in the small time of his reign, and the Provinces which he subdued with incredible celerity, marching from one to another, as we will briefly declare; although that in his condition he was neither equal to them, neither did he any way imitate them; chief, he did much differ from CAESAR in clemency, for he was cruel and bloody: wherefore it was said of him, that he was necessary for the Empire, but yet he was ill beloved by the greatest part. Others said, that AURELIANUS was fit to be a Captain, but not to be an Emperor; and so he is neither accounted among the good Princes, nor amongst the evil: for, of the one side, he set the Empire at liberty, by destroying all the tyrants; and of the other, he used much cruelty. Some say, that he was borne in Dacia; and others say, in Misia, the truth whereof is uncertain: and so FLAVIUS VOPISCUS, who doth most copiously and particularly writ his life, leaveth it in doubt; but all agreed that he was of a mean family, and of poor parentage. He was tall of stature, and of great strength, and had a gracious and pleasing countenance; and with his fair aspect he seemed to be a perfect man. In his diet he did somewhat exceed ordinary. From his infancy The disposition of Aurelianus. he was inclined to the wars and military discipline; and in observing it, and making it to be observed, he was most severe. He was of great courage and singular strength, and exceedingly desirous to come to blows with his enemies. Being a private soldier, he ever affected battles, assaults, skirmishes and encounters: and for that there was another in the Army whose name was also AURELIANUS; to distinguish the one from the other, they called this, AURELIANUS with his hand upon his sword: for upon all occasions he was in a readiness with pike or sword in his hand, desiring to be doing. With which readiness and valour he made himself famous wheresoever he came, and performed notable matters in his own person. In so much that THEOCLIUS and FLAVIUS VOPISCUS report of him, that in the wars The valour of Aurelianus. of Sarmatia he happened in one day to kill forty of his enemies with his own hands, and at several times above nine hundred men: which made him so much esteemed among the Romans, as in their dance which they used in those times, among certain sonnets and catches sung by the dancer, they used to pronounce this verse: A thousand and a thousand, one alone hath killed a thousand. A thousand years and a thousand live he, alone which killed a thousand. He did other things, which although they seem to be but mean and of small importance, yet they demonstrate the valour and fortitude of this man; whereby he was preferred to great offices and commands in the wars. He was many time's Captain and Tribune, and above forty times was Lieutenant to other Captains and Tribunes. In which offices he did so severely punish soldiers for their insolences, and did so strictly observe the discipline of the wars, that he was much feared of them: and did likewise many notable things in battles and skirmishes; and principally in the wars which his predecessor CLAUDIUS had with the Goths, he won more honour than any other Captain did; he being General of the horse. Which his doings were the occasion, that, CLAUDIUS being dead, he was by the general consent of the whole Army chosen and made Emperor. And, QVINTILIUS being dead, who was obeyed in Rome, the Senate and people of Rome approved his election, and held him for Emperor. Having accepted the Empire, without any longer stay he marched with his victorious Army against the Suevians and Sarmates, northerly nations, which had invaded the bounds of the Empire. With whom he came to a battle, and obtained a most honourable victory: but therein befell him one mishap, whereof many inconveniences ensued; which was, that Being busied in this war, the Marcomanni, and other most fierce Nations of Germany, came down into Italy, and made great spoil and slaughter in that part which is now called Lombardie, and in the marches of Milan; whereof they were in so great fear in Rome, as they thought they should have been wholly lost: which put all into combustion, every man speaking ill of AURELIANUS. But, when-as he heard the news, he was greatly grieved, and came with all speed to the rescue of Italy. And this was so dangerous a war, that near unto Placentia there wanted but a little, that the Emperor had not been wholly overthrown: for, joining battle with their whole powers on either side, they fought a whole day from Sun to Sun; and AURELIANUS lost in that Fight the greatest part of all his troops: so cruel was the battle. But he afterwards reinforcing his Army (in three notable battles having the victory) ended the war, destroying the whole Army of the Marcomanni; and from thence went to Rome, much displeased with those which had murmured and spoken ill of him: amongst which were some that had practised against him. And whereas he was very cruel (notwithstanding that he was received with great feasting and solemnity) he used so cruel punishment for light offences, and Cruelty used in Rome by Autelianus, and the occasion thereof. of so small importance, that any gentle or merciful Prince would have dissembled, and made no reckoning thereof. But he would not do so; but, to the contrary, put many cruelly to death: for which cause he came to be extremely feared, and therefore generally hated. He enlarged the walls of Rome, and fortified the same, repairing that which was decayed; which was not lawful Aurelianus enlarged the walls of Rome. for any Emperor to do, but for such as had enlarged the Provinces and Limits of the Roman Empire: for, by that title, AUGUSTUS CAESAR, TRAIAN, and also NERO, enlarged the walls. Having settled all matters in Rome (his chief delight consisting in Arms) he could stay but few days there; but speedily departed towards the East against the great ZENOBIA, accounting Aurelianus departed from Rome into the East against Queen Zenobia. it a shame that a woman should hold the East Empire, in disgrace of Rome and the Emperors thereof. And, passing through Slavonia, and thence through Thracia, he had some conflicts against certain barbarous Nations which sought to resist him, and to have stopped him in his journey. But, keeping his way, he came to Byzantium, which is now called Constantinople; and so passed with all his Army into Asia the less, which is now subject to the Turk; first pacifying the Province of Bythinia which then rebelled; all the nations yielding themselves into his hands, without any battle or making resistance. From thence he marched into Cappadocia; where, for that the City of Tiana (which in that Country was an ancient Colony of the Greeks; being the Country also wherein the famous APOLLONIUS TIANEUS was born) made resistance and would not receive him, he swore that he would punish the Inhabitants in such sort, that he would not leave a ●…og alive among them: which his resolution he afterwards altered and revoked. For, by the illusion of the devil (God permitting it for some unknown cause) there appeared unto him in a dream (for it seemed unto him that he saw a vision) one which told him that it was APOLLONIUS TIANEUS, which warned him to forbear to destroy his Country Tiana, and gave him also further advice. Which, as they writ, was the occasion that he not only pardoned the Tianeans, but from thenceforth he was not so cruel as formerly he had been. So as in Tiana he only put HERACLAMON to death, who betrayed the City into his hands; which he said he did, for that he which had been a traitor to his Country, could never be faithful to him. A just reward for treason. But his wealth which was very great he commanded to be given to his heirs, to the end that no man should think he had condemned him to be executed for the desire of his goods. And to the soldiers, complaining that he had not given them the spoil of the City, wherein he had sworn that he would not leave any living, not not a dog; he answered, I promised that there should never a dog remain alive in Tiana, and I give you leave to kill them all. When the Emperor had gotten this noble City, he from thence marched to Antioch, which bordereth upon the Mount Taurus; where, granting a general pardon, with one only battle of small resistance, near to a Wood called Daphne, he seized upon all that Province. And, leaving all those Countries in peace, he passed thence into Syria against ZENOBIA; who with another woman called ZAVALLA (in a manner as manly as herself) attended his coming with a very great Army of singular good Soldiers and excellent Captains, trained up with great experience in the wars with her husband ODENATUS; and afterwards in other wars against the Persians'. The two Armies coming near the one to the other, a most cruel war began A cruel battle betwixt Zenobia and Aurelianus. between them. For, ZENOBIA, not as a woman, but as though she had been HANNIBAL, provided and performed whatsoever was fit, against the Romans. Finally, after some encounters they came to a battle near to the City of Emesa, which bordereth upon the deserts of Palmerina, a Province in Syria; which was so bloody and doubtful, that AURELIANUS was well-near overthrown: for, his Cavallerie, being tired with fight, began to retire, refusing the Zenobia overthrown and put to flight by Aurelianus. battle, and were ready to have turned their backs, and to flee: but being detained by their Captains, and by the footmen constrained to stand firm, he obtained the victory, and ZENOBIA escaped by flight. When AURELIANUS had obtained so noble a victory, he went into the City of Emesa, and from thence to the City of Palmyra, which is the Head of that Province, and ZENOBIA'S principal seat. In which way his soldiers endured many wants and difficulties, wrought by their enemies where they were to pass: and the City with such courage made resistance, that his soldiers were greatly distressed, and the Emperor himself in person incurred many great dangers: which plainly appeareth by a Letter written by him to a familiar friend of his. Whereupon AURELIANUS, desiring to make an end of this war, thinking to induce ZENOBIA to yield herself into his power, sent her a Letter wherein he did assure her of her life, and that he would give her all her treasure, her jewels and her money; and that she should live free and at liberty in any place or city where the Senate should appoint. ZENOBIA, having received this Letter, in lieu of granting or requiring peace, become therewith more haughty and proud than before; answering him with another very proud Letter; which, NICOMACHUS, a Writer of those Times, translated out of the Syrian into the Greek Tongue; and FLAVIUS VOPISCUS hath left it to us in Latin: which I will set down, to the end that the haughty presumptuous mind of this woman may be made known to the world, which saith thus: ZENOBIA, Queen of the East, to AURELIANUS AUGUSTUS, greeting. No other A Letter written by Zenobia to Aurelianus. Captain until this day, but thou, hath required by Letter that which thou demandest of me: for, those things (AURELIANUS) which are to be tried by war, by Arms and force are to be demanded and determined. Thou requirest that I yield and give myself into thy power, as if thou hadst never read that CLEOPATRA Queen of Egypt (from whom I am descended) would rather kill herself, than live in the power of OCTAVIANUS, in any dignity or liberty granted by him whatsoever. I let thee know, that I shall not want the relief of the Persians', which I expect. The Saracens will also come to my aid; and the Armenians favour me. Thou dost well know, that the thiefs of Syria were sufficient to overthrow and disorder thy Army. If then the forces and succours which I expect shall come unto me, thou wilt abate the pride and presumption wherewith thou dost now command me to yield myself, as though I were absolutely overcomn. And so she ended her Letter, glorying more in her valour, than in her eloquence. This Letter being received by AURELIANUS, he made no account thereof; but drew near with his Army, and commanded his Captains to besiege the City more straightly, and with such order and policy to assault the same, and to defend his Camp, that he failed not in any thing of the duty of an excellent Captain. For, upon the way coming to ZENOBIA, he overthrew the succours which came from Persia, and did the like by certain companies of Saracens. And the forces which came from Armenia, what through fear and fair promises, he drew to his service, and made them his friends; in such sort, that ZENOBIA, seeing herself overcome, in the best manner she could fled from the City with Dromedaries, carrying such treasure with her as the shortness of the time would permit: and, travelling towards Persia, she Zenobia taken prisoner by Aurelianus. was overtaken upon the way by certain horsemen which the Emperor sent after her. And so AURELIANUS took her, and the City of Palmyra, and afterwards all the whole estate of the East. And although many counselled him, yet he would not put ZENOBIA to death, purposing to have her alive in his triumph. But he put the Philosopher LONOINUS to death, for that it was said he had penned the Letter which ZENOBIA wrote unto him. TREBELLIUS POLLIO writeth, that when this valiant woman was brought into the presence of AURELIANUS, he said unto her; Tell me, ZENOBIA, how dared thou presume to contemn Emperors, and to defend thyself against their power? Whereto she answered, excusing herself, and honouring him, saying: Only thee, AURELIANUS, I acknowledge to be an Emperor, for that thou knowest how to overcome. But as for GALIENUS, AUREOLUS, and The answer of Zenobia made ●…o Aurelianus. the rest, I never held them for Emperors nor Princes. In this manner (as I said) ended the power of ZENOBIA. The Emperor AURELIANUS having ended this war, leaving order and forces in the East, returned into Europe the same way he went: and, coming into high Germany, he subdued a certain people called Carpi, which were in Arms, and overthrew them in battle. Upon this occasion he was in Rome called CARPICUS: whereat he was both angry and sorry, that for that only victory they should give him a surname; And therefore caused himself to be called GOTHICUS, SARMATICUS, ARMENICUS, PARTHICUS, ADIABENICUS, GERMANICUS, Aurelianus his surnames. and SYRICUS, after the names of the Countries and Nations which he had subdued. As matters stood upon these terms, and he being to march against TETRICUS the tyrant of France; news was brought him that the Palmerins which had been under ZENOBIA were revolted, and did rebel, and had slain SANDARIO whom he had left there for Captain The Palmerins rebelled. and governor of the City, with six hundred archers with him; and that they had made ARCHELAUS, who was of kin to ZENOBIA, their Prince. When AURELIANUS understood thereof, with his accustomed courage and expedition (which was natural unto him) he returned by great journeys into Asia: and being come into Syria, he made no stay until that he came to the City of Palmyra; which when he had taken, he inflicted most cruel punishment, by putting all sorts of people to death, men, women, old folks and young children, without leaving any living creature therein. And afterwards he left the whole City desolate, and almost all the other Cities, which consented and conspired therewith in the rebellion. Without any long abode in Asia, in great haste he returned into Europe, where he happily pacified all matters; so as there remained no part, but all was in obedience. Nevertheless, for as much as the people were accustomed to the liberty and evil customs permitted under the government of GALIENUS, a certain Captain called FIRMUS, who was in Egypt, arose and made all that Kingdom to rebel; and, as some writ, made himself Emperor: and, as others The Egyptians rebelled. writ, crying Liberty, he promised to maintain the liberty and privileges of that Country. Which when this warlike Emperor understood (who, for expedition in the wars, was a second JULIUS CAESAR) he would put no man else but himself in trust, and returned the third time into Asia, and thence came into Egypt: and at his first entry with great difficulty he recovered all that Kingdom, and left it in peace and quiet. At that time (as AURELIUS VICTOR and EUTROPIUS report) there was a Captain in Dalmatia whose name was SEPTIMIUS, who also rebelled, and proclaimed himself Emperor. But AURELIANUS needed not to come against him: for, the same legions and soldiers which chose him, conspired against him and slew him. So as there rested nothing for AURELIANUS to do, but to defeat TETRICUS, who held a great part of France and Spain with title of Emperor, as is before said. Whereof AURELIANUS made great account, and came from Egypt with intent to go against him; this war being in all men's opinion very doubtful: nevertheless AURELIANUS took so good order therein, as it was soon ended. The reason was, that TETRICUS being a tyrant, and no lawful Emperor, the legions and men of war under his command, become so dissolute and presumptuous, as he was no longer able to endure their insolency and pride, but chose rather to live a subject to the Emperor AURELIANUS, then to be an Emperor over such subjects, with vexation toil and reproach. Whereupon he secretly wrote to AURELIANUS, and brought it so to pass, that he voluntarily yielded himself; and so all become in peace and quiet, subject unto AURELIANUS. Tetricus submitted himself to Aurelianus. And as at other times the legions had betrayed their Captains & Emperors: so now the Emperor to be rid of trouble delivered up his legions to another: which is a great example & proof of the miseries, jealousies, and troubles, into which they are involved, which unjustly and tyrannously hold dominions; daily expecting and fearing death, and to be dispossessed of their governments; whereof ancient Histories are full: and in our time we have seen with our eyes, that although they escape for a time; yet there is no day wherein they are not vexed with the insolences and dissoluteness of those, by whose aid they maintain their tyrannies: and most commonly they are by them brought into greatest danger. And so to keep themselves on foot, they use great cruelty against their subjects; and show themselves partial, remiss; and humble to their favourites and friends. And above all, the secret martyrdom and remorse of conscience doth torment them: whereof DIONYSIUS, MARIUS, SCYLLA, and other famous tyrants which have been, are fair precedents: who, upon their subjects, committed most horrible cruelties, and of their friends and companions endured incredible insolences and intolerable audacious presumptions. Which TETRICUS knowing well, although he were not unprovided nor destitute of power, courage or valour; yet he voluntarily yielded himself to AURELIANUS, holding it for a more difficult thing to command with trouble, then to serve with quiet. Which discreet advice may serve for a rule and admonition to fly and eschew a vanity much used by those which in towns and commonwealths maintain factions and discords, and will command and tyrannize over that which is none of their own; who thereby vainly and foolishly make themselves servile and slaves to very base fellows, flattering them and giving what they will have; because they will not endure the company of those which are their equals: than which there can be no greater madness. It proved no evil course that TETRICUS took: for he lived many years after in great honour and peace, and ended his days as we will declare: whereas otherwise if he had persisted in his tyranny, he had made such an end as all such had: which was either to have been slain by his enemies, or by his own soldiers; and the time which he should have lived, would have been full of continual fear and jealousy. AURELIANUS having fully subdued and pacified all the Provinces of the Empire, and reduced the same to the ancient power and reputation, by taming and subduing the tyrants, and by expelling the strange and barbarous Nations with force, felicity, and admirable expedition, he resolved to come to Rome to receive the triumph for his victories: which was given him with the greatest solemnity and pomp that could be devised, which in respect of my accustomed brevity cannot particularly be recited. It may suffice to say in brief, that it was one of the most stately triumphs that ever was made in Rome, wherein were led an infinite number of A most stately triumph prepared for Aurelianus. Prisoners and Captives of diverse and sundry Nations, great variety of wild Beasts, as Tigers, Lions, Ounces, Elephants, Dromedaries, Bears, and such like. There was also abundance of Arms taken from those which were overcome, and most rich and sumptuous chariots: one, which had been of ODENATUS, ZENOBIAS husband; another which she herself had made: and another which the King of Persia voluntarily sent to AURELIANUS for a present. There went also in that triumph the great ZENOBIA, most richly attired, in cloth of great price set with pearl and stone, in manner of a prisoner bound with chains of gold. There were in the number of them, of whom AURELIANUS triumphed, TETRICUS and his son, whom the father had entitled Emperor. AURELIANUS entered in another chariot, which had been the Kings of the Goths, drawn by four stags': and after him came all the victorious legions both of foot and horse, most rich and gallantly armed, bearing boughs of laurel or of palm in their hands: there were also many other things of great Pomp. And he in this manner went to the Capitol to do his sacrifices according to the custom, & thence to his Palace, and the next day were made in Rome all kinds of sports and feasts, such as were wont to be made, with addition of many things above ordinary, and more than other Emperors had done. He likewise gave many gifts to the people, as the custom was at such times. TETRICUS he made Governer of Lucania, Calabria, Puglia, and Campania, with other Provinces of Italy; and Provinces given to Tetricus by Aurelianus. His bounty to Zenobia. did him great honour together with his son. To ZENOBIA he gave lands and possessions, the rents whereof sufficed to maintain her honourably: and so she lived and died, being highly honoured and commended of all men; still preserving her ancient reputation, and the honour of her person. AURELIANUS being victorious, and in this prosperity (as his chiefest delight was in the wars, and to bear Arms) resolved to levy a choice and selected Army, and therewith to go into the East to make war against the Persians', in revenge of the injury done to the Empire by the imprisonment of the Emperor VALERIANUS; and within short space he marched thitherwards. And as he was valiant, wise, and a most excellent Captain; so had he without doubt performed great matters, had not death (through the secret judgement of God) by the way made frustrate his high attempts and desseigns: which (as OROSIUS and EUSEBIUS testify) God permitted for a punishment of his wickedness. For, having reigned six years, favouring, or at leastwise tolerating the Christians to live free and at liberty, he suffered not the Catholic Church to be molested or persecuted: wherefore, notwithstanding that he was an Infidel, our Lord God (who leaveth no desert unrewarded) gave him so many victories, and so good success in all his actions. But in the end, deluded by the Devil, and the counsel of wicked men, he determined to persecute the Christians, and sent abroad his Letters and Edicts to that effect; which was the tenth persecution of the Church. But, being ready to sign the same, The tenth persecution of the primitive church there suddenly fell a thunderbolt from heaven so near unto him, that all men thought he had been slain: yet, besides this sign and warning given him to desist from his wicked resolution, God permitted his death; and that his own servants, in whom he reposed most trust, should kill him, which was thus: As he was ever cruel, and had put many to death for light occasions, his principal Secretary, who managed his most secret affairs (whose name was MENESTHEUS) being in fear of his life, for that AURELIANUS had threatened him for a matter of small Menestheus procured the death of Aurelianus. importance, resolved to practise the death of his Lord: which to effect, he presently wrote a forged memorial, wherein it seemed that AURELIANUS had set down the names of certain persons which he would 'cause to be slain: among which he wrote his own name, and shown this memorial to all those (or to the greatest part of them) which were contained therein: many of which were odious to the Emperor; which made the matter the more likely to be true. And as the Secretary was of great credit by reason of the place he held, and they knowing the Emperor's cruelty, presumed as much, and throughly believed it: whereupon, they speedily agreed to make an end of the Emperor, for fear that he otherwise would have done the like by them. And, having resolved upon the manner, they slew him as he went one day with a small guard from Heraclea in Thracia (for, many Cities are so called) towards Byzantium, now The death of Aurelianus. Constantinople. He died (according to EUSEBIUS' computation) in the year of our Lord 278, and in the sixt year of his Reign; a small time truly, considering his great and noble acts. He left neither son nor nephew, but one only daughter. The Senate was very sorry for his death; but the people, much more: for, they lived in greater security, and without danger of his cruelty. And for his noble acts they canonised him, and numbered him among their holy Emperors. When the treason of MENESTHEUS was discovered, they drove a stake through him, and did cast out his body to the dogs, and to be devoured by wild beasts. It is not written that the rest were punished, because peradventure they were prime men; and so great, that no man durst procure their punishment. THE LIFE OF TACITUS▪ ONLY OF THIS NAME, AND EIGHT AND THIRTITH EMPEROR OF ROME. THE warlike and invincible Emperor AURELIANUS being dead, as we have said, who with such valour brought all the Provinces of the Empire to peace and tranquillity; and in so short a time, that it seems the fear and reverence which they bore him in his life time, held the same authority even after his death [For, no man attempted to make himself Emperor in any of the Provinces wherein Legions lay in garrison, as at other times they were wont to do; neither durst the Army which was with him choose an Emperor, he had in such manner tamed the Provinces and the pride of the people: And the Captains which then were with him were also better advised, and took warning by the death and confusion of those which in the time of GALIENUS had usurped the name of Emperors] Therefore, for that they deemed none worthy of the Empire; they desiring to avoid the like inconveniences as befell in times past, and to the end that a good Emperor might be chosen, who with his authority might preserve and maintain the present estate, the men of war of AURELIANUS his Army sent The Army sent to the Senate to choose an Emperor. word to the Senate, that (as reason was) they should choose and name an Emperor; and that they would obey him, and confirm his election. The Senate, knowing that the Army was not wont to be contented with a Prince of their choosing, made answer, that they should name and make choice of one, and that the Senate would approve their doings. In this straining of courtesies, six months passed (which may serve for a wonder to him that hath read the former Histories); in which the world was without an Emperor, and the Empire was governed by the Senate, and such Officers as AURELIANUS had left. At the end of which time, overcomn by the entreaties and Ambassages from the Armies, the Senate made choice of TACITUS, a Nobleman, who had been Consul, and was a good man, and of great age, who earnestly refused the same; so as there were many compliments Tacitus chosen Emperor. between them about the matter. But in the end he accepted thereof, to the great my of the Senate and Roman people, and also of the Praetorian Cohorts which ordinarily lay near to Rome. And so he performed the solemnities, donatives, and gifts which the new Emperors were accustomed to make. TACITUS was very old when he came to the Empire; but of great experience in magistracies and offices of charge, and had ever lived a virtuous life. He was very temperate in all things, mild and kind, and a lover of justice and equity. When as TACITUS had taken upon him the government of the Empire (as a good Prince free from ambition) he did all things by the advice and counsel of the Senate; and held such a course in all his actions, that the whole Empire was in peace and tranquillity, and justice was every where administered with quietness: and to that end he made excellent laws and ordinances, abolishing certain abuses and evil customs in Rome. But, for any notable matters which Readers commonly desire in Histories (as, wars, battles, great adventures and accidents) there were none in his time; as well for that he found all in peace and in good order, as for that he reigned but a small time, which was but six months, and those not fully expired. What death he died, the Authors do not certainly set down. Some say, that his own soldiers slew him upon the way travelling towards Asia, whither he was going with an Army to make war against The death of Tacitus. the Persians': but SEXTUS AURELIUS VICTOR and others writ, that he died of a burning Fever in the City of Tharsus; which seemeth most likely to be true: for, he was a virtuous man, and much beloved. Among his other virtues, he was very temperate in his diet, and in all other things; so as he would not allow his wife the Empress to wear any precious stones or jewels of any great price: and he much honoured the memory of good Emperors. His country or lineage I find not written. He left no son, either natural or adoptive. In those times sprang the famous Heretics of the Manichees; whose Original and Master was a wicked man called MANES: who with his Followers were so wicked and such Infidels, The original of the here●…e o●… the M●…icheses. that they presumed to say, that there were two Gods, the one good, the other evil; adding thereto, that the one was the Original of all goodness; and the other, of all evil. And this horrible and devilish Heresy lasted in some wicked men above two hundred years: against which, Saint AUGUSTINE and other holy Doctors opposed themselves. The life of this TACITUS is written by FLAVIUS VOPISCUS, whom I have followed, and the other Author's abovenamed. THE LIFE OF FLORIANUS, ONLY OF THIS NAME, AND NINE AND THIRTITH EMPEROR OF ROME. AS soon as TACITUS was dead, a brother of his named FLORIANUS, trusting in the nearness of blood to the last Emperor, without any authority or election took upon him the name of Emperor: which he did through the favour of part of the Army, and of certain principal men which were with him. But his estate continued but a small time: for, when the Armies in the East understood of the death of his brother TACITUS, they made choice of PRO●…US, of whom we will speak hereafter; who was a man of such authority, and so well beloved, that FLORIANUS upon the news thereof held himself forlorn. And, knowing that all the martial men would abandon him (as, many of them already had done) he made his veins to be opened (imitating QVINTILIUS, who, as we have said, did the like); and so he died (as the other did) bleeding, about two months after he had taken The death of Florianus. upon him the name and title of Emperor. Wherhfore, he could do no such notable matter as might be worthy writing. He was a man very like his brother TACITUS; as well in condition and goodness of life, as in the shortness of the time he held the Empire. He died in the year of our Lord 279. THE LIFE OF PROBUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND FORTITH EMPEROR of ROME. THE ARGUMENT. ALthough Probus were of no very Noble Family, he was so honest a man and so virtuous, that, in consideration of his virtuous deeds, he worthily deserved to be chosen Emperor. After that he was confirmed in that dignity, he shown himself to be so affected to the people, and so kind and loving to the Senate, that by common consent and a public decree he was called Pater patriae: and to him moreover were granted all the titles and dignities that might ennoble and make him famous. In his time arose infinite wars and troubles, so as he spent all his life time in managing of Arms: wherein being victorious, he entered Rome in triumph, having tamed and u●…nquisht the Frenchmen and the Germane, and subdued some which would have made themselves Emperors: amongst which was one Saturninus, a valiant and politic man. And, seeing that all the Empire was in peace and under obe●…ce, he used to say, that within a while there would be no need of martial men: which when they understood, they began to murmur and to conspire against him; principally, because he would not permit them to live in their accustomed liberty. And going with great preparation towards the wars against the Parthians, he was slain by them upon the way. His death was greatly lamented in Rome, and generally through the whole Empire; missing such a father as in every respect did worthily deserve to be called Probus. PROBUS succeeded FLORIANUS (or rather TACITUS) in the Roman Empire; who was chosen Emperor by the Legions & the Army in the East, presently when as they understood of the death of TACITUS, to the end they would not stay for one to be chosen at the pleasure of the Senate. But this PROBUS was so valiant a man, and so excellent a Captain, and so held and reputed for such by all men, that the Senate and people of Rome presently confirmed his election. There happened, in the time of this excellent Prince, such and so many wars, as well against tyrants as strangers, and he obtained so many victories, that he might very well be compared to AURELIANUS; of whom a little before we have written: and in like manner we may parallel him with HANNIBAL, with CAESAR, or with any other great and famous Captain of ancient time; whose acts seem greater than the acts of this Prince, by reason they were so fortunate, as to have them registered by those eloquent and excellent Writers which celebrated the same. Which ornament failed in those which wrote the lives of the Emperors of these times, and a hundred years before: and in long time after there were not found any so eloquent; or rather, never since. And although they writ the truth of the History, yet of●… times it is written so abrupt, and so brief, as it makes their acts to seem lesle than they were. But the discreet Reader, considering the acts of some of those Emperors which we have already written, and which we are to writ hereafter, shall certainly know, that the deeds and prowess of some of these Princes, were no way inferior to theirs which were so famous; but in some sort might rather seem greater, if they well consider what nations and people they were, against which they fought. Which as they were no less valiant or fierce, than those of ancient times; so were they more expert and of greater skill in the wars, and in aught else that was requisite. But to return to our good Emperor PROBUS: he was borne in Hungary in a city called Sirmio, of noble parentage, principally by his mother's side. His father's name was MAXIMUS, The origine of Probus. a man very famous, and one which followed the wars, and had had the leading of martial men; and being Tribune, died in Egypt; His wife living after him, with this son and one daughter, which was his sister. This young PROBUS proved to be so virtuous and so valiant a young man, as the Emperor VALERIANUS who died prisoner in Persia, made him a Tribune, being so young as he then had no sign of any beard. He performed in the time of VALERIANUS, and of his son GALIENUS, and of AURELIANUS, and CLAUDIUS (wherein happened great wars, with many battles and conflicts) such notable services, both as a soldier and a Tribune, and afterwards when he was a Captain; that he was held and reputed for a most valiant man, and make men now to admire him, which read his doings. In giving assaults to cities, he was many times the first man upon the scaling ladders, and the first that entered the enemy's camp or fortresses. He was victorious in many single combats, man to man, and in battles freed many Roman citizens from death: wherefore according to his deserts, there were given to him many civical crowns, collars, bracelets, lances and banners, with other ensigns, devices and martial privileges. And afterwards being a Captain of Legions, and General governor of provinces; there was almost no nation but was subdued by him, in the infinite wars which were in those times. In Africa he subdued a people called Marmarides, and overthrew some mighty tyrants and rebels. In Egypt being a captain, he fought against the Palmyrines, who would have usurped that country and kingdom; but he brought them to quietness with great part of the East, in the service of AURELIANUS. In the time of CLAUDIUS, he overcame the Goths in many battles; and in the time of AURELIANUS, the Sarmates and Germans; and often was victorious in many other parts. And with these victories and noble acts, with the goodness of life and behaviour he made the discipline and knowledge of Arms equal: So as he was in all, a good and a valiant Soldier, Captain, and Emperor. Many letters (recited by FLAVIUS VOPISCUS) written by GALIENUS, CLAUDIUS, AURELIANUS, TACITUS, and other Emperors and Princes of that time, bear record of that which is said of him; in which they extol the virtues, valour, and excellency of this man: wherefore he was infinitely beloved, and honoured generally. Which plainly appeareth by the manner of his election: for the Army which was in the East desiring to make haste in choosing an Emperor, being advertised of the death of TACITUS; the Captains, and Colonels drew their soldiers into the field: and without any former request, practice or agreement, they began to show unto them, that it was requisite to make choice of an Emperor, a man which should be valiant, honest, religious, good, pitiful, wise, and adorned with all virtuous qualities: which speech they used in sundry squadrons and parts of the Army. The soldiers without any private conference cried out with one voice, Let PROBUS be Emperor AUGUSTUS, God keep and preserve thee PROBUS, and with such other words and applauses, Probus proclaimed Emperor. showing the great love and affection they bore unto him. When PROBUS had accepted of the Empire, he presently wrote a brief letter to the Senate, but yet with great honour and respect, approving what was done the last year in the election of his predecessor TACITUS: and excusing himself for having accepted of the Empire, without the knowledge and confirmation of the Senate, he laid all the fault upon FLORIANUS, who for that he had taken upon him the name of Emperor, the Army was therefore forced to make choice of him. His letters being read, there was made great show of joy, and they applauded his election with many blessings, and gave him the name of AUGUSTUS, Father of the country, and they also made him high Priest, and gave him tribunal power and authority. When PROBUS had received this decree from the Senate, he was very glad: and taking good order for all things, and leaving sufficient garrison in the East, he came into Europe; where he was received by the Armies; which swore to be faithful unto him. The first thing he did after his coming, was, to levy the greatest Army he could; wherewith he went into France, which ever after the death of AURELIANUS was subject to the Germane, who made themselves Lords and masters of all the chiefest Cities of that country. After that he came into his enemy's country (whose number was infinite) there began a most cruel and bloody war: for the soldiers of either side were very valiant and expert. There passed (as saith VOPISCUS) many bloody battles between them, whereof one continued two days together: so as each day the darkness of the night parted the ●…ight, the victory seeming to incline sometimes A cruel battle fought between Probus and the Germans. to the Romans, and sometimes to the Germans; which is found written in the ancient Chronicles of Germany, as witnesseth HENRICUS MUTIUS a modern writer: but in the end through the good provision, and direction of PROBUS, he prevailed after that he had obtained many victories against the Germans, wherein died 400000 of their men and a great number of the Roman Army. He wrested out of their possession sixty principal cities, and drove them out of all that which they had usurped: and passing forwards he took other cities, and his Army made great spoil and havoc. Being thus overcome, they yielded obedience, and become vassals to the Empire: which without my particular relation will plainly appear by a letter written by PROBUS to the Senate, which saith thus. I give thanks (father's conscript) to the immortal Gods, seeing they have approved your judgement of me, showing it to be reasonable and true. For, know that I have conquered and subdued all Germany, and that nine Kings of sundry Nations and Provinces have prostrated A Letter written by Probus to the Senate. and humbled themselves at my feet, or to say more rightly at yours; and are now become subjects, and fight in our army against other barbarous Nations more northerly. You shall (fathers conscript) make your accustomed prayers unto the Gods, seeing that we have slain four hundred thousand of your enemies, and sixteen thousand men very well armed have yielded themselves unto us; and we have recovered threescore Cities which they held, and all the Provinces of France. All the Crowns of gold which the French Cities gave unto me for presents, I sand unto you, to the end that by your hands they may be consecrated, and offered to the most good and mighty JUPITER, and to the rest of the immortal Gods. The prey that we have taken, is greater than all the harms that they have done unto us. The fields in France are ploughed and tilled with Oxen taken from the barbarous, &c. And so in his letter he proceedeth, signifying unto them his victories: for which, in Rome, was made great joy, feasting, and supplications to their gods, according to their rites and customs. After this conquest, he came with his forces into the Provinces of Slavonia, invaded by the Sarmates, which are the inhabitants of Muscovia, Russia, Polonia, and others as is aforesaid, and had the same in possession; which war was no less dangerous than the last, for the great multitude and fierceness of those Nations with which he fought certain battles: Wherein he shown himself a most prudent, hardy, and valiant Captain; and having wholly subdued them, he forced them to fly out of the bounds and confines of the Empire, the greatest part of Probus drove the Sarmates out of Slavonia. them being either slain or taken. And from thence with great expedition he marched with his Army into Thracia, which with the rest is now called Graecia, wherein is the great City Constantinople; and marched farther towards the North, with a resolution to make war against the Goths in their own country, and wholly to subvert that Nation for revenge of the harms and spoils which they in time past had done in the Empire. He was of such reputation, and all Nations stood in such fear of him, that wheresoever he came he found no resistance: for they sent to yield their obedience, and bound themselves to be confederates and friends to the Empire. Whereupon leaving Europe in peace, he went into Asia, with a resolution to have made war against the Persians' and NARSEUS, who then was King of Persia and Parthia: and passing so through Asia the less, he invaded the Province of Isauria, which is a part thereof, bordering upon Cilicia, which (as in the life of GALIENUS we said) is mountainous, craggy, and hard to be assaulted, ill to be conquered, and easy to defend, wherein were many thiefs and tyrants which sought to make themselves Lords of that Country; all which the valiant Emperor subdued, not without great toil and danger: for the inhabitants being fortified by the natural situation of that country, defended themselves courageously, so as there passed dangerous battles and conflicts between them; but PROBUS in short space pacified all. And they say, that entering the country he desired to see the natural and artificial fortifications thereof: which he much mervailed at, and said, that the country was hard to be won, and easy to be defended. He divided the fields which he there took from the tyrants, among his old soldiers, and such as had borne themselves valiantly in that service. After that he had pacified all that region, he marched into Soria, and into the Eastern parts: but first he went against a certain people which they called Blemij, which came out of Ethiopia, and had taken part of Arabia, of Palestina, of judea, and the Cities of Ptolomais, and joppa now called japha, which was then a famous city. And having ended this journey, he marched towards Persia against NARSEUS King of the Persians' and Parthians; who was the most powerful King of the world, and whose predecessors and successors ever troubled the Roman Empire. Narseus' King Persia yielded to Probus. But PROBUS (of whom we now treat) was so much feared and esteemed, as NARSEUS durst not oppose against him; but by all means procured peace, restored what he had usurped, gave him other great gifts, and yielded to such conditions as PROBUS required. So as having no enemy against whom he might wage war, he returned again into Europe, leaving the whole state of the East in peace and under good government. Coming into Thracia, which country was dispeopled, through the wars and spoil which the Goths, Sarmates and other barbarous nations had made; and for that many nations which were wont to be enemies, had now submitted themselves to do him service, and desired him to give them some land to inhabit, where they might be his subjects; he gave unto them the province of Thracia and the marches thereof; dividing fields by lots amongst them, where they should inhabit and till the earth. These were of many Tribes and nations, as Vandals, Goths, Guntanes, and other people, whose number was infinite. But this counsel proved afterwards very dangerous, and prejudicial; as hereafter you shall hear. In this time was a general peace through the whole Empire, and there was no King of foreign nation, that durst attempt any alteration. But as men's hearts are commonly (even from their infancy) more inclined to evil then good through the corruption of our nature, wanting foreign enemies, there arose some domestical cumbustions; and those which were wont to make head against foreign enemies, made themselves enemies. There was in the East parts a Captain whose name was SATURNINUS, who was both valiant, expert in the wars, discreet and of great judgement, and in the time of AURELIANUS had been General of those frontiers, being by birth a Frenchman. This man coming to Alexandria in Egypt about some matters of importance which we know not; without his knowledge or imagination, the Egyptians, as they were ever unquiet, rebellious and desirous of innovations; by a common and general consent, hailed him Emperor; and called upon his name Saturninus made Emperor against his will. with so great obstinacy as he durst not refuse it, neither forbear to say that he consented thereto. But imagining that through his absence this tumult would have been pacified, he departed from Egypt and came into Palestina. But they never giving over what they had begun, and as those troops whereof he had the command, did not only consent thereto, but were very glad thereof; He himself standing in fear of PROBUS, clad himself in purple, which was the imperial colour (but some say crimson, which was the colour of the imperial robe) accounting it the safest way. But it is written, that when his Captains and soldiers came to swear obedience, and to do him such honour as was accustomed in such actions; SATURNINUS entertained them weeping, saying unto them, Let it not my brethren and companions in Arms be imputed unto me for pride and presumption, what I now shall say unto you; for this day doth the commonwealth loose in me a necessary member; for I was the chiefest man in restoring France. I being a free Captain recovered Africa from the Moors. I pacified Spain, and did other things to the honour of the Empire; but what availeth it to have done all this? for with this days work all is lost. And as his Captains and Colonels encouraged and entreated him to be merry, this wise man, who well knew what it was to reign with tyranny, answered them, saying; My friends, you know not what it is to reign. But I will make you understand it The miserable condition of tyrants. in myself: for from henceforth there will daily hung over my head, threatening me and putting me in fear of my life, swords, gleaves, shields, and on every side I see myself assaulted with halberds, lances, and other weapons; and I begin to stand in fear of those which have the guard of me, and to suspect those which keep me company. I shall not eat any thing that shall taste well, neither without suspicion. I can travail no way in safety. I shall not undertake any war to my own liking, neither shall I bear Arms for exercise, but forced: and although I did assure myself to the contrary, yet truly it is impossible for any Emperor to please and content all his subjects. For if he be an old prince; they will say that he is insufficient and an unprofitable dotard: if he be young, they will say, he is rash and furious, and hath not wit enough to be a sovereign. And so there will never want imputations to blemish him. Believe me my friends, in that you make me Emperor, you bind me to death. But one thing doth some thing recomfort me; which is, that I shall not die alone. But seeing that you will have it so, I pray to the Gods that the time come not wherein you will be as sorry for what you have done, as I am at this present. These speeches are recited by FLAVIUS VOPISCUS; who writeth that he understood them by the report of his Grandfather, who was present when they were spoken. SATURNINUS, although (as a wise man) he knew and foresaw into how great danger he thrust himself (seeing he could not desist) was nothing dismayed, but with great courage provided all things necessary for the preserving of the estate which he had taken upon him. And notwithstanding that he was made a Tyrant against his will, yet he desired rather to overcome, then to leave to be. But as the Emperor PROBUS was no less wise and valiant than himself; so when he was advertised what had passed, with the greatest Forces he was able to levy, he returned into Asia, ordering all things after a new manner with great care, being very jealous of this war, in respect of the quality of the Captain and Soldiers. Both Armies being come into one Country, they made of either side cruel war, and the battles were very fierce and bloody; yet the Emperor PROBUS sought to have come to some composition Wars between Saturninus & Probus with SATURNINUS, promising to pardon him, and to entreat him well. And it is supposed, that SATURNINUS would willingly have accepted thereof, but his soldiers would never yield thereto; holding themselves thereby to be in no security, seeing they had forced him to take upon him the name of Emperor. But in the end, SATURNINUS being apparently overcome, he was besieged in a Castle, and there was slain by the Soldiers against the Emperors will, who would rather have forgiven him. After this Victory, which was held so doubtful, PROBUS returned into Europe, and the Soldiers & Legions remained to quiet, and in such obedience, as it grew to be a common byword; that the Mice did not dare to gnaw for fear of PROBUS. But as he was busy in this action (the success whereof was doubtful); in France and Germany were two Captains, the one called BONOSUS, who was the chief; and the other PROCLUS: who raising mighty Armies in France and in Britanny (where PROBUS was ill beloved, for the Victories which he had obtained there) and having also some Spaniards, besides the ordinary Legions of their governments, they both took upon them the name of Emperors, and the purple Robe. But for that it would be along Story, particularly to recount all that passed; it shall Bonosus and Proclus called Emperors. suffice to know, that PROBUS never rested: so as according to the small time of his reign, which was but six years, it may seem a wonderful thing to consider the wars and voyages which he made. But in the end, he found out these Tyrants, and invaded them both; of which, the war against BONOSUS (as they writ) was very dangerous and lasted long: but in the end PROBUS had the victory, and BONOSUS falling into despair hung himself. PROCLUS being likewise overcome, fled into the Country, where the Germans (thereby Bonosus in despair hung himself. to win PROBUS love) delivered him: and so he had an entire and complete Victory over all. This PROCULUS was borne in a place among the Alps near to Geneva, and BONOSUS was a Britain, bred up in Spain; of whom they writ, that he would drink so much Proclus was slain by his own Soldiers. wine, as ten great drinkers could not drink so much; and that therewith he had two wonderful properties: the one was, that how much soever he drank, he was never drunk; the other that when it pleased him, he could piss as fast as he did drink, without containing any jot within his body: wherefore the Emperor AURELIANUS was wont to say of him, that Strange qualities. BONOSUS was not borne to live, but to drink. After that PROBUS had defeated these two great Captains and Tyrants, it might have been held reasonable, that Arms should have given him leave to have reposed himself in Rome; for now his years and travails required no less: but it happened otherwise; for the Nations and people which he left (as we have said) to inhabit Thracia, notwithstanding that the Bastarnari remained in peace and quiet: yet the Vandals and other Nations seeing the Emperor pestered in the wars (trusting in their strength and multitude) resolved to make no longer abode there, but to invade all the Provinces of the Empire, robbing and stealing all they could lay hands upon: and their number was so great, that no City or Country could make head against them, but they spoilt and burned all wheresoever they came. Which, when the Emperor had well considered, imagining that whatsoever he had formerly done for the good and liberty of the Empire, was to no effect or purpose if he suffered this plague to go on, he resolved to put himself in hazard, and to go in person into all those parts which these people invaded. And for that (by reason of their multitudes) they could not march together, he fought with them in sundry places: wherein many were slain of either-side, and the Emperor himself was sometime wounded, and in danger of death. But in the end he overcame them all, and took such order, that he compelled those which by flight escaped from the battles, to flee out of the confines and frontiers of the Empire. And, very joyful and victorious, finding now no Probus warred against the Barbarians. resistance in the world, he came to Rome; whereinto he entered in triumph; which truly was well deserved: for, in Rome there was a law that the triumph should not be granted but for great victories obtained. Which being so, I see not that either CAESAR or POMPEY could or Probus came into Rome in triumph. did better deserve it, than PROBUS. For, if we consider the number of battles and victories (although they be not at large described) which he fought and won before that he was Emperor and those also after; I know not when we should make an end of reciting them. There was never a Province in the Empire when it was furthest extended, which was not conquered anew or pacified, and brought into subjection by him. CAESAR was much commended for expedition, surprising his enemies suddenly and unprovided: PROBUS was no A comparison betwixt Probus and julius Caesar. less diligent and active than CAESAR; and although his enemies were provided for him yet he overthrew them and put them to flight. It is said, that CAESAR slew in divers battles above a million of men: and PROBUS, in the first war he made being Emperor, slew four hundred thousand; and France (wherein CAESAR made war ten years before he could subdue it) PROBUS conquered in one year. As for the other battles which he fought when he was but a Commander, I hold the number of those which were slain therein, as innumerable as the wars were dangerous and desperate. But if we come to the civil wars which CAESAR made against the Romans; I conceive those which PROBUS maintained against three tyrants with their old Legions, to be no way inferior. So as I know no reason why we should not as much extol the actions of some of those Emperors, as of POMPEY or CAESAR. But, not to swerve from the common opinion, against which we may not contend, giving to CAESAR and such excellent men the first place; yet it is reason we should also make an honourable mention of those which were virtuous and valiant, and that we should preserve the memorial of them for an example to posterity. Which wanted no other thing (as I said in the beginning) but Writers; who might eloquently, and in a good style, have particularly written their acts, which the others had: for, if of PROBUS, and of some others of whom we have already treated, and are to treat hereafter, there had been any which had eloquently written the Histories, relating all their acts and valiant deeds in particular (their bold attempts, their counsels, their orations, their advertisements, their wonderful policies, stratagems, and other matters of importance) which doubtless happened without number in such and so great enterprises and battles; we should not only be content to give unto these men the second place, but peradventure we should contend for the first; considering, they were no less excellent in virtue and bounty, than in Arms and valour. But, leaving this disputation apart (for, in the end, the world will give Sentence in the behalf of CAESAR, and of those famous men of ancient times) our PROBUS entered Rome, triumphing Probus his triumph in Rome. of the Germane, of the Blemij, and of many other Nations and Tyrants. His triumph was most solemn; and his men of war entered with him: among which were Germane, Spaniards, and other Nations which had served him in the wars, as well as the Romans. There were also some excellent and great Captains: of which the most noble were, LEONIDES, DIOCLESIANUS, CARUS, CONSTANTINUS, ANABALLIANUS, MAXIMINIANUS, PISONIANUS, HERCULEUS, CECROPIUS, and others; whereof some were afterwards Emperors. This trumph being ended, the next day (according to the ancient custom) began the feasts, games and sports; wherein were hunt of savage beasts; more, and more strange, than ever before that time were seen in Rome: for which purpose he caused, in a place called Circulus Maximus, a great Grove of wood and a Mountain to be made, full of very great trees; set in such sort, that they seemed naturally to have grown there. The place was so capable and so large, that therein were hunted a thousand Ostriches, a thousand Stags, a thousand mountain Goats, a thousand wild Boars, a thousand fallow Deer, and other kinds of beasts: and the people were permitted to kill and take thereof at their pleasure. Afterwards there were killed with Lances three hundred Bears; and, in a manner, as many Lions, of those of Libya and of Syria: which was a spectacle representing more majesty and greatness, than delight or pleasure. The next day came three hundred Swordplaiers; which were men (as we have already said) who slew one another to make the people sport: and those which survived, gained reward and liberty. These feasts being ended, the Emperor made certain laws, and took care for the good government of the Empire; and all men lived in such peace and quietness, that PROBUS used to say, that he would speedily take such a course, that there should be no more need of any men of war. Wherefore, as also for that he would never suffer his soldiers to be idle, but employed them in labours and necessary edifices, they began to hate him and to wish his death; as men which had been accustomed to rob and steal, and to live licentiously. And having taken order for all matters concerning a peaceable government, he determined to go into the East, to subdue and wholly to subvert the kingdom of the Persians' and Parthians: for there now remained no other power that he needed to care for, to confirm that peace which he resolved to settle through the Empire. And undertaking this enterprise, with greater preparation, than ever was made in any other (for now nothing letted him) it seeming to his soldiers that it was not good to have a Prince so valiant, in whose time they were compelled to live in such subjection and were punished, and could not follow their old course and former liberty, they resolved to kill him; and in secret many of them conspired against him: So as when he passed through Slavonia, they murdered him by treason; when he had reigned (after EUTROPIUS) six Proclus slain by his own soldiers. years and four months; which (as I said of AURELIANUS) was a very short space, for the accomplishing of such and so great acts and enterprises, as his were. And some authors writ that he reigned not so long. His death was much lamented in Rome, both by the Senate and Roman people. The army stood not upon the punishing of the offenders; for no man durst attempt the same: but they erected to this invincible Emperor a most honourable Sepulchre, whereon was engraven this epitaph. Here lieth the Emperor PROBUS, justly for his goodness called PROBUS; of all the barbarous nations and tyrants a Conqueror. This passed (as EUSEBIUS testifieth) in the year of our Lord 285. He left neither son nor kinsman that durst make challenge to the Empire: and so there remained not any man that sought to eternize the memory of so great and excellent a man. THE LIFE OF CARUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND ONE and fortith Emperor of Rome. And of CARINUS and NUMERIANUS, his sons, which were also called AUGUSTI. NOW were the soldiers again in possession of authority to choose Emperors. For, as it appeareth by the process of this History, The men of war ever hated those Emporors', which were chosen by the Senate. they ever hated that Emperor which was chosen by the Senat. And although that in diverse parts of the Empire there were Armies and ordinary Legions; yet that Army wherein the Emperor was at the time of his death ever pretended to have greatest right: and he that was chosen by them, seemed to have the best title, and was held for right Emperor. And for as much as PROBUS was dead and buried, as we have said, the soldiers began to consult about the election of a new Emperor: and they all desired to make choife of such a man as might seem to deserve the same; so as neither the Senate nor other Armies should have any just cause to except at his election. And in the opinion of the greatest part, CARUS (whom PROBUS had made Praetorian Perfect) was thought very sufficient, as well for that he was a man of great worth, as for that he was of great experience in government, by reason of the charge and offices which he had held: and finally they chose him Emperor, and swore obedience unto him, to the great good liking of Carus chosen Emperor. the whole Army. When his election was published in Rome, the Senate was nothing pleased therewith: not in respect of himself; for of his good conditions and virtues they were very well assured; but for that he had two sons, the eldest of which expected to be his successor, whose name was CARINUS, who was a wicked and most vicious man: but they durst not deny their obedience, and so approved his election, through the desire they had to preserve the peace and quietness wherein PROBUS had then left them. Whence, or of what country this Emperor CARUS was, I find not written in any author. FABIUS CECILIANUS, which wrote the History of his time (as VOPISCUS reporteth) saith, that he was borne in Slavonia, but by descent he was an African. ONESIMUS saith, that he was born in Rome, and that his father was a Slavon; nevertheless, he was held for a Roman: which he showeth in some letters that are by VOPISCUS mentioned. But AURELIUS VICTOR, EUSEBIUS, and PAULUS OROSIUS make him a Frenchman, born in Narbone. It little importeth whence he was: but as soon as he was chosen Emperor, he made his two sons CAESAR'S, CARINUS and NUMERIANUS, with the name and authority of AUGUSTI, and he received them as his companions in the Empire. NUMERIANUS was valiant, wise, learned, a great Musician, and a Poet: But CARINUS was wicked, dishonest, insolent, and given to all kind of vice. Having ended these things, he presently began to make most diligent search for those which had murdered PROBUS; whom he severely punished: which, together with the love which PROBUS in his life time did show him, took away the suspicion which some conceived that he had been consenting to his death. Having done justice, and written his ordinary letters to the Senate, he marched with his Army to make war against the Sarmates, who as soon as they understood that PROBUS was dead, came with great fury into Pannonia, and with such pride, as they threatened all Italy, and the rest of the Empire: where, after some conflicts, he came to a battle, wherein he had the victory, slew of them sixteen thousand, took twenty thousand prisoners, and put the rest to flight. Carus his victory against the ●…rmatess. After this victory, he understood that in the East, the Persians' made some alterations. Wherhfore, to effect what PROBUS had intended, he resolved to march presently thither, leaving to his eldest son CARINUS the government of France and Spain, and NUMERIANUS he took with himself; and went with such power and so great an Army, as he presently took all the country of Mesopotamia, meeting not any man to make defence or head against him. And passing further, he besieged the City of Thesiphonte, where the Persians' sallied forth to encounter him with a sufficient Army, between which (as EUTROPIUS writeth) was a must cruel battle; wherein CARUS overthrew them; and following his victory, he took by force the famous Cities of Seleucia and Thesiphonte. And as he was of a great spirit, and experience Carus overthrew the Per●…ans. in the wars (if death had not surprised him) it was then conceived, that he would have wholly ruined the power of the Persians': for at that time they were at civil wars among themselves. But coming with his Army to the banks of the river Tigris; through his travel and heat, he fell extremely sick. Wherewith being much oppressed, there happened one day a great tempest of thunder and lightning, and there fell a thunderbolt into the Emperor's Carus slain with a thunder●…. tent, wherewith some of those which were about him were slain, and among them the Emperor himself, having reigned but two years, which he spent in continual travail and wars, in the year of our Lord 287, in the beginning thereof. Notwithstanding that CARUS was a great and mighty Prince, yet the thunderbolt had no respect of him; and I see, that those good Princes had as ill fortune as the most base and wicked. I have read the Chronicles of Kings, and of other great Princes of many Kingdoms and Provinces: but I never heard nor read, that the like deaths ever happened unto any as to the Roman Emperors; at lest so commonly: for it is certain, that no kind of death, how vile or strange soever, but hath been inflicted upon some Roman Emperor. For amongst them, some have been slain by treason, and Sundry kinds of death happened to the Roman Emperors. commonly by the sword: some by thunderbolts from heaven, as CARUS: some were burnt with fire, as we will tell you of VAIENS: Others were hanged, as before we told you of BONOSUS, who was called Emperor in the time of PROBUS; and before him, old GORDIANUS in Africa: others tormented and dragged along the ground, as we told you of HELIOGABALUS and VITELLIUS: others were poisoned, as some before named: others Captives and thrown into prison, like most base and vile slaves, and so VALERIANUS died: others opened their veins and bled to death, as QVINTILIUS and FLORIANUS: others were drowned, as DECIUS; and to others happened other kinds of death. So as having not written the lives of above forty or forty one Emperors, it seemeth that death hath made experience in them, that there be as many conditions of death, as of dead men: among which may be numbered the deaths of CARINUS and NUMERIANUS, sons to the Emperor CARUS, who were called AUGUSTI: from whose life we will presently begin; and the process of the history will show others no less strange and fearful. Of CARUS his two sons, which he made CAESAR'S with power and authority of AVOUSTI; the younger, whose name was NUMERIANUS, was with his father when he died: who as well for the worth and deserts of his father, as for his own, was much beloved of all the Army and Roman people: wherefore by common consent, as soon as his father Numerianus chosen Emperor. was dead, he was chosen Emperor, and for such was generally obeyed. He was married to the daughter of a rich and mighty man, whose name was ARRIUS APER. This new Emperor greatly lamenting the death of his father, and imagining that in that war at that time there was no more to be done, raised his Camp, and began to retire: and for that he was diseased in his eyes, and could not endure the light; he made himself to be carried in a close Litter, so as he could not be seen. But as the desire to reign is the most violent of all other passions; so his father in law ARIUS APER forgetting the duty which he aught to his sovereign Lord, and the love to his daughter and son in law, resolved to kill him, and by means of his great wealth and friends to procure the Empire for himself: which he might easily bring to pass, for that he was allowed to come to him when he pleased: so as by his hand (or some other man's by his direction) NUMERIANUS was slain in his Litter; and to the end it should not be revealed, they left him therein: and giving it out that he could not endure to see any man, Numerianus slain by his father in law●… they carried him dead two or three days, practising in the mean time what they had projected: but as the dead body began to smell, the treason was discovered sooner than ARRIUS would; and there was so great a confusion and sorrow in the whole Army, that every man took Arms and said, that they would choose an Emperor which should punish so great a treason. But first of all ARRIUS APER was brought prisoner before the Imperial judgement seat: for it was presently known that he had committed this murder. The Army being in this confusion and tumult, by the common consent of all men DIOCLESIANUS was chosen and saluted Emperor, who was the chief man in the Army, and one of the most excellent Captains in the time of PROBUS: he was (as it were) the Emperor's Dioclesianus chosen Emperor. steward, and had the rule and government of his household. He was borne in Dalmatia of obscure parentage, in so much as some say that his father was a Notary: and others say, that he was the son of a bondman. But he was a man of a great courage, very wise, a great defender and lover of the commonwealth, of a quick wit and understanding to make provision for any occasion that might be offered, according to the time and season: and was of great experience in affairs and charges of importance. He was also a man of high conceits, which he put in execution; but with great wisdom and discretion. DIOCLESIANUS seeing himself called by all men Emperor, with great courage accepted the Empire: and clothing himself with the Imperial robe, he set him in the tribunal seat; and being saluted AUGUSTUS, the first thing he did, was to make inquiry, how NUMERIANUS came to his death, notwithstanding that he already knew the same. The treason and practice being discovered unto him, he made the wicked ARRIUS APER to be brought before him; and with his own sword slew him; so much was he displeased therewith: And afterwards Arrius Aper slain by Dioclesianus. he made those which were his complices and partakers to be slain. In this manner was the death of the good Emperor NUMERIANUS revenged. CARINUS the other brother, who was left CAESAR and was governor of France and Spain, was very unlike unto him: for as this was noble, virtuous and given to all virtuous actions and exercises; and besides all his other excellencies, we read, he was the best poet of his time, and an excellent Orator: so was CARINUS dishonest, luxurious, an adulterer, and given to all kind of vice: wherefore, he was generally abhorred of all men; in so much that his own father hated him, and being advertised of his behaviour, said, he held him not his son, purposing to deprive him of the Empire. He then remaining in France, having put from him all the good and virtuous men which his father left with him, conversing altogether with such as himself, understood of the death of his father, and of his brother, and also of DIOCLESIANUS his election. And as (although wicked and vicious) he was valiant and of great courage, without amending any of his evil conditions, but rather with his liberty increasing the same; so he levied the greatest forces he was able, and with great diligence made provision to make head against DIOCLESIANUS, hoping to remain sole Emperor. Whereof when DIOCLESIANUS was advertised, he with great expedition came out of the East into France against him. And as of either side there was both great power and courage; so they had sundry skirmishes, which were very fierce and cruel: but in the end, each of them setting up his rest, they came to a battle, which was the last and most cruel; wherein CARINUS was justly overthrown and slain. And in this manner C●…inus overthrown and slain. remained DIOCLESIANUS at that time sole Lord and Emperor, which was in the year of our Lord 288. THE LIFE OF DIOCLESIANUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND OF MAXIMINIANUS, THE TWO AND FORTITH EMPEROR OF ROME. DIoclesianus, for his virtue, deserved the dignity of the Roman Empire: to whom the government seeming heavy and burdensome, he took for his assistant and companion Maximinianus; who carried himself with such love, loyalty and so much reverence towards him, and he towards Maximinianus, as they seemed to be rather two most loving brothers than Emperors. He made Constance and Galerius Armentarius, Caesar's; to which he gave the charge of managing sundry wars, which he could not himself follow in person: and having obtained many victories, and triumphed together with his Caesar's and his Augustus; in the end he resolved to leave the Empire, being grown old; and he persuaded Maximinianus to do the like; wherewith he was well content, and never after could be induced again to accept of that dignity and government; notwithstanding that he was by many men much entreated. He was very cruel against the Christians and destroyed many of their Churches, because they should not have convenient means and places to assemble together. In the end being very old, it is said that he killed himself with poison, for fear to be put to some shameful death. An ●…nd unworthy truly of his glorious life. THE original of DIOCLESIANUS, and the manner of his election we have above expressed; together with his wisdom and valour: It remaineth now to declare the success of his life, and acts, in such manner, as PAULUS OROSIUS, EUTROPIUS, and other ancient authors have left it in wrighting. Before which I will tell you one thing of DIOCLESIANUS, which I do not use to observe in the lives of other Emperors, for that I hold it a vain thing; although recorded by those authors which I follow in this History: which was, the augury or forewarning that each of them had, that he should be Emperor before he was so. Which I will set down for that it seemeth pleasing; and a little to withdraw the reader's mind from too much thinking of serious matters, of greater importance. FLAVIUS VOPISCUS writeth in the life of NUMERIANUS, son to the Emperor CARUS, that DIOCLESIANUS being a poor soldier, and in his youth serving in the wars of France, was lodged in a woman's house which was a Magician or soothsayer; or as we say, a cunning-woman, one of those which by the Frenchmen were called Druids: Which woman was his hostess and did dress his meat. And making his reckoning with her for his diet (which he did every day) as he was very sparing of his purse, this woman said unto him; Thou art very sparing with me DIOCLESIAN, and truly art too very a niggard. DIOCLESIAN in jest answered her; Pardon me in that I am so sparing in my expenses, for I am but a poor soldier: but I promise' thee, that when I am an Emperor, I will be very liberal unto thee. Quoth this woman unto him; Do not jest with me: for thou shalt be Emperor when thou hast slain a Boar. DIOCLESIAN took A Druid tells Dioclesian th●… he should 〈◊〉 Emperor. this for a jest: and, as he was of a very haughty mind, he never forgot these speeches: and although that he always followed the wars, yet he gave himself much to hunting, and to kill wild Boars; moved thereto by her words. Afterwards in process of time, AURELIANUS, PROBUS, TACITUS and CARUS came to be Emperors, and he had already killed and daily did kill Boars; and sometime used to jest at the prophecy of this Druid, saying; I do daily kill wild Boars, but others eat the flesh. At the last, when with his own hands he had slain the father in law to NUMERIANUS, whose name was APER, which signifieth a Boar; it is written that he then said; Now is my prophecy expired and accomplished: for I have killed the Boar which did prognosticate to me the Empire: and so he held the Druids prophesy fulfilled. It is said, that he came down from his throne of purpose to kill ARRIUS APER with his own hand: although it seemed not fitting his greatness to do so vile a deed, yet he did it to confirm the prophecy. It is so written by these authors: and although I think not but that it happened so; yet I hold it but a jest: for this Soothsayer did not know what she said, and this which happened was but by chance; and so much the more, for that DIOCLESIAN was not made Emperor when he had killed one Boar, but after that he had slain many: and in the end he was made Emperor when he had slain a man whose name was APER, which in English signifieth a Boar. And for that all the prophecies which I find written of these Emperors are after this manner, I for bear to writ them: for that they bring no fruit with them, but rather hurt and danger, enticing Christians to have regard to Southsaying; a thing truly very pernicious, which the infidels observed through the instigation of the devil. As soon as DIOCLESIAN saw himself free from the wars of CARINUS, beginning to take the government of the Empire into his hands, an infinite number of people which were laborers and peasants, rebelled in France, in manner of a communality; the captains were men fitting their humours, whose names were AMANDUS and HELIENUS: wherefore accounting that war unworthy of himself, he sent thither MAXIMINIANUS, whom he had already made CAESAR, for that he was a man of much worth and very valiant in Arms, who (although with great danger) put to flight and slew a great number of them, so as all places there were in peace and quietness. But other wars and tyrants rising, holding himself alone insufficient for so great a charge, he now made MAXIMINIANUS (whom before he had made CAESAR) AVOUSTUS, Emperor his companion and equal with himself in the Empire, as some other Emperors had done the Dioclesian chose Maximini anus for his companion in the Empire. like. And truly it was a wonderful matter to see, that they agreed so well together: for MAXIMINUS was not only a good and loyal companion in the Empire, but there was never any son more obedient unto his father, than he was to DIOCLESIAN; and so in love and concord they governed the Empire a great space, and obtained many noble victories against their enemies. When DIOCLESIAN had made this choice, he took his way towards the East, for that there was a certain Captain in Egypt, whose name was ACHILLEUS, who had seized on that kingdom, and was called Emperor, being mighty and of very great power: and MAXIMINIANUS Achilleus called Emperor 〈◊〉 Egypt. went also into Africa, where all the legions and old soldiers were drawn together in a mutiny, and so other nations with their Captains very orderly rose with the countries, and enjoyed the rents and tributes; and these for their continuance were called QVINGENTIANI or QVINQVAGENARII. These two enterprises were held to be most important, wherein they had good success, as we will presently declare. But before those wars began, there happened other of no less importance: for a principal captain called CRAUSIUS, or (as others say) CARAUSIUS, Crausius rebelled in Britanny. rebelled in Britanny, possessed himself of that Island, and was called Emperor. And NARSEUS King of Persia and Armenia, taking the benefit of the time, began to war against the Empire, and invaded Mesopotamia. One JULIANUS also in Italy rebelled, and would have made himself Emperor: But seeing how small means he had to maintain the same, he stabbed himself with his poiniard, and fell into a fire; as AURELIWS' VICTOR reporteth. julianus, rebelling in Italy, slew himself. For which occasions the two Emperors agreed that each of them should name one to be CAESAR and his successor, which should be such a man, as should be of quality able to help to preserve and defend the Empire; which they did: and DIOCLESIAN chose one GALERIUS MAXIMINUS, who by his surname was called ARMENTARIUS. This man was of so base a lineage, that they report him to be the son of a Cowherd, and born in Dacia; but was a most valiant man, very wise, and an excellent Captain; yet very severe, and of a churlish disposition. MAXIMINIANUS named another called CONSTANTIUS, and by his surname CLORUS; a man very virtuous, wise, a valiant Captain, and a Roman Gentleman, Constantius Clorus made Caesar by Maximinianus. born of high and Noble parentage. His father's name was EUTROPIUS, and his mother's CLAUDIA; Niece to the Emperor CLAUDIUS who had the great victory against the Goths: and, to be the better assured of them, they caused them to put away the wives they had, and to marry others. CONSTANTIUS did put away HELEN, by whom he had already one son called CONSTANTINE, who afterwards was an excellent Emperor; and he married with THEODOSIA, the daughter-in-law of MAXIMINIANUS. When they had made this provision, divided the Empire among them, and levied their Armies, the Emperor MAXIMINIANUS went into Africa; and DIOCLESIAN into Egypt, against ACHILLEUS. GALERIUS ARMENTARIUS went into the East against the Persians'. CONSTANTIUS CLORUS CAESAR remained in France, to make head against CARAUSIUS, who called himself Emperor in Britanny; and against the incursions of the Northerly Nations. Which wars, although some of them happened at one instant and together, I will relate in such manner as shall seem most expedient. And to begin with the Emperors: I say, that DIOCLESIAN being arrived in Egypt, ACHILLEUS attended his coming with a great and mighty Army: and joining battle (notwithstanding that ACHILLEUS fought very valiantly) DIOCLESIAN had the victory; and ACHILLEUS, saving himself by flight, recovered the City of Alexandria: where, seeking to repair his forces, he was besieged by DIOCLESIAN; and in the time of eight months (for, so long the siege lasted) there happened many battles, skirmishes, and encounters: but in the end the City was taken Alexandria taken by Dioclesian, and Achili●…us was cast to the Lions. by force, and ACHILLEUS by DIOCLESIAN'S commandment was cast to be devoured by Lions and other wild Beasts. And so in all that Kingdom he used cruel & extreme punishments, putting to death many thousands of men; but principally of those which had been leaders and motives of this rebellion, or had consented thereto. MAXIMINIANUS the other Emperor, who went into Africa against the Quingentiani, in the beginning warred very doubtfully, and with great difficulty: but the greatest part of that people fight with his power, he vanquished, and constrained the rest to sue for peace; and afterwards went into divers parts, destroying the tyrants and thiefs which were in those Countries: wherefore he was called MAXIMINIANUS HERCULEUS, for that HERCULES Maximinianus called Herculeus traveled many parts of the world, doing the like. And DIOCLESIAN by a new surname was called JOVIUS, of JUPITER; who, they said, did overcome and kill the Giants. And so he and his companions (in his name) over came and slew the tyrants. The other wars made by the CAESARS proved not so well at first: for, CONSTANTIUS CLORUS, who was left to make head against CARAUSIUS; as CARAUSIUS was valiant and wily, and possessed of all Brittannie, so could he no way prevail against him, but was rather forced by the Germane that came down against him, to conclude a peace with CARAUSIUS. And so CARAUSIUS remained peaceable Lord of Britanny 7 years. Yet afterwards his companion Constantius made peace with Carausius in Britanny. and familiar friend called ALECTUS, slew him, and took the rule of the country to himself, which he held 3 years. But he at last was overthrown and slain by ASCL●…PIDOTUS, or ASCLOPIUS DOTUS, a Praetorian Perfect: and so Britanny was again recovered, after it had been usurped by rebels 10 years. When CONSTANTIUS made peace with CARAUSIUS, he had a dangerous war with the Germane & barbarous nations: with whom, among other battles, he fought one very memorable; whrein, in one same day, he was overthrown, and Conqueror; Constantius in great danger was overthrown and overcame both in one day. which happened thus: Coming to a battle with them in the morning, near a city of the Ligones or Cigones in Gallia Belgica, part whereof is now called Flanders; his troops fought so ill, as they were constrained to turn their backs, and to retire to the City: and CONSTANTIUS CLORUS was forced to do the like. But when he came to the gates of the City, he found them fast locked; and was in such a straight, that if they had not let down a rope▪ wherewith he was drawn over the wall into the City, he had then been slain by the enemy. When he was within the city he called the soldiers together, and made such a speech unto them, as they were greatly ashamed at their dishonour: so as in the evening within five hours after the first fight (the enemy mistrusting no such matter) he commanded all the gates to be opened, and sallied out suddenly, setting upon his enemies with such courage, that after a long fight they were overthrown and cut in pieces, being few less than 60000 men. In like manner happened many great accidents to CONSTANTIUS in those parts. And while as DIOCLESIAN and MAXIMINIAN Emperors, and CONSTANTIUS CAESAR followed these wars, GALERIUS began a war no less dangerous, against NARSEUS King of Persia: against whom (as we have said) he went. For, beside that it continued long, there were many men slain on either side, without any advantage or hope of victory to either party, until at the last they came with their whole power to a set battle near to the city of Carras; into which GALERIUS CAESAR entered with lesser forces than he aught to have done or was requisite: and fight with greater courage than discretion, he was overthrown, and losing almost his whole Army, he escaped by flight. Whereat the Emperor DIOCLESIAN was so much grieved, that GALERIUS coming to his presence into Mesopotamia, meeting him upon the way alighted from his horse, and came to the litter wherein the Emperor was, to do him honour: but DIOCLESIAN suffered him to go a great while over the fields on foot, without staying or willing him to take his horse; blaming him, that he had with Galerius veproved by Dioclesian. so little discretion suffered himself to be overthrown in battle. In the end, he gave him leave to departed, inoyning him to levy a new Army, and to endeavour to recover his lost honour, and to defend his province. Which GALERIUS (parting from him much ashamed) with all diligence put in execution; DIOCLESIAN remaining with his troops in Mesopotamia in the mean time, to the end the Persians' should not invade it. And so GALERIUS with all speed A second battle between Galerius and the Persians'. went into Europe to levy soldiers; and bringing with him the legions of Slavonia, Dacia, and Misia, he returned into Asia, and went into the greater Armenia, whither NARSEUS the King of the Persians', by whom he had been overthrown, was already come, with whom he began the war again in very good order, with good advice, and no less courage. The two Armies came so near the one to the other, as by a mutual consent of their Generals they joined battle: The one presuming on the victory past, and to preserve the honour which they had gotten; and the other to recover their losses. And so the soldiers for these reasons, fought Galerius his victory against the Persians'. with incredible courage and resolution; which made the battle very cruel and bloody: But the Roman Army consisting of more choice men, and better trained, obtained the victory; but not without great difficulty and danger. The King escaped by flight, and GALERIUS following the execution entered his camp; where he found great riches, and took his wives, his children, his sisters, and many Noble and principal men of the Kingdom of Persia. And marching forwards with his forces, he invaded his country, and did great spoil therein, not finding any man that durst to make resistance against him. And from thence he went into Mesopotamia to see DIOCLESIAN, where he was received as in a triumph: and DIOCLESIAN himself went to meet him, and entertained and embraced him cheerfully, doing him great honour. All matters in the East being pacified, and the Persians' & Parthians overthrown; having therein spent many years, they returned into Europe, where MAXIMINIANUS, called HERCULEUS, Emperor and his companion, and CONSTANTIUS CAESAR were, who were busied in the wars before recited; all being (in truth) governed and directed by the wisdom of DIOCLESIAN: whose valour, policy, and courage was such, as there was not any that durst disobey him, not not his equal MAXIMINIANUS; so as they all seemed to be his sons and his Captains, rather than Emperors and his companions. These men held the Empire in peace in three parts, to wit, East, West, and South: but the Northerly parts could never be throughly subdued, as well for their fierceness, courage, and valour, as for that when they were overthrown and put to flight, they withdrew themselves into most cold, barren, and inaccessible places, which they could well endure being born under that climate: so as the Roman Captains held it impossible to pass any further with their Armies, contenting themselves to have chased them out of the bounds of the Empire; but they would afterwards return again with more fury then at the first, and were ever troublesome and feared. Now the Scythians, the Goths, the Sarmates, the Alans, the Carpi, the Cattis, the Quades, and other Barbarous nations rose against the Empire. nations in great numbers assembling themselves, with a desire to rob and steal, and to inhabit some more fertile soil, began to make war and did great spoil in the territories of the Empire; against whom the Emperors and their two CAESARS marched with their Armies: and dispersing themselves into sundry parts they followed the wars, although not without loss and great difficulty, the one helping and assisting the other. In the end they all obtained victory, and the barbarous nations were repulsed, and many thousands of them were taken prisoners: and afterwards being set at liberty, certain Pro●…ceses, which by the wars were dispeopled were given them to inhabit. DIOCLESIAN having obtained this victory and many other, and having settled peace in the Empire by the industry of himself, of MAXIMINIANUS his companion in the Empire, and of GALERIUS & CONSTANTIUS who were CAESAR'S; now willing to enjoy the accustomed reward of victories, he came to Rome, where he entered in triumph together with the Emperor MAXIMINIANUS, and the two CAESAR'S aforesaid, Dioclesians●…umph ●…umph. where was made unto them one of the most stately triumphs that ever was seen in Rome, wherein was an infinite mass of treasure of the spoil of the East, of Egypt, and of other nations by them subdued: there were chariots full of arms, and of vessels of gold, and silver; and there also wereled prisoners the wife and children of the King of Persia, with many other Kings and Captains of sundry armies of the Alanes, of the Cattis and others, which was in the eighteenth year of the reign of DIOCLESIAN: for so long was the time that he had been busied in the wars, and in providing and giving order for such things as were done therein. This DIOCLESIAN was so wise, so politic and so valiant in the government of the Empire, as no Emperor either before or after him, held the Empire in the like subjection: for MAXIMINIANUS obeyed him as his father, and GALERIUS & CONSTANTIUS as their Lord, and so he was honoured and reverenced more like a King, than an Emperor; and he would have his subjects adore him, and do him reverence kneeling upon the ground, after the manner of the Kings of Persia. And as the custom of the Emperors in former time was, when they were entreated by any eminent men to give them their hands to kiss, they, raising them up, gave them peace with their lips on the cheek, and mean men used to kiss their knees: but DIOCLESIAN commanded by a public edict, that without any difference all men should kiss his foot prostrate upon the earth; and for the greater reverence, he made his shoes to be set with pearl and stone of great worth: And in the top of this his great prosperity, by the instigation of the Devil, he resolved to persecute the Christians, and this was the 11th general persecution of the primitive Church after NERO, and cruelest of them all, and lasted longer than any other, for it continued The eleventh Persecution. 10 years. The Christians had lived in rest and liberty many years after the persecution of AURELIANUS, and the number of them and of their Churches was now so great, that in all the cities of the Empire and out of it there was a great concourse of people, and their Churches were much frequented: with which rest and tranquillity (as EUSEBIUS, who was a christian author of those times reporteth) the ceremonies and discipline of the Church began to be corrupt, and fervent devotion began to wax cold, envy and contention growing between the Bishops. There was such discord among them, that (as he conceiveth) God did justly suffer the persecution which then happened, which in truth was so cruel, as no tongue is able to express the same: Wherhfore well saith the same EUSEBIUS, who was present and saw the same, that he cannot thoroughly express with words all that which he saw with his eyes. And both he and PAULUS OROSIUS writ such things, which were of that quality, as there can be no heart so hard, but will have compassion, and be grieved to hear what they have written: So as it is wonderful to consider of the patience and constancy of the persecuted, and of the rage and cruelty of those which persecuted them. In general, DIOCLESIAN endeavoured to destroy all the Churches and Temples of the Christians, to the end they should not assemble to pray and to use divine service, and he burnt all the books he could get of the holy scriptures, and would not permit that any man of what condition soever, if he were a Christian, should hold any office or Magistracy: and if he were Horrible cruelty used by Dioclesian against the Christians. already advanced to any, he should be deprived and held for infamous, if he escaped with his life. The soldiers and men of war, being Christians, which would not renounce their faith, were cassiered, and deprived of all military honour, and some of their lives. The Bishops and Prelates were spoiled of that which they had, and many of them slain and martyred; and a slave which was a Christian could by no means obtain his freedom. This was common in all the provinces of the Empire: but particularly in some of them was committed very great cruelty, as in Phrygia, in Egypt, in Syria, and in other parts. Some were fleyed alive, others were torn with iron combs: and so their skins being rend, they were returned to the prisons,; where they were lodged upon tile stones, and the shards of broken pots, to the end that their rest should be more cruel and terrible than their martyrdom. Honest and delicate women, but strong and constant in Faith, were hanged up by the feet as naked as they were borne, to the end that their life should continued for a space with shame and double torment. Others had their ears, noses, lips, hands, fingers, and feet cut off, having only their eyes left, for a greater ●…orment, and martyrdom unto them: For others, they with great force bowed down great arms and boughs of Trees, and fastened the one leg to one bough, and the other leg to another; and then letting lose the said boughs with the force thereof the bodies were rend in sunder. Between the nails of the fingers and toes, which are very sensible and tender parts, they thrust thorns and splinters of Canes. Upon other men, being naked, they cast melted lead and tin, wherewith they endured most cruel torments. Finally, there were used against the Christians such torments and cruelties, as the like had never been seen nor imagined: and the number of the murdered (during the time of this persecution) was infinite. As DIOCLESIAN was in the height of this felicity obeyed and feared of all the World, he resolved to do a notable act, the like whereof was never observed in any other Emperor before his time: which was, to renounce the Empire and to live a private life; considering (as some writ) like a wise man, the mutability of all things in this life, which never continued in one estate; but when they are grown to their height, naturally decline and fall; Taking example by the great POMPEY, MARCUS ANTONIUS, HANNIBAL, and other great Captains and princes, who having attained to the highest of all felicity and prosperity, were afterwards thrown down and brought low. Accounting himself also insufficient for so great a charge, by reason of his decrepit old age, and fearing to fall into contempt, he would first contemn all dominion and rule, with so many cares and troubles; and so lead a quiet life in mean estate without Dioclesian●…nounced ●…nounced the Empire. care or disturbance. And he was not contented to leave the Empire himself, but he persuaded, and (as we may say) in a manner compelled the Emperor MAXIMINIANUS to do the like. Which between them was concluded and agreed upon by letters and Embassies, in such sort, that both of them upon one day, having governed the Empire the space of twenty years, in the year of our Lord three hundred and seven, MAXIMINIANUS being in Milan, and DIOCLESIAN in Nicomedia, renounced the Empire; and putting off their imperial robes and ensigns, they came down from the thrones where they sat, and made themselves equal with other particular and private men; First nominating and choosing for Emperors and AUGUSTI, CONSTANTIUS CLORUS, and GALERIUS ARMENTARIUS; who Constantius Clorus and Galerius Armentarius made Emperor●… by Dioclesian. before were CAESAR'S. Which, DIOCLESIAN did so willingly and so unfeignedly, as he afterwards used to say; that he then began to live, and saw the beauty of the sun. And it seemeth to be true: for after that these two had left the Empire, as we have said, he would never intermeddle with any matter of government whatsoever. But all his care was to plant and set a garden, and an orchard which he had in Solonia a city in Dalmatia, where he was borne, and whither he retired himself. And afterwards in process of time being required by his companion MAXIMINIANUS and his son in law GALERIUS, who then was Emperor, upon some urgent occasions which happened, again to receive the Empire, alleging that it was necessary and expedient for the common good; he would not accept thereof; but answered, that if they had seen and enjoyed such quietness and rest as he had, and the herbs and trees which he possessed in his country, they would not have sent to have made any such request unto him: for he had already travailed and done enough for the commonwealth; and that now God had given him time to travail and to live to himself; and that he could not put to accounted that he had ever lived, but since that he lived in peace and rest in his own country. They replying, that he aught to have respect unto the great acts which he had done, and not to loose the reputation of the victories which he might have in his own time: He answered, That having settled his felicity in the gifts of the mind, it was no vile or base thing, neither aught it so to be adjudged to contemn temporal riches and rule, and to profess an honest poor life; agreeing with the discipline and examples of the sage and ancient Philosophers: and so finally he would not altar his determination. It cannot be said, but that this wise Prince did well understand how little worldly dominion and command is to be esteemed; seeing that with it, it bringeth so much trouble, anguish and vexation. And I do partly believe, that for some good deed which he had done, it pleased God (who leaveth no merit unrewarded) to give him that rest and judgement in this world; seeing that in the other life, as a cruel Infidel, he was to pay for the cruelties which he had committed against the Primitive Church; and in the end gave him such a death as he had deserved. Some say, that he poisoned himself for fear The death of Dioclesian. of LICINIUS and of CONSTANTINE, who afterwards were Emperors, who in their Letters had threatened him, for that he would not come to their nuptials. Others say, that he died mad, after that he had lived (as saith AURELIUS VICTOR) seventy and eight years. What death his companion MAXIMINIANUS died, I will tell you in the lives of his Successors. Of two wives which DIOCLESIAN had, I find not that there remained any other son or daughter but VALERIA, whom he married to GALERIUS ARMENTARIUS when he made him CAESAR. Of MAXIMINIANUS remained one son, whose name was MAXENTIUS, who afterwards took the name of Emperor; whom he had by a woman of Soria, called EUTROPIA; and one daughter named FAUSTA, whom he married to CONSTANTYNE, son of CONSTANTIUS CAESAR, who afterwards was Emperor. THE LIFE OF CONSTANTIUS CLORUS, THE FIRST OF THAT NAME, AND OF GALERIUS ARMENTARIUS, THE THREE AND FORTITH EMPEROR OF ROME. PResently after that DIOCLESIAN and MAXIMINIAN had resigned the Empire, CONSTANTIUS and GALERIUS Constantius Clorus & Galerius Armentarius made Emperors. without any contradiction were obeyed and accepted for Emperors, accordingly as the others had ordained; they being, as we may say, sons-in-law to the two last Emperors: for, GALERIUS was married to DIOCLESIAN'S daughter; and CONSTANTIUS, to THEODORA the daughter-in-law of MAXIMINIANUS. This CONSTANTIUS was a very Noble, virtuous, courteous and valiant Gentleman, both of condition and blood: And GALERIUS although he were but of a base stock and lineage, yet was he nevertheless valiant, and a singular good Captain; but therewith cruel, terrible, churlish, incontinent; but well proportioned, and (as AURELIUS VICTOR saith) of a comely and goodly constitution of body. Notwithstanding that in conditions there was great difference betwixt them, yet DIOCLESIAN through his great wisdom made them to live in peace and concord; so as they no way disagreed. But, he being dead, they (as wise men) for fear to fall out, agreed by lot to divide the Provinces of the Empire between them. To CONSTANTIUS befell Italy, Sicilia, and Africa, with all the Provinces thereof, together with France, Spain, Germany and Britanny: and to GALERIUS The Empire divided between Constantius and Galerius. was allotted Slavonia, Macedonia, Thracia, Thessalia; all the Provinces of Graecia, of Asia, of Egypt, of Soria, and all the East, and the Lands therein. This division being made, it seemed a great charge and a burden to the mild condition of CONSTANTIUS CLORUS, To have the government of so many Provinces as fell to his share: for, he rather desired to govern well, than to govern much; and therefore renounced to GALERIUS the Provinces of Africa, and of Italy, contenting himself with France, Spain, and the Isles of Britanny. Truly he had reason, seeing that one of these Kings at this day is held for one of the most mighty Potentates of the world: so as that part which CONSTANTIUS did hold for the small time he lived, he governed very wisely and uprightly, to the great good and content of the subjects; and was so highly esteemed and beloved, that in his time there was not any war or rebellion in any of those Provinces. He did much honour and favour the Christians, and would not consent that any violence or displeasure should be done unto any of them. He died in England of sickness, after that he had been (as witnesseth EUSEBIUS) sixteen years The Emperor Constantius Clorus died in England. Constantine chosen Emperor in his father's place. CAESAR, and two year's Emperor. And in his place his son CONSTANTINE (whom he had by his first wife called HELENA, from whom he was divorced to marry with the Emperor MAXIMINIANUS daughter-in-law) was chosen Emperor. The said CONSTANTINE was also married to FAUSTA, the daughter of MAXIMINIANUS. And this was the end of CONSTANTIUS. But his companion GALERIUS having accepted that which he desired not (which was Italy and Africa) and considering also that one man alone could hardly rule and govern so great an estate well; to the end therefore that he might be assisted in the wars, and in all other accidents that might befall him, he made two CAESARS, which were Severus and Maximinus made Caesar's by Galerius. almost equal in dignity to himself: the one was called SEVERUS, whom he set in the government of Italy and Africa; and to the other, whose name was MAXIMINUS, being (as saith AURELIUS VICTOR) his sister's son, he gave the government of the East; holding to himself the Provinces of Slavonia, and of Graecia, with supreme power, as sovereign Emperor above the GAESARS: so as by four heads the world was governed: which were CONSTANTINUS and GALERIUS, Emperors; and SEVERUS and MAXIMINUS, CAESAR'S. After that DIOCLESIAN and MAXIMINIAN had renounced the Empire; the Praetorian soldiers, who (as hath been often said) remained near to Rome, discontented with the government The Praetorian soldiers discontent with the government of Severus, made Maxentius their Emperor. of SEVERUS which ruled it (he being fare absent from thence, going into Slavonia to see the Emperor GALERIUS) assembling themselves in a great tumult, chose MAXENTIUS for Emperor, who (as is said) was MAXIMINIANUS his son, who renounced the Empire; whom he had by a base woman of Soria, called EUTROPIA: the which bred a great confusion in the Empire, being then in peace; and there ensued so great troubles, as can hardly be described. When the Emperor GALERIUS understood hereof, he commanded SEVERUS CAESAR with all speed to take his way towards Rome, where the new Tyrant MAXENTIUS was. Being encamped near to the City, the greatest part of his Army (for, novelties are ever most pleasing) went over to MAXENTIUS: which his father MAXIMINIANUS, being then in Lucania, after he had renounced the Empire, understanding, through desire to rule, came in great haste to Rome, under pretext to counsel and assist his son in the government; and sent to DIOCLESIAN, desiring him to do the like; who (as we have said) would not accept of his counsel, but lived in peace. MAXIMINIANUS having received his answer, and finding himself to be much esteemed, Maximinianus who had renounced the Empire, came to Rome under colour to give counsel to his son in the government of the Empire. resolved to repossess the Empire, and to dispossess his son; surmising, that he being in possession of Rome, and that his son-in-law CONSTANTINE reigning in Britanny, Spain and France, all would yield obedience to him. But his imaginations had so ill success, that he not only missed of his purpose, but was so hardly dealt withal by the Praetorian Cohorts (his son permitting the same) that he was glad to fly out of Italy into France, where his son in law the good CONSTANTINE had the government; who very honourably received him, as his father in law, and as a man which had been Emperor. But he which had set his thoughts only upon the Empire, and sought by all means how he might attain thereto, like a wicked and disloyal father in law purposed to have slain his son in law CONSTANTINE: but it Maximinianus practised the death of his son-in-law Constantine. The Emperor Maximinianu●… slain in Marseller. pleased God to discover his treason, to the end that he should receive punishment for the cruelty which he had used against the Christians: for flying from CONSTANTINE'S Court he was overtaken at Marseilles; where he sought to have embarked himself, and there was slain: and so MAXIMINIANUS made an unfortunate end, his son MAXENTIUS remaining Emperor and Tyrant in Rome, as is aforesaid. When GALERIUS ARMENTARIUS, who was the right Emperor, understood of the ill success and death of SEVERUS CAESAR, whom he had sent against MAXENTIUS; he resolved in person to go against him with the greatest power he was able to make: and, to the end he might leave a good guard in the Provinces of Slanonia, he made an excellent Captain called LICINIUS, CAESAR; who was a man of mean condition and base parentage, being but the son of a poor Labourer of Dacia; but very wise, and an excellent Captain in the wars. This being done, and having taken such order as was requisite, he departed with his Army towards Italy, directing his journey for Rome: but by the way he was advertised, that his own soldiers did treat among themselves of abandoning him, and of going over to MAXENTIUS; and that certain companies of soldiers in Italy, which until then had held for him, had done the like. Whereupon, fearing to be overthrown, he returned to the place where he left LICINIUS; repenting also that he had made him CAESAR, for that he saw he was of greater power and authority than he desired he should have been. GALERIUS being so returned, there grew in his flank an imposthume; so noisome and pestilent, that no medicines or remedies whatsoever were of force to cure it: and it became so corrupt, that there fell a number of worms from it: which did put him to such intolerable pain, that he was ready in despair to have killed Galerius incurable disease, & infirmity. himself. Seeing himself to die in this manner, he made some of his Physicians which had him in cure, to be slain, because they could not cure him. And now at the last, without any true repentance, he began to think that this happened unto him for persecuting the Christians: and therefore in great haste, consulting with CONSTANTINE who reigned in Britanny, France, and Spain, he commanded all laws and edicts whatsoever made against them, to cease, and to be abolished; and to that effect sent his Letters and Decrees into all the Provinces of Graecia, and of the East, where MAXIMINUS (who was CAESAR for him) governed; which, EUSEBIUS (an Author of great truth, and an eyewitness) sets down verbatim. And, besides this, he made many Christians to be brought into his presence, whom he desired and entreated to pray to God for his bodily health; for, he remembered not the health of his soul, but would have continued an Infidel still. Wherhfore either they would not make so unjust a supplication to God for him, or else it pleased not God to hear their prayers: for, within few days after, he died of that his incurable disease; yet some Authors say, that he killed himself. The death of Galerius Armentarius. This his death happened in the year of our Lord 312, he having reigned six years; the first two in company with CONSTANTIUS, and the rest with the CAESARS. Being dead, all things remained in this estate: MAXENTIUS, who tyrannously was called Emperor, held Rome and all Italy. CONSTANTINUS, who indeed was Emperor, held France, Spain, Britanny, and part of Germany. LICINIUS, whom GALERIUS had made CAESAR, remained in possession of Slavonia, and of the Provinces of Gracia, and presently made himself to be called Emperor: and MAXIMINUS enjoyed all the East, with the dignity and name of CAESAR. Among all which, only CONSTANTINE seemed to have just title, for that he was the son of CONSTANTIUS, and had married the daughter of MAXIMINIANUS; both which had been Emperors. THE LIFE OF CONSTANTINE THE GREAT, FIRST OF THAT NAME, AND FORTY FOURTH ROMAN Emperor; And of MAXENTIUS, and of MARCUS LICINIUS, which in his time were called EMPERORS. THE ARGUMENT. THE Empire was divided among diverse Princes, and each governed his part with equal authority: but Maxentius reigning in Rome as a Tyrant, behaved himself in such sort, that Constantine bore Arms against him notwithstanding that he was allied unto him, and joined battle with him, less confident in the force of his Army, then in the vision which he had seen, that under the sign of the Cross he should overcome; which he ever after bore for his device. He likewise overcame Marcus Licinius, who also governed a part of the Empire. He greatly favoured the Christians: and while he lived, the persecution of the Christians ceased, and the Prelates of the Church were had in great veneration, and made rich. He did put a son of his own to death, whose name was Crispus, by the instigation of his wife Fausta, whom he afterwards also slew, being grievously reprehended by his mother Helena for the death of his son. He would have rooted out the heresy of Arrius: but death intercepted him, which took him out of this life when he was very old: he died a Christian, as he had Christianlike lived, leaving the Church in great honour and rich, whereto he had of his bounty given many great and rich gifts. IAm of opinion, and do verily believe, that it cannot be otherwise, but that the Reader shall see himself in a great confusion, and will not without some trouble comprehend the subject of this History; by reason of the multitude of Emperors and CAESARS, which concur at one instant: so as if it be a hard matter to remember their names only, how much more than will it be to understand the actions of every of them particularly? It is true, that the Roman Empire was then so great, as no The great●…ss of the Roman Empire. one man alone was able to govern the same; neither was it possible that many should rule it: for in reign and command (as I have elsewhere said) equality and company cannot be endured. And from hence arose so much discord, murder, and other strange accidents, which then could not throughly be understood, neither can now be so clearly described, as they may be distinctly conceived as they past. Wherhfore, it shall be needful that the curious Reader remember well what is past, to the end he may the better comprehend that which followeth. The Tyrant MAXENTIUS being as Emperor in Rome, CONSTANTINE in France, In what sort the Roman Empire was divided. LICINIUS in Slavonia and Graecia, who also called himself Emperor, and MAXIMINUS CAESAR in the East; The life and behaviour of MAXENTIUS in Rome was such, as he was therefore extremely hated of all men: for he was a cruel homicide and a murderer of Noblemen, libidinous, an adulterer, dishonest, covetous, and above all a persecuter and destroyer of the Church of God. Finally, in all his actions he was a Tyrant, a great Sorcerer, and a friend to Soothsayers, Enchanters, Charmers, and such like. For which, the virtuous and most Maxent●…s' a great e●…chanter. noble CONSTANTINE (being in France) was very sorry: and being called by the Senators of Rome and other Noblemen, he resolved to levy an Army against MAXENTIUS, notwithstanding that he was brother to his wife FAUSTA, as I have said. But the better to preserve his own Empire, he made MARCUS LICINIUS, who commanded Slavonia and the other provinces aforesaid, his friend, giving to him his sister CONSTANCE to wife, in the city of Milan, where they two met for that purpose, and made great feasting. Wither was invited (but would not come) the old Emperor DIOCLESIAN, who yet lived in his voluntary poverty. Wherewith CONSTANTINE and LICINIUS being discontent, wrote unto him sharp and threatening letters, alleging that he favoured MAXENTIUS; wherefore (as The death of the Emperor Dioclesian. some writ) he took poison wherewith he killed himself; and others say that he died mad. After the feasts were ended in Milan, the good CONSTANTINE coming with his Army into Italy against MAXENTIUS, who (although he were a wicked man) was both valiant and hardy: and raising also the greatest and best forces that he was able, went to meet him, trusting in the enchantments and charms which he had made, and in the masters which he had with him, which for that purpose killed innocent children, making with their blood a thousand charms and other vanities: wherewith he held the unlearned and unbelieving people so amazed, that the greatest number of his friends gave credit thereunto; and his enemies stood in fear to give him battle. Wherhfore, and also for that in truth he had a great Army and very expert, principally the Praetorian soldiers which first made choice of him; the war grew Wars between Constantine and Maxentius. to be very doubtful, and there were some encounters and battles between them, wherein for the most part CONSTANTINE had the victory. But MAXENTIUS reinforcing his Army, and using his devilish arts, came finally to Rome, where he procured all possible favour: and making greater preparation to offend his enemy; by the counsel of a Magician woman, or rather a witch, he resolved to sally forth and to give CONSTANTINE battle, who with his forces was come near to Rome. Who understanding what MAXENTIUS meant to put in execution; considering the great loss that might ensue, and standing in fear and doubt of the issue of the battle, aswell for the great number of the enemies, as for MAXENTIUS enchantments wherewith he amazed the world; he was in great care and perplexity: And as he gave great credit to the Christians, and was their protector and defender (notwithstanding that yet he was not baptised) but had a firm and steadfast hope in JESUS CHRIST; EUSEBIUS, CASSIODORUS, and others writ, that there appeared unto him one of the greatest miracles that ever was seen in the world: which was, That he saw in the heavens a great cross, of the colour of fire, like unto that whereupon our Saviour suffered his passion; and therewith he heard this voice, In hoc signo vinces. By virtue of this sign thou shalt overcome. A miracle appeared to Constantine when he prepared to fight with Maxentius. By means of which sign and miracle, God gave him so great confidence, as he presently assured himself of victory: and therefore caused the sign of the cross to be made in his imperial standard; and ever after used to bear it wrought in some jewel or otherwise in his right hand, and on his forehead: and finally, from thenceforth his device was continually the cross, and he made it to be set in all his ensigns. CONSTANTINUS then putting his hope and trust in the voice which he heard from heaven, and MAXENTIUS his belief and confidence in his devils and enchantments, joined battle near to a bridge over the river Tiber, called Pons Miluius, which was somewhat more than a mile from Rome; whither MAXETIUS very courageously came in the forward of all A fight between Constantine and Maxentius. his Army. The fight being begun, and he overcharged by CONSTANTINE'S vanguard, before which was carried the cross, he fled: and entering upon the bridge which he had commanded to be made upon Barks and Boats near to the other, both he and his horse fell into the river, where he was drowned: which bridge he himself had caused to be made, to the end therewith to have deceived his enemy. Wherhfore to him may be well applied the saying of the Maxentius flying was drowned in the river Tiber. Psalmist, Lacum aperuit, & effodit eum, & incidit in foveam quam ipse fecit. CONSTANTINE having obtained this victory in the seventh year of his reign (accounting from the death of his father) without any loss or slaughter of his people; the Senators and people of Rome, with their wives and children came forth to receive him, as the Prince who Constantine accompanied into Rome by the Senate and whole Roman people with great joy and gladness. had freed them from servitude; and they gave him the title of Father of the country, and restorer of peace and liberty. In this manner was he attended into Rome, with incredible joy and feasting, every one singing his praises; yielding generally, sundry congratulationss, with mirth and gladness. But he attributed nothing to his own power or policy, but all to God only. And in the right hand of all the Statues and Images, which in Rome by decree of the Senate were erected to his honour for his victory against MAXENTIUS, he caused to be engraven the sign of the cross, with the words which he heard from heaven, In Hoc signo vinces. And then he commanded by public edict that no man should be condemned to the death of the cross: which until his time was used and held for an ignominious death. Setting all matters in good order and peace in Rome, making holy and just laws and statues, and to show himself Decrees made by Constantine in favour of the Christians. grateful for the benefits which he had received; he did much good to the Christians, bestowing many favours and gifts upon them, building them Churches and houses of prayer, endowing them with rents and necessary means for the maintenance of the Priests and Ministers thereof, with ornaments and necessaries for divine service. And he and his brother in law LICINIUS, the other Emperor, by common consent sent their general edicts and decrees through all the provinces and cities subject to the Empire, commanding that the Christians should be eased from all grievances, made free, and received into honours and offices of dignity and authority; in which decrees were contained the great praises of our Lord, reciting the victories which CONSTANTINE had obtained under his banner with the sign of the cross. Which decrees being sent into the East, where MAXIMINUS CAESAR bore the sway, were obeyed by him, as the Emperor's commandment, but much against his will●… for he was wicked and a most cruel enemy to the Catholic Church: and so although he contained himself for a season, yet afterward he returned to his devilish disposition. CONSTANTINE living in this felicity, being Lord of all the provinces of Africa (I mean of that part which was subject to the Empire) of France, Spain, Germany, and also Italy, with the Lands of Britanny and Sicily; in all which countries he maintained peace and justice (for the wisdom and policy of this prince was exceeding great, and no less was his courage and valour) in such sort that as he was most valiant and venturous in Arms, so was he very wise and politic in peace; and made new laws, against the new slanders and inventions of the wicked. He also took great care and pain to reduce all Arts and Sciences to their ancient perfection, greatly honouring such masters as were excellent, who then were greatly decayed and diminished, and he gave them more honour: he also exercised himself in most honourable exercises, reading, writing, and inditing, and in hearing the Embasses and complaints which were brought to him from sundry provinces; and to all men was affable, mild, courteous and liberal; preserving in all things the bounty and sincerity of his mind. Being in Rome, as some reckon in the year of Lord 314. and as other say 316. some say more, some less (for which computation I take no great care, seeing it little importeth the truth of the history) he was there instructed by Pope SYLVESTER in all matters concerning the Constantine instructed in the Christian saith by Pope Sylvester. Christian faith: which he (as some writers affirm) received with great fervency; and with his son CRISPUS, whom he in the beginning of his reign had made CAESAR, was baptised in Rome, having first made for that purpose a most sumptuous Font, which (as PLATINA affirmeth) is at this day there to be seen: yet some others affirm, that he was baptised but a little before his death. But whensoever, it hath greatest appearance that it was solemnised in Rome. But we will leave this controversy until another time. He living thus in quiet in Rome, Maximinus calling himself Emperor, revoked the privileges given to the Christians. MAXIMINUS CAESAR, who ruled in the East, seeing himself rich and mighty, held it for a disgrace to be inferior to LICINIUS or to CONSTANTINE; and therefore taking upon him the name of AUGUSTUS and Emperor, and revoking the privileges given to the Christians, he began to declare himself an enemy, especially to LICINIUS, who commanded nearest unto him: and knowing that LICINIUS provided for him; trusting in the multitude of his men of war, he marched towards LICINIUS: but before they fought any general battle, they made most cruel war both by sea and land in many parts: and after many conflicts, at the last they came to fight, Army against Army, wherein MAXIMINUS was overthrown: and the battle was so cruel, as the greatest part of his men were slain, and those A battle between Maximinus and Licinius. which escaped yielded themselves to LICINIUS. MAXIMINUS himself escaping by flight, changed his habit, to the end that he would not be discovered, until he might come to some place of safety. And (as EUSEBIUS writeth) imagining himself to be deluded by his Magicians, and the false Priests of his devilish gods, he put many of them to death, and began to entreat the Christians very well; and sent abroad his decrees, wherein he commanded that they should be suffered to live at liberty, and to build Temples, and to do what they thought good. Which this wicked man did, more for that he hoped that God would therefore give him victory, and so he might be revenged of his enemies, then for any belief he had in him: for what he did was not willingly, but with a dissembling heart, and through desire of revenge: for this wicked man thought that Christ should assist him with his mercy, who upon the cross prayed to his father to forgive them which had nailed him thereon. Having once again levied the greatest and best forces he could, with an intent to return to fight with LICINIUS, it pleased God to frustrate his purposes by his death, afflicting him first with the most cruel and grievous disease that ever was heard of; wherein through the intolerable pain which he felt in his guts and entrails, he did bite his own hands, and did cast himself desperately from his bed to the ground: and this torment continuing many days, so as he could neither eat, drink, nor sleep: at length his eyes started out of his head; and so he died mad and in despair. Through his The death of Maximinus. death the Christians enjoyed an absolute peace and quietness through all the provinces of the Empire: and CONSTANTINE and LICINIUS remained absolute Lords and Emperors, and so continued in great peace and tranquillity for a season: LICINIUS went presently into the East, where he slew VALENS, a Captain whom the Army there had made Emperor after Valens slain by Licinius. the death of MAXIMINUS: and that tyrant being slain, and he in possession of the country, he punished the Sorcerers, the Enchanters, and the ministers of MAXIMINUS cruelties; and he also caused his sons to be slain whom he had made CAESAR'S. EUSEBIUS, who was an eye witness, reciteth, what great liberty the christians obtained through the death of MAXIMINUS; and how they built Churches and beautified the same, and in how great account and reverence CONSTANTINE held the Bishops and Prelates; And likewise the gifts, rewards, and revenues which he bestowed upon them. The Empire being governed in this manner; in those times one ALEXANDER a Captain in Africa rebelled and usurped the name and title of Emperor; against whom CONSTANTINE sent from Rome an Army: which coming to a battle, ALEXANDER was overcome and slain. So as all remained under the command of CONSTANTINE and LICINIUS Alexander rebelled, and taking the name of Emperor, was overthrown and slain by Constantine's forces. only. And although their dignity and Empire was equal, yet was the authority and valour of CONSTANTINE fare greater, and he much more esteemed and better beloved of all men than LICINIUS, and for the most part remained in Rome, doing justice to all men indifferently; particularly honouring and enriching the Church of God, hearing and reading the holy scriptures, and in this manner remained in rest for a space. But the Devil, who never ceaseth to induce men to do evil, and to sow discord and enmity amongst them, made LICINIUS to altar his mind, who in his hart favoured not the Christians, and drew him to persecute them. The first thing he did, was to cast out of his house and service, and so, out of all offices Licinius persecuted the Christians. and places of charge, any one whatsoever that was a Christian; and afterwards he committed such cruelties against them as had seldom been seen: which he did (as some writ) thereby to pick occasion of discord and war with CONSTANTINE, whom he envied for his great authority and goodness. He also sought many means to make him away either by poison or treason; wherein failing of his will, he resolved openly to fall out with him: whereto CONSTANTINE suffered himself to be induced, more as a true Christian, for the defence of the Christian faith, then for his own particular honour or interest: for LICINIUS, now ruined the temples and churches which he himself had before commanded to be built; and without either fear or shame, commanded all those Christians to be slain which would not commit idolatry, and adore his idols: whereupon many being weak and inconstant renounced Licinius made those to be ●…aine which would not commit idolatry. their faith, and others joyfully received the crown of Matyrdome. Each of these two Emperors mustering up his soldiers and men of war, they having reigned twelve years in peace together, there began very cruel wars between them: and as CONSTANTINE ever bore the cross in his ensign and standard, it pleased God that most commonly his people prevailed. And both these Emperors coming into Hungary with his forces, there drew near one to the other, the good CONSTANTINE having a fit opportunity (for LICINIUS, was encamped near to the side of a lake) in the night gave him a camizado: and notwithstanding that LICINIUS fought very well and made great resistance, yet in the end his forces were overthrown, and his camp was entered; and he escaping by flight, came to the city of Byzantium, which ere long after was called Constantinople. Whereto relieve Licinius overthrown and put to flight by Constantine. himself and to recover greater authority, he made one of his Captains whose name was MARTIANUS, CAESAR, who was master of his offices, or high steward of his house; and raising the greatest power that he was able both of foot and horse, he prepared himself for a second battle: But in the mean season CONSTANTINE seized on the provinces of Dacia, Misia, Macedonia, and others which were under LICINIUS his government. LICINIUS having gathered his Army to a head, again renewed the war, which (as EUTROPIUS and AURELIUS VICTOR writ in his life) was very variable and cruel, until that by the intercession of CONSTANTIA sister to CONSTANTINE, and wife to LICINIUS, there was some truce and peace taken between them: but through the envy and malice of LICINIUS it held not long: and they both again returned to Arms, warring with greater malice and power both by sea and land then before. And both these Emperors coming again to a battle, in the province of Bythinia, in Asia the less, whither LICINIUS had withdrawn himself (having lost all that he held in Europe) it was extremely bloody and cruel; but in the end CONSTANTINE had the victory, and LICINIUS escaped by Licinius the second time overthrown. flight: And yet afterwards through the entreaty of his sister CONSTANTIA, wife to LICINIUS, CONSTANTINE granted him his life, he yielding himself into his power; but he confined him to the city of Nicomedia in the same province: where afterwards fearing he should rebel again as MAXIMIANUS had done, or as some think, for that LICINIUS Licinius put to death ●…y Constantine's commandment. began to practice with some to take Arms, he was put to death by CONSTANTINE'S command, and with him MARTIANUS whom he had made CAESAR, in the fifteenth year of his reign, and the threescore of his age, and in the year of our Saviour Christ three hundred and seven and twentith. This Emperor LICINIUS was of a most wicked and cruel disposition, being dishonest, incontinent, covetous, and also most ignorant, as he who had no Learning; and (which is worse) did abhor and detest it, affirming that Learning was a public plague: whereas to the contrary (to whom is it not evident) that without Learning, or learned Council, there never was yet any King that either did or could rightly govern and minister justice? Nevertheless, he was very valiant, and followed the wars all his whole life time. The whole Empire remaining under the command of the good and Christian Emperor CONSTANTINE alone, the world enjoyed a most happy time: for so great was his goodness and wisdom, that generally every where he ministered justice mixed with clemency; so as there was universal peace and quietness. And by all his subjects he was beloved, and much honoured, and by barbarous and strange Nations greatly feared: and above all, the Christian faith was held in great reverence, and embraced every where. It is wonderful what EUSEEIUS doth writ in the end of his Ecclesiastical history, and SOCRATES in his Tripartite History, of the favours, graces, privileges, benefits, and gifts, which CONSTANTINE bestowed upon Bishops and the Churches, and generally upon all christian people, abolishing all the laws which his predecessors had made against their liberty: and he commanded by public edict, that there should no more temples be built to the honour of the false gods and idols which the Romans adored. But he commanded through all the Provinces of Benefits bestowed by Constantine upon the Church and churchmen. the Empire: that the Bishop's commandments should be obeyed; and that to those which had not whereof to live, there should be assigned goods and rents to maintain them during their lives. And he not only taken care for the Christians which lived in Country's subject to the Empire: but understanding that to those Christians which lived in other Provinces subject to the King of Persia was used force and oppression, he sent his Ambassadors to that King, requiring him to command that fault to be amended; persuading him to honour and believe in JESUS CHRIST: So as by his means CHRIST was adored, and the Gospel freely preached through the whole world; and under this good Emperor the Christians endured not any oppression, or suffered persecution: and so there were many holy and learned Doctors. CONSTANTINE living in this great power and prosperity, was worthily surnamed the Great, and in all Histories he is called CONSTANTINE the Great. Besides this, other honourable names and titles were given him by the Senate of Rome: as, the restorer of mankind, Titles of hönous given to Constantine. the enlarger of the Roman Empire, the founder and preserver of perpetual peace and safety, and so he was generally honoured and beloved of all men, as much as possibly a man could be. Some Authors writ, among which EUTROPIUS is one, that CONSTANTINE through his great power and prosperity blemished his virtues, waxing proud and cruel; and they tax him also for being too desirous of glory and honour: whereof AURELIUS VICTOR also maketh mention, and proveth the same by the death of his son CRISPUS, whom he had made CAESAR, and of his wife FAUSTA, who as we have said, was MAXENTIUS sister; and of many other noble and eminent men. But it cannot certainly be said how it fell ou●…, thereby to condemn or excuse this Emperor: for as a man, he might fall into such sins; and yet afterwards acknowledging his error, might ask mercy at God's hands for his offences. True it is, some say, that he put his son CRISPUS to death, because that his wife FAUSTA, and mother in law to his said son, had complained to him that he would have ravished her; whereas to the contrary she had dishonestly sought it of him, procuring his love and dishonest Constantine did put his wife, his son, and his N●…phew to death. company; whereto, he as a loyal and dutiful child would not consent. The truth whereof being afterwards known, CONSTANTINE caused her to be slain: which he did with great reason; although he were deceived in the death of his son. Others say that she as a mother in law, practised the death of CRISPUS, because he should not be preferred before the other sons which she had by CONSTANTINE. But I am of opinion that these executions were not but for some offences and just causes which moved him thereto, although they were not published and made known to the world. PAULUS OROSIUS reciting the deaths of his wife, of his son, and of his Nephew, saith that the causes were secret and unknown, which moved him. And truly a man can presume no otherwise, considering how wise and how good a Christian this Prince was. And so SOZOMENUS doth excuse him, as relateth CASSIODORUS in his Tripartite History. EUSEBIUS and RUFEINUS in their writings, and the same CASSIODORUS, only declare his virtues, and blame him in nothing. Saint GREGORY calleth him Emperor, of holy memory. Saint AMBROSE speaking of the death of THEODORUS saith, that CONSTANTINE was worthy of great praise, who with the Empire left the Christian faith for aninheritance to his successors: So as what such men commend, I dare not reprehend or condemn. Holding it then for certain, that he was a good man, returning to his History, I say, that after that he reigned alone, their failed not wars: for the Sarmates invaded the Empire, Wars against the Sarmates. and he in person with a mighty Army marched against them; and overthrowing them a in battle, he forced them to obey, and to be quiet. The like he afterwards did by the Goths, and other barbarous nations. Which when he had performed, and having made his three sons CONSTANTINUS, CONSTANTIUS, and CONSTANS, CAESAR'S, and also his Nephew DALMATIUS: for some reasonable considerations, holding it more convenient for matters of the East and to be near at hand, which was his greatest care; he determined to transport his imperial throne and seat from Rome into Bythinia in Asia, or into some other part of that Constantine re-edified the city of Byzantium, now called after his name Constantinople country: and having considered thereof, and thought upon sundry fit places; he resolved in the end to re-edify the city of Byzantium, which is in Thracia: and meaning to call it new Rome, he beautified it with edifices, privilidges, and other riches, more than any other city of the world. And as Saint JEROM saith in his additions to EUSEBIUS, he enriched and adorned that city with the spoils of all the rest. For all the worthy and notable monuments which were in Rome, as statues, pillars, colosses, and all other things which were singular and excellent, of gold stone or metal, he made to be taken from Rome and to be carried to that city: Whereto notwith handing that he gave the name of new Rome; yet was it then, and now to this day is called Constantinople, after his name: and so it become one of the greatest and most noble cities of the world: and he went thither, and there settled his imperial throne and state, leaving his sons in France, Spain, and Italy, which provinces he had given them to govern. The Empire being in this prosperity, the heresy of the Arrians, through the suggestion of the devil arose in the City of Alexandria in Egypt, which denied the eternity of the son of God with the Father, alleging that he was not of the same substance with him. This heresy did then, The 〈◊〉 of the Arrian heresy. and a long time after, trouble the quiet estate of the Church. The head and inventor of this heresy, was one ARRIUS a Priest in the said city of Alexandria, who was a man which outwardly made great show of holiness, and lived morally, well. At the same time was Bishop of Alexandria one ALEXANDER, a man of great holiness & learning: But as he was gentle and of a mild condition, so he endeavoured in the beginning to have cured ARRIUS of that heretical infirmity, with soft and gentle medicaments; praying and admonishing him to leave his error and misbelief, with holy speeches and exhortations; but being proud and insolent, persisting in his heresy, he induced many others to follow his errors: and this pestilence increased and extended itself so far, that many were infected therewith: and all the possible diligence that ALEXANDER could use, did nothing avail to suppress the same; notwithstanding that ARRIUS was by him excommunicate out of the Church. Whereupon ALEXANDER advertised the Emperor thereof: and the mischief grew to be so great, as it required a great remedy; and so by order of the same Emperor, a general Council was called in the City of Nicaea, which is in the province of Bithynia in Asia, where there assembled three hundred and eighteen Bishops. And CONSTANTINE himself in person was present in the same council: finally, ARRIUS, The Nice●… Coun●…ll. and his wicked sect, was therein condemned by all the Bishops, excepting seventeen which held with him. Whereof eleven afterwards (as saith RUFFINUS) made show of recantation: and ARRIUS together with the other six were excommunicated and banished; to all which the Emperor consented and approved the same, submitting himselfy to the judgement of the holy council. And so the opinion of ARRIUS was held for a wicked heresy: but he persisted in his error, and had disciples and followers. And notwithstanding that the Emperor took great pains to redress it, yet he could not by any means effect the same. This evil did a long time trouble the Church, and extended itself even into Spain and other provinces; in somuch as it seemed impossible to find any redress for so great a mischief: but afterwards in process of time, it pleased our Lord of his infinite goodness and mercy, to cure the same. Among many other things which CONSTANTINE did in this council, one was very notable. As among so many Bishops, although many of them were holy and good men; so their wanted not envy and contention among those which were not such: for some held erroneous opinions; and others which were in suit and at debate, accused one another to the Emperor, exhibiting their complaints and informations unto him in writing, entreating him to punish the of fenders; The Emperor received the accusations, & concealed the same, so as no man saw them: afterwards calling those Bishops which thus complained before him, he made a brief speech, saying; Fathers, Bishops and Prelates, it hath pleased God to ordain you for Prelates and Priests, and hath given you power to judge of me, and I may justly and orderly be judged by you, but you cannot be judged by me: wherefore I refer your suits and debates to the divine judgement, and to the judgement of the Church and council. And seeing that you are set before us in the place of God, it is not fit that I judge of you, but should leave you to the judgement of God, of whom it is written, Deus stetit in synagoga deorum, in medio autem deus discernit, God stood in the synagogue of the Gods, and God alone among them is judge. Wherhfore setting apart all this malice, discord and contention, apply yourselves diligently to that which appertaineth to the Christian faith, and to the Church, and for God's sake forget these rancours and private injuries. These speeches are written by RUFFINUS and CASSIODORUS, and are also seen in the Decrees, wherewith the good Emperor exhorted those Bishops to concord and friendship, without interposing himself between them as their judge, and so was that most holy & Christian council dissolved. About the same time or little after it, the holy woman HELENA, mother to the same Emperor CONSTANTINE, went to jerusalem (I mean to that which is new builded: for of the old jerusalem there remaineth not one stone upon another) to seek the cross whereon our Saviour CHRIST suffered his passion. And commanding a Temple to be thrown down, which by the Gentiles was builded in that same place to their The finding of the Crosse. Goddess VENUS, there were found three crosses, but not in such manner as that it might be well perceived which was the cross of CHRIST▪ for the superscription was taken away, or else the letters could not be read, and the one was like the other. And HELENA being in this confusion, and with her MACARIUS, which at that time was Bishop of jerusalem, they carried the three crosses to the house of a great Lady, which in that city was then at the point of death, sick of a great and incurable disease; where (as it is written) the right cross was miraculously discovered. SOZOMENUS in his Tripartite history writeth wonders, concerning the same. The feast of the finding of the cross is celebrated by the Church of Rome with great solemnity, upon the third day of May. And HELENA, having found what she so earnestly fought, caused in the same place where it was found, a most rich and sumptuous Temple to be built: Helena caused a Temple to be built in the same place where the Cross w●… found. and taking the cross asunder, the one half she left there enclosed in a silver chest, and the other half she carried with her to Constantinople, where it was kept by CONSTANTINE with great reverence. She carried unto him also the nails wherewith CHRIST was nailed to tke cross, the one of which he always wore in his helmet or cask; and of another he made a bit for his horse, agaiast such time as he should enter into any fight or battle; and the other nail, it is said, that bearing it about him, and being in a great storm at sea, he threw it into the sea to assuage the tempest. How true or false I will not argue. This history and the finding of the cross, besides RUFFINUS and CASSIODORUS already alleged, Saint AMBROSE writeth at large in the oration by him made to the honour of the Emperor THEODOSIUS. CONSTANTINE having now happily reigned about thirty years, in the later time whereof he wholly applied himself to root Idolatry out of the world; and to build Churches, which he dedicated to CHRIST JESUS and his Saints; and to extirpate ARRIUS his heresy, which yet had some root: but in the end he was was forced to levy an Army to go against the Persians' and their king, which invaded the Empire. And marching thitherwards, in the 66. year of his age, and the thirtieth of his reign (although that herein is some small difference among authors) he was taken with a grievous sickness; and to the end he might recover health, he caused himself to be carried from Constantinople, with intent to go to Nicomedia, which is a city in Bythinia, to certain Baths of hot water: but before he could come thither, his disease so increased as he died, humbly recommending his soul to JESUS CHRIST, The death of Constantine the Great. in whom he constantly believed. And so holily died this holy and great Emperor; leaving behind him three sons, CONSTANTINUS, CONSTANTIUS, and CONSTANS; whom he constituted and ordained for his heirs and successors in the Empire, together with his nephew DALMATIUS; and two daughters, the one named HELENA, which was afterwards married to JULIANUS who was Emperor: and the other CONSTANTIA who married with GALLUS. Some suspected that CONSTANTINE was poisoned. He died in the year of our Lord 342. Although that we shall somewhat exceed ordinary in this discourse, yet I accounted it time well spent to treat of some doubts, which grow in the life of CONSTANTINE. The first is, for that some say this holy Emperor was not baptised, until a little before his death, and that he was then baptised by EUSEBIUS, Bishop of Nicomedia; and that all the rest of his time he lived without baptism: alleging a reason why he did so, for that he hoped to have been baptised in the river jordan, wherein our Saviour CHRIST was baptised by S. JOHN. But I accounted the opinion of those to be most certain, which writ that he was baptised in Rome by the hand of Pope SYLVESTER, after the death of MAXENTIUS. For it is hardly to be believed, that there could be such devotion found (as CONSTANTINE shown in his works) in The opinion of the Author touching the baptising of Constantine. a man which was not baptised; and therefore it carrieth no colour of truth. Writers do also prove, that he was baptised with his son CRISPUS, and that he caused his son to be slain long before he died, as by us hath been already declared: so as it appeareth that he could not be baptised with his son, being already dead. And whereas it is written in a little book, that CONSTANTINE was infected with a leprosy, and that he was cured with the blood of certain little children which he caused to be slain for that purpose; PLATINA holdeth Constantine was falsely taxed to be a Leper. this for a fable and a forgery: and none of the ancient writers neither modern that are of any credit, writ any such matter. Some also writ, that CONTANTINE was baptised in his later days, and that he seemed to be inclined to the Arrian heresy. But he was deceived which wrote so: for that was his his son's error, who was also called CONSTANTINE: and that which was written of his son (being deceived through the name) was imputed to the father, of whose true faith, life and death there aught no doubt to be made; neither in their histories treating of his life, do they make any doubt, as OROSIUS, EUTROPIUS, S. GREGORY, RUFFINUS, and CASSIODORUS testify: Of which S. GRGORIE calleth him, of holy memory. S. AMBROSE in an oration which he made at the death of THEODORUS, The error of some betwixt Constantine the Great and Constantine his son touching the faith. giveth him the title of holy, and highly extolleth him because he left the Christian faith, for an inheritance, with the Empire. And the Greek Church doth celebrated his feast as a Saint, upon the twentith day of April. And so do also defend his faith and holiness both in life and in death, ANTONIUS SABELLICUS in his Aeneades; PLATINA in the life of Pope MARCUS; POMPONIUS LETUS in his abbridgement of the Roman history; and BAPTISTA IGNATIUS in his epitome of the Emperors; and S. ANTONINUS in his Historials: and generally all the modern authors, besides the ancient already named. And whereas it is written that he recalled ARRIUS from exile; if he did so as some writ, yet according to the same authors, he was induced thereto by a certain Priest, and at the entreaty of his sister, but principally through a writing sent to him by ARRIUS, wherein he declared what opinion he held concerning the faith; seeming by his words to be conformable to the decree of the Council; and the Emperor not comprehending his deceit in those words, released him from banishment. Nevertheless he referred the examination of the cause to a new council of Bishops, which was then assembled abour the building of the Temple at jerusalem; without approving his opinion in any respect. And it happened that ARRIUS died in this demand, accor The death of Arrrius and ●…ow. dingly as his sins and heresy had deserved: for it pleased God that he died suddenly, and his bowels came forth at his lower parts. Many of these Authors affirm, that this happened in the time of the Emperor CONSTANTINE the son, and not of the father. They being both of one name causeth this confusion and doubt in the History. So as it may be set down & avouched for certain, that the Emperor CONSTANTINE at what time soever he was baptised, sure it was in Rome many years before his death: And he died holding and believing the holy Catholic faith. And as an holy and true Christian he never consented unto, nor believed any point of ARRIUS his heresy, as some charge him, being deceived by the name of his son, who was infected with the venom of that wicked heresy. Now concerning the donation, which some say that CONSTANTINE made to Pope SYLVESTER and to his successors, of the City of Rome and of all Italy, when he went to Constantinople; notwithstanding that all authors agreed that he gave great gifts, and builded many Temples; yet of this so notable a donation, I found not that any author of that age doth testify or aver any such matter. PAULUS OROSIUS, EUTROPIUS, S. JEROME, or THEODORETUS which lived near to that time, and wrote the rest, make no mention thereof. Wherhfore it is to be doubted, whether there were any such donation. It is true that there is a text in the decree, which reciteth this said donation of Rome and of Italy and other oriental Provinces: But that text is held for Apocrypha; neither is it found in GRATIANS ancient originals. But finally, this is a question which I cannot determine, and therefore I will not thrust my sickle into another man's harvest, neither will I be judge herein, seeing that I am but only an Historiographer. Yet to one thing I will not forbear to make answer, in some sort to satisfy the malice of our times. I say, that they have no reason to tax the Emperor CONSTANTINE, as some have done, pretending that he hath been the cause of much evil, in that he enriched the Bishops, Prelates and Priests, for that before his time they followed the true rule and form of a Christian life; all living in the perfection of the Gospel, imitating the poverty of CHRIST and of his disciples. To the first, let it be that this were true; the good and holy meaning of CONSTANTINE was much to be commended, and therein he did well and acceptably before God. To the other, it is not certain that before the time of CONSTANTINE the Clergy had no temporal goods: for it seemeth to the contrary in the Chapter Videntes 12. quaestione 1. wherein it is expressed that the ancient Fathers, considering that it was not so profitable to cell the goods and to distribute the money in common, as the Christians did in the beginning; as it was to keep those heritage's and possession, to the end that by means of the fruits thereof, the Ministers then being might be maintained, and their successors might do the like after them: And coming to the ground of the matter, although that our Lord JESUS CHRIST and his holy Apostles and Disciples, commended poverty, preferring it before riches, as chastity before wedlock, for the full perfection of the holy life which he had chosen; it doth not therefore follow that he would that Bishops, Priests and Ministers should have no temporal goods of their own: for if he had meant so, it is to be presumed that he would have ordained it, and so it should have been observed even to this day. And if they shall say to me, that before the time of CONSTANTINE, they lived without rents or revenues, and yet there were many holy Bishops, as CLEMENT, LINUS, CLETUS, IGNATIUS, POLICARPUS, MARCELLUS, and such others which lived in poverty, contenting themselves with a little in holy exercises: I answer, that all these holy men were not altogether without goods, but that they and their Churches had some possessions. And I also affirm that it is certain, in the beginning, about the first propagation of the Gospel, as the name of Christian was odious and hateful to the Emperors and Princes of those times, principally the Bishops and Priests: so it behoved them of necessity to be contented with that which they had, and to maintain themselves as they were able. And whereas it appeareth that commonly they then lived more devout, more holy, and in greater humility, then after that the Emperor CONSTANTINE become Christian, and the Church obtained liberty, and that the authority thereof was confirmed with riches; Yet it is certain, that after that time there were also very many holy men. And although that afterwards there was not generally so great sincerity and holiness of life, as before: yet neither the Emperor, nor the riches he gave were to be blamed, but the evil disposition and conditions of those which had the use thereof, and did abuse the same. For it is not to be believed, that those ancient holy men in the beginning of the Primitive Church, would, by reason of riches, forbear to have been holy and devout; neither am I assured that those which afterwards were proud and insolent, would have been holy and devout, notwithstanding that they had been poor. It is true, and I acknowledge the same, that voluntary poverty is a state of great perfection, and that great riches oftentimes minister occasion of pride and wickedness: but hereof men themselves are the cause; for we are naturally inclined to evil: but to put the same in execution, the rich have greater power than the poor. Therefore neither riches nor poverty are the occasion: for neither are all rich men wicked; neither are all poor men good: which would be so, if riches only be the occasion thereof. For neither riches nor poverty in their own nature are good or evil: but rather, as saith S. PAUL; All things are clean to the clean. Neither aught riches to be contemned, because that some wicked man doth abuse his wealth: For, if that Argument were of force, so were likewise to be condemned and despised the strength of the body, beauty of countenance, sharpness of wit, and quickness of understanding; and a man should desire to be ugly, feeble, dull, ignorant and of little discretion: for those which be strong, fair, beautiful, quickwitted, and of great capacity and understanding, may do more harm and use greater deceit, than the deformed, decrepit and ignorant. And if a man shall judge according to the occasion only; poverty bringeth with it little care, and great distrust, and therewith men become envious, greedily covetous, malefactors, coveting and stealing other men's goods: yet I will not deny, but that in riches is the greater danger. But in both, the fault is in us, and not in the goods, which of themselves are neither good nor evil, but are as is he who hath the use of them. And so not to swerve any further from our History, I conclude and say; Let us forbear to blame CONSTANTINE, and blame those which have abused and misspent the goods which were given by CONSTANTINE. And let those which are so zealous of the general reformation of the Church, reform their own Consciences, and amend their own lives and abuses; and let them with tears pray unto God to amend the rest. For if every man in particular would do thus and amend one, all would presently be amended. But truly most men take care for the government of Empires and States, even at home in their houses: but of their own houses and Consciences they take little care. And to the end that they think not, that all the mischief consisteth in the Church goods, let them know that after that the Churches were rich, and that the Prelates were of great power and authority, there were therein a S. LEO, a Pope, a S. GREGORY, S. AMBROSE, S. JEROME, S. AVOUSTINE, S. BERNARD, and an infinite number of other Bishops which possessed riches, and despising them were poor in spirit, which is acceptable before God. THE LIFE OF CONSTANTINUS, CONSTANTIUS, AND CONSTANS, Brethrens; Sons of the Emperor CONSTANTINE the Great, and five and fortith Emperor Of ROME. THE ARGUMENT. THE Emperor Constantine being dead, the government of the Empire remained in the hands of his sons, Constantius, Constans, and Constantinus: But as commonly it happeneth in matters of State; so after that the Provinces were divided, they imagining them to be unequally shared, fell together by the ears among themselves: and two of them being dead, the government of the Empire rested wholly in Constantius, who had no less to do to defend himself against domestical tyrants, which sought to usurp his estate, then to offend for rain Princes, thereby to preserve the Roman Empire. After many accidents of war, he overcame Magnentius; and the last battle between them was so bloody, and the execution so great, that in a manner it weakened the forces of the whole Empire: but finally, Magnentius was driven to such extremity that he slew himself. He made his Cosen-Germane Gallus, Caesar, giving him his sister Constantina to wife, who behaved himself so wickedly in his government, that Constantius was forced to 'cause him to be slain: in whose place he made his brother julianus, Caesar; who going into Germany against the high Dutch, had so good success in all his enterprises in the wars, that the soldiers of France constrained him perforce to take the Ensign and name of Emperor. Which when Constantius understood (who then was in war against the Persians') he ordered that war in the best manner he could, and came with a mighty Army against julianus: but falling grieously sick by the way, he died, and made julianus his successor, leaving the Empire to him, whom he was going to deprive. HOW necessary and good the reign of the Emperor CONSTANTINE was, and how great his bounty and valour was, plainly appeareth, seeing that immediately with his death the universal quiet and peace was disturbed, the favour and respect of the Church was diminished, and the administration of justice was likewise perverted and troubled. The good Emperor CONSTANTINE left behind him when he died three sons, and two daughters. Constantine his children. His son's names were CONSTANTINUS, CONSTANTIUS, and CONSTANS; his daughters were called HELENA, and CONSTANTIA. The sons presently after the death of their father were Emperors: for in his life time he had made them CAESARS, together with his nephew DALMATIUS; and he also left them by his testament heirs to the Empire. The daughters were afterwards married to Emperors; as in the process of this History we will declare: which in truth is very abrupt, as well for the variety and difference among authors, as for the great discord and wars which grew between these three brethren, and through the tyrants and usurping Emperors which arose in their time. Let the Reader endeavour to read attentively: For I will do my best to writ it as plainly and clearly as I shall be able. These three Brethrens divided the Roman Empire among them in this manner: TO CONSTANTINE, who was the eldest Brother, was allotted Spain, Britanny, France, and that part of Germany which was subject to the Romans. TO CONSTANS, the second Brother, there fell Italy, and all Africa, with the Island Sicilia, and the rest between them, together with Slavonia, Constantine his three sons divided the Empire between them. Dalmatia, Macedonia, Achaia, Morea, and all Graecia. The third Brother, which was CONSTANTIUS, possessed the Province of Thracia where the City of Constantinople stands, with all the East Provinces of Asia the less, Soria, Mesopotamia, and Egypt. And in the dominion of this CONSTANTIUS, by his consent and accord, his cousin DALMATIUS governed as CAESAR. SEXTUS AURELIUS VICTOR saith, that he reigned also in Armenia, and in the borders thereof, and that ANNIBALLINUS was therein established CAESAR. And so in this manner began the Empire to be governed by three Emperors, and one CAESAR which was DALMATIUS: whereof ensued great discord and war, for that either of them would take place before other, and be Lord of the whole. And, on the other side, the Roman Empire was so great, that no one man could well govern it alone; and so very few held the whole in quiet possession: and therefore it declined, as all kingdoms and dominions which are fare extended and enlarged, will do: for, neither man's life, force, nor humane policy, are able to manage and govern that which is of too great an extent. In the beginning of their Reign these Brethrens lived in peace, for joy to see themselves so great Lords: and DALMATIUS, who in the East assisted CONSTANTIUS, began to make show of himself to be a most excellent Prince, in his actions & virtues imitating CONSTANTINE the Great: wherefore by the good he was much beloved; but feared of the wicked, and envied by CONSTANTIUS himself, who was the cause of his death. CONSTANTIUS Dalmatius loved by the good and feared by the wicked. Dalmatius slain by the soldiers through the practice of Constantius. permitting it, or being accessary thereto, he was upon a day in a mutiny slain by the soldiers which he had levied against the King of Persia: and so the Empire remained absolutely betwixt the three Brethrens. Soon after this, CONSTANTINE (who was the elder Brother) began to find himself grieved, alleging that he had the lest part in the division of the Provinces: for, he possessed but France, Spain, part of Germany, England, and Scotland; his other Brethrens holding so many Provinces. And therefore he sent Ambassadors unto them, requiring a new division: and as their parts seemed to them to be but little, they would not yield to his request. Whereupon he mustered up his men and levied an Army, resolving to take that perforce, which they would not allow him by their free will, and with a great power invaded the Frontiers of his brother CONTANS his Empire, to whom befell Italy and Africa. At that time CONSTANS was in Dacia (which is Transiluania and Walachia) making war upon the Goths and Sarmates, who had made incursions into the limits of the Roman Empire: and he understanding what his Constantine warred against his brother Constans. brother did, sent a Captain with men of war into Italy, who with such power as he was able to raise, made Head against CONSTANTINUS, near to the City of Aquileia. But CONSTANTINUS, little regarding his brother's forces, unadvisedly resolved to fight: and being entrapped in an ambush laid by his enemies, fight unknown, his horse being killed under him, and he falling to the earth was slain, having enjoyed his Empire but three years, being of the Constantine slain in Italy. age of 25. years, in the year of our Lord, 343. Which as some imagine happened unto him for his sins: for they writ of him, that he favoured the heresy of ARRIUS. And CASSIODORUS, RUFFINUS, and THEODORETUS in their Ecclesiastical histories writ, that upon the death of CONSTANTINE the Great, father of these young men, those which were infected with the heresy of ARRIUS, took courage audaciously to maintain the same, contrary to the decree of the holy Council: and by their illusions they persuaded CONSTANTIUS thereto, who ruled in the East parts, and many Arrian Bishops sought to suppress and dispossess the Catholics; against whom CONSTANS the other Emperor and brother made great resistance, who was of the Catholics opinion. And particularly the holy Bishop ATHANASIUS was persecuted, who was the chief man in the Nicene Council, and in that persecution were sent into exile, both he and others, which suffered great injury and infamy. There were also many counsels and assemblies held by the Heretics, and others by the Catholics, wherein were many contentions. Finally, the Catholics were greatly troubled and molested, by reason that many revolted from the faith, and joined with the heretics: which I forbear to writ, because it requireth much time to relate the same; and also, for that I rather writ the lives of Emperors, than any Ecclesiastical History, whereof I must of necessity make often mention hereafter. CONSTANTINE the elder brother being slain by his brother CONSTANS his soldiers, CONSTANS took possession of all the Countries his deceased brother was seized of: and so he become Lord of all the West, and of Africa, whereof already he was in possession. After this, presently ensued another dangerous war against a kind of people called Franques, a people of Germany, inhabiting near the river of Rhine (as AGATHIAS writes): which Franques rebelled, and seized on a great part of Gallia; from which the Frenchmen vaunt themselves to be descended; and of Galli were called Franci; and Gallia, Francia. And, to make their original seem to be of greater antiquity, they allege that those Franques descended from those which escaped from Troy, and that they came to inhabit Germany with one of HECTOR'S sons, whose name was FRANCUS: but hereof we will speak more hereafter. These Franques came to blows with CONSTANS; and, after cruel wars and much slaughter between them, they From whence the French affirm to have their original. Constans made the Franks subject to the Empire. were vanquished, and made subject to the Empire. And although CONSTANS were much troubled with these wars, yet afterwards he lived some years in peace and prosperity,; but very weak and impotent of body, both in his feet and hands, by reason of the gout wherewith he was oftentimes much afflicted. His government in the beginning was good and pleasing to all his subjects: but afterwards he become vicious and negligent in the execution of justice, and by means of his infirmity grew unwieldy and ill disposed; and therefore ill-beloved by the Provincials and Subjects of the Empire: so as certain wicked men, making benefit of this occasion, practised his death. The chief authors of this treason were CRESPIUS & MARCELLINUS, his own captains, who agreed to make MAGNENTIUS Emperor, a man of base condition and mean parentage, although through his courage and valour in the wars he won great reputation: and they found the soldiers very willing and ready thereto; for, they hated CONSTANS: and, giving the imperial robe to MAGNENTIUS, they sent to kill CONSTANS, who mistrusted Magnentius chosen Emperor. no such matter. In the manner of his death Authors vary: but in conclusion he was slain in a certain place called Helena, near to the Pirenean mountains which divide France from Spain, in the 13th year of his Reign, and the thirtieth of his age, in the year of our Lord 353, according The death of the Emperor Constans. to S. IEROM'S computation. Whilst matters passed in the West after this manner, in the East with the third brother and Emperor CONSTANTIUS, who ruled all: that part of the Empire, things prospered not Constantius overthrown in 9 several battles by the Persians'. so well, especially in the wars: for he had great and dangerous wars with the King of Persia: and having fought with him nine several times, he was at every time overthrown, with the loss of many of his people. In the end, they fought one most cruel battle: and the victory being apparent of the Emperor's side, his soldiers used the matter so ill, as those which were held for conquered, become conquerors: and so CONSTANTIUS lost this battle also, as Constantius overthrown in the tenth battle by the Persians', for that he knew not how to use the victory. Great earthquakes in the East in the time of Constantius he had done many others, in such sort that the King of Persia recovered certain great Cities in Mesopotamia. Moreover in the same parts of the East, there happened many earthquakes wherewith certain Cities were destroyed, and swallowed into the earth: which by true Christian authors was attributed to the just judgement of God, for that this Emperor did maintain the heresy of ARRIUS, and persecuted the true Christians. But returning to our new Emperor MAGNENTIUS, it happened in this manner: that having murdered CONSTANS, as we have declared, the Army which was in France obeyed and received him gladly, and all Spain presently did the like, together with Italy and Africa in like manner: whither he determining to come, made his son whose name was DECENCIUS, CAESAR; to leave him in the government Decencius made Caesar by Magnencius. of France and Spain with their confines. But in Hungary, Austria, Slavonia, Dalmatia, and part of Graecia, the ordinary legions which were in those places, chose an old and valiant Captain for Emperor, whose name was BRITANNIO or VETRANIO; who was a man highly beloved of the soldiers, for his great wisdom and valour in the wars; and for the victories which he had obtained in the defence of those Provinces against the barbarous Nations. Of BRITANNIO you shall hear more hereafter. About the same time, when it was known in Rome that CONSTANS was dead, NEPOTIANUS presuming on his nearness of blood to the deceased Emperor (for, he was the Emperoror Nepotianus, taking the title of Emperor, was slain by Magnentius his captains. CONSTANTINE'S sister's son) assembling together a company of Fencers, Swordplaiers, and such others, proclaimed himself Emperor. But as his beginning had no sound foundation; so had he an unlucky end: for, within twenty nine days after that he had with great difficulty enjoyed the title of Emperor, he was slain by MAGNENTIUS his Captains. And so MAGNENTIUS remained Emperor (although a Tyrant) of Italy, Africa, France, and Spain, in concurrence and disgrace of CONSTANTIUS in the East, who in truth by just title was sole Emperor. CONSTANTIUS, being advertised of the death of his Brother CONSTANS, and of the success of MAGNENTIUS, was greatly perplexed, seeing himself oppressed with war against the Persians'; and, on the other side, bound to revenge the death of his Brother, and to root out so mighty an enemy as MAGNENTIUS, who grew great in a very short time; and BRITANNIO also, who was not slightly to be regarded. But, after many consultations, it was concluded to settle all matters of the East in the best order he might, and to pass into Europe Gallus made Caesar by Constantius. against MAGNENTIUS. Whereupon he determined to make his cousin german GALLUS, CAESAR; who was brother to JULIANUS, of whom we shall speak hereafter: Both which were sons to a brother of CONSTANTINS the Great, named CONSTANTIUS; whom his father CONSTANTIUS had by a second wife; and, the better to be assured of this new CAESAR, he married him to one of his own sisters, whose name was CONSTANTIA. And leaving this GALLUS in the East, having first concluded a kind of truce or peace with the King of Persia, he came into Europe against MAGNENTIUS, with the greatest power he was able to levy; and by the way purposed to have fought with the old Captain BRITANNIO, whom we said to be called Emperor in Austria, Hungary, and Slavonia. But BRITANNIO Britannio yielded himself to Constantius. would not make any resistance: for, laying aside his imperial robes, he came into Thracia to meet him; and, humbling himself before CONSTANTIUS, said unto him, that he renouncing the Empire, yielded himself into his hands; to the end he should dispose of him at his pleasure. CONSTANTIUS very joyfully accepted his humility; and, lifting him up from Constantius accepted Britain nio for his fried and called him father. ground, embraced and honoured him much in speeches; and, calling him Father, set him at his own table: and they two supped that night together. And, being informed of all matters by BRITANNIO concerning MAGNENTIUS, he kept on his journey; and sent BRITANNIO to a City in Bythinia in Asia, and gave him rents & revenues sufficient for the maintenance of his estate: whither he retired himself with many his friends and Familiars, and lived there six years after in great rest and tranquillity. CONSTANTIUS, passing forwards, drew near to Italy, where MAGNENTIUS lay in wait for him: and the war began between them, not only with great power and numbers of men; but also with great hatred and malice: for besides that they both fought for the Empire, they had sent letters and messages the one to the other, which had much incensed them both. And so the wars began to be very cruel, and there ensued some battles wherein fortune shown herself variable; MAGNENTIUS having sometimes the victory, and sometimes CONSTANTIUS, as CASSIODORUS reporteth in his Tripartite History. But, after many conflicts, each of them setting up his rest, they fought a great battle near the City of Mursia in Spain, which was one of the most cruel and bloody that hath been seen; and the Roman Empire A cruel battle betwixt Magnentius and Constantius. lost therein the best men of all the ordinary Legions: for, it continued the greatest part of all the day, and part of the night. There were slain of both sides four and fifty thousand men, all valiant old soldiers; wherein CONSTANTIUS obtained the victory, and MAGNENTIUS escaped by flight. It is very strange what some Authors writ concerning this battle; that MAGNENTIUS Army did consist but of thirty and odd thousand men, and CONSTANTIUS had in his Army threescore and ten thousand: and of those which were overcome, there died four and twenty thousand; and of them which overcame, thirty thousand. Whereby it appeareth, with what resolution, force or obstinacy, MAGNENTIUS and his men did fight, who slew as many of their enemies as they themselves were in number: and there remained but six thousand of them living. MAGNENTIUS being overthrown fled into Italy (as EUTROPIUS and AURELIUS VICTOR do writ): where reinforcing himself the best he could, he resolved to have returned again to try his fortune, and once again to fight with CONSTANTIUS; having first in vain sought to come to some composition of peace, seeming to be contented if CONSTANTIUS would suffer him to possess but Thracia only. Finally, coming to another encounter, he was again overthrown; and, fleeing from the battle, shut himself up in the City of Lions in France: where, being advertised that his soldiers practised to deliver him alive into the hands of CONSTANTIUS, he slew himself with his own poiniard, leaning against a wall (as saith Magnentius, being overthrown the second time, slew himself. AURELIUS VICTOR) and so ended his Empire which he had tyrannically usurped, together with his life; being of the age of fifty years. When his son DECENCIUS (whom he had made CAESAR, and Governer of France) understood of his death; being out of hope to make head against CONSTANTIUS, and to defend his government, he hung himself. CONSTANTIUS having happily ended so dangerous a war, all the Provinces which had held for MAGNENTIUS (without any resistance) Decencius, hea ring of the death of his father, hung himself. submitted themselves to his will: and he being very joyful came triumphing to the City of Milan; where for a certain space he made his abode. Whilst these matters befell CONSTANTIUS in the West, his cousin GALLUS (whom he left for CAESAR, and Governor general of the Provinces in the East) administered no point of justice, neither defended that estate with such valour as he aught to have done. For, it is written, that SAPOR King of Persia overthrew him in battle, and in the rest he used extreme cruelty: And Writers particularly affirm, that in the City of Antioch he did put to death the greatest part of all the Nobility there. And of the jews of judea, and of Palestina, for that they had attempted to rebel, he most cruelly made many thousands of either sex, and of all ages, to be slain. He commanded the Cities of Tiberias, Diospolis, Caesarea, and others, to be set on fire; which, Saint JEROM doth report in his additions to EUSEBIUS. When CONSTANTIUS understood of these and other matters (which, AMMIANUS MARCELLINUS recites at large, being an eyewitness: which Author wrote the life of CONSTANTIUS, JULIANUS and JOVIANUS, Emperors of those times, very truly and distinctly; but with the most ragged style that ever I read in any Latin Author: yet it was great pity that so many of his Works were lost) he, being desirous to prevent the disorders whereof I have made mention, and standing already in some fear of GALLUS, sent some secretly to kill him; which was easily effected, having first sought some other remedies. And so for that time CONSTANTIUS remained Constantius made his cousin Gallus to be slain. sole Emperor without any CAESAR or companion in all the Roman Empire: and from Milan he provided and sent Captains and Governors to all parts. And, because he was of light belief, and took pleasure in factions (an ill thing in any man, but in Princes most dangerous) and to commit cruelties, and to inflict punishments, there were daily offered new occasions: by reason whereof, he used great cruelty, and put many to death; which, MARCELLINUS describes at large. Among other accidents, a valiant old Captain, whose name was SILVANUS, who at that time was General against the Germane, was accused to have practised some matters against his Imperial Majesty. Which accusation (all Writers affirm) was through the envy which they bore him for his victories and good success: and this credulous Emperor, as it seems, did also envy him, and intended to 'cause him to be slain. Whereof SILVANUS being advertised (as he was very much honoured for his age and bounty, and for the great honour which he had won in sundry wars and battles; but principally in the wars of CONSTANTINE the Great, against LICINIUS) and finding no means to assure his life; forced more through fear than his own voluntary choice, he resolved to rebel, and to take upon him the title of Emperor. Which he did, showing first to his soldiers his disgrace, and how he was odious to CONSTANTIUS; and how that for the service which he and they had done, he had commanded him to be slain. Which being understood, they all with one voice hailed him Emperor, Silvanus' chose Emperor by his soldiers. swearing and promising to protect and defend him. These news did greatly trouble CONSTANTIUS, who was yet in Milane: and at the very instant that he was advertised hereof; without discovering it to any man, making show as though he knew nothing, he compounded with a certain subtle and valiant Captain, named VRSICINUS: who besides his familiars and necessary servants took with him ten Companions extraordinary men and very valiant; with which he undertook to kill SILVANUS, under this pretext and policy: CONSTANTIUS wrote certain Letters unto SILVANUS, wherein making no show to have understood aught of his rebellion, he feigned he would departed from Milane and have him with him, with many honourable words willing him to repair to him and to deliver up the charge which he held, to the Captain whom he had sent. VRSICINUS made great haste on his way; to the end, that through the shortness of the time, it might be the better believed, that all his proceed had been unknown to CONSTANIUS. As he with his companions came near to the Army, among which one was MARCELLINUS the writer of this History; SILVANUS thinking no other but that this man was sent to be his successor, and then being no time to debate the matter, made no account thereof. VRSICINUS seeming careless A stratagem used by Vrsicinus, thereby to k●…ll Silvanus. and simple, so cunningly handled the matter, conferring with certain captains his friends, and others which were discontented with SILVANUS, that by means of some gifts which he gave, and great promises which he made, they resolved to kill poor SILVANUS. Whereupon, assembling together a good number of soldiers, they went one morning to his Palace; where kill his guard, they entered perforce; and SILVANUS, fleeing into a Church of the Silvanus' slain in a ●…urch of the Christians. Christians, was therein found and slain. And in this manner ended his Empire with his life, having usurped the same only 30 days. This plot being ended to the good liking of CONSTANTIUS, there followed other troubles and combustions: For the barbarous Nations of high Germany came down to make war in the Empire: and as all things were yet very much out of order, by reason of the death of SILVANUS, they did much harm by taking certain Cities, and by robbing and spoiling the Country. Which when CONSTANTIUS understood, considering with himself that if he went thither in person, the whole Empire was without any defence; and imagining also that a General was not to be trusted with that war, he resolved to choose his cousin german JULIANUS, and to make him CAESAR, who was brother to GALLUS, of whom we have spoken heretofore, and had been CAESAR in the East, and slain by his commandment; both which were the sons of CONSTANTIUS, brother to CONSTANTINE the Great, before spoken of. This JULIANUS was a young man of whom there was great hope: for he was of a good constitution of body, of an excellent wit, inclined and given to study, and therewith very well learned. JULIANUS was made CAESAR and adopted by CONSTANTIUS, with great julianus made Caesar by Constantius. solemnity in the City of Milane, where CONSTANTIUS then made his abode: yet some say, that it was at Athens, in Graecia: and the better to confirm the friendship and alliance▪ he married him to his sister HELENA. Other matters also passing, which for brevity I omit, JULIANUS went towards the Army which was in Germany; where all things succeeded so well with him, that he not only recovered the losses received, but also made great spoil and slaughter of his enemies. CONSTANTIUS, leaving the West in charge with JULIANUS, resolved to pass into the East, where there was no less danger and need of his presence: for, the Persians', being ancient and daily enemies to the Romans, as the offspring and successors of the Parthians, never ceased from invading and making war upon the frontiers of the Romans; robbing and spoiling the Territories of the Empire. And in his way he purposed to go to Rome, where he was received with great joy and magnificence. But he could not stay there above thirty days: for, besides other news from the East, he understood that the Sarmates, a fierce and barbarous nation (which were the Russians, Muscovites, Polonians, and some others) had entered and run through Misia (now called Bulgaria and Servia) and with other nations were comn into Hungary. Wherhfore he presently departed, and committed the charge of the Sarmatian wars to MARCELLUS PEBERUS, an excellent Captain of great experience, and himself passed through Slavonia towards the East. And notwithstanding that he had a great Army, yet he was Marcellus Peberus sent by Constantius against the Sarmates. not free from fear: for, as this Emperor ever prevailed in all his civil wars, and against Tyrants; so against the Persians' he was ever unfortunate: wherefore he practised to come to some composition of peace with SAPOR (the second of that name) King of Persia; who then reigned, and refused not to give ear to an Ambassador which motioned the same. Whereof SAPOR, growing beyond all measure proud, wrote a most haughty Letter to CONSTANTIUS; which, with the answer thereto, MARCELLINUS sets down. Wherein he required, if the Lib. 〈◊〉 The tenor of a Letter written by Sapor King of Persia to the Emperor Constantius: and an answer thereto. The effect of Constantius letter to Sapor. Emperor would have any peace with him, that he should first resign into his hands the Provinces of Mesopotamia and Armenia, which had been subject to his Ancestors (so great was the power and presumption of the Kings of Persia, that they would not grant peace and truce to a Roman Emperor, except he would give them two of the best Provinces of the world). To this Letter, CONSTANTIUS sent him another for answer; which was a notable Letter and very discreet, which for brevity I do not insert. Wherein he held the gravity and majesty of a Roman Emperor; and, reprehending SAPOR for his pride and ambition, he not only denied what the other required, but did also put him clean out of all hope to have any peace with him: and so afterwards there began a very cruel war. At such time as these matters passed in the East, JULIANUS, who remained in France, CAESAR, and General against the Germane, after some other victories subdued his enemies in a very great and bloody battle: and, having obtained this notable victory, by a general consent of the whole Army he was called Emperor and AUGUSTUS; and they made him equal with julianus was by the Army made Emperor and Augustus. CONSTANTIUS. These news within few days were brought to CONSTANTIUS in the East; wherewith he was so much disquieted, that he was once resolved to have abandoned the wars there, and to have marched with all his Legions against JULIANUS. But, afterwards altering his determination, he resolved to sand Ambassadors unto him; and, thinking with good words to win him, he sent to persuade him to content himself with the title and dignity of CAESAR, and to Constantius sent an Ambassador to julianus. renounce the name of Emperor and AUGUSTUS. With this ambassage he sent a chief man, whose name was LEONAS; who, for that he came from CONSTANTIUS, was honourably received in the Army, and audience was given him. He having delivered his Ambassage, and the Emperor's Letters being read, the Army not only refused to yield thereto, but they all with one voice confirmed what they had done, calling JULIANUS Emperor and AUGUSTUS: only they obeyed CONSTANTIUS in putting FLORENTINUS out of the office of Praetorian Perfect, which was given to NEBRIDIUS. Touching the rest, JULIANUS answered CONSTANTIUS in humble manner, with the best words he could, promising julianus answer to Constantius. to be to him a loyal and an obedient companion; desiring him that he would not depose him from his dignity, seeing that he had accepted thereof against his will, being thereto compelled by the Army. And heerwith he returned to make war against the Germane with greater force and circumspection than before. And foreseeing it was very requisite to tame and subdue those nations, imagining that he should have war (which he could not avoid) with CONSTANTIUS; he advised his Captains and Troops to make haste, and to assail their enemies before they were by them assailed: whereupon there ensued between him and the Germans some notable battles and encounters; which I cannot relate without altering my ordinary course of brevity. After that CONSTANTIUS understood that his Ambassadors could not obtain what he required, he resolved to make war against JULIANUS, presuming on his great power, and the good fortune which he had ever had against other Tyrants. Wherhfore he sought means to confirm the peace and friendship, which then was in question between him and ARSACES' King of Armenia, and other Kings of the East; to the end they should not join in league and confederacy with the King of Persia, his chiefest enemy: against whom he left such forces as he thought sufficient to defend the country, and to continued the war. After this he came into Europe; and, travelling from Antioch in Syria to the City of Tharsus, by the way he felt himself somewhat ill of a light Fever: but yet notwithstanding he held on his journey, thinking that his exercise would have helped him by diverting the humour; and therefore he caused himself to be carried in a Litter, making small journeys. But, coming to the foot of Mount Taurus, he felt himself much oppressed with his disease; the Fever increasing upon him in such sort, that he seemed to be all on fire. And so, knowing his infirmity to be mortal, and that his death approached, he made his Will; wherein he nominated JULIANUS (his enemy, and a tyrant) for his Constantius last Will and testament. heir and successor: so the man, whom in his life time he would not admit for a companion, at his death he chose for his heir; having in this action (as a good Emperor) great regard to the common good and quiet of the Empire. This Emperor reigned four and twenty years; seven with his brethren, and seventeen alone, although in contention with the tyrant's aforenamed; and in his father's time he was CAESAR The death of Constantius. thirteen years: wherefore some say, that he reigned in all eight and thirty years. He was when he died (as saith EUTROPIUS) five and forty years old: yet all Authors agreed not heerupon. This Emperor was reckoned among the indifferent Emperors: for, notwithstanding that he was endowed with some singular gifts, yet was he not altogether free from vices. For, as he was courteous, mild, and of a pleasing conversation, liberal and affable to his servants, and very temperate in eating and drinking, and would take great pains, and delighted and desired much to speak well (yet naturally he was neither very sharpwitted, nor eloquent) and was an excellent Archer, and delighted greatly therein: so was he otherwise very credulous, and delighted to hear men speak evil of others. Which moved him to commit many cruelties: for, he was by nature mistrustful, and ever feared treason, and therefore trusted few men: so was he likewise much given to women. With these vices and virtues he well preserved and defended the Roman Empire; and died, according to S. IEROM'S computation, in the year of our Lord 364. THE LIFE OF JULIANUS, ONLY OF THIS NAME, CALLED APOSTATA, AND SIX AND FORTITH EMPEROR OF ROME. AFter the death of CONSTANTIUS, which happened as is before declared, his cofen german JULIANUS remained sole Emperor of the whole Roman Empire; who in the others life time enjoyed the title of AUGUSTUS. This JULIANUS was by birth such as we have specified in the life of CONSTANTIUS; and in valour and sufficiency was one of the best Emperors that ever was; as presently we will make manifest. All which good graces he corrupted and defaced, by renouncing the Christian faith whereof he had before made profession, and by turning to the idolatry of the Gentiles: wherefore he was commonly called JULIANUS APOSTATA: whereof, some Authors say, one LI●…ANIUS an Idolater & a famous Rhetorician was the occasion. Which, besides the reasons which may be heerto annexed, is a notable example for all Princes, and men of all estates and conditions whatsoever, that they not only with all diligence seek out masters for their sons, which may be expert in those sciences wherein they purpose to instruct them; but that principally they be virtuous, honest, and sound men in religion: for learning without virtue is little worth. And it is most certain, that what children learn in their youth, is so imprinted in their understandings, as they never forget the same. And those exercises & qualities wherein they are bred up in their tender age, become proper and natural, and are never left by them in their whole life time; whereof the masters which have charge of the children are the principal cause. And although we might produce many good and fair examples, yet this present shall now suffice, returning to JULIANUS, in whom his master's infidelity took so deep impression, that it well appeareth, what prejudice he thereby received: for, in the rest he was so complete and so rare, that in goodness, bounty and courtesy, they compare him with TITUS; in clemency, with ANTONINUS; To whom julianus was compared. in his fortunate stratagems at wars against the Germans, they make him equal to TRAIAN; in temperance and modesty, to MARCUS AURELIUS: and in knowledge and learning, to the ancient Philosophers. He was endued with a singular memory, and was very studious, and therefore learned in many Arts and Sciences; and was eloquent and well spoken, no less by the gift of nature then by Art He was most temperate in his diet and sleep: and most chaste and free from all fleshly passion and dishonesty. He was so valiant and hardy in Arms (although but of a small constitution of body, and delicately limmed) that he was therefore noted and reproved to be more hardy and adventurous, than for a General or Emperor was fit or convenient. Of glory and renown he was greedily covetous; which is a vice wherein great spirits do oftentimes offend. With his friends he was very pleasant and bountiful, and loved to do justice indifferently to all men; which he strictly observed in the time that he was CAESAR, and in the small time that he enjoied the Empire. He was likewise adorned with many other virtues; which, EUTROPIUS as an eyewitness, AURELIUS VICTOR, and AMMIANUS MARCELLINUS, do record. But, with all this, he was an Infidel, which was great pity; and his understanding was blinded by the persuasion of his master LIBANIUS, julianus an Idolater by the persuasion of his schoolmaster. who was a Gentle and an Idolater. Those things which passed in the time that he was CAESAR and Emperor, are very largely and particularly described by AMMIANUS MARCELLINUS, as by him which saw and understood the same: for, they happened in his time; and he also followed and served him in the wars of Persia. But I will relate only that which happened when he was Emperor, and that briefly; for, he reigned only two years: wherefore, I hold it not fit in a Reign of so small continuance to spend much time. Being advertised of the death of CONSTANTIUS (which news were brought to him in France, whence he was about to go to meet him; and the other, as we have said, was coming towards him with the same resolution) in great haste he marched to the City of Constantinople, which ever since the death of the Emperor CONSTANTINE was the Head of the Empire; where, by all means possible he sought to win the love & good will of the people of all nations; which the better to bring to pass, he used this policy: First, he caused the Temples of the julianus made the temples of the Idolaters to be opened. Gentiles to be set open, and suffered them therein to commit their superstitious idolatry, and to adore their idols. And although he abhorred, and was an enemy to the Christians, yet at that time he persecuted them not with deaths and tortures; and in contentions between the Christians and the Arrians he was neuter, showing himself inclined to neither party: wherefore he was not very hateful to any; and the barbarous nations standing in fear of his great fame (for, by reason of the Germane wars he was grown very famous) abstained from making war, or from troubling the Empire; and so sent their Ambassadors to him to treat of peace and friendship, which he granted. In this manner he began to govern the Empire with as great prosperity and contentment of all men, as ever any man had don●…. But, as 〈◊〉 his heart he was an Idolater; so he resolved to find some means to supplant the true Christian religion, induced thereto by the devil and his own wickedness: And, the better to effect the same, he practised a means never before used by A means used by julianus to persecute the Church without bloodshed. any other; which was, To show himself pitiful and not cruel, perceiving that by means of torments inflicted upon the Martyrs, the holy Christian faith was greatly increased: and therefore he determined to take a contrary course (as RUFFINUS, S. JEROM, and CASSIODORUS, report) which was, to induce them by gifts, favours, flatteries, and by bestowing on them offices and dignities, to the end they should renounce the Christian faith, and do sacrifice to his false gods. And as the same authors affirm, there were some, and they not a few, which A new device found out by julianus to persecute the Church. being covetous and ambitious, through desire to grow rich and to be honoured, denied the christian faith. And this was one of the greatest persecutions that ever the Church endured, aswell in respect of those which abandoned the same, as for that JULIANUS perceived that by this mean he could not throughly accomplish his desire; although as is said, he put none to death, neither used any violence to any. He therefore made laws and general decrees, that no Christian Decrees made by julianus against the Christians. should be master of any arts or sciences, neither should there study in any Schools but such as would adore his Idols, to the end that through the desire of learning, they should become Idolaters, or else at the lest should remain idiots, and without learning, and so be insufficient and unable to preach the christian faith. He likewise ordained that no Christian should have any charge, or hold any office of justice, neither should be a Captain in the wars, neither enjoy any other dignity. Finally, he used all the inventions and means he could device to make war against JESUS CHRIST, without shedding any christian blood: which I hold to be the invention and subtlety of the Devil, to take the crown from the holy Martyrs, which they obtained through the persecution of the sword. Using this pitiful cruelty against the Christians (as a man of courage and valiant in Arms) he resolved to make war against the Persians', who only had not showed any humility, or acknowledged his superiority. Wherhfore he went into Asia with a great Army: with which and the ordinary legions having passed through Asia the less and other provinces, he entered Mesopotamia, which (as is said) was the Lady, for whom the Romans and Persians' did ordinarily contend: and after some light encounters and skirmishes, he seized upon the city of Cercasio which favoured the Romans and was ennobled by the Emperor DIOCLESIAN with walls julian his enterprise aoainst the Persians'. and bulwarks; and from thence he passed to Zaita, where he was advertised that the King of Persia was near at hand with his whole power: whereupon he marshaled his troops, with a great desire to come with him to a battle. But his enemy at that time durst not fight with him, but sent him many Ambassages, entreating pardon, and promising him a great part of his countries. To whom this valiant Emperor would give no audience: but seeing that he refused the battle, the more to provoke him, he entered his country by sundry ways, taking many cities in Soria, some by force, and others yielded themselves without any resistance; committing great spoils in all that country, until at last the Persians' for very shame were forced to fight, which battle was very cruel. Before which, this blind JULIANUS (as OROSIUS and S. JEROME recite) of very malice and hatred which he bore to the Christians, whom he called Galileans (as saith THEODORETUS in his history) made a vow to his gods, that if he obtained julianus his vow to the gods. the victory, he would do sacrifice to them in the blood of those Christians which would not worship idols. And it pleased God in his secret judgement to give him victory at that time, thereby to reward him in this life for the moral virtues wherewith he was endued, to the end that perpetually he should be punished in the other world, for his damnable infidelity. He seeing himself victorious, and finding no resistance, marched to the famous city of Thesiphonte; and finding no forces that durst stop his passage, he determined to return to winter in Mesopotamia: but upon the way his people endured great penury and want with thirst and hunger, aswell for that his Army was exceeding great, as also for that his enemies did often assault and molest them. And notwithstanding that the Persians' would never come to any equal fight, but gave camizadoes, with light skirmishes, suddenly charging, and then running away, after the manner of the Arabians in these days; yet therewith his Army was exceedingly much toiled and tired. And in this manner it pleased God (who with his death would stop the execution of so many innocents which he purposed to have sacrificed) that a Persian fugitive, who was the guide to his Army, treacherously led him and his Army into a place where many of his enemies lay in ambush; where being charged, he was constrained to fight, and in the fight pell mell being unknown was stricken with a lance through the arm into the body: with which wound losing his senses, he fell upon his horse's neck, and so his people took him, julianus deadly wounded. and carried him into a tent, wherein with some medicines which they applied unto him, he came again to himself; and recovering strength, he called for his horse and Arms: for he would again return to the battle. But afterwards feeling his force to fail him, they The proud speeeches uttered by julianus a little before his death. writ, that with extreme pride he used these words against our Saviour CHRIST, It sufficeth that thou CHRIST of Galilea hast overcome, for so he was accustomed to call him. After this, seeing that all those which were about him began to weep, he reprehended them, saying; You do ill to weep for that Prince which dies in the favour of the gods: and so he discoursed of the immortality of the soul as long as he was able to speak, until that his blood being wholly spent, he died; which in truth was great pity, that there should be such accursed julianus died talking. blindness in a man in whom there was so great valour, and so many good and virtuous parts. He died in the seventh year after he was made CAESAR, and in the third year of his Empire, being 31 years old, in the year of our Lord (according to Saint JEROM) 366. THE LIFE OF JOVIANUS, ONLY OF THIS NAME, AND SEVEN AND FORTITH EMPEROR OF ROME. Much was the death of JULIANUS lamented by the whole Army: for, he was much beloved by all his men of war. But the Church and all Christians rendered thanks to our Lord God, who in his mercy had delivered them from the yoke of so great a servitude. There was so great a confusion in the Camp by reason of the death of this Emperor, that they were in danger to have been overthrown by the Persians': besides that, they were much distressed through want of victuals. And the enemy, understanding of the death of the Emperor, never left to molest them on every side with such continual sudden assaults and alarms, that they were not able to endure them. Wherhfore, the chief Commanders of the Army assembled themselves together to choose an Emperor which might govern them. After much contention and diversity of opinions, they agreed to choose one (as saith EUTROPIUS) whose name was MARCELLINUS. But finally they concluded to name a very famous man called JOVIANUS, who was the son of a Nobleman called VARRONIANUS, an Hungarian, or an Inhabitant of Hungary: who, leaving the wars which he had long followed, and to avoid the tumults and troubles which he saw in the Empire, retired, and gave himself to his rest and quiet in certain possessions which he held in Hungary. But his son JOVIANUS came to the Emperor CONSTANTIUS Court, and followed the wars: who, for that he was valiant, and a goodly Personage, was greatly esteemed by JULIANUS; and, whilst he was CAESAR and afterwards Emperor, this man was the chief Commander of the ordinary Troops which went with the Emperor. This JOVIANUS was of an excellent wit and sound judgement, given to study, and therewith well learned. He was tall of stature, and well proportioned, and a faithful Christian; Praise of jovianus. in so much that when JULIANUS commanded, that no Christian should be a Captain, neither should have any charge or office in the wars; JOVIANUS pleasantly said, that he made greater account of the faith whereof he made profession, than of any dignity or honour that he enjoyed; and so gave up his charge. Being afterwards chosen Emperor, RUFFINUS jovianus his profession. and THEODORETUS writ, that seeing JULIANUS had drawn the men of war of his Army to commit idolatry, and to do sacrifice to his gods; he in a public Oration which he jovianus chose Emperor. made to them, said, that he (although he might) would not (being a Christian) be an Emperor of Infidels. And so he resisted, and absolutely refused the Empire. But all men were so well pleased with his election, that, after they had approved the same, they cried out aloud, saying; We are all Christians. And for his sake those which were not so, resolved to become Christians, upon condition that he would accept the Empire. In this manner, with incredible joy and gladness, they swore obedience unto him, and gave him the Imperial Ensigns. Whereupon he presently ordered and reinforced the Army; which could not be done without great difficulty: for, SAPOR understanding of the death of JULIANUS (who, for his noble acts and great courage, was generally feared of all men) made small account of this new Emperor; but, gathering together the greatest forces he was able, gave so fierce a charge in the Emperor's Army, that the Romans were likely to have been wholly defeated: and the Persians' apparently had the better. JOVIANUS marching with great trouble and danger, for that the ways were craggy and mountainous; The first day he followed his journey: and, making an Alt in a valley, his Army was presently compassed about on every side by the Persians'; who assailed and skirmished with them after their manner. The next day he came to the City of Carras, where JOVIANUS and his soldiers remembering that in ancient time MARCUS CRASSUS was in that coast overthrown and slain by the Parthians; holding it for an ominous presage, they accounted themselves lost, if the enemy ever gave them battle. The principal cause of which fear was by reason of their weakness through the hunger which they had endured, and at that instant did endure, through want of victuals: for, as two so great Armies marched so near together, no provision could be made that could suffice to sustain them. But in all these extremities JOVIANUS never fainted or was discouraged, neither omitted to use all diligence in guiding, defending and animating his soldiers, till they came to the river Tigris, their dangers still increasing: where King SAPOR sent him Ambassadors, giving him to understand, that, considering the weakness of his Army and his own force, he was most assured of victory; yet, if he would tender him the Provinces he required (which were many) he would be content to hold perpetual peace with the Empire. JOVIANUS, seeing the present necessity wherein he was, took counsel heerupon with the chiefest men in his Army: and, after 3 or 4 day's consultation, a peace was concluded for thirty A peace made betwixt the Per●…ans and the Romans for 30 years. years; JOVIANUS leaving to King SAPOR all the Provinces beyond the river Tigris, and some Cities in Mesopotamia; with further condition, that the Emperor should not aid or assist ARSACES' King of Armenia: which peace or truce (as EUTROPIUS writes, whose history ends with the life of this Emperor; and many other Writers) was held for very shameful and dishonourable to the greatness of the Roman Empire, for voluntarily giving to the enemy part of the Provinces thereto belonging, and for decreasing the bounds and limits thereof. But, for that Prince's actions are ever diversely judged of, PAULUS OROSIUS and other Writers excuse him; alleging, he made such a peace as was requisite, considering the time; and albeit it were not honourable, yet at lest it was profitable and needful: for, he was in manifest danger to have lost his whole Army, and the greatest part of the Provinces that he rendered. Hereof every man may judge after his fantasy; but thus it was: JOVIANUS, having concluded this peace, went into Soria; where he commanded by public proclamation, that all those Bishops which were exiled for resisting and contradicting the heresy of ARRIUS, or any other unlawful occasion, should be recalled and restored; and principally the great ATHANASIUS. He likewise revoked and made voided all the prohibitions and decrees made by JULIANUS against the Christians; and ordained that they should be admitted to any dignity, office, charge, magistracy or study, as they were wont to be in the time of the Emperor CONSTANTINE the Great. He likewise caused to be paid to the Churches those rents of corn and other things that CONSTANTINE had given them, and which by the commandment of JULIANUS were sequestered; which is written by THEODORETUS and RUFFINUS. JOVIANUS, having laid so godly a foundation to his Empire concerning the Christian faith, giving in all things good signs of a good and just Prince, and providing for all matters in the East as to him seemed most needful, began his journey towards Constantinople, showing himself every where as he passed in all his actions a just and a gracious Prince; so as all men conceived great good hope of him. But this, and all his noble resolutions, and other Christianlike purposes, were interrupted by death: for, the iniquity of the people deserved not so good a Prince; which happened thus: He coming to a place which was called Dudastana, in the confines of Bythinia, and Galatia, in Asia the lesle, the weather being very cold (for it was in the winter) they did set in the chamber where the Emperor should lie that night, a great pan with kindled coals, which coals were wet: and as the officers of his chamber were gone to take their rest, the chamber door being locked, and he asleep; the vapour of the fire waxing gross and thick, and filling every thing with smoke, and The Emperor jovianus smothered in his bed with smoke. finding no place to evaporate, stopped the Emperor's breath, in such sort as he was smothered sleeping, and in the morning was found dead; all men imagining this to be the cause of his death. Yet some were of opinion that he died by eating of Mushrooms, which are held venomous. And others conjectured that he ate so much meat at supper, as his natural heat could not digest the same, and so through the crudity thereof he was suffocated. But howsoever it was, all men were very sorrowful for his death, he having held the sceptre of the Empire only eight months; being, according to some writers, of the age of forty years: and after some other, thirty and odd. Whoso desireth to know more of this Emperor, as well in war as in peace, let him read the authors above named, and particularly AMMIANUS MARCELLINUS, who was with him in all his adventures; and the Tripartite History of CASSIODORUS in his seventh book, and RUFFINUS in the tenth book of his ecclesiastical History: and EUTROPIUS, although he be brief was an eyewitness. And here endeth his History. Many things may be gathered of the life of this Emperor, by reading the first book of the epistles of Saint AMBROSE, and the fourth book of THEODORUS. THE LIFE OF VALENTINIANUS, THE FIRST OF THAT NAME, AND OF HIS BROTHER VALENS, THE Eight and Fortith Roman Emperor. THE ARGUMENT. VAlentinianus being the son of a rope maker, for his virtues deserved to be made an Emperor; even as his father mounted from making of ropes to the highest martial dignity. He having taken upon him the imperial dignity, chose his brother Valens for his companion, and shortly after made his son Gratianus, Caesar. In their time the world was troubled, with so many prodigious earthquakes, removing of the sea, strange reinss, and so much war as there hath seldom been read of the like. Nevertheless, these wise Emperors provided excellently for all these troubles and dangers; and not only overcame barbarous Kings and strangers which were their enemies, but also subdued domestical tyrants, among which was one whose name was Procopius, a kinsman to julianus the Apostata; who taking the ensigns of Emperors, was so resolute as to come to fight with Valens. Valentinianus was a great friend to the Christians, yet Valens was to the contrary: and being earn●…st to give answer to certain Ambassadors, he was taken with an Apoplexy which bereft him of the use of his tongue only, leaving all his other senses sound; whereof within short space he died. Whereupon Valens remaining in the Empire, with his Nephew Gratian, as the manner of Uncles is, he began to make small account of his Nephew: and favouring the sect of the Arrians, gave himself to inchauntments, nigromancies, to persecute the Christians, and to martyrise many of them. For which his wickedness God punished him; for he coming against the Goths (to whom he had done good) in a piece of service, was by them overthrown: and flying wounded into a farmer's house in the country, the house was fired by them; and he burning therein, made such an end as his evil life deserved, receiving such punishment at God's hands, as such obstinate heretics are worthy of. IT pleased God of his goodness, to give to the Christian and virtuous Emperor JOVIANUS, a successor (although he left neither son nor kinsman) which was like unto him in faith, goodness, and virtuous conditions: and this was VALENTINIANUS: who although that he were but of a mean Parentage, and came of a poor father; yet he was a faithful Christian, and endued with excellent virtues. His father's name was GRATIANUS, The descent of Valentinianus. borne and bred in Hungary, in a City of the Cimbales, a man of mean Parentage, as saith AURELIUS VICTOR; and as he and PAULUS DIACONUS affirm, was very poor, and by his trade a rope-maker: But he was of so great strength, as upon a day five soldiers striving with all their might to take one of those ropes which he sold, out of his hands, they were not able to do it. Wherefore seeming to be strong and a very able man for the wars, he was counselled to follow the same; which he did: and having no less courage of mind then force of body, he profited so much in Arms, through the notable exploits which he performed therein, as offices were bestowed upon him; and so ascending by dgrees, he become Praetorian Perfect. By these means his son VALENTINIANUS, of whom we purpose to treat came to be bred up in the wars, and therein won great honour. Being Captain of the companies called Scutarij, which were targeteers, so called, for that no others did bear targets, but they; JULIANUS the Apostata commanded him to do sacrifice to his gods, or otherwise to give up the office which he held (as he did by others, and as we said by JOVIANUS): but he as a good Valentinianus gave up his office of Captain rather than he would do sacrifice to Idols. Catholic and not as a feigned Christian, voluntarily surrendered his office and Captainshippe, to continued in the Faith of CHRIST. And the good and Christian JOVIANUS coming to the Empire, drew unto him all such, as he was; by means whereof VALENTINIANUS was in his service when he died, in the same place and office which he forsook in the time of JULIANUS. As soon as JOVIANUS was dead, the first and chiefest care that VALENTINIANUS took, was, to prepare his body to be sent to Constantinople to be buried; and the second and next was, to consult who should be the next Emperor. The chief commanders marched with the Army to the City of Nicaea, which is the head and Metropolitan of the Province of Bythinia: where determining to nominate an Emperor, there were some which made accounted to have been so; and among many, one was named, which was a Tribune called EQVITIUS; who (as MARCELLIN●…S reporteth) was afterwards for his currish and harsh conditions deposed. But finally after long co●…ltationss, VALENTINIANUS was chosen, Valentinianus chosen Emperor. by reason of his goodness and valour, being at that time absent, having remained certain day's journey behind the whole Army; and being sent for, and come, they all swore obedience unto him, with great joy and contentment. For truly he was (as all men w●…e) a goodly personage, very valiant, and magnanimous; very wise and temperate, a lover of justice, eloquent, and of a good grace, honourable and virtuous, and a man who knew how to make himself beloved and respected of all men. Having accepted the Empire, and beginning to provide for such things as might be needful for the good government thereof; it seemed good to the captains and soldiers of the Army to give him a companion and an equal in the Empire, to be an assistant to him in the government; which the Emperors of their own accord did often use to do. VALENTINIANUS being advertised hereof, commanded the Army to be called together; and with a bold and sudden resolution, among other matters spoke unto them in this manner: Gentlemen and Soldiers, it was in your hands and at your pleasure, when I was not Emperor, to give me the government and command of the Empire; but now that I have the government A speech used by Valentinianus to the Army. and am in possession thereof, it is no part of your charge, neither aught you to intermeddle therein: for that is my charge only, and the care thereof appertaineth to me to command and govern the commonwealth. And as for a companion, when need shall require, I will take care for one. These speeches are written by THEODORETUS and other Authors make mention thereof: which made such an impression in the soldier's hearts, as from thenceforth they all took care to obey his commandments, not daring to speak a word concerning any such matter. But when he came to the City of Constantinople, which ever since the time of the Emperor CONSTANTINE, was the head of the Empire, imagining it to be a matter very requisite, he made his brother VALENS his companion and equal with himself in the Valentinianus made his brother Valens his companion in the Empire. Empire: which truly he aught not to have done, for that he was infected with the Arrian heresy, as hereafter we will declare. And having made this election, they divided the Empire between them, so as VALENTINIANUS took charge of the Provinces in the West, and VALENS of those in the East. And matters standing upon these terms, they both fell sick of a burning fever, so grievously, as all men thought they would have died; but afterwards recovering, there happened unto these brethren so many wars and such troubles, as they both had enough to do. For the Saxons and Scots which are northerly Nations, came in great The Empire infested by foreign Nations. troops to make a conquest of the Isle of Britanny, and the Germans came again down into France: and the countries of Hungary and Austria were invaded by the Sarmates and the Cattis: Into Thracia came certain companies of Goths to rob and steal. The King of Persia broke the truce, invaded Armenia, and afterwards Mesopotamia. Whereupon by reason of these combustions and others which were feared, and some already begun, VALENS took his way towards the East, and VALENTINIANUS towards Milan: And into Hungary they sent SEVERIANUS, a valiant Captain; and so they provided and placed in diverse parts excellent Captains and Governors. To recite all that past in particular, would be a long work: but in sum it was thus; that in the first three years of the reign of VALENTINIANUS, he had very cruel wars with the Saxons and Germans: which in the end, after many battles, he overcame and subdued. In the third year of his reign, he made his son GRATIANUS his Valentinianus made his son Emperor and Augustus. companion, Emperor, and AUGUSTUS. And in Rome by reason of the death or deprivation of TURCIUS APRONIANUS (for the History declareth it not, or I am forgetful) he placed a Noble man, named ORPHITUS. As a good Christian, he honoured and favoured the Christians, their Temples and Churches: which his brother VALENS did not in the East; but lying for the most part in the city of Antioch, suffered the idolatries and superstitions of the Gentiles, and likewise the rites and ceremonies of the jews. But the Arrians and Heretics he Valens permitting Idolatry, and the ceremonies of the▪ jews, was an enemy to the Christians. extremely favoured, only he molested and was enemy to the true Christians: and above all, gave himself to divinations, sorceries, and prohibited Astrology; which CASSIODORUS, JOANNES MONACUS, otherwise called ZONARAS, and RUFFINUS treat of at large. These two brethren governing the Empire, although after diverse manners, making head against the incursions of strange and barbarous nations, which infested the same; a Noble man called PROCOPIUS, borne in Sicilia, and near kinsman to JULIANUS Apostata (who beginning by mean degrees, came to be Captain general of the Imperial Armies in the East) rebelled in Constantinople: and with the favour and assistance of certain Captains, and some other Procopius was called Emperor. men of war (taking the Imperial ensigns) he proclaimed himself Emperor; which greatly troubled the two Emperors: for they knew that he daily grew greater, and that his forces continually increased, and that he had sent for succours to the Goths, and other strange nations. The Empire being thus troubled, there also followed in those days so general and terrible an earthquake, that an infinite number of houses, and sundry cities fell down. For in Sicilia An universal ●…arth-quake. and in many other Lands, whole countries perished, and the sea overwhelmed and drowned many towns and cities, overflowing the natural bounds and limits; and above all, it was most terrible in the province of Bythinia, in Asia; so as the city of Nicaea was therewith wholly ruined. And in many other provinces bordering upon the sea, the sea altering his course, in The city of Nicaea destroyed by an earthquake. some places discovered and left dry land, where before was nothing but sea; and in some other places made sea, where before were green fields and pastures; as PAULUS OROSIUS and other authors writ, principally MARCELLINUS, who was an eye witness, and S. JEROME also. Whereof the Cosmographers of our times should take notice, and not so much blame and marvel at the ancient, if they found not described and set down in their books the seacoasts, the capes, points, havens, and entries into the sea, to be such as they described them then to be: for these and many other natural changes have been the cause thereof; besides the error which may be in the letter and painting of the books, or in the phrase, through their fault which wrote and translated them. A little while after this earthquake (S. JEROME writeth) that there reigned from heaven, like as at other times it useth to snow, an infinite quantity of wool, Wool fell from heaven like snow. as perfect and as fine wool as the sheep beareth. But returning to our history; This attempt of PROCOPIUS so much troubled VALENTINIANUS and VALENS, that VAIENTINIANUS was in doubt whether he should go against him in person, or leave it to VALENS; whom it seemed more to concern, aswell for the neernes to him, as for that those parts were under his jurisdiction. And being resolved to go in person, he was constrained to altar his resolution, for that certain strange nations made new invasions in the Empire, aswell in Germany as in Britanny, and the cities and provinces in these parts by their Ambassadors required secure. Whereupon he determined rather to relieve those which were friènds to the whole Empire, and to the common estate, than his own in particular: and publishing his intent, he returned to make war against the strangers, sending an excellent Captain with a very good Army against PROCOPIUS, to make head against him, and not to suffer his power to increase: and he himself went to the wars of Germany, wherein he did many worthy deeds of Arms against the Saxons, the Burgonians, and other nations: whose force was so great, that although they were overcome by him, and reduced to his obedience; yet until this day the remembrance of them continueth, and they inhabit those parts. On the other side, VALENS, as a man which had the lesser charge, marched towards PROCOPIUS, and he came to meet him in Asia the less, or in Phrygia, near to a City called Anatolia, where they fought, and PROCOPIUS was overthrown and fled. But before this battle, VALENS had sent Procopius overthrown. a Captain whose name was JULIUS, with a very good Army, against those Goths which came to the aid of PROCOPIUS, he having spread a r●…or that VALENTINIANUS was dead in France, and those Goths were overthrown by JULIUS. PROCOPIUS, as is aforesaid, escaping from the battle, used all possible means to reinforce his Army, that he might return again to fight: but he not only failed of his purpose, but was by his own Captains which fled with him, thereby to obtain pardon and grace with VALENS, apprehended and delivered into his hands. Some writ, that VALENS as soon as he had hi●… made his head to be stricken off: and others The death of Procopius. say, that bowing down two trees by force, on●…eg was bound to the one Tree, and another to the other, and the Trees being let lose, he was torn in pieces: and so ended he his life, parted and divided in two parts, who had caused so great parts-tak●… 〈◊〉 division in the Empire. PROCOPIUS when he died, was of the age of 41 years, he was of a great courage and goodly constitution, but that he went somewhat stooping. It is reported of him that he was ever very sad, and was never seen to laugh, and that he always did meditate on melancholy matters; and so had an unfortunate end, as one which was disloyal, and a Traitor to his sovereign Lord After that VALENS had obtained this victory, he severely punished those that had favoured and assisted PROCOPIUS: and because that Chalcedonia, which is a City in Asia the less, over against Constantinople, had taken part with him, he caused all the town walls to be thrown down, and made even with the ground, which before were very fair. When PROCOPIUS Valens razed the walls of Chalcedonia. was dead, a Captain and near kinsman of his, named MARCELLUS, being in the City of Nicaea with certain companies with him, and with 3000 Goths which he had caused to come thither, took upon him the name of Emperor: but he was soon set upon, taken and slain by another Captain, whose name was EQVICIUS, Governor of Slavonia. This so important an enterprise being by VALENS brought to a happy end, he then endeavoured himself to persecute the remainder of those soldiers, and to provide for other accidents in the East: which, for that they were many and of less importance, I will omit. But in matters concerning our religion, as an Heretic and a wicked man, he committed so many outrages, exiled so many, and did so great harm, as it would require a long time to describe. His brother VALENTINIANUS following the wars aforesaid, obtained sundry victories, some in his own The Picts and Scots. person, and some under the leading of his Captains. In great Britanny, by a Captain of his whose name was VALENTINE, he overcame and subdued the Picts and the Scots, from whom the Scots at this day are descended, and the Kingdom of Scotland in that Island took name. THEODOSIUS, of whom we will speak hereafter, obtained some other notable victories in Germany, whom VALENTINIANUS sent also into Africa: for therein rebelled The victories of Valentinian. a mighty Captain whose name was TIRMUS, whom THEODOSIUS overthrew in battle, and took prisoner, leaving the country in quiet. But notwithstanding that he had so good and happy success, yet the Roman Empire was so odious and hateful to all strange Nations, as they never desisted as long as they had any opportunity to invade and molest the same. Whereupon the Sarmates, a barbarous people, of whom we have often made mention heretofore, rebelled and entered Hungary: against whom VALENTINIANUS (being greatly offended) went himself in person; and having overthrown them in battle they sent their Ambassadors Valentinianus against the Sarmates. unto him: and the Emperor being in an earnest discourse with them, it is reported that he was so moved, and cried out so loud, as with the force thereof the blood gushed out at his mouth in such abundance, that he died within few days after. Others writ, that he was taken with an Apoplexy, wherewith he lost his speech only, all his other senses remaining perfect. Finally, of the one, or other, he died within a short space, nothing availing any Physic that could be administered unto him, he being of the age of fifty years, in the twelfth year of his Reign, and according to S. JEROME his computation in the year of our Lord 379. This Emperor is accounted among the good and virtuous Emperors, and with great reason: for besides his valour and sufficiency, he was a very just Prince, and a great enemy and a punisher of vice, especially of bribery and covetousness. When he died he left two sons, and three daughters, which he had by two women. His eldest sons name was GRATIAN, whom he had by his lawful wife, named SEVERA; him before his death he made Emperor AVOUSTUS. His other son's name was VALENTINIANUS, who afterwards was Emperor also. And his three daughters, JUSTA, GRATA, and GALLA, he had by a Gentlewoman called JUSTINA: of which, one, which was GALLA, was afterwards married to THEODOSIUS, who in process of time came to be Emperor. It is written, that this JUSTINA, mother to these three sisters, was the fairest woman of complexion, of the most excellent constitution of body, the comeliest personage, and was endowed with more commendable parts, than any woman then to be found in the world; so as she was brought to the Emperor's Palace to his wife the Empress for a miracle in beauty, where he had by her these three children, as PAULUS DIACONUS reporteth, by the consent and permission of his wife the Empress. We have related the chief of all that passed in the time of VALENTINIANUS, Emperor in the West, and of his brother VALENS in the East. VALENTINIANUS dying in such manner, as we said, he left his son GRATIANUS for Emperor of all that which Gratianus remained Emperor in the place of his father. he possessed, and made him Emperor in his life time. And VALENS seeing himself freed, and at liberty, from the respect and duty which he aught to his brother VALENTINIAN, making small account of his son GRATIAN, began to favour and support the Arrians, and to persecute and oppress the true Christians. Among other things, St. JEROME writeth, Valens favoured the Arrians. that he commanded all the Monks and Hermit's in Egypt, and other parts, that (leaving their Monastical life) they should become Soldiers, and follow the wars: but before that he could bring them to it, he put many thousands of them to death, and did many other cruel Valens made the Monks and Heremits to leave their cells, and become soldiers. deeds, for which God gave him such an end as he deserved. To the contrary, his Nephew GRATIAN was a good Christian, and was likewise a good Poet, and an Orator, a very virtuous, temperate, honest and courteous Prince, and endued with many noble qualities; but he was condemned to be very remiss in matters of government. But concerning the Christian Religion, he favoured and supported the Christian Churches in Phoenicia, and other Provinces in the East, as his father had done before him. By means of whose death the high Dutch took heart and courage to come down, and make war within the bounds of the Empire, with great multitudes of men: and he with a fare lesser number went to fight with them, near to a City called Argentine or Colleine; where recommending himself to JESUS A great victory obtained by Gratian against the Germans. CHRIST, he fought a most cruel battle, and obtained the victory: and as PAULUS OROSIUS reporteth slew of them above 40000. men. S. JEROME saith 30000. When the young Emperor GRATIAN had obtained this victory, he resolved to make his brother VALENTINIAN his companion in the Empire, who was his brother by the father, and son to the fair JUSTINA; which he performed with great solemnity. The Empire being in this estate, VALENS living in Antioch in Soria, and GRATIAN and this his young brother VALENTINIAN in France, VALENS as he was given to divinations, enchantments, nigromancies and such other like vanities, made certain figures to be Valens gave great credit to inchauntments and sorceries. cast; and the devil willing to show him that after him there should reign one, whose name began with this Greek letter, θ, which in Latin is th', he therefore caused to be slain that most excellent Captain THEODOSIUS, and others whose names began in that manner. These things being past, as God in his secret judgement had ordained that the Roman Empire should generally decline (as not long after it did) it pleased him in his divine wisdom to permit that there should first happen some great and particular calamities, which should be as signs and forewarnings presaging the great and general miseries which afterwards ensued, and continued even until this day. For a beginning, and foretelling of the common and general calamity, which in process of time afterwards followed, it pleased God to permit (for VALENS his infidelity) that in those days in the Northerly parts of Scythia, between a people called Huns, bordering upon the Rifean mountains, and the Goths which with them divided their frontiers, and were their near neighbours (both most valiant and fierce nations, as in this history hereafter shall appear) great wars arose: and after many battles and slaughters between them (which make nothing to our purpose) all beginning about the parting of fields and dividing their bounds and limits, and other ancient quarrels, as usually happen between nations which are so near neighbours; in these controversies, the Goths were finally overthrown in a great battle by the Huns, and driven out of their own country by force: and being a huge multitude of people (compelled through necessity, as overcome, and desiring to live in peace) they sent to entreat the Emperor VALENS by their Ambassadors, that it might please him to receive them for his servants and vassals, and to give them some lands, which they might till and inhabit. The Emperor simply granted their request, assigning unto them a great country beyond the river Danubius, and certain fields in the Province of Misia, which at this time is called Bulgaria and Servia (as PAULUS OROSIUS, Countries assigned by Valens for the Goths to inhabit. and PAULUS DIACONUS and others do report) and there for a certain time they remained in peace and rest: and it was thought they would so have continued, had not two of the Emperor's Captains (which divided the fields amongst them, and remained there as their guard and overseers) begun to use them cruelly, like tyrants, doing them daily great wrongs and injuries, as though they had been rather slaves than subjects. Whereupon they converted their obedience and humility into rebellion and desperation; resolving to bear Arms, and to take perforce that which those men denied them. And so ranging themselves in good order (leaving that which was appointed for them) they marched forwards, destroying, robbing and spoiling all wheresoever they came. Entering into Thracia, they took some strong holds and Cities, until they came near to Constantinople, where VALENS then was: for as soon as these troubles began, he was advetised thereof: and departing from the City of Antioch, he came by great journeys to Constantinople, out of which he afterwards sallied with a great and very well ordered Army, to make head against the Goths, which from ancient time had been ever much feared, and were still famous. And although they understood of the Emperors coming, yet they were therewith nothing dismayed, nor doubted to meet him, but rather sought to fight with him. Which VALENS A battle between Valens and the Goths. refused not; so as there was a cruel battle between the two Armies; wherein, at the first encounter, the Roman horsemen behaved themselves so ill, that disbanding, they left the squadrons of footmen naked without any defence; which the Goths horsemen perceiving, charged the Roman Infantry; and compassing them about on every side with an infinite multitude of Archers, broke through them, and constrained them to fly: and so the Goths had an entire victory, and did great execution in the Imperial Army. VALENS, flying thence wounded with an Arrow, would have hidden himself in a Farmer's house near to that place: but being found, the Goths set the house on fire, wherein he was burnt. Some writ that he died fight, The death of the emperor▪ Valens and that seeing the horsemen fly, he alighted; and putting off his Imperial robes, placed himself in a squadron of footmen, and there being unknown, was slain. But I hold the first opinion for most certain, for so do the most and best Authors affirm. One of which is Saint JEROME, in whose time these things happened: so as he died a death conformable to the course of his life. The Goths having obtained this victory, marched forwards, and besieged the Imperial City of Constantinople, where ensued that which we will hereafter declare. The Emperor VALENS died in the fiftieth year of his age, and the fifteenth of his reign; of which, he had reigned above eleven in the company of his brother, and the rest with his nephew GRATIANUS, which was in the year of our Lord JESUS CHRIST, three hundred, fourscore and two, after S. IEROMES computation, who in that year ended his History, which PROSPERUS afterwards prosecuted. I have not read that this Emperor left any children behind him. THE LIFE OF GRATIANUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND OF HIS BROTHER VALENTINIAN THE SECOND, AND NINE AND FORTITH ROMAN Emperor. THE ARGUMENT. THE whole burden of the Empire resting upon Gratianus, he was advertised that the Goths daily increased their power, and were grown so audacious as to assault the City of Constantinople: wherefore he made provision to go against them, and made one Theodosius a Spaniard General of his Army, who overthrew and subdued them, and reduced the Empire to the ancient dignity. Wherhfore Gratianus made him his companion in the Empire, assigning unto him the East part: and he remaining in France, purchased the evil will of his men of war, by showing himself too much affected to the Alanes, and to other strange Nations, whose fashions in attire he often used to wear. In which time one Maximus, rebelling in Britanny, made himself a tyrant; and Gratianus, seeing himself forsaken by his Legions, returned into Italy: in which journey Maximus by a stratagem, caused him to be slain●…. He had been a very virtuous and good Emperor, if he had applied himself to the government of the Empire: for otherwise he was endued with many good parts, and lived little more than 28. years. AFter the death of VALENS which was so ill and unfortunate, as we have declared, the government of the whole E●…pire, East and West, remained in his nephew GRATIANUS, his brother VALENTINIANS son, who before ruled the Western Empire, and in his brother, young VALENTINIAN, whom he had made Emperor; although by reason of his young years no great account was made of him. The Goths following the victory which they had obtained against the Emperor VALENS; Constantinople besieged by the Goths. without any stay, become masters of all the country round about, and (as I said) besieged the imperial City of Constantinople, wherein was the Empress DOMINICA, wife of the unfortunate VALENS; and they assaulted it with great fury and very resolutely, burning all the suburbs which were very great. And so they invested the City, until that the widow Empress (as writeth CASSIODORUS) used such diligence in encouraging and animating the soldiers which were within it, with good words, gifts, and ready money, which she distributed amongst them, as they fought so valiantly, that the Goths received great loss & could not enter the City; and so it was defended by the diligence of this woman, and the valour of the besieged. The Goths, dividing themselves into several troops, become Lords of the Provinces of Thracia, Dacia, and their confines. Here historiographers make large descriptions of the original and country of these Goths; and by what means, and when they came forth of their country; wherein they are so tedious and so contrary in opinions, the one to the other, that I purpose to eschew that labour, for that it little importeth; neither can the truth be fully set down. But it is true, they were a people which came out of Scythia in Europe, according to most writers; but whether they were borne there or came from some other country The Goths, and whence they eame. (as some say they did) it importeth not much: neither the difference in their names in calling them Ostrogothes or Visogothes; for herein is no greater difference, but that the Ostrogothes were more easterly, and the Visogothes more westerly: but generally both the one, and other were called Goths, and so I purpose to call them, as often as I shall have occasion to mention them, which will be very often: for in truth the greatest wound, and chiefest loss the Roman Empire received, and the beginning of the fall thereof, was through their occasion. Wherhfore The occasion of the fall of the Empire was through the Goths. these people may justly be held and esteemed for the most valiant in Arms of all other Nations in the world; seeing that they (although with much toil and by fight many battles) were able to tame and subdue that people and Empire, which was the tamer and subduer of all other Nations. GRATIAN understanding of the death of his Uncle VALENS, and of all the accidents which ensued; and being also advertised of the power of the Goths, and how they daily become Lords of more lands of the Empire; and how that following their example, other northerly Nations called Huns and Alanes, no less valiant in Arms then the Goths (as it was reported) made preparation to enter the Roman Empire, and to do the like: he resolved with the greatest Army he was able to raise, to go into Hungary to stop their passage. And forasmuch as in so great an extremity, in his own person he was not able to provide for all occasions; he determined to make choice of the most sufficient man that he might find to be General of his Army, to whom he might commit the charge and care of the war against the Goths; which was both of great importance and very dangerous. There lived at that time in his country in Spain, one THEODOSIUS, the son of a noble Captain whose name was also THEODOVIUS; whom, as we have told you, VALENS caused to be slain. This THEODOSIUS after the death of his father, holding himself to be in danger, retired himself into his country; being as well for the nobleness of his ancestors, and his father's name and worthiness, as for his own valour, and his exploits in Arms, the most renowned and of greatest account of any man in his time. Whereupon the Emperor GRATIAN, in great haste sent for him, and wrote his letters unto him, wherein he made him Captain general of all the Empire; and within a little Theodosius made general of the Imperial Army. while after, Emperor AUGUSTUS, and his equal in the Empire, he being of the age of three and thirty years. PAULUS OROSIUS, and PAULUS DIACONUS say, that this Emperor did wisely in choosing a Spanish Captain, to free the Empire from servitude; as in former times they had been preserved from the like danger, having followed the same counfell: as the Emperor NERVA elected the good TRAIANE who after him was Emperor, seeing himself old, and the Majesty of the Empire in contempt. And the said Authors writ, that he did it with great reason; for that the said TRAIAN did extend the bounds of the Empire more than any other. This THEODOSIUS did wholly vanquish the Goths, and recovered from them, all the Country which had been lost. And during his life time he made them serve as vassals, and the Roman Empire stood free and recovered her reputation by him, though with much toil and danger; so as the Roman Empire was never more honoured, nor better defended then when Spaniards were Emperors. And if men will give no credit to books, let them look into the present estate of the Empire, and they shall see that for these 200 years it was not in that authority and greatness as it is now that CHARLES 5t. King of Spain is Emperor. But you must understand that MEXIA was a Spaniard borne. When THEODOSIUS had received the Emperor's letters, and accepted of the charge offered unto him; with the greatest speed he could, he went into those countries where the Goths were; who knowing of his coming gathered themselves together to fight with him. And THEODOSIUS being very desirous thereof, having first levied a sufficient Army, and taken such order, and made such provision as was most requisite; with great care and circumspection drew near unto them: And after that he had tried his soldiers in some skirmishes and encounters, he came to give them battle; which was one of the most cruel and bloody that ever was. But THEODOSIUS carried himself so discreetly and valiantly, aswel in fight, as in encouraging and directing his men, that he obtained the victory, and made an incredible slaughter of the enemy; and afterwards of the remainder which escaped, until that he had driven them all out of that Province; so as there remained not any enemy there. Leaving his Army in good order, he went to do his duty to the Emperor GRATIAN in Hungary, where he than lay, in the City of Sirmie. Who for so noble a victory (after that he had well considered of his virtues and worthiness) made him Emperor and AUGUSTUS, and his equal and companion. Yet some say, that he did this in the beginning, before the battle. But howsoever, he shared the Empire with him; giving to THEODOSIUS, Constantinople and Thracia, with all the Provinces of the East, in like manner as VALENS held the same; reserving to himself Italy, and all westwards, wherein dlso reigned his young brother VALENTINIANUS. This being ended, GRATIAN presently returned into Italy, and from thence into France; and THEODOSIUS went to make an end of his wars against the most feared and redoubted nations of all the world, which were the aforesaid Goths, the Alanes, and the Huns; all people of Scythia. We read that ALEXANDER the Great, would not go to make any conquest of these people: for they were feared of all the world. The Alanes took their name of a river in Scythia called Alane. AMMIANUS MARCELLINUS saith, that these were called in ancient time Massagetes. The Huns are also Scythians of Scythia in Europe, inhabiting beyond the bogs of Meotis, all which were most fierce Nations: and although that all the northerly nations were such, yet were these more than any of the rest; as in this History hereafter will appear: And these (they say) are those which at this day are called Tartarians. This people being again entered into Hungary, THEODOSIUS went to fight with them, sometimes with one Nation and sometimes with another. All authors writ, that he fought many cruel battles with them, and in them all had the upper hand: so as he slew an infinite number of them: and those which escaped the sword, he made to fly out of the confines of the Empire. And to the end he would not over-tire his men of war, being humbly required of peace by ATHANARICUS King of the Goths, offering himself and his people to do him service; he granted it. And coming Athanaricus King of the Goths sued to Theodosius for peace. Athanaricus his coming to Constantinople, and his speech concerning the Roman Empire. victorious to the City of Constantinople, which was his imperial seat, he brought ATHANARICUS with him; and was received with great solemnity, joy and triumph. Where (they writ) that ATHANARICUS did so much wonder to see the power of the Emperor, the solemnity and greatness of his court, the sumptuousness and magnificence of the buildings of the City, and the riches of the furniture of his house and service, as he said, that truly the Roman Emperor was god of the earth, and represented the God of heaven; against whom no man aught to be so hardy, as to lift up his hand, or heart, except he would presently be condemned to death. Within few days after that this valiant King ATHANARICUS came to Constantinople, he was taken with a grievous sickness, whereof he died, after that he had been tormented therewith, the space of 3 months; whom THEODOSIUS sumptuously buried and bestowed great cost The death of Athanaricus. upon his obsequies. Some Authors, as JORNANDES and others, say, that this peace with the Goths, was made by GRATIANUS; for THEODOSIUS fell so grievously sick, that all men thought he would have died, and that in this season the peace was granted to ATHANARICUS more for fear then for any good will: and that THEODOSIUS, recovering health, would not break what GRATIANUS had concluded. AURELIUS' VICTOR, PAULUS OROSIUS, and others report it after the first manner; but this difference is of small importance. The Goths which served ATHANARICUS in his house and army, having had trial of the goodness and bounty of THEODOSIUS, desired to continued in his service; and afterwards served him faithfully and valiantly, in such wars as happened. In this time, through the grace and mercy of God, GRATIANUS and THEODOSIUS being true Christians, the Catholic Church was favoured and protected by them. Yet some writ, that THEODOSIUS was baptised after that he was Emperor: But before that time he did reverence and believe the Christian faith. SOZOMENUS, after CASSIODORUS, affirmeth it so, which to me seemeth hardly to be believed. But howsoever it was, THEODORETUS writeth, that as soon as he came to Constantinople, having overcome and subdued all the barbarous nations; he applied himself to the reformation of the Church, and to the subversion and rooting out of the Arrian heresy, which was dispersed over all the East parts. And upon this occasion he used means to assemble a great number of Bishops at Constantinople; and although that that the evil was not throughly cured thereby, yet that which he did, was very profitable. CASSIODORUS sets down THEODOSIUS decree, wherein he professed and protested that he believed the same faith, which was preached by the holy Apostles; and which was published in the Nicene Council. He setteth down also, how that THEODOSIUS banished certain Bishops from Constantinople, for that they were of the devilish and abominable sect of the Arrians. In the West, there was no need of any such care or diligence; for this Arrian pestilence had not so much infected those parts: as we have already declared in the lives of the three sons of CONSTANTINE the Great. CONSTANS which reigned in that part, took great care to preserve and defend the ancient Catholic faith; and after him JOVIANUS and VALENTINIANUS. So as, aswell in matters concerning Religion, as also the wars and civil government, THEODOSIUS shown himself a worthy Prince, and was so much feared The King of Persia sued to Theodosius for peace. and honoured by all Nations, as the King of Persia (notwithstanding that he had slain the Emperor JULIANUS, and obtained so many victories) in great humility, sent his Ambassadors to Constantinople, entreating a perpetual league and peace with THEODOSIUS: And he seeing with how great submission that King sued for peace, granted it. THEODOSIUS, living in this prosperity; the better to assure the succession of the Empire to his posterity, made one of his sons whose name was ARCADIUS, his equal and companion: notwithstanding that he was but a child, and very young. In this mean while lived GRATIAN in France, from thence making provision and sending direction to all parts; as in●…o Africa, Spain, Britanny and Germany: and as he was a man very remiss and soft spirited (as the most part do writ of him) he waxed much more, after that he had taken THEODOSIUS for his companion; depending much upon his diligence and valour: so as he become ill beloved of his soldiers. And this dislike increased; for that he (seeing that THEODOSIUS Gratianus ill beloved by ●…is ●…en of war. had entertained the Goths which served ATHANARICUS into his pay and wages) drew to his service certain companies of Alanes, and respected and honoured them so much, as he sometimes apparelled himself after their fashion, and made them his guard; wherewith the Roman and Italian soldiers were much discontented. In Rome and all Italy the Empire was of no absolute authority: for therein was the young VALENTINIAN, brother to GRATIANUS; who for that he was very young and of little discretion, a Noble man called PROBUS had the charge of the government, who had been Consul, and was then Perfect of the City. These matters gave occasion to the Legions which were in Britanny to presume to rebel, and to choose an excellent Captain, whose name was MAXIMUS for Emperor; and as PAULUS DIACONUS writeth, against the will of MAXIMUS. But afterwards having accepted the name, he resolved to proceed: and so with Maximus chosen Emperor by the legions in Britanny. all expedition possible, he went into France; and for as much as GRATIAN was ill beloved of his Army, the greatest part of his men of war forsook him, and calling MAXIMUS Emperor, went to his camp. Whereupon GRATIANUS finding himself unable to fight with him, purposed to retire into Italy, where his brother was. MAXIMUS being advertised thereof, used such means as GRATIANUS fell into his hands. Which was after this manner: He caused a rumour to be spread abroad, that GRATIANUS wife was coming to see her husband with a good troop of soldiers, and to go with him into Italy, and he sent some messengers before with sergeant letters, which advertised him thereof. After this, he sent a valiant and subtle Captain called ANDRAGATHIUS, to the end he should put himself in a horselitter, with some chosen soldiers, and go to meet GRATIAN, feigning to be the Empress, and so take him and kill him. This cunning Champion performed what his Lord had committed to his charge, and at Lions in France, in passing the river Rhodanus, he came to join with him; some going before and telling him that the Empress was near at hand. The goodness and sincerity of GRATIANUS were the occasion that he suspected nothing, neither discovered the deceit, until he came so near, that he saw it with his eyes, where being compassed about with ANDROGATHIUS his soldiers, he was there by his commandment slain. In this manner ended Gratianus slain by Andragathius, through the procurement of Maximus. the life and reign of the Emperor GRATIANUS, being of the age of nine and twenty years; fifteen years after that his father made him Emperor and his companion; whereof eight years were in his father's time, more in name then effect; and of the other seven years, three were with his Uncle VALENS who was slain by the Goths, and the rest with THEODOSIUS whom he chose for his companion, and with his brother VALENTINIAN; who for that he was a child was not regarded. He died (after PROSPERUS his computation) in the year of our Lord three hundred, fourscore and seven. This Prince was endued with many excellent virtues: for he was valiant, noble and discreet; and above all, a Catholic and a very devout Christian: but he had a fault, which was, that he was too soft spirited, remiss, and negligent, taking little care for the government: which (as is said) was the principal cause of his ruin. And truly this is a great and dangerous fault in Kings and Princes: for as their principal charge and office is to govern and rule, and they therefore are called Reges; failing to perform their office and duty, they make themselves hateful, odious, and unworthy the power and dignity which they enjoy. THE LIFE OF THEODOSIUS, THE FIRST OF THIS NAME, AND FIFTITH EMPEROR OF ROME. THE ARGUMENT. AFter that Gratianus was dead, the whole burden and care both of peace and war, appertaining to the Empire, rested upon Theodosius. The first enterprise he undertook, was in Italy, against the tyrant Maximus, who caused the Emperor Gratianus to be slain. And besieging him in Aquileia, he made him die like a Traitor, together with a son of his. And having triumphed in Rome, he restored the Empire to Valentinian. Returning to Constantinople within short space after, he understood that Valentinian was slain; and that only two (to wit) Arbogastes and Eugenius, usurped the Empire. Whereupon returning again into Italy, he fought with these two tyrants, and overcame them both, more by miracle and by the especial grace of God, then through his power or any humane wisdom. After this victory, the whole charge of the Empire, both East and West, rested upon him alone; but he calling his son Honorius, invested him in the Empire of the West, and to Arcadius he left the Empire of the East: But because they were both children, and very little, he gave them two tutors, men no less valiant in Arms then politic in peace. After this, happening to be excommunicate and absolved by S. Ambrose Bishop of Milan, for certain cruelties committed in Thessalonica, falling grievously sick, he died at the age of fifty years. SIX years reigned THEODOSIUS in company with GRATIANUS, when he was slain by the commandment of MAXIMUS, who as a tyrant and usurper proclaimed himself Emperor: And by reason of GRATIANS death, all the care and trouble both for war and peace rested upon THEODOSIUS; who was very sufficient, and well able to support the same. For although that young VALENTINIAN was in Italy, yet he had neither power nor courage to revenge the death of his brother GRATIANUS; but knowing that MAXIMUS came with a great Army, and was already entered Italy, he abandoned it, and went to Constantinople to entreat aid of THEODOSIUS: Who taking compassion of the two brethren, the one slain by treason, and the other wrongfully dispossessed of his Empire; of his natural and accustomed valour, resolved to go into Italy to revenge the death of the one, and to restore the other to his estate, by pursuing and destroying this new & mighty tyrant. Whereupon leaving his son ARCADIUS in Constantinople, taking VALENTINIAN with him, he prepared for his departure, raising the greatest and best forces he was able, and began to march through Gallia Cisalpina, which is now called Lombardie, where MAXIMUS already was in the city of Aquileia, having made ANDROGATHIUS General of his Army to make head against THEODOSIUS. This ANDROGATHIUS was a politic and a valiant man in the wars, and he which slew the Emperor GRATIANUS; who with great care and diligence had taken all the straits, rivers, bridges and passages, whereby THEODOSIUS might pass: and afterwards changing his mind, thinking that THEODOSIUS peradventure would have passed his Army by sea, he drew his forces from the mountains, and from those places which he had left them in guard, and embarked them aboard a great number of ships and barks, purposing to overthrew him, and to take him prisoner upon the water. The valiant THEODOSIUS, being advertised hereof, marched by great journeys; and, finding the passages open, entered with his troops into the Plains of Lombardie, and besieged the City of Aquileia, where the usurping Emperor was, before ANDROGATHIUS could overtake him: and compassing the City round about, those which were within it, of mere fear having guilty consciences, delivered him into the hands of THEODOSIUS, without staying for any assault or fight; and he justly caused him (as a Traitor and Rebel to his Prince) to be put to death. The like was afterwards done by a son of Maximus and his son Victor put to death by Theodosius. his whose name was VICTOR, whom his father had created Emperor, to avoid the perils and troubles that might ensue. When ANDROGATHIUS who was his General, being upon the sea with a very mighty navy, understood of the taking and death of MAXIMUS, he was so over comn with sorrow and despair, that he cast himself overboard out of his Galley, and Androgathius drowned himself in the sea. there was drowned; and his people, wanting a Leader, yielded themselves to THEODOSIUS. And so, without either death or bloodshed; God gave him a very great victory; and from France, Britanny, Germany, and Spain, came Ambassadors unto him, yielding him their obedience, with great humility and devotion. Having performed this enterprise, he went with young VALENTINIAN to Rome, the principal Theodosius triumphed in Rome. Head of the Empire; where they were received with a solemn triumph (as RUFFINUS and CASSIODORUS report) whither he sent for his young son ARCADIUS from Constantinople, where he left him to the end he might be known and honoured in Rome: where he continued certain days, reforming the abuses and disorders there; and he inflicted great punishments, and did great justice upon certain evil and wicked persons. And, as he was a devout and good Christian, so he took great care to reform the abuses of the Church. And, finally, setting all things in good order, he returned to Constantinople to govern the Empire of the East; and to VALENTINIAN he left all the West, leaving him an Army and power sufficient to defend the same: which is no small argument of his goodness and loyalty, that being of power able (if he had desired to have made himself only Monarch and Lord of the whole) yet he held it for greater honour To reconquer the Empire, and to restore it to him to whom in right it appertained, than to hold the same himself. THEODOSIUS being returned to Constantinople, VALENTINIAN went for France, that he might be near at hand if any occasion should be offered: where living in prosperity and voided of care, a Captain of his, called ARBOGASTES, practised his death; who was a man of a haughty courage, politic, venturous, and of great power by reason of the place and authority which he held near about the Emperor; whom PAULUS OROSIUS and PAULUS DIACONUS call Comes or Earl: for in those times we find that name and dignity, and before that also; and these were those which were Governors and Captains of Provinces, and sometimes were the Emperor's companions, to whom were committed matters of greatest importance: In like manner as the ancient Consuls, when they went to make a conquest of any Country, had with them Legates, which is as much as Lieutenants. This ARBOGASTES resolved with himself to kill VALENTINIAN, thereby to advance an Emperor of his making, although it prospered ill; not daring to usurp it himself, for that he was of base parentage, a stranger born, and an Infidel, and for other causes which in the History are not mentioned. Finally, he practised with one EUGENIUS, who of a Grammarian and a Rhetorician Arbogastes practised to kill the Emperor Valentinian. (being for that cause well beloved and esteemed) came to bear Arms, and to follow the Court, and was now highly regarded and of great account; promising him to kill VALENTINIAN, and to make him Emperor; giving him to understand, that it was a matter possible, and easy to be done. EUGENIUS accepted what this wicked man offered; and ARBOGASTES used such means, that he corrupted the Eunuches that waited in VALENTINIANS chamber, and agreed with them to strangle him in the night, and give it out in speech that they found him dead in the morning; and they did so. VALENTINIAN, being in the city of Vienna in France, sleeping in his bed, was by these Eunuches strangled; and they published abroad, that he had hanged himself, eighteen years after that his brother had nominated him Emperor. The manner Valentinian strangled by his Eunuches. of his death was kept so secret, that it was bruited abroad that he had hanged himself; so as PROSPERUS, in the addition which he made to EUSEBIUS' book of Times, writing his death, saith, that he died in that manner. Presently, when as his death was known, before the treason was discovered, ARBOGASTES nominated and made EUGENIUS Emperor. What these two men did, being of greatest authority, was generally approved by all men; and by means of their reputation, and through Eugenius made Emperor by Arbogastes. their cunning, large promises, and great gifts, they levied a great number of men of war, as well Barbarians as Romans, and so become Lords of all the Provinces: And although EUGENIUS bore the name of Emperor, yet all was ordered and disposed accordingly as it pleased ARBOGASTES. Within short space THEODOSIUS was advertised of this fact; for which he was very sorry, and therewith much troubled, seeing how dangerous a war lay before him: but, accounting it a great dishonour and a shame to suffer such an action to pass unpunished, with the greatest expedition and diligence that could be he mustered up his men of war, and with all possible speed departed from Censtantinople, leaving his son ARCADIUS there; and HONORIUS also, whom he then made Emperor, appointing him to be equal and companion with his brother. But, as a good and devout Christian, the first provision he made, was, To fast and pray, that it might please God to give him victory against those Infidels and Tyrants; recommending himself to the prayers of a Monk which was accounted a very holy man, whose name was JOHN, dwelling in the City of Thebes in Egypt: who sent him word that he should have the victory, but should die in Italy, and never return to Constantinople. THEODOSIUS being comn to the confines of Italy; the Tyrants had so great forces, and had taken so good order for all matters concerning the wars, that all passages were stopped in the Alpss, and at the foot thereof EUGENIUS and ARBOGASTES attended with their whole Army; so as THEODOSIUS was much troubled and distressed, aswell after he had passed those passages and mountains, as when he was entered into Lombardy, where he found himself enclosed about with enemies, which on every side stopped the coming of any victuals to his camp; they having, besides this, a greater number of men than he had, and no less experienced and valiant in the wars than his were. But the valiant Emperor, using the best means he could in all things, as a faithful Christian expected and hoped for his best relief from God, to whom with tears he made his continual supplications. Truly, the danger and extremity wherein he was, and the multitude of his enemies was so great, that all Writers affirm he had been utterly lost, if God in a battle that ensued had not showed a manifest and apparent miracle. The night before the battle he spent altogether in prayer, without either eating or sleeping: and the next day, seeing himself charged on every side, he set his men in very good order to fight; and with great courage and resolution attended the coming of his enemies; where presently in the beginning a Captain of theirs called ARBICIUS came over to his side with his whole charge, which was a good sign of his good success: and the battle beginning, where Romans fought against Romans, they fought at even hand, most cruelly kill and wounding one another. The other battalions and squadrons, which were auxiliaries of sundry nations, being of THEODOSIUS his side, had the worse; so as at the first charge ten thousand Goths which were in his pay were slain: which when he saw, he lifted up his eyes to heaven; and, with a true faith and steadfast hope shedding many tears, prayed to the Lord that he might not be overthrown in so just a cause. At that Instant a Captain of his, called BARBARIUS, with a great troop of soldiers came to the rescue of certain squadrons which in show were overthrown; and he came with such courage, that they which were in a manner vanquished recovered strength and heart; in such manner, that without retiring they fought most valiantly for the victory: but the enemies were so many, that it seemed impossible for them to defend themselves. At that Instant it pleased God to sand them succour from heaven; which was, that suddenly there arose so violent a wind and tempest, as the like thereof had never been seen by any man then living; which, without annoyance to the Emperor's people, did beaten in their enemy's faces with such force, that it bereft them of their sight; so as they were not able to march forwards: and the wind was so strong and forcible, that all the arrows, stones, darts and lances, which they shot and hurled, A miraculous tempest. were thereby born back again; and they which threw them were therewith wounded, in such manner, that it most plainly appeared to be miraculous, and the especial gift of God. Which the most Christian Emperor perceiving, rendering thanks to God for the same, encouraged and animated his people, so as within short space he obtained a complete victory. For his Agreat victory obtained by Theodosius. enemy's soldiers took no other care, but how they might save themselves by flight: but EUGENIUS persisting obstinate in his treason, was taken fight, and brought to THEODOSIUS, Eugenius slain in the presence of Theodosius. who commanded him to be slain: yet some writ that he killed him, himself. All writers affirm, that ARBOGASTES, seeing himself overthrown, fled from the battle, and finding no certain place of refuge, with his own sword cut his own throat. So as THEODOSIUS obtained a most glorious victory, followed the execution, and had the spoil Arbogastes did cut his own throat with his own sword. of his enemies Campe. Of this battle and the strange accident that happened therein, we have for testimony, not only Christian and godly authors, more than a few, as well such as lived at that time and near unto it, but also one CLAUDIANUS a Heathen Poet of that age, who reciteth the same in heroical verse most excellently, in the third and fourth Consulship of HONORIUS the son of THEODOSIUS. After THODOSIUS had obtained this victory, there was no man either in the East or West that durst oppose himself against his power; so as all the Princes of the Empire sent him their Ambassadors to congratulate his victory: and many barbarous nations did the like, and so he become absolute and only Lord of the whole Empire. And seeing himself free from wars, he came to Milan, whereof S. AMBROSE was Archbishop: where he remained all the rest of his life time, applying himself to civil government; whereof in the wars he never left to have all possible care. Being thus in Milan, acknowledging himself to be but mortal, and knowing how unsound and diseased he was in body, he purposed to provide for matters to come: wherefore he sent to Constantinople for his son HONORIUS; to whom (by the assent and good will of all men) he assigned after his days the Empire of Italy and of all the West; and to Theodosi●…s' made his sons Arcadius and Honorius Emperors. his other son ARCADIUS, the Empire of the East; and into Africa and the provinces thereof, he sent a man of great wisdom and experience called GILDUS to govern the same, and he himself took care and had the oversight of the whole. With such prosperity was the world governed (as PROSPERUS writeth) the space of three years: for so long time lived THEODOSIUS in Milan, in company with the great Doctor S. AMBROSE, with whom there happened a notable matter; which because it is an example of humility, I mean to declare in a more large manner then ordinary, which is also written by THEODORETUS, PAULUS DIACONUS, RUFFINUS, and CASSIODORUS. THEODOSIUS being in Thessalonica, a very rich, populous and a Noble City in the province of Macedonia, there happened a great tumult among the people, against the Magistrates and governors thereof; and their fury and presumption grew to be so great, as they slew the judges and all those which took part with the Emperor in the government. Which when THEODOSIUS understood, notwithstanding that he was very virtuous, yet did he much desire to execute his wrath against him, and not without just cause: but he did therein so fare exceed the bounds of reason, as he made his soldiers put to death seven thousand persons of the common sort, making no difference between the guilty and innocent. Which punishment was held for rigorous and very cruel; although the offence were very great, chief against a Prince so just and so much admired in all his actions. Among those which reproved him for this fact, the holy Doctor S. AMBROSE then Bishop of Milan was one; and the Emperor afterwards coming to that city, and being received as to his estate appertained, the next day he meant to have go to the Church to have done his devotion, and to pray, as of custom he used, nothing thinking of what he had done at Thessalonica, whereof it was thought he had long before repent. But S. AMBROSE, to the end that his punishment should be as public as his offence, with great authority and boldness set himself in the Church door, and told the Emperor that he should not enter there; making a learned oration unto him, wherein with the authority of a Bishop, he opened unto him his fault and offence; excommunicating him, and forbidding him to come into the Church. All which speeches the Emperor heard with great patience, and returned to his palace, obeying the excommunication and prohibition, and so remained eight months without coming any more to the Church; at the end whereof, a private servant and Captain of his (whose name was RUFFINUS) finding the Emperor melancholic, and discontented for that he was so long excommunicated, offered to go to S. AMBROSE to get him absolution, persuading him to come to the Church, and he would go before to obtain his leave. The Emperor, although he much doubted thereof, did so. But RUFFINUS was not only denied of his request, but was highly reprehended by the Bishop, as a minister and counsellor of the Emperor's cruelty: which when he perceived, he sent to advertise the Emperor thereof, and to advice him not to come, for at that time he should by no means be received. The Emperor met with the messenger upon the way, and hearing what message he brought, answered; Yet truly I will go to see what penance my Pastor will lay upon me for my offence. And so went forwards until he came to the Church door, and went not in, but came where S. AMBROSE was: whom he requested to absolve him, and to permit him to come into the Church there to hear divine service. When S. AMBROSE saw the Emperor, and heard what he said, imagining that he came of purpose to go into the Church, which he was resolved to withstand until he were absolved, or had done some open penance for the great cruelty which he had commanded to be done, he asked him wherefore he came so as a tyrant, contemning and violating the laws? Whereto the Emperor mildly answered: I come not to break the laws, neither thy commandment, neither will I pass over the threshold of this door: but I come to request thee to lose the bands wherewith thou hast bound me, and that thou wilt pray to God to forgive me my sins, and not shut the doors of his Church against me, which God openeth to all sinners which hearty repent. What repentance hast thou shown (quoth the Bishop) for so heinous an offence? and with what salve hast thou healed so mortal a wound? Thou (quoth the Emperor) art to instruct me, and to show me what I aught to do, and thou shalt see that I will accomplish what thou shalt prescribe. The Bishop seeing the Emperor's mildness, thinking it a sufficient penance for him to be excommunicated from the Church the space of eight months, with fair and charitable speeches said; Thy penance THEODOSIUS shall be this, that (seeing that to follow thy own will, and to A pen●…nce laid upon the Emperor Theodofius by Saint Ambrose. execute thy wrath, thou didst commit so cruel a murder) thou shalt presently proclaim and establish a Law, that no man, whom thou shalt adjudge or condemn to dye, or any thy successors, shall be executed within thirty days after that thou hast pronounced the sentence of death against him. At the end of which thirty days, thou shalt be again demanded, whether thou dost hold thy commandment for just: for by that time being free from passion, thou wilt judge of thyself whether thou hast justly judged or no. When THEODOSIUS heard this, he presently commanded that law to be written, and made it to be proclaimed: and he himself observed it during his life, whereof much good ensued. This law being made, the Emperor came into the Church; where making his prayers, and doing his devotion, he received the Sacrament, and from thenceforth loved the Bishop very dearly, and used his counsel in many matters: For as he was hasty and choleric, this law was a bridle to restrain him from being too extreme in punishing offenders. THEODORETUS reciteth one example thereof: which was, that the Citizens of Antioch having committed a great offence, and made a great uproar in the City, THEODOSIUS commanded great punishment to be inflicted upon the malefactors; which was not presently executed, by reason of this law: and and afterwards he altered his opinion; which he attributed to the counsel of S. AMBROS▪ whom he loved so much, that to enjoy his company and counsel, he stayed in Milan, and there made his abode the remainder of his life. From thence he sent to Constantinople for his son HONORIUS; who came to Milan. Soon after THEODOSIUS fell so extremely sick, that after care taken for his soul's health, he disposed of the Empire, ordaining his son HONORIUS to have the government of Rome, and of all the provinces of the West: and ARCADIUS to rule in Constantinople and the East. And for that these his two sons were very young, and not of fit years to govern, he left with them as their tutors and governors, two very sufficient men both for war and peace, the one called RUFFINUS, and the other Theodosius made Stilico and Ruffinus tutors and overseers to his two sons Honorius and Arcadius, and Gildus to be their Lieutenant in Africa. STILICO; RUFFINUS to be with ARCADIUS in the East, and STILICO with HONORIUS in the West: and into Africa and the provinces thereof he sent GILDUS, to govern the same as Lieutenant to the two Emperors, to whom he gave that charge. After that he had set all things in order, his disease so much increased, as he could not endure it any longer: wherefore recommending his soul to God, he departed out of this present life, as SEXTUS AURELIUS VICTOR saith, who here maketh an end of his history, and the most part of other authors, in the fiftieth year of his age, and the eleventh of his reign; accounting from the death of GRATIANUS, reigning alone, and with GRATIANUS other six years: so as in all he reigned seventeen years; and in the year of our Lord, three hundred, ninety and seven. This Emperor, according to all authors that writ of him, was of constitution of body, countenance, and gesture, very like to the Emperor TRAIAN, as by TRAIAN's statues and pictures, which in that time were remaining, might easily be conceived, and might be imagined by that which was written both of the one and the other: And they writ, that he was not only like unto him, and did resemble him in body and gesture; but that he did imitate and excel him in virtue and good conditions, and had the same qualities, and was naturally so inclined; Theodosius likened to Traiane. saving that if TRAIAN were spotted with any vice, THEODOSIUS was free from it. It is written that TRAIAN was a little too much given to the drinking of wine: but we read that Theodosius his conditions and qualities. THODOSIUS was most temperate, in eating and drinking. TRAIAN was very desirous of triumphs, glory and honour; THEODOSIUS despised them and held them for things of no moment: but he ever sought to obtain the victory, and in all battles and skirmishes was both valiant and politic, ever giving thanks and honour unto God as a good Christian. In conclusion, THEODOSIUS was of admirable valour, force and courage, very politic and expert in the wars, of an excellent wit and judgement in civil government, a lover of justice and equity, merciful, pitiful, and of a most noble inclination, although somewhat hasty and choleric against malefactors; but he was presently pacified and easily entreated. And to moderate this passion, besides S. AMBROSE his law concerning matters of death, he used of custom (knowing his own hasty disposition) not to determine of any thing, until that he had repeated over the four and twenty letters of the Greek Alphabet: for in that space his wrath would be tempered. He was much honoured and beloved by all men, especially by such as were honest. He was exceeding liberal, continent, and shamefaced, very circumspect and careful, indifferently well learned and seen in history. He much desired to know the acts of the ancient, and greatly honoured learned and wise men. He was well spoken, and of a pleasant and merry conversation, framing himself with great discretion to the quality of those persons with whom he discoursed, maintaining the majesty of his estate and the authority of his person; and had also other excellent virtues too long to recite. THEODOSIUS when he died left two sons (of which we have already spoken) and one daughter. His sons ARCADIUS Theodosius his children. and HONORIUS were Emperors: both which he had by his first wife whose name was FLAGILLA, an excellent and a most religious woman; his daughter's name was PLAC●…DIA GALLA, which he had by his second wife, who was the daughter of the Emperor VALENTINIANUS the first. THE LIFE OF ARCADIUS AND HONORIUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND THE ONE & FIFTITH Roman EMPERORS. THE ARGUMENT. THE Empire being under the government of Theodosius his two sons, and so under the Tutors ordained by him, that is, Ruffinus and Stilico, which aught to have taken care for the young men, and to have governed them as fathers: they not only neglected the care of the youths committed to their charge (nothing caring they should be acknowledged for Emperors) seeking to make themselves absolute Princes: but they both came to an evil end. For Ruffinus, who was Arcadius his Tutor in the East, his treason being discovered, had his head strickenoff, and set over one of the gates of Constantinople. And Stilico, who was Honorius his Tutor in the West, notwithstanding that he went against the Goths, yet he temporised, that he might bring his treason to some effect; which being in the end discovered, he was slain by Honorius his commandment: which was the beginning of the utter ruin of the Roman Empire, which was in a manner wholly destroyed by the Goths. In which time, Arcadius, who had very peaceably enjoyed his Empire the space of certain years, died in Constantinople. But sundry barbarous Nations overranne all Honorius his Empire, he lying in Ravenna, making small show to be an Emperor; being very negligent, when there was need of great care and diligence. Nevertheless, giving charge of the wars to sundry of his Captains, he freed his estate (except Spain which was conquered by the Goths, Uandals and other strange Nations). In which time he fell sick and died in Rome, without leaving any heirs of his body (for he had no children by any wife) when he had held the Empire in a manner eight and twenty years. TRuly I fear that such as shall read this History, will reprove me for spending more time about the life of THEODOSIUS, than I use to do in writing the lives of other Emperors; but he that shall duly consider his virtues and excellencies, will judge that I have been rather too brief, then otherwise. Wherhfore holding the time and labour herein spent for well employed, let us come to speak of his sons: in whose History I can use no greater brevity, then in that of their father, considering the great and sundry accidents which happened in thirty years; for ARCADIUS reigned little less: and so likewise from henceforth we shall be constrained to writ more at large, according to the alterations of estates and other matters, whereof we shall have occasion to speak. THEODOSIUS left the Empire in such subjection, so peaceable, and in such quiet to his sons ARCADIUS and HONORIUS, that if the wickedness of their tutors had not altered and troubled it, they might easily have governed and supported the same. But they which were put in trust to see all well ordered, were the cause that the Empire was molested, in such manner, as it plainly appeareth they were the occasion of the total ruin of the Empire, or at the lest, the beginning thereof. For as soon as THEODOSIUS was dead, GILDUS who was Governor of Africa, and of the Provinces there, and RUFFINUS and STILICO in their E●…h of those men which Theodosius left for Tutors over his sons, sought particularly to make himself an Emperor. governments, each of them practised to get the Empire for himself, and to dispossess the sons of their sovereign Lord; and each of them shown his resolution, as soon as he had opportunity. ARCADIUS with his Governor RUFFINUS went to Constantinople, whither he commanded his father's dead body to be brought to be buried with great solemnity. HONORIUS remained in Italy, with STILICO: and so they began to reign without any contradiction or opposition, in the same order as their father had left them. As soon as GILDUS, governor of Africa, understood that THEODOSIUS was dead, he took no longer care to conceal his intent, but presently shown it openly in his actions; and beginning to make himself Lord of all that country, not with the title of Comes or Earl, as until then he The title of Earl to whom it was given. held it (which as PAULUS DIACONUS writeth, was then given to Governors of Provinces) but as absolute Lord thereof, without acknowledging any subjection or duty to HONORIUS, or to ARCADIUS. This GILDUS had a brother whose name was MASTELZERIUS, a very good and loyal Christian, who to the uttermost of his power resisted his brother's proceed. But GILDUS was already so mighty and of such power, that MASTELZERIUS, whom some call MASTELZEZ was driven to fly into Italy, and so he remained sole and absolute Lord of all Africa. And GILDUS understanding that his brother was go to the Emperor (like a Gildus put two of his brother's sons to death. cruel tyrant) made two of his sons which were his Nephews and left in Africa, to be slain, nothing regarding how near they were to him in blood. MASTELZERIUS came into Italy; and making relation to HONORIUS, or to say better, to STILICO, of what had happened (whose wisdom and courage was very great, although grounded upon disloyalty) had an Army given him, and all things thereto needful; and so was sent against his brother, as against a common enemy. And MASTELZERIUS aswell to perform his duty, as to be revenged Mastelzerius went with an Army against his brother Gildus. of the death of his sons, with the greatest expedition he could make, departed towards Africa, although with small forces, trusting in the equity of his cause, in the friendship he had in that Country, and above all, in the help and power of God, which he daily implored with tears, and most devout prayers. And as PAULUS OROSIUS reporteth, coming to an Island called Capraria, near to Naples, he carried with him from thence certain devout religious men which lived there; in whose prayers he reposed greater trust than in the strength of his whole Army: with which he made so many fastings and prayers, that it seemed God heard him; for, he prevailed without any battle or bloodshed, which happened in this manner: Coming upon the Coast of Africa with the small Forces which he brought, with great courage he went to Land, and entrenched his Army, and fortified the same, and sent abroad to give notice of his arrival, and of his power in all places; from whence he thought his friends and soldiers would have comn to join with him: but his brother came against him with threescore and ten thousand men, very well appointed. MASTELZERIUS, seeing himself in this distress, was no way discouraged, neither made any doubt of the victory; assuring himself that to obtain the same it lay in the hand of God, and not in the multitude of men and horses. Having a resolution to pass by a certain Port, thereby to avoid his enemy and brother, but considering with himself how hardly it was to be performed (as PAULUS OROSIUS writeth) he made his prayers; and, praying, fell asleep and dreamt, that within three days he should obtain the victory. Heerupon, MASTELZERIUS remained there until the third day; and then with invincible courage sallied out of his trenches against his enemies, who thought of no such matter, but rather daily expected to have had him in their hands; and, they coming forth against him, he went towards them before his troops, advising and persuading them to yield obedience, and not to bear Arms against him: for, he was sent thither by the Emperor, their sovereign Lord And as an Ensign-bearer would have charged him, and those that were with him, he stepped to him; and, wounding him, smote his colours to the ground: with which only blow it pleased God that he subdued and pacified all the rest: for, there was not any one that made any resistance; but all the Ensign-bearers and ordinary soldiers came over Mastelzerius' victory against his brother Gildus. to him, and yielded their obedience; and the soldiers of that Country fled, and so did his brother: whereby he had the victory, as we may say, miraculously; for, so all men accounted the same. This GILDUS, seeing himself abandoned by his soldiers, fled to the sea side; and, embarking himself aboard a ship, set sail, thinking to have escaped: and, having sailed some space, it pleased God that the wind came contrary, and he for aught he could do was driven to take Land; where he was taken, and by his brother's commandment had his head stricken off, in requital Gildus taken and be headed by his brother's commandment. of the cruelty which he had showed to his sons, and for his treason against his Lords; MASTELZERIUS remaining without controlment victorious, and Master of his brothers Camp. But afterwards seeing himself mighty (as, of custom, in prosperity men grow insolent) having no such fear of God before his eyes as he aught to have had, he purposed and attempted to have the Empire of Africa to himself, without any regard of the Emperor HONORIUS, who had sent him thither; which his disloyalty his Captains could not endure, and Mastelzerius slain by his soldiers, and the cause. therefore they slew him. These two brethren being dead, Africa remained for a space in quiet subjection to the Emperors. These wars aforesaid are excellently well written in verse by CLAUDIANUS. While these matters passed in Africa, ARCADIUS was not idle in Constantinople: for, his Governor RUFFINUS, unwilling any longer to conceal his wicked purposes, sought by all Ruffinus, Arcadius Tutor, solicited the Goths to invade the Empire. means to bring ARCADIUS into some distress, that he might usurp the Empire; and to that end solicited the Goths and other Nations to war against the Empire. Which being discovered, ARCADIUS procuring it, though but a boy, he was slain by some companies of Italian soldiers; who, striking off his head, set it over one of the gates of Constantinople. This RUFFINUS, as some say, was born in Britanny. Others say, that he was a Frenchman, a man of great The death of Ruffinus. judgement, and an excellent Captain; but disloyal and ill-disposed. His goods ARCADIUS gave to an Eunuch of his called EUTROPIUS, who was very private with him. Against this RUFFINUS (declaring his doings) the aforesaid CLAUDIANUS wrote two books in heroical verse; and by his death ARCADIUS remained at liberty, and Lord of his Empire in the East with greater quietness than his brother HONORIUS: for, STILICO, who governed in the West, was fare more cunning and subtle than RUFFINUS, and was very valiant, and a most expert man of war; and as he had as wicked or a worse intent, so he knew better how to cover the same, as well by his wit, as the great power which he enjoyed. For, beside that he Stilico, father in-law to Honorius. was HONORIUS his Governor or Tutor, he was twice his father-in-law: for, HONORIUS had his daughter to wife, having first been contracted to another daughter of his which died unmarried. This STILICO was by birth a Vandal; and, having purposed to make a son of his called EUCHERIUS Emperor, by his great (although malicious) wit he concealed the same, Stilico's practices and treason against Honorius. until time of better opportunity: whereto he thought, that the best and most assured way was, To bring the Emperors into necessity, distress and danger, to the end that he only might be the mean to repair and recover all losses. For, he had so proud a heart, and so great power, that he was persuaded, that as often as it pleased him he was able to redress all matters; and that the need which the Emperor should have of him, would open the way to his purposes. And to that end, by devices and secret practices, he solicited many nations to make wars upon the Empire; as, the Alanes, whose Original I think we have described: which, according to PTOLEMY, The Alanes, and their Original. was of Gotland; and, after MARCELLINUS and PLINY, was of Sarmatia in Europe, who at that time inhabited part of Germany: and the Swevians, a most fierce people of the same Germany, and the Vandals born also therein; called Vandals, after the name of a River so The Original of the Vandals. called in Scythia, from whence they first descended, as is above mentioned; which by PLINY and PTOLEMY are called Vandalines: and those Burgundians, which we now call Burgonians, of which, CORNELIUS TACITUS saith, that they were of the same Vandals, and all one nation. They were called Burgundians; for that, in times past being driven out of Germany by DRUSUS and TIBERIUS NERO in the time of AUGUSTUS CAESAR, they were constrained to devil in the fields, and suburbs of cities called Burgi or Burghs, and thereof took their name of Burgunds or Burgundians; but they were very famous by many authors. He, having moved these nations, and procured them to make war, sometimes by letters from certain persons which promised to aid and assist them, and sometimes by causing wrongs and violences to be offered them, the more to incense them, used yet another policy; which was, that the Goths, called Visogothes, which (as we have said) for the space of 21 years had served in the Emperor's pay, and had served faithfully ever since that the Emperor THEODOSIUS had received them into his service, after the death of ATHANARICUS their King; he found a means to cassiere them, and that they should be ill-intreated, and had in contempt. Which they took for such a disgrace, and in such scorn, that they presently determined to mutiny; and, doing so, chose a Noble man of their own nation for their King, whose name was ALARICUS, and began to invade the countries of Hungary and Austria. Alaricus King of the Goths. Matters standing in these terms, STILICO his drift was, that the Goths, as men which knew and had good experience in Italy, should go make a conquest thereof; and, as the other nations (as, Vandals, Alanes and Suevians) sho●…ld invade France, he should have the charge to defend Italy: and HONORIUS, being thus distressed, should defend France in person; where he should be either slain or overthrown, or at the lest be so oppressed, that he overcoming the Goths, which he held to be easily done, would make himself Lord of Rome which was the head of the Empire, and afterwards would do the like by all the rest; which happened not as he expected: but of his treason arose the destruction and total decay of the whole Empire, and of himself also. Eight years were expired since the death of THEODOSIUS, and that HONORIUS and ARCADIUS reigned, when STILICO and another Nobleman called AURELIANUS, were chosen Consuls; and the Visogothes, which were put out of pay, began to make open wars in Hungary and Austria; and, this war in the beginning seeming to be of small The wars of the Goths. importance, their force and power in short space increased in such manner, that all the world stood in fear of them. Eor (as PAULUS OROSIUS an Author of that time, PAULUS DIACONUS, and others writ) as soon as the Goths were in a mutiny, a certain King, called RADAGASIUS joined with them, with two hundred thousand other Goths; all, fierce Radagasius, King of the Goths. men of war. But it is true, that they writ not how or from whence came so great a number of of men; neither what this King RADAGASIUS was. It seemeth that then it was a thing so publicly known, that no man was ignorant or stood in doubt thereof, and therefore needless to be repeated; by reason whereof we are now ignorant thereof: but they most constantly affirm, the number of the men of war to be such as is already specified. ALARICUS and RADAGASIUS coming together, without finding any resistance or The cruel wars which the Goths made in the lands of the Empire. forceable to offend them, ouerran and spoiled all Thracia, Hungary, Austria, Slavonia, Dalmatia, and the Frontiers thereof; in such sort, as it seemed that devils, and not men, had passed that way: for, they left nothing standing but the earth and the air; which, S. JEROME, who lived in that time, writing to PAULUS and EUSTACHIUS, plainly expresseth in these words: The brute beasts have also endured the wrath of the Lord in this war: for, the cities being laid waste, and the people thereof put to the sword, the like is done by the very fields; so as they lie bore, desolate, and desert; whereof the Provinces of Thracia and Slavonia, and the country wherein I was borne bear true record: whereby it seemeth that nothing remaineth but the earth, the air, the bushes and the woods; for all the rest is spoiled and destroyed. After these in humane spoils, ALARICUS & RADAGASIUS resolved to come into Italy, dividing their Armies into sundry troops: for it was impossible that so huge an Army should be able to march together. When these news were known in Rome, there fell so great a terror among the Citizens; and generally over all Italy, as they all held themselves for lost and dead men. RADAGASIUS being arrived in Italy, and having passed the Apennine mountains, came Radagasius came into Italy. to the mountains Fiesole in Tuscan. There came in the behalf of the Empire, against RADAGASIUS, two Captains which served the Emperor HONORIUS: the one of which was Vldinus and Sarra Captains for Honorius, against Radagasius. called VLDINUS, and the other SARRA, with a great number of Goths and Huns in the Emperor's pay, which made head against RADAGASIUS, and stopped the passages in the mountains against him, and cut off his victuals, whereof he stood in great want, considering the greatness of his Army. These Huns and Goths which came to the aid of the Romans, PAULUS OROIUS, who, as we may say, was an eye witness, and also PAULUS DIACONUS and The Huns aided the Romans. others writ of their coming: but they writ not how, or from whence they came; although it be already declared from whence they were: but nevertheless they were a great defence of Italy; so that the Lord abated the pride of RADAGASIUS, through hunger, thirst, and the want of necessaries. But herein Authors disagree: for PROSPERUS saith, that RADAGASIUS Radagasius & all his Host defeated. was overthrown and taken prisoner, STILICO leading a great Army against him. But PAULUS OROSIUS, and PAULUS DIACONUS, after they have spoken of the two Captains VLDINUS & SARRA, say that RADAGASIUS and his Army were overthrown through pure hunger and thirst, without any battle, and that they were taken prisoners like sheep. But howsoever it happened, for it might be that there was a battle also; the truth is, that he and his Army were overthrown in this journey, and all taken prisoners by HONORIUS his Soldiers: in such sort, that S. AUGUSTINE who lived in that time, whose reports are to be believed, in his book de Civitate Dei, affirmeth, that in one only day RADAGASIUS lost above one hundred thousand men; and all Authors affirm, that a great number of them died of A strange and wonderful accident. hunger: and that there was not a Soldier among the Romans but had a droue of Captives, as if they had been sheep; and that they were so cheap, that for a piece of gold, which is now worth but a ducat, a man might have bought a whole company of them. There fell so great a mortality and sickness amongst them, that within short space they in a manner all died. And their King & Captain RADAGASIUS was likewise taken prisoner and put to death by HONORIUS: The death of Radagasius. whose virtue and valour is much commended in this action, by PAULUS OROSIUS; but (as by the Histories it appeareth) he seemed to be of very little worth, a very negligent and careless Prince, chief in matters concerning the wars, and at that time lay in Ravenna Ravenna. where he held his Court, which in those days was a great and principal City. His brother ARCADIUS lay in Constantinople, from whence he sent aid and succours to his brother. This fear being past, within a little while after ALARICUS entered Italy, who was a man of Alaricus came into Italy. greater judgement and courage than RADAGASIUS, and his soldiers better trained, and of greater experience; against whom STILICO courageously opposed himself, and the war began between them in the marches of Ravenna; where ALARICUS was overthrown in battle by STILICO: for in those days, STILICO for valour and policy in the wars, had not his Stilico the most excellent Captain of his time. equal in the world. But his purposes being such as we have said, he would never wholly vanquish ALARICUS; but sometimes would make show to be careless, and leave open the ways for him to pass: so as ALARICUS perceived that STILICO had no meaning to overthrew him; and this war continued between them (as some Authors writ) the space of three years. About the same time, the Alanes, Huns, Vandals and Burgonians entered the territories The coming of the Alanes, Huns, Vandals and Burgonians. of the Empire, making war upon the banks sides of the River of Rhine, whereof a new fear seized the hearts of the people. When ALARICUS understood these news, he sent to HONORIUS to have peace, and some country in France, wherein he and his people might inhabit, promising to defend that province against those Nations, and therewith advertising him that STILICO did cunningly prolong the wars against him. The Emperor beginning to be jealous of STILICO, and notwithstanding that he was also certified by others of his treason: yet for the present he dissembled the matter, and agreed with ALARICUS, granting him his request; A league between Alaricus and Honorius the ●…mperour. and taking security of him, sent him into France. Whereof it was imagined, that two great benefits would have ensued; the one was, the peace and quiet of Italy through his absence; the other, the defence of France, wherein the Vandals, Huns, Alanes and Burgonians were already entered; which all men affirmed to be above two hundred thousand men. But STILICO his treason spoilt all: for notwithstanding that he did that which HONORIUS commanded, in suffering ALARICUS and the Goths to begin their journey in peace, and gave them such Alaricus going for France. things as were needful, accordingly as the Emperor had appointed; yet as a man which altogether repined against peace, and chief that to ALARICUS should be committed the defence of France, he resolved to break and scatter all those troops; and had such means to effect it, as I will tell you, whereof ensued his own total destruction, and the ruin of the whole Empire: which happened in this manner. ALARICUS, free from any suspicion (according to the agreement) went for France: but STILICO secretly practised with a Captain in his Army which was a jew, whose name was The Treason of St●…lico, SAUL, that he with his company, feigning some displeasure, or particular quarrel, upon an Easter day (when the Goths mistrusting nothing being Christians celebrated divine service) should then set upon them, and kill as many of them as he could: for by these means he was assured that the wars would begin again, and therewith would his power and authority also begin, which with the peace was at an end. The jew put this secret practice in execution, and the Goths being suddenly set upon, received great loss: but he presently paid for it; for the Goths, in great haste putting themselves in Arms, fought with him; and there was SAUL slain with the greatest part of his soldiers. ALARICUS being herewith highly offended, returned against STILICO his Army: and STILICO feigning to stand in great fear, made show not to dare to fight, but sent to the Emperor for new succours; who being advertised of what STILICO thought to be most secret, and what had happened concerning the jew SAUL, and standing in great fear of STILICO, sent certain persons to the Army, who finding opportunity should kill both him and his son: which was performed accordingly, and his treason The death of Stilico. was discovered, and the cause wherefore they were put to death. But herein, although the Emperor HONORIUS used a good policy, yet he was careless in providing for the rest: for he sent not any such General to command his Army as the case required. So as King ALARICUS either believed that the injury which SAUL had done him, was by the Emperor's consent, or else he knew and saw his time and opportunity: and thereupon finding no resistance, marched directly with his whole Army towards Rome, the head and Empress of the world. And making most cruel war by fire and sword, he drew near unto it, in the year one thousand, one hundred and threescore, after the foundation thereof: but the Romans standing upon Alaricus retur●…ed against Rome, besieged & took it. their guard, he could not take it at the first assault; wherefore he besieged it, which siege continued two years. Of the besieging of Rome, and how ALARICUS took it in the end, many authors writ: but in what manner it was taken, and what exploits were done during the time of the siege, they writ so briefly as in a manner they say nothing thereof. But that it was taken; PAULUS OROSIUS in his seventh book, PAULUS DIACONUS in the life of HONORIUS, JORNANDES in his History of the Goths, S. AUGUSTINE in his book De Civitate Dei, S. Jerome in his epistle ad Principium, as a matter which happened in his time, aver the same: and so doth S. ISIODORE in his History of the Goths. PROCOPIUS, a Greek Author, and others of later time, as I could gather out of their writings, say, that ALARICUS marching with his Army towards Rome, with a resolution to do that which afterwards he did; as to a Christian, although fierce and cruel, there came a Monk which very boldly (ALARICUS giving him audience) admonished and counselled him to desist from his enterprise, and to consider that he was a Christian, and that for the love of God he should moderate his fury, and not seem to rejoice in the slaughter of men, and the shedding of humane blood; and sith that Rome had not done him any offence, he should not go thither. To whom they say, that ALARICUS made this answer: I let thee understand, man of God, that I go not of my own will and desire against the great City of Rome: but I assure thee, that there daily appeareth unto me a man, who doth urge and importune me thereto; saying, Get thee to Rome A vision appeared to Alaricus. and destroy it even to the ground. Whereat the religious man being greatly amazed, durst say no more. This I find written in the Annals of Constantinople annexed to the history of EUTROPIUS: whereby it plainly appeareth, that the affliction of Rome was the especial punishment of God. PAULUS OROSIUS affirmeth the same; saying, That as God drew just Lot out of Sodom, when he inflicted so great punishment on that City; so drew he Pope INNOCENT out of Rome when ALARICUS came to besiege it; who went to Ravenna to see the Emperor HONORIUS. Yet PLATINA writes, this misfortune happened in the time of Pope ZOZIMUS: but it may be that it began in the time of the one, and ended in the time of the other. S. Jerome lived also in those days out of Rome, being then go to do penance in Bethlehem. But returning again to the matter, ALARICUS held the city of Rome, strictly besieged; where between the besieged, were many skirmishes, and many men were slain in those two years space; and the famine was so great in Rome, as they endured it with so great patience and constancy, that Saint HIEROM saith, that when the city was taken, there were few men therein that could be slain or taken prisoners, for that extreme hunger had consumed them, Famine in Rome in the time of the siege. and had constrained them (in horrible manner) to eat the flesh the one of the other; so as the mother did not spare the child which she held at her breast, but through hunger, lodged the same again in her womb, from whence not long before it issued. These are the words of Saint HIEROM. But in what manner Rome was taken, authors agreed not: for PROCOPIUS saith, that ALARICUS seeing he could not take it by force, resolved to use some stratagem; and feigning that he would raise the siege, made a kind of truce, and secretly sent into Rome three hundred prisoners in which he reposed much trust, having first instructed them what they had to do; setting them at liberty and promising them great rewards. The which one day at a certain hour; making show as though they went to see the city, metal together at a port according to their appointment, which port they took and held in despite of those which had the guard; and the Goths running thither upon a sudden, entered there and surprised the city. Others The taking of Rome. affirm, that by the commandment and policy of a woman, which was a great Lady of that city, a port was given to the Goths, at which they entered. And that she did this of pity, to see the great famine which raged within the city, imagining that the enemies could not do so great hurt in Rome, as the Romans did to themselves, as we have said. Some authors there are, which say, that the city of Rome was taken by force, for that those which were within it, were notable to man the walls, or to make any longer resistance. But howsoever it was, all authors affirm that ALARICUS before he entered the same, commanded on pain of death, that no man should be so hardy, as to touch any of those which had withdrawn themselves into the Churches and temples, chief of Saint PETER and Saint PAUL Apostles; which was afterwards Placidia sister to the Emperor Honorius taken prisoner. duly observed. But all the rest of the city was rob and spoiled, and many thousands of people slain, and many taken prisoners; among which was a sister of the Emperors, whose name was PLACIDIA, whom ATHAULPHUS one of the principal men among the Goths, and near kinsman to King ALARICUS took, and had in his keeping; and afterwards married her. The next day after they had taken the city; in disgrace and disdain of the Empire, and to make themselves merry, they chose one ATALUS for Emperor of Rome, and the same day they carried him up and down the streets in the habit of an Emperor; and the next day they made him serve like a slave, Three or four days the Goths remained in Rome: which Rome set on fire by the Goths. being passed, setting fire in sundry parts of the city, their King ALARICUS and they departed. All this while the Emperor HONORIUS was in Ravenna, so careless, that when the news was suddenly brought to him that Rome was lost (nothing remembering the city whereof he was Emperor) he thought that they had told him of a Frenchman, whom they called ROMA, which was one of those which were maintained by the Emperors to fight man to man, after the manner of Gladiators in Rome: whereat the Emperor greatly marvelled that he should be so soon dead or taken; for it was but a little while since that he saw him fight with others: whereby it plainly appeareth how careless he was. This was the first time that Rome, after that it grew to be mighty, was taken by Barbarous Nations: for when the Gauls took it, it was of no such account; being in the beginning but of small strength and power. After this time that ALARICUS took it, the Roman Empire daily declined, and the City When the Roman Empire began to decline. of Rome was oftentimes taken and destroyed: whereof we will declare the most notable accidents, to the end that the Reader may know and judge how weak, and of what small power the Empires and mighty Kingdoms of the World are; and how that Rome which was the The death of Alaricus King of the Goths. Queen and Empress of the universal World, in time become a slave to all the Nations thereof. ALARICUS departing from Rome would have sailed into Sicilia: but a tempest returned him into Italy, and he died in the City of Cosenza; and the Goths after that he Athaulphus made King of the Goths in place of Alaricus. was dead, chose ATHAULPHUS for their King, who (as we said) married with PLACIDIA, the Emperor THEODOSIUS his daughter. Which ATHAULPHUS as soon as he was King returned towards Rome, with a determination to have wholly destroyed the same, to have rooted out the name thereof, and to have left it desolare; which his cruel resolution he altered Athaulphus would have destroyed Rome, but forbore through the entreaty of his wife Placidia. at his wife's intercession, who with tears entreated the same. When ATHAULPHUS departed with his Army from Rome, it is not written whether he placed therein any governor, or left it at liberty to the Emperor. For his wife PLACIDIA was a mean to bring HONORIUS and ATHAULPHUS to some agreement, and concluded a truce between them. And ATHAULPHUS consummating his nuptial rites with her, which until then were not solemnised, he went out of Italy: and marching with his Army through France, to the city of Barcelona in Spain, and taking the same and the territory thereof, he stayed there a certain space. What end he made, you shall hear hereafter. During the time of these troubles in Italy, ARCADIUS lived in peace in Constantinople, and in the eastern parts free from troubles: for authors writ not of any wars of importance which troubled him, or of any adversity that befell him; for it pleased God to lay his scourge upon the provinces of the West only: and so having reigned thirteen years, in the one and thirtieth of his age, he died in Constantinople. Others say, that he held the Empire a great while longer; The Emperor Arcadius died in Constantinople. alleging that he died after the taking of Rome: but PROSPERUS and others affirm, that he died before. Some say, that it was in in the year of our Lord four hundred and ten: others say, four hundred and thirteen. He seeing death near at hand, and that he could not live, and that his son THEODOSIUS whom he left behind him for his heir, was but eight years old, he took a dangerous course; but it proved very profitable, which was: That leaving his son CAESAR, and his successor, he ordained by his last will HISDIGERDUS King of Persia and of Parthia for his tutor; who at that time was a friend and in league with the Empire; notwithstanding Arcadius made the King of Persia tutor of his son. that the house of Persia was ever a capital enemy thereof. When the King of Persia understood what ARCADIUS had ordained, he accepted of the government and of the protection of the child, and speedily sent one ANTIOCHUS an excellent man, and a great soldier, to Constantinople: who with the good will and consent of HONORIUS, who was not a Antiochus a Persian, governor of the young Emperor Theodosius. little glad of the friendship of Persia, governed the Eastern Empire, with great fidelity, and discretion; and so maintained the same in peace and justice, until that young THEODOSIUS, son to the Emperor ARCADIUS, came to age. ARCADIUS being dead, whether before or after the sack of Rome, the name of Emperor rested in HONORIUS, and in his Nephew young THEODOSIUS. A relation of what happened after the death of the Emperor ARCADIUS. ALl things being in such confusion, as the Goths, Vandals, and other nations invaded and made a conquest of the territories of the Empire; and the Emperor HONORIUS lying Gratianus rebelled and took the title of Emperor in England. in Ravenna, taking no good order for the same: In the I'll of Britanny also a great Lord borne in the same Island, whose name was GRATIANUS rebelled, and took upon him the title and ensigns of Emperor, with the consent of some of the men of war in the same Island. But his presumption had an evil end: for within few days after, the same men of war slew him. But The soldiers slew Gratianus and in his place made Constantine Emperor. they setting all duty apart, determined to make an other soldier among themselves Emperor, whose name was CONSTANTINE, who was a man of greater courage and of more wit, than GRATIANUS; who drawing all the Army out of England, went into France, with a conceit to have made himself Lord thereof; and to that end, made peace with the Vandals, Suevians The Vandals, Suevians, and Alanes took their way towards Spain. and Alanes, which already were in France marching towards Spain: for the Burgonians made their abode in that part which is now called Burgundy. This peace between CONSTANTINE and these three nations could not well be concluded: for CONSTANTINE drew to him many soldiers of France; and growing mighty made a full account to become Lord of Spain also, before that those Barbarians should be able to come thither. Whereupon he sent certain governors, with a competent number of soldiers thither, and many towns in Spain were resolved to obey his commandment; holding it better to serve him, than those nations which were marching thitherwards. But two Didimus and Verodianus oppose themselves against Constantine. Noblemen, rich, and of great authority, whose names were (as saith PAULUS DIACONUS) DIDIMUS and VERODIANUS borne in Valentia, withstood them, and found means to drive them out of Spain. And thereupon with the aid of their kindred, friends, and acquaintance they went to the Pyrenaean Mountains, with a resolution not only to defend the passages against CONSTANTINE'S Army, but also against all the other nations before mentioned, using all means to retain Spain in the obedience and service of the Emperor HONORIUS; which they continued a long time, although with great trouble, effusion of blood, and danger. CONSTANTINE, holding himself herewith greatly affronted, assembled together a certain number of the most active and, best tried soldiers that he had, and made his son CONSTANS their Commander, who by some authors is called CONSTANTIUS; whom for this purpose, he took out of a Monastery wherein he was a Monk, and making him CAESAR, sent Constantine made his son Constans Caesar, and sent him into Spain. him against the two brethren. His people were of such power and so expert in the wars, as they overthrew, and slew the two Spanish brethren, and entered Spain, which was the ruin thereof: for the men of war which came with CONSTANS, after they had spoiled the country, and had used all kind of hostility, returned to the Pyrenaean Mountains; and driving the Spaniards from thence which guarded the passages, took upon them the defence thereof, and were well able to have performed the same. But CONSTANS going to Arles a city in France to speak with his father, who then lay there, those which had the guard in the Mountains came to an agreement with the Vandals and the other strange nations, and sold to them the passages; suffering those Alanes, Suevians, and Vandals to pass into Spain: who made such ha●…ocke Strange nations sacked Spain. and committed such spoils, as can hardly be expressed: especially near unto the Pyrenaean hills where they found greatest resistance. From thence they marched into the main land to the city of Valentia (against which they bore an old grudge) which city they ruined, and the country round about it, and then went to the city of Astorga, which they entered by force; and passing further made great spoil in all Galicia. Afterwards crossing through Castille, they came to the city of Toledo, which by reason of the situation and natural strength thereof, and the valour of the inhabitants, they could not take; notwithstanding that they besieged it for a certain space, but were constrained to raise their siege, with shame and dishonour, from that city which for wars and fears of Arms hath ever been famous in that country. By whose example many towns in Spain continued their allegiance to HONORIUS; notwithstanding that he sent neither soldiers, captains, nor relief. This people did much harm in the territory of Toledo: and passing forwards they marched a long the river Tagus, still spoiling the country until they came to the city of Lisbon, in Portugal, which in those days also was very famous: and giving Lis●… an assault thereto, it was so well defended by the inhabitants, that they could not take it, but came to a composition: where they receiving a great quantity of treasure they raised their siege, and returned the same way they came, making war on every side. And by reason of a great famine and scarcity in the country (as OROSIUS writeth) they laid down their Arms for a space, and fell to tilling of the land, as inhabitants of the country; dividing what they had gotten amongst those nations, and their captains or Kings, being Vandals, Suevians, and Alanes. The Empire being in this estate, ATHAULPHUS and the Goths possessing Narbona, Barcelona, and the marches thereof, which in name were confederates with HONORIUS, the tyrant CONSTANTINE and his sons enjoyed the rest of France. The young Emperor THEODOSIUS being a child, was bred up in Constantinople, under the protection of the King of Persia, and of Antiochus, whom he had sent. But of his house and person a very virtuous and honourable Anthemius was governor of the young Emperor Theodosius. Noble man took charge, whose name was ANTHEMIUS, who was his Praetorian Perfect. This child was bred up in all learning, and become a virtuous prince and a good Christian. His Uncle HONORIUS, who then lay in Ravenna, bethought himself how he might make the Western Empire, as free from the slavery of these tyrants and barbarous nations, as the East; and to that end he made a worthy man, whose name was CONSTANTIUS, General of his Honorius made Constantius general of his Army. Army against those tyrants and Barbarians. Which CONSTANTIUS until then was an Earl, borne in Rome, descended of the Noble and ancient Romans; who like a perfect Roman, with a picked and selected Army, entered France; and fight with the Emperor CONSTANTINE the tyrant, overthrew him, and besieged him in the city of Arles, and at length getting him into his hands, smote off his head. And it fell out so happily Constantius put the tyrant Constantine to death. that within few days after that the death of CONSTANTINE was published, young CONSTANS the son of the said CONSTANTINE, whom his father had made CAESAR, was slain in the city of Vienna in France, by the hands of a captain of his whose name was GERONCIUS. And the same GERONCIUS, who also sought to have made himself a tyrant, and to have created one MAXIMUS a friend of his Emperor, was also slain by those soldiers which in England rebelled with CONSTANTINE; with a resolution to return to the service of HONORIUS. GERONCIUS being dead, they despoiled MAXIMUS of his Imperial robes, and sent him in exile into Spain. In this manner was France freed from these tyrants, by this worthy man CONSTANTIUS; and the Army Constantius his victories. reduced to the service of the right Emperor HONORIUS. After this, HONORIUS speedily sent Captains and soldiers into Britanny, which held for CONSTANTINE, from the first beginning of his tyranny; who reduced the same to obedience and subjection. In France, a man of great parentage and authority in that Country (as PAULUS OROSIUS, and PAULUS DIACONUS affirm) sought to make himself Emperor; but he was presently slain: and in the like manner another brother of his, called SEBASTIAN; both which rebelled (as it seemed) without any occasion or reason, but only that they desired to die with the name and title of Emperors. CONSTANTIUS General for the Emperor HONORIUS, being thus powerful in France, ATHAULPHUS King of the Goths, who lay in Barcelona, and was Lord of all the country round about, and had there lived in peace and quiet the space of three years, at the The designs of Athaulphus. entreaty of PLACIDIA to whom he was married, which was HONORIUS sister; began to stand in some fear of the power of the Emperor and of his General CONSTANTIUS, knowing that they had fortified the Alps, to the end he should no more return into Italy: Whereupon he resolved to attempt to make himself Lord of all Spain; and persuaded a Roman Captain, whose name was ATTALUS, to take upon him the name and title of Emperor, Attalus called Emperor. and to go with a fleet which he would give him, to seize upon the Country of Andaluzia, which was then called Betica; and to do the like, if he should be able, in Africa; and he would also make war in his own person. ATTALUS, very unwisely, accepted his offer, and presently sent into Africa an Army with judges and Governors, as though he had been the peaceable Emperor thereof; and began to make war in Spain. Against whom, HONORIUS sent a wise and a valiant Captain called HERACLIANUS: who, driving all ATTALUS his judges and Governors out of Africa, leaving the Country in peace, with a Navy came to seek him himself; and, finding him, fought with him in a battle by Sea, and overcame him. And he, fleeing to the coast of Spain, was taken by the Spaniards, and sent to CONSTANTIUS, who was General for HONORIUS, who was then in France; who presently Heraclianus overthrew and took Attalus prisoner. sent him prisoner to HONORIUS; and HONORIUS made his hand to be stricken off, and sent him in exile into the Isle of Lippari, near unto Sicilia. To HERACLIANUS for the victory which he obtained against him, was given the consulship and the Government of Africa. But as in prosperity, pride and ambition increaseth, and men are then fare more insolent, then in time of adversity: So this HERAGLIANUS, seeing himself favoured and in great authority, thought that he might also be an Emperor. And as he was in possession of Africa, PAULUS OROSIUS writeth, that taking another Captain for his son in law and companion in his rebellion, whose name was SAEINUS, a most subtle fellow and very valiant, Heraclianus rebelled in Africa. he assembled (to go into Italy against HONORIUS and to make a conquest thereof) the greatest Navy of all manner of ships that I ever read of. For OROSIUS affirmeth, that he gathered together (if there be no error in the figures) four thousand and seventy sails of all sorts little and great; which without comparison was the greatest in number that ever was seen An incredible great Navy by Sea. upon the Sea: For we do not read that XERXES or ALEXANDER ever armed so great a Navy. With this great fleet, fraught with soldiers, arms and victuals, he came to the coast of Italy, and set his men on land, to march directly to Rome, being many in number, but not so well experienced and trained as were the Romans; who by HONORIUS his commandment Heraclianus came into Italy. attended their coming, led by a good General called MARINUS, with the title and dignity of an Earl: who had ranged his Romans in very good order, with a resolution to die or to overcome, and not to suffer themselves to be besieged, as they were by ALARICUS. HERACLIANUS, who thought to have amazed the world with the name and number of his fleet, and that he should have found no resistance, was so discouraged when he saw MARINUS Heraclianus his shameful flight. his Army, that he presently fled to the Sea; and embarking himself aboard one of his ships, returned by flight into Africa with that only ship; from whence he came with so many as is before said. After that HERACLIAN was arrived, and his base cowardice discovered, the ordinary Garrisons upon a day mutined and slew him. And his son in law and companion SABINUS, The death of Heraclianus. altering his resolution, fled to Constantinople to entreat the young Emperor THEODOSIUS, nephew to HONORIUS, to take compassion of him: from whence within a little while after he was brought to HONORIUS, and having his life granted, was condemned to perpetual exile. So through the wisdom and good fortune of HONORIUS, all these tyrants were defeated which rebelled against him, the which we have already related in as plain manner, as I could possibly; which truly was not without great toil and difficulty: for matters which passed both in the time of ARCADIUS & of HONORIUS were so many & so diverse, and often so many accidents happened together, and Historiographers treat of them so confusedly, that in writing them, I am much troubled, as well in collecting and abbreviating them, as in relating them, in such sort as the readers may understand and comprehend the same; and to recite them in order as they passed, one before another, which hath been my principal care from the beginning; and, by the grace of God, shall be, until I have ended. All the victories and above recited good fortunes of HONORIUS, after so many calamities and wars, which he had in his time, Author's attribute to the care which he had of the Christian faith and religion. For in those times through the diligence and endeavour of a Captain of his called MARCELLINUS, with the assistance of his great Captain CONSTANTIUS, he procured concord and unity in all the Churches of Africa, and of other Provinces; wherein were many Schisms, and erroneous opinions concerning the Christian Faith. And truly S. AUGUSTINE was a good mean to bring this to pass, who at that time was Bishop of Hippo in Africa; which the Emperor CHARLES the fift in his journey and conquest of Tunis took from the powerful and cruel tyrant BARBAROSSA, but his son PHILIP the second within few years after again lost the same. HONORIUS then seeing himself free from those tyrants, and the most part of the Provinces of his Empire in peace, and obedient, resolved to drive the strange and barbarous Nations out of those Countries which they held in Spain and France about Narbona; thinking it best to begin with the Goths, which were the most powerful and warlike people of all the other Nations, and possessed such part of Spain, as is aforesaid: for these being defeated, he held it an easy matter to make an end of the rest. King ATHAULPHUS, as he dearly loved his wife PLACIDIA, much desired peace with HONORIUS, and so by all means sought the same: Which when his soldiers perceived, who were of a fare contrary opinion, they so hated him that they slew him; but Authors set not down in what manner. And they presently chose a great man among themselves for their King, whose name was SEGERICUS; and The Goths slew their King Athaulphus Seg●…icus king of the Goths slain by h●… soldiers. Walia King of the Goths. for that they suspected him as they did ATHAULPHUS, they handled him in the same manner, as they did their last King. Having slain these two Kings, they chose one WALIAS for their King, conceiving that he would be a great enemy to the Romans, with whom they desired to have cruel wars; they having the Emperor's sister PLACIDIA in their power who at that time was a Widow, whom they entreated very honourably and honestly. This WALIA beginning to govern his kingdom he held it for necessary and sound counsel to have peace and friendship with HONORIUS: but taking warning by his predecessors (to satisfy his people) he rigged up a great fleet, which he sent to make a conquest of Africa; which held for HONORIUS: and as it pleased God so to work for HONORIUS, without his assistance, such a tempest took them upon the Sea, that the whole fleet was in a manner lost and cast away. Which misfortune, together with the news of the coming of CONSTANTIUS, General of the Emperor's Army with great power, did much temper the fierceness and fury of the Goths; And WALIA took so good order with them, as of their own accord and consent, a treaty of peace was made with HONORIUS, which was Honorius made peace with Walia King of the Goths. concluded upon condition, that PLACIDIA should be rendered to the Emperor, and that WALIA and his forces should faithfully aid CONSTANTIUS, to drive the Vandals, Alanes, and Suevians out of Spain, who had already made themselves Lords of the greatest part thereof. This being concluded, hostages were given in the behalf of WALIA, and PLACIDIA was delivered, whom HONORIUS afterwards gave to wife to CONSTANTIUS, Constantius made Caesar and sent General into Spain against the Vandals. in reward of his services and victories obtained by him; and making him CAESAR, he proclaimed him for his successor. And then began CONSTANTIUS his wars in Spain against the Barbarians; King WALIA assisting & serving there in with his Visogothes, as we will presently declare. While these things (whereof we have spoken) were acting, the Barbarians were in possession of the greatest part of Spain; especially the Vandals, who had conquered a great part of Betica; from whom that Country took the name of Vandaluzia: and afterwards, in process of time, Andaluzia so called after the Vandals. leaving out the letter V, it came to be called Andaluzia. And the Suevians and Alanes held Merida, and a great part of Lusitania (which is now Estremadura) and part of Portugal: and in Galicia and Leon they had enjoyed a great part from the beginning, and had divided these Countries among them by lot. CONSTANTIUS the Imperial General being come into Spain, and with him the Goths, according to the agreement, the first war they made was against the Alanes, near to the City of Merida; whére was fought between them a very cruel battle: wherein the Alanes were overthrown, and CONSTANTIUS had the victory; and the King of the Alanes, called ACHACE, was slain in battle. This victory obtained by CONSTANTIUS, Constantius his victory against the Alans struck so great a terror into the hearts of the rest of the barbarous Nations, that they presently in great humility sued for peace, and sent to entreat HONORIUS to grant them truce, and some place in Spain wherein they might live. While these accidents happened in Spain, HONORIUS went to Constantinople to visit the Eastern parts, where his Nephew the young THEODOSIUS commanded, who was now comn Honorius went to Constantinople. to riper years: and, being at liberty free from his Tutors, there fell out some controversy between him and the King of Persia. And it happened, that as CONSTANTIUS was busied in the wars of Spain, and HONORIUS out of Italy; an eminent man, born and inhabiting in Rome, being of the ancient Nobility, named TARTALLUS, assisted by a great part of the Roman Tartallus rebelled in Rome. people, and by many Towns in Italy, rebelled, and took the name and title of Emperor, and began to levy soldiers: but the loyal Subjects which held with HONORIUS, fight with him, he was by them overthrown and slain. But, disloyalty and treachery was then so much in use, that another whose name was ATTALUS did the like; who, putting on the Imperial Robes, and taking the Ensigns, was called Emperor, and began to levy great Forces in Italy. Attalus rebelled, and took upon him the name of Emperor. When the Imperial General CONSTANTIUS, being in Spain, heard these news, after the victory aforesaid, putting the Vandals, Suevians, and Alanes in good hope to obtain what they desired, and giving it out that he went into Italy to confer thereof with the Emperor, the better to keep them in peace in his absence; he left Spain, and came into Italy: the like did the Emperor HONORIUS, who had been advertised thereof in Constantinople. When the coming of HONORIUS and CONSTANTIUS was known in Rome, the people grew into a Honorius and Constantius return into Italy great fury; and, apprehending the Tyrant ATTALUS, sent him to Ravenna to the Emperor HONORIUS, whither CONSTANTIUS was already comn with his wife PLACIDIA; where ATTALUS, by HONORIUS his commandment had his hand stricken off, and was banished to Constantinople: wherein, HONORIUS in the opinion of the world shown too great At●…lus banished patience and clemency. HONORIUS being in Ravenna, whither his brother-in-law CONSTANTIUS CAESAR was already comn, and having consideration of his worthy services, and how profitable he had been to the Empire, made him with very great solemnity to be called AUGUSTUS, Emperor, Honorius made Constantius his come panion in the Empire. and his equal and companion in the Empire of the West, and made a long set Oration in praise of his virtues: and there the two Emperors by mutual consent, to the end that WALIA king of the Goths should continued in their service, consigned unto him the City of Tholosa in the Kingdom of France, with all the Country near adjacent, called Aquitania, which they then named Basconia, and is now called Gasconia. After the Feasts, and Coronation of CONSTANTIUS, HONORIUS went to Rome to pacify some tumults which were there: and the new Emperor CONSTANTIUS, resolving to go into Spain to make an end of the war which he had begun, commanded soldiers to be mustered. Surely, the valour and wisdom of this excellent Captain and Emperor was such, that, if God had permitted him life, he had freed Spain from those barbarous Nations: but death stayed his journey, so as he never came thither. Whereof when HONORIUS was advertised, The death of Constantius. he was extremely sorry, and in his place sent into Spain a famous and valiant Captain called ECIUS, who took charge of the Army which CONSTANTIUS had levied; and, marching thitherwards, by the way he overthrew the Burgonians which attempted to have entered Ecius made General in Spain against the Van●…, and the rest France. The like he did by the Franks, who afterwards entered and inhabited there. And being comn into Spain, his principal care was to find out the Alanes: which after their overthrow by CONSTANTIUS, did not choose them any King, but joined with the Swevians, who were Lords of all the Country about Lisbon. But, as soon as they knew that CONSTANTIUS was dead, they returned to Merida,; and the Vandals and Suevians were now grown so proud, that they would neither require nor accept of peace; but came to aid the Alanes, and began to make war against such Cities as held for the Emperor. ECIUS being comen into Spain, seeing that all made head against him, and having no sufficient Army to encounter them, protracted the time for certain days, and levied more forces; which by HONORIUS (without reason) was imputed to him for cowardice, and he sent the Earl CASTINUS to be General and his Successor, displacing ECIUS from his charge. But CASTINUS, perceiving Castinus succeeded Ecius in his charge. how the world went, approved the judgement of ECIUS; and in the same manner prolonged the wars, until that BONIFACIUS, who was Governer of Africa (whom we read, Saint AUGUSTINE for his virtue to have much loved) came into Spain to his aid, bringing very Boniface came into Spain in aid of Castinus. good troops with him: and they two together began the war, and obtained many notable victories against the Barbarians; and so handled the matter, that it was held for certain that they would have freed the Country. But this command is such a thing as can never be well shared: for, these two excellent Captains fell at such variance, that BONIFACIUS would not stay any longer, but returned to the government of Africa (as PROSPERUS, and PAULUS DIACONUS have written; yet EUTROPIUS differs from them) and CASTINUS remaining alone, the Emperor's party began to grow weak in Spain. While these matters passed in the West, HONORIUS his nephew, THEODOSIUS, Emperor in the East, being now of sufficient age, was freed from his Tutors; and, as he was a good Christian, his chiefest care was for the service of God, and for the defence of his holy Church. Whereupon he fell at variance with BARRABANUS King of Persia, who succeeded ISDEGERDUS who had been his tutor (as is before said) for that he was given to understand that BARRABANUS persecuted the Christians which lived in his dominions, whereof THEODOSIUS had admonished him, requiring reformation: but seeing he could not obtain it, he sent ARDABURUS an excellent Captain against him, who fought a battle with NASIUS General of the Persians', and therein overthrew him, and made great slaughter of his men, and Wars between the Emperor Theodosius and Barrabanus King of Persia. Theodosius his victories. afterwards entered the Country, and did great harm and spoil therein. And by another way THEODOSIUS sent another Captain called GRATIANUS against A●…AMANDER King of the Saracens, who came in aid of the King of Persia: this King was likewise overthrown in battle by GRATIANUS, and a very great multitude of his people slain, and he himself escaped by flight. And in another place another Captain called ARSOBVIDA overthrew the Persians' also: so as this war was made to the great advantage of the Romans, and with loss and prejudice of the Persians', until that BARRABANUS ceasing to persecute the Christians, a peace was treated and concluded between him and THEODOSIUS. This happened in the time that I told you that the Emperor's party began to wax feeble and weak in Spain: which weakness increased by reason of the death of HONORIUS; who, as PAULUS DIACONUS writeth, died of an infirmity in Rome, having reigned The death of the Emperor Honorius. sole Emperor of the West about fifteen years after the death of his brother ARCADIUS, with whom he reigned other 13 year; so as in all he reigned 28 years, besides 2 with his father. HONORIUS left no heirs of his body: for by two wives which he had, which were the daughters of STILICO, he had never any child. And a little before he died, he fell so fare at dissension with his sister PLACIDIA, as she went to Constantinople to her Nephew the Emperor THEODOSIUS, with her two sons which she had by the Emperor CONSTANTIUS, of whom we have already treated: her sons were named HONORIUS, and VALENTINIANUS: this VALENTINIANUS was afterwards Emperor: He asied in the year of the Incarnation of our Saviour Christ 427. HONORIUS (as before is mentioned) was a virtuous man and a very good Christian, very nobly minded, and very pitiful. He did one notable thing, which was the part of a charitable Honorius put down the Sword players called Gladiators. and good Christian, which was, to abolish the Gladiators or Sword players, which (as it is written) did use in Rome upon pleasure most cruelly to kill one another. He much loved his ease: and so we see, that in his own person he never followed the wars; and in his government was very negligent. But in the end by his Captains he so much prevailed, that excepting Spain, he brought all the rest of his Empire to quiet subjection in his life time, although after great rebellions, wars and troubles. A few years before his death died the great Doctor S. Jerome, The death of S. Jerome. being of the age of fourscore and twelve years, in Betheleem in jewry, where Christ was born: who departing out of this life, went to enjoy the life everlasting. THE LIFE OF THEODOSIUS, THE SECOND OF THIS NAME, AND TWO AND FIFTITH ROMAN EMPEROR; and of his Cousin german, VALENTINIAN the Second. * ⁎ * THE ARGUMENT. AFter the death of Honorius, Theodosius lawfully succeeded in the Empire; who, perceiving that many went about to make themselves Tyrants of the Western Empire, resolved to make his cousin, Valentinian, Caesar in those parts: who, within a small time after, making himself Lord of all Italy, was by the consent of Theodosius, and of the people, called Emperor. All the while these two Emperors lived, there were such cruel and bloody wars made by the Barbarians (as, Huns, Goths, Uandals, and such like nations) that the whole world seemed to have been turned upside down. But, above all other, the wars of the Huns was most dangerous, and of longest continuance: for they, having conquered Hungary, would have go into France. Against whom, Valentinianus continually sent fresh supplies, under the leading of his General Ecius. But Theodosius his Empire in the East was in fare better rest and quiet. For, the Western Empire was continually infested with cruel wars: whither Theodosius never left to sand new supplies of Captains and soldiers. By reason whereof, Attila King of the Goths, thinking to find the Empire of Constantinople vnfurnished of men of war to defend it, invaded the same: whereupon Theodosius recalled those Captains which he had sent into Sicilia to the aid of Valentinianus, and encountered the Goths, during the time of that war; which on the Goths side was managed very coldly, by reason of some suspicions and jealousies among themselves; Theodosius falling sick died of the plague, when he had reigned 42 years; whose death was lamented by the whole Empire: for, he was a very good man, and much beloved in his life time. GReat in truth were the accidents and wars, as well prosperous as unfortunate, which have befallen in the Roman Empire in the space of four hundred years (little more or less) whereof we have written, as the Reader may easily judge. But notwithstanding that we have sometimes seen it in distress, troubled, and in danger to have been lost in the whole, or in part; yet in the end, although those calamities continued for a space, we have seen how it hath been delivered from those dangers, repairing them by some means: so as we may say, that it hath been cured of those infirmities wherewith it was oppressed, and recovered the losses which it sustained, until the time whereto we are now comn. But, through the secret judgement of God, from henceforth matters succeeded not so well: but the losses multiplied, and their forces diminished. And although that sometimes, through the valour of some excellent Emperors and their Captains, the Empire did strive to recover her ancient Majesty, and was both honoured and feared, yet it could never attain to the former: and this also was very seldom. So as from henceforth, at sundry times, and by divers The declining of the Roman Empire. accidents, the Emperors lost whole Provinces and Legions; and in them began Kingdoms and particular States; and of those Countries which the Empire lost, arose great and mighty Monarchies: and as Principalities and Kingdoms multiplied, so great and more strange were the The Original of the Kingdoms. accidents which happened, which I cannot relate, neither am I bound thereto: for, my purpose and intent was, Not to writ a general History, but only of the Emperors, and that briefly. Wherhfore, as briefly as I shall be able, I will lay open the groundwork, and hold on my way; writing such things as shall be of greatest importance in the History of the Emperors, leaving that of other Kings and Kingdoms, which in process of time shall present themselves to others, which either already have, or hereafter shall take that charge upon them. For, this which I have already taken in hand, will be enough for my small ability; which I pray God I may be able to bring to any reasonable good end, to the honest satisfaction of those which shall read the same. By the death of HONORIUS, the whole Roman Empire did belong to his nephew THEODOSIUS, then sole Emperor; who at that Instant was in Constantinople, and held the Eastern Empire, as by that which is already said may easily be understood; although that in the time of HONORIUS there be no notable mention made of his doings, aswell for his few years, as for that the Empire of the East was in better rest and quiet than the Western, which then was infested and turmoiled. When it was publicly known that HONORIUS was dead, some which meant to continued their allegiance, held for THEODOSIUS, as reason and duty required: but the greatest Potentates The alterations & changes that happened through the death of Honorius. began to make themselves Lords of the Empire, or of part thereof. In Africa was BONIFACIUS (as we said) Governer of that Province; who in the beginning held himself Neuter. In Spain the Vandals, Swevians and Alanes, thinking that CASTINUS (who was General for the Empire) should not be able to withstand them, began upon a sudden to be discontent with that which they held; and so took Arms, and would have more. The Goths, who were Lords of Barcelona, Narbona, Tolosa, and all the Countries round about, by the leave and permission of HONORIUS, as his allies and friends, took the same resolution as the rest did. And the Burgonians in like manner which dwelled upon the Rhines side, and the Franques which had been driven out of France, resolved to return thither again. The Huns also, a most The Huns entered Hungary. fierce Nation, whose Original was in Scythia, as that of the Goths, desirous to leave their barren Country, departed thence in great numbers, and came to the confines of Pannonia inferior, which now is called Hungary: so as into all those Nations, and into sundry others, the death of HONORIUS did put new thoughts and conceits, although they did not presently put them in execution: of all which, as it shall be most fit for my purpose, I will hereafter make particular mention. The state standing in these terms; as THEODOSIUS provided not suddenly for his coming into Italy, or to sand some Noble Personage with his power and authority, there was an eminent man in Rome whose name was JOHN, who by means of his dignity and riches, was of great power: He, by the counsel and direction of CASTINUS (although in secret) who (as we have said) was an Earl and General in Spain, rebelled, and took the name of Emperor: and ECIUS, whom HONORIUS deposed from the government of Spain, was also of his council, and favoured and assisted him in his proceed. This Tyrant JOHN having made himself Lord of Rome, and of the greatest part of Italy, a great part of France holding for him already, and all that part of Spain which was under the command and government of CASTINUS; the same ECIUS and CASTINUS, as they were both enemies to BONIFACE governor of Africa, seeing that he took not part with JOHN, persuaded him to declare him for an enemy: yet they discovered not themselves as then, the better to bring the other to confusion. Wherhfore CASTINUS fled from Spain into Africa, with a great fleet and a great number of soldiers, spreading a rumour that he fled thither for fear of the Vandals, from whom in no part of Spain he could live in safety. Under colour whereof, and writing very loving letters to BONIFACIUS, setting his men on land, he seized on many cities on the coast of Africa, and so lived for certain days in sergeant Castinus came against Boniface in Africa. peace and friendship with BONIFACIUS; yet BONIFACE was not free from jealousy. Hereof there are at this day epistles extant, written to him by S. AUGUSTINE, who then was Bishop of Hippo, and the answers thereto; discovering the suspicion. And CASTINUS afterwards manifesting his ill meaning, S. AUGUSTINE sought means to reconcile them: but his godly endeavour taking no effect, they fought a battle, which although it were Castinus overthrown in battle by Boniface. very cruel and bloody, CASTINUS was overthrown and fled to his ships, and with such of his soldiers as he could gather together, he returned with shame and dishonour into Sapine. Which when JOHN the usurping Emperor understood, he sent for him with an intent to leave him for his Lieutenant in Italy; and assembling together the old Captains and soldiers which remained since the time of HONORIUS, with the greatest power that he was able to levy, and a very great fleet, he made preparation to pass into Africa. Some authors writ, that he went thither in person, and that after many battles he was slain by BONIFACIUS. So writeth BLONDUS in his book of the declining of the Roman Empire, and GVIDO of Ravenna, and ANTONIUS SABELLICUS in his Aeneades, and other modern authors: who in my opinion are deceived; or at the lest, I know not what ancient authors they follow therein. Whereof that which I find written, is, that THEODOSIUS being advertised of the great combustions in the Western Empire, and not daring to leave the East, thought it his safest course to nominate his cousin german VALENTINIAN, CAESAR, who was the son of Theodosius made his cousin Valentinian, Caesar. PLACIDIA, sister to the two Emperors ARCADIUS and HONORIUS, and wife to that worthy Captain and Emperor CONSTANTIUS. After some accidents which happened, with such troops as he thought good, he sent him into Italy with his mother PLACIDIA, whose virtue and wisdom was sufficient to govern the whole, until the young CAESAR came to age fit for the government. Before this, the usurper JOHN sent his Ambassadors to THEODOSIUS, requesting him to allow of his election, and to be pleased to accept him for his companion in the Empire. Whereto THEODOSIUS answer was; To command his Ambassadors to be apprehended as Traitors and rebels. And he sent commandment to ARDABURIUS or ANDABURIUS, an excellent Captain of his, that with the greatest power Theodosius sent Andaburius against john the tyrant. that he could, he should take his passage by Sea into Italy, before PLACIDIA and her son, and should seek to defeat the tyrant JOHN. ARDABURIUS presently put this charge in practice: but there befell him such a storm at the Sea, as his ship was driven from the rest of the fleet, and arrived where he was taken and carried prisoner to Ravenna. His son ASPAR within few days after being advertised hereof (who also came in the same fleet) after that the tempest ceased, and that the Seas were calm, set his men on land; and used such means, that Andaburius taken prisoner by john the tyrant. passing through certain lakes or bogs, which are, or were, near to Ravenna (where the usurping Emperor JOHN then was, and held his father prisoner: Which was held for a matter impossible, and so it is written for a wonder) he by force entered the City, which nothing suspected any such mishap; where he did not only set his father at liberty, but took the Emperor john the tyrant put to death by Aspar son of Andaburius. Phreculphus tome 2. book 5. chap. 7. Procop. book 4. of the wars of the Vandals. Cassiodorus book 22. cha. 18 JOHN the usurper prisoner, and smote off his head. In this manner writeth Bishop PHRECULPHUS in his History of the death of the Tyrant JOHN, who wrote the same above seven hundred years since; with whom PROCOPIUS agreeth, an Author of above a thousand year's continuance; CASSIODORUS in his tripartite history declareth it at large; and PROSPERUS and JORNANDES of little less antiquity; and also PAULUS DIACONUS. And although they all briefly pass it over, yet they aver that he died in Italy, and not in Africa. And PLATINA, CUSPINIANUS, and other diligent modern Authors, follow them therein: whereby it is to be presumed, that they were deceived which wrote that he was slain by BONIFACIUS in Africa; although it be not to be doubted, but that he went into Africa, and was there overthrown. And, holding this for the most certain, let us proceed to the rest, wherein in a manner all agreed in the taking of Ravenna; and that after they were entered, ASPAR and his soldiers inflicted cruel punishments. Five years did JOHN enjoy the name of Emperor before his death; and was commended for his virtue and good parts by some Authors; so as they condemn him not for any thing, but only for making himself a Tyrant in usurping the Empire: whereof the greatest fault is laid upon CASTINUS and ECIUS, who persuaded him thereto. This victory being obtained, within short space after came PEACIDIA with her son VALENTINIANUS the new made CAESAR, into Italy; through whose coming, and the The coming of Placidia and Valentinian into Italy. death of the aforesaid JOHN, in a short space there followed a great alteration: for, being come to Ravenna, and understanding that CASTINUS came from Spain with such forces as he was able, to put himself into Rome with ECIUS who held the same against VALENTINIAN, PLACIDIA sent ARDABURIUS against him, or (after some others) BURGUNDIUS, and it may be both; who fight a battle, CASTINUS was overthrown; and, escaping from the fury, his own soldiers mutined, and delivered him to the Emperor's General, who sent him to Ravenna. The like happened to ECIUS in Rome: for, the soldiers and citizens mutined, and apprehended him; and he was brought prisoner also to Ravenna. This is that ECIUS whom some call ACIUS, so much commended by the Writers of those Times for one of the best Captains in the world: and in truth so had he already shown himself in all his actions; but he performed much more afterwards. And of no less esteem was BONIFACIUS, who governed Africa. ARDABURIUS was very famous for his victories, as we have said, against the Persians': and so was CASTINUS in like manner. These Captains being brought prisoners, and the need of such men in the Empire considered, as well in Spain against the Vandals and the rest, as in France against the Goths and Burgundians, who already invaded that Kingdom, and against the Huns which were in Pannonia; After many allegations promise & contra, PLACIDIA undertaken to procure her son VALENTINIAN to pardon them their lives: and so CASTINUS, after some few day's imprisonment, was banished. And ECIUS, having put-in security Ecius made General against the Huns and Goths. for his fidelity, was made General of the Army in France against the Goths, who took such order, that the Huns came no further forwards: for, he had great friendship among those nations, and was born in those parts; and, during his disgrace with HONORIUS, lived among them. VALENTINIANUS, being in full possession of all Italy, was with the good will of all men, and by the consent of his cousin THEODOSIUS, called Emperor and AUGUSTUS, and for such obeyed and received by the Senate and people of Rome: and the Earl and General ECIUS, without delaying any time, undertaken his charge of General of the wars in France. And at that time when he came into France (as PROSPERUS and DIACONUS writ) THEODORICUS, by the death of WALIA, was King of the Goths, and had besieged a principal City then called Archilla, after the taking of many other towns. But as soon as ECIUS came The wars that Ecius made in France against the Goths. with his Army, he began the wars in such manner, that to the loss of the Goths the City was relieved; and they, raising their siege, retired themselves into their Countries: and he every where made such head against them, that they could not take any other places either in France or Spain. In the same time in the I'll of Britanny, which then was unfurnished of such garrisons as it was wont to have, were great wars and combustions: for, the Scots, a fierce nation (of whom we have already made mention, and after whose name part of Britanny is called the Kingdom of Scotland to this day) with other people called Picts or Pictavians, whose Original was of Sarmatia The coming of the Scots into Britanny. in Europe, rob and ouer-ran all the Land, and made themselves Lords of a great part thereof. Wherhfore such of the Inhabitants of that Island as continued subject to the Empire, sent to ECIUS for succour; certifying him, that if relief came not within a short space, the whole Island would fall into the hands of the enemy. When ECIUS understood those news, he presently sent one Legion of his Army under the leading of a Captain whose name was GALLIO, into Britanny: and he, joining with the Inhabitants which sent for aid, fought oftentimes with the Scots and Picts; and obtaining the victory, compelled them to leave that country in peace and quiet: and so they continued, till that ECIUS (standing in need of succours to make head against the Burgonians who already had passed the Rhine, and began with great fury to invade France, being feared to have an intent to pass into Italy) drew that Legion out of Britanny, and left it in the borders of Paris in France, to guard that Country; and left another Legion near to Tarragona in Spain, under the command of a Captain called SEBASTIAN, to defend the same against the Goths: and he with the rest of his Army went to the wars against the Burgonians; with which he oftentimes came to blows, and over came them in some battles. But the Britan's, being abandoned by that Legion which ECIUS sent for out of that Island were so distressed, that if VALENTINIAN had not sent commandment to ECIUS to sand back that legion which he had drawn out of Britanny, they had been in great distress: but, that legion coming to their aid, they were sufficiently able for that time to defend and support themselves in the Emperor's service. While these things passed in Britanny, France and Italy, BONIFACE grew daily more mighty Boniface rebelled in Africa. in Africa; who although that he yet shown not himself to be against VALENTINIAN, but rather seemed to be of his party ever after that he was troubled by the Usurper JOHN: yet he seemed to be a friend, in such sort, that he would not leave any part of that which he held. Which, VALENTINIAN and PLACIDIA perceiving, resolving to sound his intent, they sent to command him to leave his government to a Successor whom they would appoint, and to come to them: which, BONIFACE openly refused, and levied soldiers to defend himself against the Emperor. It is true that some Authors writ, that he was deluded by ECIUS: who sent him word, that if he came into Italy VALENTINIAN would put him to death; whereof he advertised him as a friend: and he likewise told PLACIDIA, that BONIFACE would not come, but would rebel; so as they affirm, that more for fear than for any ill intent, he made himself a Tyrant; of which opinion is PROCOPIUS. But howsoever the matter went, VALENTINIAN sent presently two Captains against him, the one called MAHORCIUS or MABORCIUS, the other called GALLIO or GALBIO; he, who (as I said) went to aid the Britannes with a Legion: who being arrived in Africa with great power, BONIFACE, Maborcius and Galbio, captains against Boniface. who was an excellent man of war, with a very good Army attended their coming; and, knowing where they landed, went to meet them: and seeing his power equal, they came to a battle; wherein BONIFACE through his great valour and policy got the victory, and the Emperor's Captains were overthrown and slain, together with a great number of their soldiers: A battle wherein the tyrant Boniface prevailed. and so BONIFACE became mightier, and a greater Lord than before. The loss of this battle, and of men of war, greatly increased the strength of the enemies to the Empire: for, first the Goths followed the wars in Spain with greater force than before, as well against the Emperor's subjects, as against the Vandals and other Nations inhabiting other parts of that Country. And the Burgonians began to make a more resolute resistance against ECIUS, than before they had done. And, above all, the Franks or Francons (a people of Germany) coming from Franconia (after some Authors) so called after their name, as truly writes AGATHIUS (although of their Original there be many fabulous opinions) seeing that ECIUS had enough to do against the Burgonians and the Goths, and that the Emperor VALENTINIAN had lost his Army in Africa, and that his cousin THEODOSIUS was busied about matters of the East, they resolved to invade France: out of which a little before they had been expelled by the Vandals, Alanes and Suevians, in the time of the Emperors HONORIUS and The coming of the Francous or Frenchmen into France. ARCADIUS; and also by ECIUS, as we have said, when HONORIUS sent him into Spain. But now, taking the benefit of the time, they came with a very great power, and entered the Province called Senonensis, and the countries about Orleans and Paris, and presently took The success of the French. those countries: MARCOMUNDUS having been before this time their Leader; and afterwards his son FARRAMOND was the first King of the Franks: whom CLODIUS succeeded, who at that time was their King. And in process of time their power increased so much, that Gallia from them took the name of France; and the King thereof is called King of the Franks Gallia called France. or Frenchmen. Of these Frenchmen (who in truth were a warlike and valiant Nation) some French Historiographers recite certain fables; saying, that they descended from the Trojans, from one of HECTOR'S sons called FRANCUS, and that from him they took their name. Others say, they had this name for certain franchises, privileges and immunities they enjoyed in the time of VALENTINIAN the First. All which is fabulous and untrue: for, neither had HECTOR any such son, neither descended they from the Troyans', neither is there any memory of those Franks but from the time of the Emperor AURELIANUS, who overthrew them about the The antiquity of the French. year of our Lord 260, little more or less. Neither obtained they this name in the time of the Emperor VALENTINIAN: for, he reigned long afterwards, and they (as I said) were so called 200 years before. But they were then a new people; of which, CAESAR, STRABO, PLINY, CORNELIUS TACITUS, POMPONIUS MELA, nor PTOLEMY, made any mention; neither were they then of any name, or known: which if it had been otherwise, it had been impossible but some of those Authors, if not all, would have left some memorial of them. The Franks might begin to be known a little before AURELIANUS time: the rest is wind. And it is to be understood, that the Kings which in our time reigned in France, are not descended from this people: for, in the House of France there have been two or three alterations and The Kings of France des●…nded not from the Francons. changes. The first was about the year of our Lord 750: at which time King CHILDERICUS or CHILPERICUS was deposed by Pope ZACHARY, that Kingdom having continued 330 years in the line of the Franks. And PEPIN, father to CHARLES the Great, being a German born, was chosen King: and so the Franks then lost the royal Sceptre. And in King PIPPINS posterity it afterwards continued 238 years, until the year of our Lord 990: at what The changes which have happened in the royal house of France. time LEWES the son of LOTHARIUS then reigning was poisoned; and, for that he had no sons, they sought to have made his brother CHARLES Duke of Lorraine, their King. But a great and mighty man, whose name was HUGO CAPUTIUS, and born in that Country, hindered the same; and was of such power, that he took CHARL●…S' prisoner, and enjoyed the Kingdom: and in his posterity the Kingdom continueth till this day, the next in blood inheriting for want of heirs males. So as we are not to hold the Kings of France to be of the lineage of the Franks, seeing they come not, neither are they descended from them. Herein do all good and true Authors agreed. But to return to our history; I say that the Frenchmen entered with such force and fury, as they took all that that they invaded: which ECIUS considering, and the wars which the Goths made in Spain, notwithstanding that he had oftentimes overthrown the Burgonians, Ecius granted pea●… to the Burgoni●… and was in hope shortly wholly to have subdued them, yet he resolved to grant them peace: which they humbly sued for, to be the better able to give succours to other places where need required; but especially to come against the French, for they were a mighty and valiant people. In this time whilst that ECIUS was thus troubled to defend the Roman Empire against so many nations, the new Emperor VALENTINIAN, being still in hope to recover Africa, with a greater resolution then at any time before, commanded soldiers to be levied in Italy and Sicily; and with the aid of men and ships which his cousin the Emperor THEODOSIUS sent him from Constantinople, he sent an excellent Captain called SISULPHUS, against BONIFACE in Africa; who by PAULUS DIACONUS is called SIGISULDUS. And he brought Valentinian sent an army against Boniface the tyrant in Africa. such an Army and used such means, that taking land in Africa near unto Carthage, he grew so strong in that country, as BONIFACE durst not abide his coming in Carthage, but went into Mauritania Caesariensis, and the marches thereof, which now containeth the kingdoms of Bugia, Argier and Oran, and the countries bordering upon Spain. And yet not holding ●…selfe there in safety, he sent to treat with GENSERICUS King of the Vandals, who then was in the province of Betica, called after their name Vandaluzia, to the end he should come from Spain to relieve him, and he would give him towns and cities to possess, if he would help him to recover what he had lost. This embassy came to GENSERICUS when he stood more in need of help, then able to sand any: for the Goths who had many times invaded Spain, taking the benefit of the time when as all things were turned upside down, THEODORICUS being their King and leader, and not contenting themselves with what they held, and was given them in Spain, entered, making a conquest of the country, with an intent to make war particularly against the Vandals; wherewith GENSERICUS was so oppressed, as he was out of all hope to be able to defend himself. Whereupon, more of necessity, then for any good will, he accepted the offer made by BONIFACE: and abandoning the province of Vandalozia, he passed the straits of The Vandals abandon Spain, and sail into Africa. Gibraltar, as well with his men of war, as of peace, women, children, goods, and cattles, and seized on the best part he could, of all Mauritania; and having entered under the name and title of succour, he made himself absolute Lord, robbing and spoiling the cities and towns with great cruelty. And this people thus abandoning Andaluzia, was the occasion that THEODORICUS and his Goths took a great part thereof, and so the Goths continued Kings of Spain, until the time of the Emperor CHARLES. And although that at sundry times they had wars and battles with the Alanes, and Suevians, yet in the end the power of the Goths prevailed: From this THEODORICUS the first, is descended the root and stock of the Kings of Spain until this day. The Vandals being barbarous and misbelievers (for they were of the sect of the Arrians) held not promise' nor league with BONIFACE in Africa, who had drawn them thither; but taking the cities upon the coast which he had given them, they entered and took the rest in despite of him: wherefore he was constrained through necessity, to become enemy to those which he had drawn thither for his succour and relief, seeing they took all. But as he was hated by the Emperor VALENTINIAN, and could hope for no succours from any where else, as wise and as valiant as he was, he was not able to make sufficient resistance against The Vandals made themselves Lords of great part of Africa. all; but, being too weak, was driven to flee from place to place. But the Province of Carthage and all the countries thereabout, were valiantly defended by the General SISULPHUS, whom the Emperor VALENTINIAN sent thither against BONIFACE. GENSERICUS King of the Vandals being so mighty in Africa, and finding SISULPHUS of power able to make head against him, and fearing (as a wise man) the mutability of Fortune, sent to entreat a peace with VALENTINIAN, upon condition that he should suffer him to enjoy that which he had taken from BONIFACE, seeing that he was not possessed thereof himself. The Emperor VALENTINIAN considering that ECIUS was much troubled in France against the French, new inhabitants there, and that there was little assurance of the truce with the Burgonians; with a desire to recover that which was lost in Spain (for, he was advertised that his General SEBASTIAN, who was there in his service against the Alans and Suevians; Valentinian granteth peace to the Vandal●… in Africa. had obtained certain victories against them, and that they were joined with the Goths, so as he was unable alone to defend himself against all) he resolved to grant the Vandals in Africa that peace they required: and, taking security and great promises of their King GENSERICUS, the peace was concluded between them: and VALENTINIAN, relying more on that peace than he aught to have done, sent for SISULPHUS, commanding him to come into Italy with Valentinian was ill advised. his Army, not leaving any garrison to keep Carthage or Africa. For, his meaning was, with his whole power to have reinforced ECIUS his Army, and to have driven out those Nations which were entered France, and to have recovered, or at lest to have preserved, that which he possessed in Spain. SISULPHUS being arrived in Italy, GENSERICUS King of the Vandals, as an ambitious impudent Infidel, went presently to Carthage, and entered the same by force of Arms; five hundred, fourscore and five years (as PROSPERUS reports) after that Censericus, king of the Vandals, violatd the peace. SCIPIO subdued it to the Roman Empire. The like he afterwards did by all the rest; and in the end came to the City of Hippo, wherein S. AUGUSTINE was Bishop, and therein also (as saith POSIDIUS, a Disciple and Familiar of S. AUGUSTINE'S) was BONIFACE, who had retired himself thither; and, holding it besieged the space of 14 months (God having first taken away S. AUGUSTINE, being when he died of the age of 76 years) he took it, and put BONIFACE to death. Herein PROCOPIUS differs from other Authors; who writes, Gensericus slew Boniface. The death of S. Augustine. that he raised his siege without taking the City: and, concerning BONIFACE, PROSPERUS and PAULUS DIACONUS relate it after another manner; saying, that he had his pardon, and went into Italy, where he died of a natural death. After the taking of Hippo, the power of GENSERICUS daily increased, in such manner, that he made a full conquest of all Africa: and so the Vandals remained for a long time absolute Lords thereof. Wherein this cruel King committed so many cruelties against the Bishops and Priests which held the true faith, and would not become Arrians as he was, as the like had seldom The cruelties used by Gensericus King of the Vandals against the true Christians. been seen; most cruelly putting many of them to death, and banishing others. The like he used towards all kind of people, committing incredible insolences and robberies, as many credible Authors affirm; whereof VICTOR wrote a particular Book, which he entitled the vandalical Persecution; whereto I refer the curious Reader: which Book is newly imprinted and annexed to EUSEBIUS his Chronicle, and to the tripartite History. After this accident happened in Africa, VALENTINIAN had daily advertisements, that the Huns, who already were become Lords of Austria and Hungary with the marches thereof, made preparation to come down into France; and to that end had raised a great number of men of war (TO TILA a most fierce proud man being their King): against which their designs he daily sent new forces Totila, King of the Huns. to ECIUS, who followed the ordinary wars of France; by means whereof, ECIUS could not sand any succours to those of the I'll of Britanny, who newly had sent to him for aid against the Scots and Picts: for which cause the Romans and Britannes which inhabited Britanny, despairing of any other help, called to their aid, and solicited with fair promises, the Angles then called Saxons, a people of Germany, inhabiting near to the seaside: who being alured thereto, The Britain's called the Saxons to their aid. partly for pay, and partly through the fertility and fruitfulness of that Country, came into Britanny under the leading of their Captain HENGISTUS (as saith BEDA); who, assisting the Inhabitants, in such manner subdued their enemies, that they rebelled no more. But they, afterwards growing strong and ambitious, did the like in Britanny as the Vandals did in Africa; and making war upon the Country, and subduing the Britannes, made themselves Lords of all the The Angles or Saxon●… took the I'll of Britanny. Land, excepting that which is now the Kingdom of Scotland. In this manner the Empire lost this Island, and the Angles remained Kings thereof; and afterwards it lost the name of Britanny, and by them was called Anglia, and now England, which Britanny called England. is as much to say, as the land of the English; and so from henceforth we will call it. And their power so much increased, that in the time of AUGUSTULUS, as we will hereafter declare, they banished and drove the Britannes wholly out of that country, so as some came over into France, and inhabited that country which is now called Britanny, where before that time dwelled Britanny in France why so called. the Turones and Veneti, which through their coming thither is called Britanny; But a great number of the Britannies fled to the mountains towards the Northwest now called Wales, where they maintained themselves against all Invaders. Thus the dominion of that Island rested in the Kings of the Angles or English, and hath continued in them with great alterations, wars and troubles, which import not me to recite. Of all which, besides BEDA, and other ancient and modern authors not a few, POLIDORE VIRGIL, an author of our time, hath written a history, of the beginning and success of all matters in Britanny or England. But to return to our story of GENSERICUS King of the Vandals; I say, that being unsatisfied with Africa, he rigged up a Fleet and sailed into Sicily, and took great part thereof, robbing and spoiling the Country: And truly he had taken all the rest of the Island, if that VALENTINIAN (notwithstanding that he was very tender and delicate, and in person did nothing, neither would follow the wars) had not (as it cannot be denied) taken great care and used all possible diligence to provide what was needful, so fare as he was able: who presently sent commandment to SEBASTIAN, his General in Spain, to transport himself with the Gensericus w●…nt to make war in Sicilia. greatest power that he was able, into Africa and to make seizure thereof, while as GENSERICUS was busied in Sicilia. GENSERICUS was advertized of this preparation; and understanding that without delay it should be put in execution, resolved to leave Sicilia, and to return to defend Africa which was of greater importance, and concerned him more: and so Sicilia escaped out of his hands. And SEBASTIAN forbore to go into Africa. But he seeing himself of greater power than before, and that his Lord was oppressed with wars and crosses (wherein those men are seldom faithful, which in prosperity show themselves most serviceable) and purposing to make himself Lord of all that which the Emperor possessed in Spain, was the cause that the Empire lost the same, and he without obtaining his desire, lost both his life and honour. For moved by this ambition, as I said, he treated with THEODORICUS, The treason and death of Sebastian, General for the Emperor Valentinian in Spain. and the Goths, and with the Alanes also, that they should come to a peace with him, and that they should divide the country amongst them, without yielding any acknowledgement to VALENTINIAN. Wherewith in outward show they seemed to be very well pleased, and yielded to his propositions, which they observed for certain days: but afterwards upon a safe conduct they slew him; and he being dead who was wont to defend the country, they took all Spain, excepting some small part of Galicia and Biscai; which by reason of the inacessible steepness of the mountains and the valour of the inhabitants, defended themselves for a season. During these events in Spain and Africa, ECIUS never desisted from warring against the French, Burgonians and other nations in France: and VALENTINIAN, leaving all things in the best order that he could in Italy, took his passage for Graecia, and went to Constantinople to see Valentinian w●…nt to Constantinople, and married with Eudoxa the Emperor Theodosius his daughter. his cousin the Emperor THEODOSIUS; whose Empire as it pleased God was then better in peace and in more quietness than the West. At this meeting VALENTINIAN married with EUDOXA, THEODOSIUS his daughter, and then presently returned into Italy, to provide for the defence of that which remained, and to recover what was lost. Whereat the Emperor THEODOSIUS much grieving, sent him two Captains called ARIOBINDUS and ANSILA, with good troops of soldiers, to the end that they should reconquer Africa; Ariobindus and Ansila Captains sent by Theodosius. being much discontented with GENSERICUS King of the Vandals, for the breach of the peace, and for the great cruelties which he had committed in that Country. These Captains and soldiers sailed into Sicilia, from thence to pass into Africa: but they so detracted the time and prolonged their departure in such manner, as they spoilt the whole Island of Sicilia, and it pleased not God that they should proceed on their journey. For ATTILA a mighty King of the Huns, which of long time had purposed to make himself Lord of the Empire, having besides Hungary, had made a conquest of many Cities in Germany, drawing to him for pay and by fair promises and subtle means, an infinite number of people, part of which were called Turlingi, Tungri, Ostrogothes, and Marcomanni, and other barbarous Attila invaded the Greek Empire. northerly Nations, which like swarms of Bees came to him in that time: which (as PAULUS DIACONUS recounteth) determined to invade the Empire of Constantinople, knowing that the best and greatest part of the men of war thereof, were go with the two Captains aforesaid into Sicilia. At this his entry he took many Cities in Thracia, and in Slavonia; and made so great spoil in that Country, as the Emperor in great haste sent for ARIOBINDUS and ANSILA, who with a great Army (as I said) were in Sicilia, to the end that they should come and defend the Country; together with other great forces which he had commanded to be levied. And so he began the war, and to oppose himself against the force and fury of ATTILA; whereto this was a great help, that at that instant there began to grow some suspicion and jealousy between ATTILA and his brother BEDA, and envy and emulation between the Kings which came with him; by reason whereof, the war was not so terrible as before, although they still did much harm. THEODOSIUS Emperor of the East being in this care, and at wars with the mighty ATTILA, and his Cousin VALENTINIAN in such trouble, as is before said, that the Vandals and their King held Africa, the Goths and Alanes Spain, his General ECIUS in France, held war with so many nations, and therein passed so many adventures, as they would be too long to recite. THEODOSIUS applying himself in Constantinople, with great care and diligence to sand Theodosius the Second died of the plague. greater relief and forces against ATTILA, was stricken with the plague, whereof quickly he died. Whose death was generally lamented: for he was a good, pitiful, very virtuous and Christian Prince; as it plainly appeareth by many letters, which at this day are extant, written to him by LEO Bishop of Rome, who lived in his time. It is written of him, that he was very devout and religious, and spent much time in prayer; and that he fasted two days in the The religion and virtue of Theodosius●… week, and much honoured the Church and the Clergy. Finally, he left nothing undone which a Christian was bound to do, neither what was convenient for an Emperor. He was very studious and addicted to letters, and to Philosophy, and made great Libraries, principally of the holy Scriptures. He was so pitiful, that being one day reprehended for giving so many malefactors their lives, he answered▪ I would to God that I could raise again those which I have put to death. In conclusion, he was accomplished An example of clemency. with all virtues, and free from all vices, so as he was not subject unto any: only he was noted to be somewhat mutable and hasty. He was married to EUDOXIA, a very godly and discreet woman, the daughter of LEONCIUS, whom he married for her virtue only: she was called, before that she was married to him, ATANAIS, and with her marriage her name was changed. For this his goodness and virtue, it pleased God that his reign continued two and forty years: fourteen or fifteen being a child, under the Protection of the King of Persia, in the time of his Uncle HONORIUS, as is already written; and seven and twenty with his cousin VALENTINIAN, and for the most part he enjoyed the Empire of the East in peace and quiet; and died being about fifty years old: for in a manner as soon as he was borne, he inherited the Empire. He departed this world, according to MATHEW PALMERUS computation in his additions to EUSEBIUS his Chronicle, and after PROSPERUS, in the year of our Lord, four hundred, fifty and three; and after some others, four hundred and fifty; and after the most common opinion, in the seven and twentith year of the reign of the Emperor VALENTINIAN, who then reigned in Italy, and lived in the city of Rome. THE LIFE OF VALENTINIAN, THE SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND THE THREE AND FIFTITH ROMAN Emperor; and of his Brother in Law, MARTIANUS. THE ARGUMENT. VAlentinian remaining alone in the Empire of the West, tired with manywarres, and seeing that Attila molested the eastern parts; to please his sister Pulcheria, and to the end that those parts should not remain without an Emperor, he gave the charge thereof to an old man called Martianus, who was a man of great judgement, and very wise. In which time Attila resolving to give over his enterprise against Constantinople, the siege being long and very difficult, he came towards the western parts, with a determination to pass into France and into Italy: Against whom Valentinian made Ecius his General, who was still his General in France; having first concluded a peace with Gensericus King of the Uandales, wherein to the new Emperor old Martianus entered. This Ecius daunted Attila much, and made him know (to the great loss of his men) how valiant a man he was; so as he compelled him to fly. For which victory Valentinian began to have Ecius in jealousy, that he had an intent to have made himself Emperor, and to that end had some intelligence with Attila, seeing that he did not wholly ruin him when he might: wherefore he caused him to be slain, which was the cause of the ruin of Italy, and of the Western Empire. For Attila (understanding that Ecius was dead) returned into Italy, which Valentinian enjoyed in peace: and being invaded, none of the Emperors set his hand to relieve it, being unable to levy any sufficient Army to withstand the enemy. Whereupon having taken Aquileia, and coming towards Rome, at the entreaty of Pope Leo, he spared that City, and so leaving Italy, he returned into Hungary: where marrying with the sister of the Emperor Valentinian, upon his wedding day he gorged himself so full with wine and meat, as in the night (nature being unable to support so great acharge, casting up abundance of blood) he died in his bed. Whose death yielded son●… liberty to the Empire, notwithstanding that the West remained in a manner ruined, whereof grew the greatness of the Empire of the East, and of Constantinople. And one year after the death of Attila, Valentinian was also slain by a soldier, whose name was Tansillus, both to take revenge for the death of his Captain Ecius, as urged by the hatred of one Maximus, whose wise Valentinian had forced, when he had reigned Emperor thirty years. TRuly I know not whether the reading of that which I have already related and am presently to writ, shall make the reader so much to wonder, as it doth me which writ the same. For mine own part, I A consideration of the calamities of these times. dare justify, that no wars, alterations or changes of Kingdoms, of all that ever I have read in ancient or modern Histories, seem worthy of so great admiration as those of these times, whereof we are now to treat. Neither do I remember that I ever admired more at any thing then at these; considering the great and many calamities of so many provinces and cities, the battles and effusion of blood, the alterations and falls of estates, the diversity of people and nations which flocked together in them. And above all, I do most wonder at the infinite numbers of people which came out of the northern parts, so as it seemed the earth did flow with armed men. And likewise to consider, what rage, fury, pride or ambition (for I can give it no other name) might move so many sundry nations, to abandon their own countries, to ruin and conquer the world▪ not being urged, or moved thereto by any offence or injury received. But it was the just judgement and permission of our Lord God, whose counsels are unsearchable, and whose providence cannot be perceived by the light of any humane eye. Let us give humble thanks unto his divine majesty, that although, for our sins, he suffereth wars and combustions in these our times; yet they are not so general, neither so miserable and cruel, as those which they endured in that age, as the reader may plainly perceive by that which is already, and hereafter shall be related, which passed in this manner. The state of Italy and of the West, where VALENTINIAN reigned, standing in such manner, as is said, THEODOSIUS dying in Constantinople, leaving never a son to succeed him, and but one sister, whose name was PULCHERIA, a wise and worthy woman, who as she Pulcheria sister to Theodosius. bore a great sway in the government, and considering the wars she had with the Goths, and in what state the whole Empire of both East and West stood, she endeavoured to procure that some excellent man, both in peace and war, might be chosen Emperor, whether he descended of imperial blood or no. And it seemed that there was not any man, in whom more noble and excellent parts did concur, then in an old Captain called MARTIANUS: who although he were but of mean parentage, yet with his age he was of great experience, and a very valiant and excellent Captain. PULCHERIA, and those which were of her counsel having taken this resolution, concealed the death of THEODOSIUS for certain days, until they had taken such order as was requisite concerning the election of MARTIANUS. And notwithstanding that he was old, PULCHERIA took him for her husband, to give the greater assurance and authority to his Empire, and so he was joyfully received by all men for their sovereign Lord and Emperor. Martianus chosen Emperor of Constantinople. And VALENTINIAN likewise, who then resided in Rome, was well pleased therewith; aswell for his deserts, as also for that it was done by PULCHERIA, of whose virtue and worthiness there was a general good opinion. ZONARA'S an ancient Author, whom some call JOHANNES MONACUS, writeth (as JOHN CUSPINIAN relateth) that PULCHERIA married with MARTIANUS to give the greater authority and reputation to his Empire: but first she took security of him, that they should both live chaste; for she was a maid, and had resolved to keep her virginity inviolable: and that MARTIANUS accepted thereof, and they both observed the same, which is a notable example. As soon as MARTIANUS was A notable example of chastity made Emperor of the East, the first thing he did, was to make provision to reinforce the Army which THEODOSIUS had left, and to sand against ATTILA fresh soldiers and a new General. And writers affirm, that if ATTILA had continued the war which he began against Constantinople, he had without doubt come to confusion, by reason of the mutinies and contentions which began among his men of war: which that politic and mighty King comprehending, Attila translated his war from the East into the West. and also for that (as they say) a great Captain of his counselled him to leave that conquest, and to go from thence to make wars in the rest of Germany, and afterwards in France, Spain, and Italy, where VALENTINIAN ruled: knowing that the Empire was divided and usurped by diverse nations, and therefore was very easy to be conquered; He resolved therefore to go into Hungary, where by treason he slew his brother BEDA, who together with him was equal King, for that he suspected that BEDA was the cause of the dissension and Attila slew his brother Beda by treason. discord; to the end to make himself absolute Lord: so great was his pride, cruelty and ambition. After this, giving good pay to his old soldiers, and raising new, he grew to be so mighty, that the Kings and Captains of the Ostrogothes, the Heruli, and other Nations which in the beginning came to aid and assist him as a friend, did now serve and obey him as their Lord And Authors affirm, that he raised an Army of five hundred thousand men which were soldiers levied Attila his great power & army. by him, and adventurers (so great was his fame and reputation at that time): with which Army coming out of Hungary, Austria and the confines thereof, which were in his subjection, together with many other countries which he had taken in the last troubles, wherein the Empire was brought so low, he presently began to make a conquest of Germany, and took the most part thereof, and the best cities, as Colein, Strausburg, Spire, Constance, Basil, and many other, making all possible haste to come into France and Italy, imagining that VALENTINIAN should not be able to protect and defend the same. Wherewith (such was his pride) he pretended not to rest contented, but to make himself sole Monarch of the whole world; through all which his name was greatly feared: and so he entitled himself King of the Huns, of the Medes, Attila's title. of the Goths, and of the Danes, the terror to the world, and the scourge of God. PRISCUS an Historiographer writeth (who, being Secretary to the Emperor VALENTINIAN, was sent Ambassador to him into Scythia, before his coming into Hungary) that he Attila's●…odily ●…odily constitution. was but a little man of stature, and had a large broad breast, a great head, little eyes, but very quick, a very little thin beard, and some grey hairs, a flat nose, and was of a very swarth complexion; and that in his going and looks he shown the pride and greatness of his mind. He greatly delighted in the wars, and was both politic and valiant, although he did not often use to fight in person; but reserved himself for greater occasions. He was mild and easy to be pleased by those which humbly required pardon, and submitted themselves unto him; and held and maintained his faith and word, and defended those which yielded themselves into his protection but, with all this, he was most proud, and desirous to make himself Lord over all others. VALENTINIAN the Emperor of Rome, understanding ATTILA his success, with his resolution and desire, of whom he had long stood in fear, did the uttermost of his power to make head against so great force and fury. The first provision he made, was, To conclude a peace with GENSERICUS King of the Vandals, who was now King of all Africa, to have his back in safety from so mighty an enemy. This peace was very acceptable to GENSERICUS; and, Valentinian made peace with Gensericus, King of the Vandals, and of Africa. as to a thing which he greatly desired, he gladly yielded: for, at that time there was great dissension and rebellion among his Captains and men of war. This peace was concluded betwixt them, upon condition that the King should resign certain provinces and cities to VALENTINIAN; and MARTIANUS the new Emperor of the East was included in the same. This being ended, ECIUS, who followed the ordinary wars in France, was made General against ATTILA, for that he was the best and most expert Captain in his time; whom Ecius made General against Attila. ATTILA had not forborn to have corrupted with many fair promises, putting him in mind of former friendship: but, for all he could do, he gave no ear to him. ECIUS, understanding that ATTILA with his Army had already passed the river of Rhine, and knowing himself to have no sufficient Army to make head against him, notwithstanding Ecius sought the fr●…endship of Theodoricus King of the Goths, and of Spain. that many new supplies were comn to his aid, he therefore by all means and devices sought the friendship of THEODORICUS, whom some call THEODOREDUS King of the Goths (who possessed the greatest part of Spain, and a great part of France, who was a mighty Prince & very valiant, and at that time lay in Tholouse) to induce him to aid and assist the Romans: who frankly promised, and faithfully performed the same; which the Emperor VALENTINIAN had also before attempted. And although that ATTILA by his Letters had sued to the contrary, promising him assurance of his estate; yet he (conceiving that, ATTILA prevailing, he would as well seek to defeat him afterwards, as he did now the Romans) raised his whole power, and drew near to join with ECIUS; and made the Alanes and Suevians, who lived in Spain, to do the like. And, with the like persuasion, ECIUS concluded a peace with MEROBEUS The kings which joined with Ecius against Attila. King of the French, and with GVANDARICUS King of the Burgonians, who of custom were his ordinary enemies; and with the Saxons and other Nations: all which, more for fear, and through the hatred which they bore to ATTILA, than for any good will to the Romans, resolved to take part with ECIUS; whose wisdom and discretion was so great, that they all willingly joined with him: yet for all this, ATTILA entered France with such power and furythat without finding any resistance he took the greatest part thereof before that ECIUS was in order to fight with him. But while that he made this spoil and conquest in France, the Kings and people aforesaid joined with ECIUS in the fields called Catalanes, on the borders of Th●…louse: so as he had one of the greatest and best Armies that ever was seen, as well for number, as goodness of men, and his party was held to be of no less power than that of ATTILA. Wherhfore the one army drew near to the other, and between them began a most cruel war: wherein (as JORNANDES affirmeth) died fourscore and ten thousand men, before they came to a general battle, whereof we will speak presently; either party desiring it, but chief ATTILA, who held his power invincible, and so all nations attended the issue thereof: for it seemed that on the victory depended the command and Empire of the whole world. And to say the truth, at this encounter were gathered together the best, and the greatest part of martial men of all Europe, being almost a million of people: wherefore it shall not be amiss that we describe this battle more distinctly than we do others; seeing that it cannot be said, that there was ever seen any that was greater or more bloody. First then, there fought there in proper person above ten mighty and warlike kings of the one side, and of the other. Of ATTILA The wars between Ecius & Attila▪ his party was ARDARICUS, king of a people called Gepidi, and ANDARICUS, VALAMIR, and THEODOMIR, brethren, and kings of the Goths, or Ostrogothes, and the King of the Marcomanni, and others whose names I find not written, and the people already named which were without number. Of ECIUS his party, was THEODORICUS (who was of greater power than any of the rest) king of the Goths, Visogothes, and of Spain, and his son THORISMUND, MEROBEUS, King of the Francques, GVANDARICUS King of the Burgonians, SANGVIBANUS King of the Alanes, and the Captains and kings of diverse other nations, which took his pa●…t, besides the Roman Legions and Captains of the Empire. But ATTILA made small account of all these: For he had formerly overthrown the greatest part of them; so as nothing made him to fear or doubt of the victory, but only the discretion and valour of ECIUS, who was their General. Wherhfore, as he was an Infidel and superstitious, he commanded his soothsayerss and wizards to be called together, to the end that using their enchantments and sorceries, they should tell him what success he should have, and how he should speed in the battle: and they sacrificing their beasts, told him, that he should loose the victory, but that the greatest Captain among his enemies should die therein. Whereto giving credit (although that it grieved him to think that he should be overthrown, imagining that ECIUS should die) he sought and procured it: For, he made account that if ECIUS were dead, although he lost the day, yet he would raise new supplies, and prevail against the rest, and so he disposed himself to fight. And as ECIUS and his partakers desired the same, the two Armies came so near together, that there rested nothing but to come to blows, and so they fought: which as PROCOPIUS, JORDANUS, ALABIUS, PAULUS DIACONUS, and others writ, was in this manner. Both parties being desirous to fight, the one Army being in the morning by break of day in sight of the other, both Generals commanded to marshal and range their troops, and to order their battailions, for to charge their enemies; but as their numbers were infinite (notwithstanding all the diligence and expedition that could be used by either party) it was past noon How Attila set his Army in order. before they could set their men in order. ATTILA with all his carts and wagons which he brought for his carriage, made a kind of fort or sconce upon the side of a hill, wherein he put the women and disarmed people of his Army, and of his whole Army made three battailions, reserving to himself with his Scythians and Huns, the main or middle battle. And ARDAR●…CUS King of the Gepidi with his countrymen, and many others in whom he reposed greatest trust, led the battle on the right hand: and to ANDARICUS, VALAMIR, and THEODOMIR, brethren, kings of the Ostrogothes, with their own people and their friends, he gave the charge and leading of the battailion on the left hand. And in this order he marched against ECIUS: who had somewhat prolonged the time, by reason of a great mistrust which he had conceived of SANGVIBANUS King of the Alanes, doubting that he would have go over to ATTILA: for he was advertised that there had been some treaty between them; wherein ATTILA granted to resign to him a City, wherein he had lain, and which was taken from him. Wherhfore ranging his Army into three How Ecius marshaled his troops. squadrons also, in the middle squadron, he set the said SANGVIBANUS, placing in the avaunt, and arierward of the troop, the most valiant men of the Roman Legions, to the end that he should not choose but fight. And to THEODORICUS with his son THORISMUND with his Goths and Spaniards, he gave the leading of the squadron on the right hand; to the end that they should encounter the Gepidi, which were a mighty people. And he took to himself the leading of the left wing, taking with him MEROBEUS, King of the French, with his people, and the Burgonians, whose King with the greatest part of his forces were slain in an encounter which happened the night before this battle. With these troops he placed himself against the Ostrogothes (the right wing of the enemy) changing it in this manner, for that he imagined, that if the Visogothes which were of his side, should have been placed against the Goths which were of the other side (for that they were countrymen, and neighbours) they would not have charged with such fury as he desired. In this order these two migktie Armies marched the one against the other, with incredible courage and assured confidence, the one to overthrew the other. And so there began between them, the most cruel A battle fought between Ecius and Attila, the most cruel that ever was fought in the world. and bloody battle that ever was. For, although it may be said, that in other battles there hath been so great a concourse of men, as they could not well be numbered; yet they were not such men, as these which now fought; or that it was so obstinate and cruelly fought, with the slaughter of so many men and effusion of so much blood as this was, I do not remember that I ever read. For therein fought the Flower (for valour and courage) of almost all the Nations of the World: As, the Romans, the Scythians, the Huns, the Goths, the French, the Germans, the Spaniards, the Gauls, the Burgonians, and of each of these a very great number: So as in my judgement, this may be recorded for the greatest and most fierce battle that ever was. The first attempt was to get a little Hill between the two Armies, which either of the two Generals thought requisite to be taken, thereby to have the advantage of the other. ATILA sent certain troops to take that Hill: but to that effect, thither already THORISMUND, son to THEODORICUS, was come with his people, which were Goths and Spaniards; so as these by this Hill, and all the rest presently gave the charge: and the slaughter, the cries, and the sound of the blows with swords and lances, was such, as it seemed the firmament had rend in sunder; so as no man could do any other but fight. And they all fought with such fury, as there was not any advantage seen from none till night, for so long it endured. What particular exploits were therein performed, cannot certainly be known: for the Historiographers (which treat thereof) affirm, that among so great a multitude of people, it could not be seen nor judged how things passed; for every one applied himself to strike, and to kill, and there was not any squadron or troop that stood still, to look on. But it is certain, and they all affirm the same, that a little Brook, which ran where this cruel battle was fought, grew so high with the blood of those which were slain, as it used to do after some great rain had fallen. And the streams of blood were so great, as they carried the dead bodies down the valley. A strange sight. This aught not to be held for incredible, seeing the number of the dead was so great, as all authors agreed it exceeded the number of one hundred & fourscore thousand men; and they all lay dead in a small circuit of ground. For in this fight there was no retreat, nor running away, but all died fight. In this manner, in the heat and fury of the fight, the night came upon them, and parted them, but with great and apparent advantage on ECIUS his side; for ATTILA his troops began to give ground, notwithstanding that he used all possible means to have maintained the fight. And THEODORICUS, King of the Goths and of Spain, charging too fare in amongst his enemies, was slain. Some say, that his horse fell with him, and so Theodoricus King of the Goths slain. he was trodden to death by his own men; and that his son THORISMOND falling into the like danger, was rescued by his people. ATTILA, perceiving the defect and weakness which was in his people, in the best order that he could retired to his fort or sconce, which he had made of his carts and wagons, and therein fortified himself that night, with those which repaired to him from the battle (for some were fled other ways) there expecting the next day's fortune. ECIUS went up and down the fields, as the Lord thereof, gathering his people together and setting them in order; to the end, that their disorder should not encourage the enemy: for by reason of the multitude of people, and the darkness of the night, it could not certainly be said who had the victory; and so they passed that night without any certain knowledge whether THEODORICUS were alive or dead. The next morning by the break of day the victory was apparent: for ATTILA durst not come forth of his camp; and so ECIUS A great victory obtained by Ecius against Attila. and his soldiers had the spoil of the field, and were Lords thereof. The Armies were so near together, as notwithstanding that ATTILA held himself for overthrown, yet he neither durst neither could retire: wherefore, he resolved to fortify his camp and to defend himself therein. And as THORISMUND found his father dead in the field, he with his Goths and Spaniards was so extremely enraged, as he purposed to have assaulted ATTILA in his camp, to revenge the death of his father, by his ruin. For all Writers affirm that he might have done it, if ECIUS would have consented thereto, and have given him such aid as he might have done. And they also writ, that ATTILA was in such despair, when he understood that they meant to assault him, seeing the small forces he had to defend him, that he resolved rather to kill himself then to come into his enemy's hands. But the wise & valiant captain ECIUS, knowing both the ambition and power of THORISMUND, THEODORICUS his son, and how mighty the Goths were, was in great doubt, that they having wholly defeated ATTILA and his Army, would have converted their Arms against the Romans, who would have been unable to defend themselves against them: and therefore it was most profitable (the time considered) to give ATTILA means to escape, to the end that the Goths and French should not be freed from the fear of him. And to that end, without discovering his conceit, he counselled THORISMUND, that setting all other matters aside, he should go to take possession of his kingdom of Spain, before that the Alanes, the Suevians, or any other Nations should 'cause any alteration, or rebel against him: And that before this, he should not attempt any other enterprise; for it was uncertain whether he should be able to bring his purpose to effect. THORISMUND deeming this to be the counsel of a father, and a friend (as indeed it was profitable for him) accepted his advice, and without any delay presently departed towards his countries; aswell those which he held in France, as those in Spain. And ECIUS, for the consideration aforesaid, forbore to assault ATTILA'S Camp: and so he and the kings which were with him had means to escape, and abandoned what he held in France. But the counsel of this great Captain (although that to this effect it seemed profitable) afterwards fell out clean contrary: for it was the cause of his own death, and of great miseries (as hereafter shall be declared) to the Roman Empire. ATTILA being in this manner go out of France, by long journeys, as a man vanquished, went with his Army into Hungary, and the countries there adjacent, of which he was in peaceable possession; where relieving his people, he rested certain days. From whence (they say) the Hungarians are descended, deriving their name from the Huns and another nation called Catti or Gatti; and so they were called Hungary, and Pannonia is now called Hungaria; although that neither in Hungary, neither in other Provinces are observed the limits and bounds which in ancient times they held. For as there have been great changes and alterations in the names; so have there been likewise as great in their limits and confines. But seeing this concerneth me not, without producing any example, this shall suffice for an advertisement to the Reader. ECIUS (having obtained so great a victory, leaving all that which in France the Romans enjoyed, and ATTILA had possessed, and the French and Burgonians in amity, and friends) he came to Rome, where the Emperor VALENTINIAN expected the issue of the battle. This victory freed all Italy from fear, and purchased to ECIUS the greatest honour possible; he entering Rome with great solemnity and incredible joy of all sorts of people: within few days after (as the most of the Authors which I follow do writ) VALENTINIAN began to suspect, Ecius●…ad ●…ad in suspicion by Valentinian. that he had an intent to have made himself Emperor, and that he had intelligence with ATTILA; The suspicion growing (as he said) for that ECIUS after the battle did not wholly ruin ATTILA. And as EUTROPIUS particularly relateth, VALENTINIAN was so highly incensed against ECIUS by MAXIMUS a Gentleman of Rome, as he caused him to be slain. Which (they say) MAXIMUS did to the end to be revenged of VALENTINIAN The death of Ecius. (as afterwards he was) for ravishing his wife; which injury he dissembled, and made no show to understand, until that he had opportunity to effect that which afterwards he put in execution, which was to kill the Emperor; which he never durst attempt so long as ECIUS lived. ECIUS being slain at this time (although that PAULUS DIACONUS seems to be of opinion that it was afterwards) with him ended the whole force and power of the Western Empire; whereof PROXIMUS a discreet and Noble Roman gentleman gave VALENTINIAN to understand. Who being demanded by the Emperor (as PROCOPIUS The saying of Proximus to the Emperor Valentinian. writeth) whether he had not followed the best and most profitable counsel, by putting ECIUS to death, answered: whether the Emperor hath put ECIUS to death with or without reason, I dare not determine; but this I dare affirm, that by kill him, thou hast with thy own left hand cut off thy right. Sure, he was a true Prophet, as the History hereafter will make manifest. While these things passed in the Western parts, the Emperor MARTIANUS reigned in great prosperity in Graecia and the East: for he was a very wise man, and a lover of peace; and so he maintained and preserved the same with the Persians' and other Nations, without losing any jot of of his confines: but rather in all treaties, had ever the advantage, and got ground. He sent aid and men of war to serve VALENTINIAN in the wars with ATTILA: so as MARTIAN lived in prosperity and well beloved. But returning to our Western History (thus it went) As soon as ATTILA understood that ECIUS was dead (the fear of whom made him to contain himself within Hungary and Germany) he resolved without any delay, setting all other matters apart, to come against Italy, which only being in peace, held for VALENTINIAN. And coming down with a very mighty Army, with some of those Kings before named, which after that he was driven out of France, he had joined with him, he descended with great fury, taking by the way all the Cities and countries as he passed, putting all to fire and sword. And in this manner he entered poor Italy, through the Province of the Venetians now called Friuli, robbing and spoiling all places: where there came against him a Captain Attila his coming into Italy. Forum julij. sent by VALENTINIAN with a great and mighty Army, with which ATTILA fought a very cruel battle: but the Imperial General and Army were overthrown, with great loss and slaughter of men; and so ATTILA marching forwards, took many Cities: which put all Italy in such fear, that the inhabitants in no part thereof, held themselves in safety from the power and rage of ATTILA. And this his coming and the fear of him, was The beginning of the city of Venice. the cause of the first beginning of the mighty and famous City of Venice, which in those days begun to be built (according to the most part of the best Historiographers) by people which flying from the rage of ATTILA, reduced themselves to devil in certain little Lands, with their wives, children, and goods, where that City now standeth, imagining that there they might live in safety: and there fortifying themselves in the best manner they could (for ATTILA his Army did consist of land-men only) afterwards they resolved to continued there, notwithstanding that the fear was past, and began to set orders concerning their government and justice. And having good success, they grew in process of time to such greatness, that in a manner they become absolute Lords of the Sea, and got many Lands, kingdoms and Noble Cities, and are until these our days the honour and credit of all Italy, and preserve their liberty Some are of opinion that it is called Venetia of these words Ve●…ite qua, used by those which were first there, to induce the rest which were on land to come thither. inviolate, calling their City Venetia, after the name of the Province from whence they came, which was the main Land upon the shore side near to Venice: which, for that it appertaineth not to my History, I will pass over with silence, referring the Reader to BLONDUS, SABELLICUS, and other Authors which treat thereof at large. ATTILA, having taken all the country behind him, besieged the City of Aquileia, which at that time was of great power; whereinto, besides the inhabitants, and such as were borne therein, entered many Romans, and other of the Emperor's soldiers which escaped from the battle wherein their General was overthrown: and they so valiantly defended the same, that ATTILA besieged it three years, and could not take it, holding it for a great dishonour The siege of Aqui●…a. to raise his siege before he had it: in which time he did much harm in all the country round about, with his men of war, and there were many conflicts between the besiegers and the besieged. During the time of this long siege, GENSERICUS king of the Vandals made himself peaceable Lord of all Africa. And the French with MAROBEUS their king grew mighty in France, and enlarged their Dominion, and the Burgonians in the country now called Burgundy did the like. And the Goths, Alanes, and Suevians in like manner in Spain, and in such part of France as is afore said. And the Emperor VALENTINIAN never came to relieve Aquileja, and as little did MARTIANUS the Emperor of Constantinople, either through cowardice, retchlesness, ill government, or want of power sufficient for such an enterprise, standing in fear of ATTILA and his power, who at the end of three years that he had held the same besieged (resolutely assaulting it upon a day with his whole Army without any intermission, withdrawing such as were weary and tired, and setting others in their places) he took it by force; and having sacked it, and put all to the Sword which he found therein, he made it to Aquileia taken and razed by Attila. be cast to the ground, not leaving any one house or building that might be inhabited, it having been one of the richest and most Noble Cities of that time: for Aquileia, and Ravenna, after Rome, were the greatest and most populous in that age. ATTILA, having thus like a savage barbarian ruined Aquileia, he marched forwards with great expedition, and within very few days, took many excellent Cities and Towns; among which, were Mantua, Brescia, Cremona, Bergamo, and all their confines. The like he did by Milan Cities taken in Italy by Attila. and Pavia, and other neighbour towns: and went to the City of Ravenna, which for that the Emperors held their courts there, was the most famous City in all Italy, which yielded to him without any assault. From thence he marched into Tuscan, with a determination to have made no stay until he came to Rome, and wholly to have ruined the same, and so in speeches he gave it out. At that time LEO the first of that name was Pope, who at the request of the Emperor VALENTINIAN, accompanied with many Senators, went to ATTILA, entreating him for pity's sake to spare Rome, and not to destroy that City: which entreaty he made with such discretion and wisdom, and it pleased God to give such efficacy to his words, as notwithstanding that ATTILA was the most cruel and inexorable Prince in the World; yet the Pope's supplication did so much prevail with him, that he not only gave over his journey to Rome, but resolved to departed out of Italy, and to return to his ancient seat in Hungary, requiring first a great sum of money to be levied upon the City for a sign and acknowledgement of Sovereignty. And the state of Rome was now come to this point, as they durst not make denial of any thing that ATTILA required at their hands; and (withal) they held it for a very great good hap, that ATTILA would forbear to put his cruel determination in execution. Some Authors have written (whether truly or falsely, I dare not maintain) that all men wondering at this sudden alteration of ATTILA his purposes, and some of his favourites ask him the cause thereof; he answered, that he durst not deny the Pope's demand: For, whilst he stood talking with him, he thought that he perceived two old men standing behind A great miracle, if true. him, with unsheathed swords in their hands, threatening to kill him, if he failed to perform what he required; and that he therefore durst do no other, which was held for a miracle. After this agreement ATTILA returned into Hungary, where he was held for the greatest and most powerful Prince of the World, and was so much feared, that MARTIANUS the Emperor of Constantinople sent to sue for peace, and therewith sent him presents and money to obtain the same. And he to the contrary sent to the Emperor VALENTINIAN, requiring him to sand him his sister HONORIA for his wife; threatening, that if he sent her not he would again return into Italy, and destroy Rome. Whereto VALENTINIAN agreed by the consent of his sister; For she, by means of an Eunuch, had written to him, and received letters from him, procuring him to require her to wife whatsoever happened; which she did, for that her brother constrained her to live a maid, locked up to her disgrace, and to the dishonour of the Emperor her brother: and he fearing ATTILAES' displeasure, sent him his sister, Attila had Valentinians sister to wi●…e. according to his request, and he took her to wife, together with others which as a Barbarian he held. This his marriage was the cause of his death: For he, holding a royal feast, and banquet at his wedding, drank and ate that day so much: that waxing drowsy, and being overcome with sleep, he laid him down, muzzling or grovelling upon his face, and nature being oppressed with what he had eaten and drunk, such abundance of blood gushed out at his nose, The death of Attila. and with such vehemency, that in the space of an hour he was choked therewith, and so he ended, shedding his own blood, who had caused streams and rivers of humane blood to flow; and had slain a greater number of men, and used greater cruelty than any King or Captain that ever was before him. The death of ATTILA gave liberty to some Kings and Nations which were under him, and had served him in all his wars, and there ensued great wars between them and his sons. The end of the Empire in the West. But the Empire could never recover the Provinces and Countries which it had lost in Germany, in France, in Spain, in England, and in Africa; although that in France and Spain it held some part: yet it so much declined and fell to so mean estate, as from henceforth we shall writ of the Emperors and such accidents as happened in Italy, as additions annexed to the Empire of the East, principally naming the Emperors of Constantinople, wherein consisted the strength and power of the ancient Empire. For, after five or six Emperors, and some of them tyrants (as we will shortly declare) AUGUSTULUS being the last of them; for the space of three hundred and thirty years the western Empire was wholly lost, and that which in Italy remained was subject to the Emperors of Constantinople, who ruled the same by their Governors (called Exa●…chi) until the time of Pope LEO the third, in which time through the negligence and baseness of the Greek Emperors, the Imperial seat was transported to the West, as when time cometh we will specify. The next year after the death of ATTILA, the Emperor VALENTINIAN was slain in Rome, by the secret practice and treason (as it was afterwards known) of MAXIMUS: and The death of the Emperor Valentinian. he which executed this murder was a valiant soldier, who had served that brave Captain ECIUS, whose name was TRANSILA, who did it in revenge of the death of his Captain, And so ended VALENTINIAN after that he had reigned thirty years; five and twenty in the company of his father in law THEODOSIUS the lesser, and five with MARTIANU●… the Emperor of Constantinople, who by reason of his death remained sole Emperor, which happened in the year of our Lord (af●… most writers) four hundred six and fifty. He left not any son that might succeed him, but two daughters by his wife EUDOXIA. THE LIFE OF MARTIANUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND FOUR AND FIFTITH EMPEROR of ROME. PResently upon the death of the Emperor VALENTINIAN in Rome, as PROCOPIUS, PAULUS DIACONUS and some others do writ, MAXIMUS for that he was a Roman Citizen, of high parentage, nobly descended, and of great authority in the City, presently usurped the name of Emperor; and was possessed of Maximus usurpe●… the name of Emperor. Rome and of all Italy. And the better to assure his tyranny, he used such means, as (more by force, than any free consent) he married with EUDOXIA, which had been VALENTINIANS wife, and daughter to the Emperor THEODOSIUS the lesser. To whom after that he had her in his power, thinking thereby the better to win her love, he discovered and confessed that he had caused her husband to be slain: with this addition, that he did it languishing for the love of her; which did nothing assuage her discontentment, but rather so much incensed her, that she resolved to be revenged on him by any means howsoever. And imagining that from Constantinople, or from the Emperor MARTIANUS, she should not have any redress, she secretly wrote to GENSERICUS King of the Vandals, who then reigned in Africa, very effectually recommending her unto him, and earnestly entreating him to set her at liberty, and to deliver her from the power of MAXIMUS, who was a tyrant and a traitor. GENSHRICUS to take the benefit of the time, and in hope to make himself Lord of Italy, or at lest to have the spoil thereof, employing his whole power, raised the greatest Army he was able; and using all possible expedition sailed into Italy, being so strong as Authors affirm, that he brought with him three hundred thousand men in his Army: against Gensericus came into Italy with 300000 men. The death of Maximus. whose power MAXIMUS was neither able, neither durst make any resistance, notwithstanding that he attempted as fare as he could: wherefore being altogether hopeless and in despair, he resolved to fly, and to abandon Rome; but by the way he was slain by a Roman captain called VRSUS. When GENSERICUS arrived on the coast of Italy, there was so great fear in Rome, as all the principal citizens abandoned the City: wherefore Pope LEO seeing the calamity likely to fall upon it, resolved to hazard his life for the same. And knowing how great cruelty GENSERICUS had used against the Bishops in Africa, as an Heretic (for he was an Arrian) before that he came to Rome, he went forth to meet him, and in great humility entreated him for the Honour of Christ to mitigate his fury, and to content himself with the wealth of Rome, without spoiling and sacking the Churches and Temples. But this cruel king forbore not to march to Rome, and to enter it with his whole Army, and rob and spoiled without any difference as well the sacred, as the profane. Being in Rome thus busied, in the space of fourteen days, he departed from thence, carrying with him infinite wealth, and rich prisoners; and so Rome being the head of the world, and Queen of all Nations, was spoiled, dishonoured, and Rome sacked by Gensericus. sacked by the Vandals, having already at another time been spoiled by the Goths, as above is mentioned: a wonderful example, to move a man to make little account of the power & riches of this world. Leaving the City thus wasted (notwithstanding that at the entreaty of Pope LEO he commanded that no edifice or buildings should be set on fire, neither any man to be The Empress Eudoxia, and her two daughters carried into Africa. slain or tortured) he led with him from Rome the Empress EUDOXIA, and her two daughters which she had by VALENTINIAN, which he afterwards carried with him into Africa. After that GENSERICUS departed from Rome, he did the like in many other Cities in the marches thereof, as he had done there: and destroying the City of Capua, for that it made some resistance, he went to Naples, and besieged it, thinking to have won it by assault. But the inhabitants so manfully defended it, that he was driven to raise his siege, and so returned into Africa laden with the spoils and wealth of Italy; where he married one of the Emperor VALENTINIANS daughters, which he brought with him from Rome to his son TRASIMUNDUS, who succeeded him in his estate. This befell in the sixt year of the reign of MARTIANUS, being the next year after the death of VALENTINIANUS. GENSERICUS with his Army having left Rome, and being departed out of Italy, the principal Senators and Roman Gentlemen, which through want of forces and of an Emperor, had abandoned the City, presently returned; and by common consent, chose for Emperor of Rome, Italy and Sicily (for now in a manner all the rest of the state was usurped) an ancient Noble Roman Gentleman, both for age and blood, of the order and dignity of Senator, whose name was AVITUS: which when the Emperor MARTIANUS Auitus chosen Emperor by the Romans. understood, as a gentle and religious Prince, he was very glad thereof, and allowed and ratified his election, in hope of better order to be taken in the Government; and so it seemed that there was good hope to have preserved the Empire in that state wherein it then was. But all was disturbed through the death of MARTIANUS, who was poisoned in Constantinople, by the practice and device of ARDABURIUS, and his father ASPAR, who were his Martianus poisoned in Constantinople. Captains: which happened in the year of our Lord 459, he having reigned seven years. This MARTIANUS was a virtuous and a just Prince, and preserved and enlarged the Eastern Empire. THE LIFE OF LEO THE FIRST, BEING THE FIVE AND FIFTITH ROMAN EMPEROR; AND OF THOSE WHICH IN HIS TIME TAKEN UPON THEM THE NAME OF Emperors. THE ARGUMENT. WHen Martianus was dead, some which had been the causers thereof sought to have usurped the Empire: wherein failing to effect their desires, they made Leo Emperor, being a Greek borne, who in the beginning of his Empire bore himself so valiantly, that there was not any enemy so hardy, as to make war against him. But in the Western Empire many tyrants arose, and many Emperors; which for that they lived not long, were the cause of great alterations and combustions: and the Uandales adventured to come into Italy, against whom Leo sent a good and a worthy fleet, under the conduct of a Captain called Basiliscus, who encountering them, overthrew them. In the mean time Leo in Constantinople was driven to fight against some who sought to have usurped: who being overcome and slain, he had great difficulty to rescue Rome, which was saeked and spoiled by many under the name of Emperors; which for that they lived not long, or were deposed from that dignity by others which were more mighty than they, were the causers of very great troubles in the Western Empire, in the midst of which tumults ensued the death of the Emperor Leo in Constantinople, when he had reigned seventeen years. PResently when MARTIANUS the Emperor of Constantinople was dead (whose death was greatly lamented) the principal men began to consult about the choosing of a new Emperor: and ASPAR, who wrought the last Emperor's death, sought to have been his successor; but he prevailed not, for as much as he was of the Arrian sect: for as the Catholic Christians were the stronger side, so they would not consent to his election. But seeing that he could not obtain the Empire for himself, he bore a great sway in the election of another, which was an excellent man both in peace and war, a Tribune, whose name was LEO, a Greek borne, and the first that ever was Emperor of the Greek Nation, and as most Authors writ, was born in the City of Bessica. But ASPAR first made this bargain with him, that when he should be in full possession of the Empire, he should then make his son, ARDABURIUS, CAESAR; although it succeeded not. This being concluded, LEO was chosen and obeyed for Emperor: and governing the Empire in good order and with good success, in the beginning thereof he won great credit and reputation; so as neither Africa, Asia, nor Persia, durst to stir against him: but in the West, in Italy, and in Sicilia, there were great alterations, and many were Emperors more in name, than in power or authority comparable to the Antient. And that old and mighty King GENSERICUS never desisted from infesting Italy, coming himself in person, and sending his fleets to rob and spoil the Country; so that (as EUTROPIUS relateth) he ruined and laid waste many Cities, and in the end become sole and abolute Lord of all Sicilia. In the first year of the Reign of LEO, AVITUS died in Rome, who (as we said) reigned there; The death of Auitus. and the Roman Army, being then near to Ravenna, chose and nominated for Emperor a good man of war, whose name was MAIORANUS: whereto the Emperor LEO gave his consent. This MAIORANUS was a good Prince, and an excellent Captain, for the time he reigned: for, he took great care, and used great diligence in defence of Italy against the Vandals & GENSERICUS their King: and to that end he raised a great Army, and remained for the most part of his time upon the seaside, to be the better able to sand relief and succour where most need required. This prospering well with him, and seeing himself mighty and strong in men and munition, he resolved to have sailed into Africa, in hope and with intent to have reconquered the same; but he could not accomplish that good work: for, death surprised him when he had The death of Majoranus, chosen Emperor. reigned three years and odd months. Some say, that he died of a disease: and others say, that the same Army that chose him slew him. In place of MAIORANUS rose up another Emperor, which was an eminent man called SEVERIANUS; who, besides the ordinary wars Severianus chosen Emperor. against the Vandals, was troubled with another against the Alanes: who, with GEORGE their King departing from Spain, where they had of long time inhabited together with the Goths, resolved to come into Italy, thinking to have conquered the same, and to have made themselves Lords of certain places in Lombary: against whom, SEVERIANUS commanded an Army to be levied, and made a valiant man called RITHINER General thereof, who was by lineage a Goth, but now made a Citizen of Rome, and received into the degree and dignity of a Roman Gentleman. The King of the Alanes coming with the Roman General neerto the City of Bergam●…, to a battle which of either party was very cruel, in the end the Alanes were overthrown, and their King slain. After this victory and other accidents which happened of less moment, SEVERIANUS died The death of Severianus. in Rome, when he had governed the Empire in Italy almost four years: and in his place was chosen a very excellent man of war, sent thither by the Emperor LEO to secure and protect Anthemius chosen Emperor. Italy against the Vandals, who was called ANTHEMIUS, and was son-in-law to the late Emperor MARTIANUS, LEO'S Predecessor. There presently arose against ANTHEMIUS (intituling himself Emperor) a Captain whose name was GERVANDUS, who was Perfect Geruandus was called Emperor. and Governor of the Province of Narbone; which was all that remained subject to the Empire in France. But ANTHEMIUS speedily sent his Captains against him: and, being by them taken, he was condemned to perpetual exile; and ANTHEMIUS established in his place a friend of his which was a good Captain, called BELIMER, to govern the Country of Gallia Narbonensis. This rebellion was scarcely ended, when in Rome another prime man arose, and would also have rebelled, called PATRICIUS: but ANTHEMIUS pacified that matter with as great facility as the rest. During all these alterations, and the death of Emperors in Italy, the Emperor LEO governed Graecia and the East very valiantly, and in peace. But the old and politic GENSERICUS, King of the Vandals in Africa, seeing the alterations and troubles which daily happened in Italy, resolved with himself to invade it, and to make himself absolute Lord thereof; which was a thing that he long desired, as a man who had tasted the sweetness of the wealth and riches of Rome. Whereupon he mustered up his valiant Vandals, and the country Inhabitants Gensericus, King of the Vandals, came again into Italy. of Africa and other Nations; and armed and rigged the mightiest Army and Navy that he ever before had levied. Whereof when LEO was advertised, and knowing that ANTHEMIUS had not power sufficient to defend himself against GENSERICUS, and that if ANTHEMIUS sped i'll, his estate was not assured (at the lest Slavonia, and those Countries which bordered upon Italy) he resolved to employ his whole power against GENSERICUS, in defence of ANTHEMIUS; who of his side made all the provision of men and Arms that possibly he was able, for the defence of Italy, and had rigged up an excellent fleet for the Sea. When LEO had prepared his Army and fleet, he made one BASILISCUS, a great man in his country, General thereof, who was his brother in law, being brother to his wife the Empress, and was also brother in law to ANTHEMIUS: for ANTHEMIUS had married his sister. BASILISCUS, with his great fleet departing from Graecia, safely arrived in Italy; and joining with the fleet which ANTHEMIUS had prepared, they went in quest of GENSERICUS, who with no less a fleet was come upon the same coast. These two Navies being come within sight one of the other, and GENSERICUS knowing his enemy's soldiers to be fare more ready and expert in Sea services then his were, would gladly have avoided the fight; but he was so charged by BASILISCUS, that he could not choose but fight: and as the battle was fearfully begun, so was it cowardly maintained. And he seeing his disadvantage, would have gone out of the fleet, whilst the ships were fight one with an other, and did attempt to have done so: which the rest of his fleet perceiving, they all presently turned their backs, and he was apparently overthrown: where he lost many of his Gensericus overthrown in a battle by Sea. ships and much people; and so very shamefully fled into Africa. Whom BASILISCUS pursued, and took land but two hundred and fourscore furlongs from Carthage: and (as PROCOPIUS reporteth) if he had presently go thither he had easily taken the same. And GENSERICUS being without forces (as he then was) he might have taken all that province: for already on the other side towards the East, another Captain whom LEO had sent, whose name was HERACLIUS, had taken the city of Tripoli, and other towns: but through ignorance, or as some say, BASILISCUS being corrupted with a great sum of money by GENSERICUS, he forslowed the wars, and was content to retire his Army into Sicilia, and there to recover what GENSERICUS possessed. Whilst as the Emperor LEO'S Captains and soldiers performed these services, he himself was not idle in Constantinople: for ASPAR and his son ARDABURIUS had caused great combustions. And as they were chief in making him Emperor; so were they of great power and authority in his Court, and in the government of the Empire: besides that both the father and the son had ever been eminent men, and very powerful. This ASPAR, perceiving that BASILISCUS the Emperor's General prospered well in all his actions, began to fear to fall from that dignity which he then enjoyed; imagining that the Emperor being out of fear of GENSERICUS, would make small account of him: and to avoid this, he resolved whilst as BASILISCUS was in the wars, to importune and urge him to nominate and make his son ARDABURIUS, CAESAR, according to his former promise when he was chosen Emperor; which he had hitherto deferred, by entertaining them with some apparent reasons. But now ASPAR (as a mighty man) so audaciously importuned him to hold his word, as taking hold of the Imperial robe which the Emperor than ware, he said, LEO thou oughtest to perform what thou hast promised me; for he that weareth this robe aught not to lie. Whereto the Emperor answered: And much less aught he to Speeches uttered by Aspar to the Emperor Leo, with his answer. endure that any man use violence or force him. ASPAR, perceiving the Emperor's determination, resolved to make his son CAESAR by force; and accounting himself of sufficient power to effect it, gave him the name of CAESAR: and levying such forces as he was able, the war began between him and the Emperor. Some Aspar made Caesar by his father Ardaburius, by force. say that LEO nominated him CAESAR, and that the Catholic Christians would not yield thereto, for that ASPAR and his son ARDABURIUS were both Arrian heretics: whereof ensued great tumults. But howsoever the matter went, it is certain that they took Arms against their Sovereign, and that their men of war fought one party against other. Wherhfore in great haste LEO sent to recall his General BASILISCUS from Sicilia, to the end that with his Army and fleet he should come to his aid: but before that he could come, the Emperor was in great danger, and likely to have been utterly lost and overthowne. But being come with his Army, notwithstanding that there were many skirmishes within the city of Constantinople, and that in appearance it seemed the matter went in a manner at even hand (for ASPAR and his son were excellent men of war, very rich and of great power) yet in the end LEO his party prevailed, and the two tyrants were taken and put to death by Aspar and his son Ardaburius, slain by the commandment of the Emperor Leo. the Emperor's commandment: and so was he freed from this danger and servitude. But there presently ensued other troubles with the Ostrogothes, which had accompanied ATTILA in his wars. For BALEMIR and THEODOMIR Kings of those Goths, with all their whole power, after many battles fought between them and the sons of ATTILA (which I writ not, for that it appertaineth not to our history) resolved to make war in the East Empire: and beginning in Slavonia, they put the Emperor LEO to great care and trouble. But he, as a wise Prince and a lover of peace (seeing that there was no other remedy) gave them Hungary and Austria, and taking hostages and great assurances of them, concluded a peace; which at that time was very necessary and profitable for the Empire, although nothing honourable. He also granted unto them Servia, Missia, and Walachia. In the mean season, after the overthrow of GENSERICUS, the Emperor ANTHEMICUS lived in peace in Italy. But as there is no constancy in humane estates, and that in the time of most prosperity, there many times happen the greatest disasters and calamities; RITHINER, who (as we said) overthrew the Alanes and slew their King near to the City of Rithiner rebelled against the Empero●… At●…emius in Italy. Bergamo, being grown proud and vainglorious, by reason of so famous a victory, forgetting the favours which ANTHEMIUS had bestowed upon him (first in marrying him to his own daughter; and then making him Governor general of Gallia Cisalpina, now called Lombardy) resolved to rise and rebel against his father in law, and sovereign Lord; by either of which he was bound to have been a faithful and loyal servant; and to that end resolved to come with the greatest force that he was able, against the Emperor ANTHEMIUS: whereupon, all Italy was in Arms, either for the one party or for the other. But Pope EPIPHANIUS used the means to bring them to a peace: which he caused to be confirmed upon certain conditions, and with exceeding great oaths. But the wicked RITHINER (within a little while after) broke all, and with his Army came to the walls of Rome, making war against all such as took part with the Emperor. ANTHEMIUS was then unfurnished of any sufficient Army to take the field; and therefore contenting himself to defend the City, suffered it to be besieged, expecting the succours which came to him out of France. For BALEMIR (whom as we have said, he had made Governor of Gallia Narbonensis) understanding in what distress he was (as a loyal and grateful servant) resolved to come with the greatest power he was able to levy, to relieve his sovereign Lord and to raise the siege. And the Emperor LEO understanding what passed in Italy, and knowing how small means and power ANTHEMIUS had to defend himself, being informed also of the treason of RITHINER, with all speed he sent into Italy a Captain whose name was OLIBRIUS, with a good Army against him; with authority, when he should see time fit for it, to take the name of Emperor. Which when ANTHEMIUS understood, thinking by this mean to be freed from the siege, wherewith the City was distressed, he agreed that the other should be called Emperor, and willingly allowed his name and title. But before that OLIBRIUS could come, BALEMIR arrived with such succours, as he brought with him out of France: and seeking to enter Rome, and to join with ANTHEMIUS, RITHINER got between him and the City, in such manner, that whether BALEMIR would or would not, they came to blows, and there was between them a cruel battle, wherein Balemir overthrown and slains by Rithiner. the loyal Captain (through the secret judgement of God) was slain by the traitor: whereupon, the people of Rome being out of hope of this succour (and as OLIBRIUS which came from Constantinople was in Ravenna, so fare from Rome) they so cowardly fainted, as RITHINER entered the City by force; and being in possession thereof, put his Lord and father in law the Emperor to death, and sacked the whole City, excepting two streets wherein he was lodged. And so this was the third time that Rome endured wants and much trouble in defending Rome taken and sacked the third time by Rithiner, wherein the Emperor Anthemius was slain. itself, and violence and spoil after it was taken. So that (as it hath been seen, and hereafter will often appear) this World knoweth not how to give any good thing, but takes it away again; neither how to advance, but to the end to pull down again. Rome had commanded and subdued the whole World, and had reigned over all the habitable known Nations of the earth: it had tamed and deprived great Kings and Commonwealths of their Kingdoms and Dominions, and had enriched itself with the spoils and wealth (in a manner) of all the Nations and Cities of the World. Nevertheless, through the divine providence of God, in process of time it was taken and spoiled by the same people and Nations which it had subdued, and brought under their yoke. And those Nations came to Rome, took it, and made spoil thereof, as if they had come to fet home, and to have that restored to them, which in former time was taken from their Ancestors; which the Reader may plainly perceive by that which is already written, and shall be written hereafter: which will show how often Rome hath been entered and taken by force, and how often it hath been sacked and spoiled, and endured such like disastres and calamities. But to return to our History: RITHINER being Master and Commander of Rome, and of the rest of Italy, with the power and name of Emperor (excepting Ravenna, and the marches Rithiner made Emperor of Rome, and his death. Olibrius' made Emperor, and his death. thereof, which was defended by OLIBRIUS) three months only he enjoyed this sovereignty: after which, he fell into an extreme sickness, whereof he died in terrible pain. And as soon as he was dead, OLIBRIUS was proclaimed Emperor in Rome, who then was in Ravenna: and coming thither, and giving but the signs and show of an excellent good Governor, within four months he died of his natural death. And as Rome had lost her power and authority: so had the Emperors thereof little health, and short life. For, whoso shall make a computation thereof, shall find, that whilst LEO reigned in the East, there were in Italy (by good and bad titles) one and other, six or seven Emperors. Presently after the decease of OLIBRIUS, the Senate of Rome, considering the losses and tyrannies past, would have used their authority in choosing an Emperor by voices, and by general consent, with good advice and consideration; but they could not bring their purpose to effect: for, being overswaied by GVANDIBARUS (a Captain who then was in Ravenna) they made choice of one GLIZERIUS a Senator of Rome, who was in Ravenna with him. Yet his Empire lasted but a while: for, the Emperor LEO, understanding that his election was by Glizerius made Emperor, and deposed. force, sent against him a Captain called NEPOS, with the title and name of Emperor; who, being assisted by the Romans which against their wills had sworn obedience to GLIZERIUS, deposed him, and made him against his will to take Monastical Orders, and gave him a Bishopric: but he took the Empire to himself; which was the occasion of many commotions and troubles in Italy. For, GVANDIBARUS, who had advanced GLIZERIUS, took his suppression for a great disgrace and an indignity done to himself: wherefore he levied an Army, to the end to have restored him. But Pope EPIPHANIUS used such diligence, and took such pains in the matter (who, as we said, made the peace between BALEMIR and ANTHEMIUS, although it continued not long) that he made a stay thereof, procuring peace between them: so as they laid down their Arms; and for that time NEPOS remained in peace in Rome. But, as he lived in that estate, he was advertised that HENRY King of the Goths (who then reigned in Tholouse in France, and in the greatest part of Spain) made wars upon those Countries which were subject to the Romans; and had taken certain Towns; so as it was feared that he would have proceeded further. NEPOS, to show his power, levied a very good Army; and, making one ORESTES, a private friend of his, General thereof, commanded him to take his way towards France. But ORESTES, departing with very great forces, took no care for going that journey according to his commission, which had been more for his honour; but rather, Orestes, being sent by the Emperor Nepos with an Army into France, made his son to be called Empero●…. as soon as he came to Ravenna (having first sounded the good will of his Army, so far forth as he thought expedient) made his son to be called Emperor, whose name was AUGUSTUS; whom the Romans called AUGUSTULUS (for, that name they gave him when he was a child) and so he is called by all Historians. And having brought this to effect, he resolved to return to Rome against NEPOS; who, as he had employed all his men of war and whole power in that Army, was not of force able to stay his coming, neither to make any defence or The Emperor Nepos, abandoning Rome, fled into Dalmatia. Augustulus made Emperor. The death of the Emperor Leo in Constantinople. resistance against him. Wherhfore he abandoned Rome, and the hope to be any longer Emperor, having been so but a little while; and fled into Dalmatia, which was under the jurisdiction of the Emperor LEO: and so AUGUSTULUS continued in Rome in possession, and with the name and title of Emperor. While the affairs of Italy stood in this estate, the Emperor LEO died in the City of Constantinople, having reigned (as writeth PAULUS DIACONUS) seventeen years with great valour and honour, as an excellent Prince, in the year of our Lord four hundred, threescore and sixteen; who left not behind him any son to inherit, but two daughters, the one called ARIADNE, and the other, LEONCIA: the one was married to ZENO, who afterwards was Emperor; and the other to MARTIANUS, son of ANTHEMIUS, who (as we have said) had been Emperor of Italy: yet some say, that ARIADNE, who was wife to ZENO, was not his daughter, but his sister, and that he instituted a son of hers before his death for Emperor, and his Successor. His death was condoled by all, and many lamented the same with tears. The Emperor LEO being dead in Constantinople, and AUGUSTULUS reigning in Rome, the general estate of all the Provinces that were wont to be in subjection to the Empire, stood in this manner: The Goths, with their King called by some EURIGUS, and by other HENRICUS, held Tholouse, and that part of France which borders upon Spain, and the greatest part of Spain itself. The Suevians in Gallicia, and in part of the Kingdom of Leon, held wars with the Goths, and to the Empire remained some haven towns on the coast of Arragon, Carthagena, and Tarragona, and some others also. The Alanes which remained in Spain, dwelled together with the Goths in a part of Spain towards Italy: and after the names of these two nations, that province was called Gotalonia, which now through corruption of speech is called Catalunia. In France ralgned the French, in Paris and in all the countries round about it, and in other countries with all that which we now call Flanders and Picardy, whose king was called HEDERICQVE. The Burgonians held the two Burgundy's, and the Empire held no more but Narbone, and some land thereto near adjoining, which continued but a while in the Emperor's jurisdiction. In England reigned the English Saxons, and in Scotland the Picts and Scots. In Hungary, Austria, and Missia, Servia, and Walachia, the Ostrogothes, with their King TODOMIR, and his son THEODORICUS, by permission of the Emperor LEO, bore the sway. In Africa were the Vandals, and their very old King GENSERICUS, many times spoken of: who died within a little while after, and his son HONORICUS succeeded him. The most of the provinces of Germany were usurped by the successors of the Huns, called Heruli, Turingi, and others which came thither with ATTILA: and between all these nations and countries and their Kings were great wars, each of them coveting to enlarge his territory and dominion. All the Eastern provinces were in peace subject to the Empire, and to the Eastern Emperor, who then was LEO, nephew of that LEO of whom we but now discoursed. THE LIFE OF LEO, THE SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND SIX AND FIFTITH ROMAN EMPEROR; And of his Father ZENO. THE ARGUMENT. THE Emperor Leo being dead, his Nephew, whose name was also Leo, took possession of the Empire; to whom it seemed a matter unreasonable, that his father, whose name was Zeno, should live as a private man, and be an Emperor: wherefore he renounced the Empire unto him, and crowned him with his own hand, and within short space after died. Zeno being then made Emperor, the w●…dow Empress being much displeased that he should enjoy so great a dignity, procured Basiliscus a Captain of his own, to rebel against him; who making himself Emperor, compelled Zeno to fly into Isauria in Asia: but he continued not long in that misery; for Basiliscus being hated for his pride, behaved himself so, as Zeno was restored to the Empire. Whilst as he lived in the East in peace, the Western Empire and Rome were so turmoiled, that Orestes father to the Emperor Augustulus was taken prisoner in Pavia, and there slain. And Augustulus (for fear) left the Imperial ensigns, the Empire and Rome to the discretion of Odoacer, who was afterwards dispossessed by Theodoricus King of the Ostrogothes. And Zeno having been somewhat troubled with wars in the East, and having obtained victory against two tyrants, which were Aspar and his son Ardaburius, which rose against him, died of an ordinary death in Constantinople, when he had reigned sixteen years. IAm of opinion that the Reader hath sufficiently understood, in what estate the Empire remained, when the Emperor LEO died in Constantinople: wherefore I hold it needless to make any repetition thereof. I say then, that as soon as LEO departed out of this life, his Nephew without any contradiction was acknowledged and obeyed for Emperor, whose name also was LEO. For as I said, his Grandfather had chosen and so appointed him to be, before his death, and he held the Empire the space of certain months: at the end of which he did a thing which seemeth strange, and breedeth admiration. Which was, that of his own accord and voluntary free will (holding it a hard case, that the father should be subject and inferior to the son) he renounced the Empire, and gave it to his father ZENO, and crowned him with his own hand, and presently did him homage. For fathers in their life time to Leo refused the Empire, and gave it to his father Zeno. give to their children their kingdoms and dignities, is a thing we have seen, and often read of; and it seemeth that there is reason to induce them thereto: but seldom hath any man ever heard, that the son would dispossess himself of a kingdom or Empire, to give it to his father. For it hath rather happened to the contrary, that the son hath bereft the father thereof by force in his life time; yea and sometimes hath wished and practised his father's death, to be his heir, and to succeed him. Therefore I say, that this accident is very strange, and the reverence and obedience of this son much to be noted. But it succeeded in this manner, that ZENO was crowned and obeyed for Emperor in Constantinople, and his son LEO remained in his former estate. To the contrary hereof, in Italy ORESTES made his son AUGUSTULUS' Emperor, not desiring or procuring it for himself. LEO having renounced the Empire and given the same to his father (as JORNANDES and other authors say) died within few days after. But PAULUS DIACONUS reporteth it after another manner: for he saith that the father sought his son's death, from which he was delivered by making himself a Priest, and so lived certain years. But howsoever it was, there is no more mention made of LEO, and his father ZENO began to rule the Empire. Going in progress to visit the same, being in Chalcedonia, the widow Empress, his wife's mother, who remained in Constantinople, repining to see ZENO Emperor, whom her husband LEO never accounted worthy of the Empire (as JORDANUS writeth) induced her brother BASILISCUS, who (as we said) overthrew GENSERICUS in a battle at sea, to take upon him the name of Emperor. And as by reason of that victory and the affinity which he had with the late Emperor LEO, he was very mighty and highly esteemed: so was he both able and willing to make himself Emperor, and for such was received; and they swore obedience unto him in Basiliscus made himself Emperor against Zeno in Constantinople. Constantinople. Which as soon as ZENO understood (whether it were through baseness of mind, or to avoid the wars and the effusion of blood which would have ensued) he took no care to make any head against him, but retired himself into Isauria, which is a very strong and guardable province in Asia the less, where he assured himself to live in security. Whereof BASILISCUS waxing proud, and very joyful, and holding himself now safe and past all danger, he made his son MARCUS, CAESAR. But his pride and joy continued but a while: Marcus made Caesar by his father Basiliscus. for as he was infected with the Nestorian heresy, so he began to persecute and afflict the Church and Catholic Christians; by means whereof (as JORDANUS and PROCOPIUS report) he grew so hateful, and was so abhorred by all sorts of people, that those Captains which he sent against ZENO, returned against himself, and by the general consent of all men Basiliscus the tyrant dispossessed, taken prisoner and banished, died in exile, together with his son and sister. ZENO was restored, and reestablished in the Empire; and he with his son MARCUS and VERINA his sister, were taken prisoners, and being banished died in exile. In this manner remained ZENO mighty and in peace, having been dispossessed of the Empire the space of eighteen months: where we will leave him, and return to speak of AUGUSTULUS the Emperor of the West, or to say better, of Italy. Whilst these things passed in the East, we told you how that ORESTES had exalted his son, and made him Emperor against NEPOS, who held his Empire in Rome, and that NEPOS Augustulus made peace with Gensericus King of the Vandals in Africa▪ Augustulus Emperor in Rome. had abandoned Italy, and AUGUSTULUS remained there: and seeing that in Italy no man durst oppose himself against him; by the advice and counsel of his father he made peace, and entered in league with GENSERICUS King of the Vandals in Africa, who was now grown old and worn with bearing arms, and even at death's door. By reason of which league, he held himself to be in great security: for of ZENO he made no account, seeing the discord between him and BASILISCUS. But his trouble and ruin sprang from whence he lest mistrusted it; for the Heruli and the Turingi, a people of which we have made mention, and which had served in the wars under ATTILA the mighty King of the Huns, and which at that time inhabited along the river of Danubius, in the furthest confines of Hungary, took for their Captain a man of their own nation called ODOACER, with a resolution to come into Italy, Odoacer king of the Heruli came into Italy. and to make a conquest thereof; seeing that no man had any right thereto, but he who was of greatest▪ power, and could best fight for it. And it was the will and pleasure of God, that as Italy had sent Captains to the conquest of all parts and nations of the world, so should Captains and men of war come from all parts and nations of the earth to make a conquest thereof. Leaving apart other accidents which by the way befell ODOACER; he being approached to the Borders of Italy, ORESTES, the father of AUGUSTULUS, sallied forth to encounter him, with an excellent Army which the father and son (having intelligence of his coming) had levied. The two Armies being comn within sight one of the other, both the Generals would have Orestes, father to Augustulus, marches against Odoacer. fought: but certain companies of ORESTES his soldiers went over unto ODOACER. Which when he perceived (reposing no firm confidence in the rest which remained) he retired in the best order he could towards Ticinum, which is now called Pavia, a City in Lombary; and ODOACER pursued him. But ORESTES, having no sufficient Army to take the field to fight with him, suffered himself to be besieged in that City. And notwithstanding that he did as much as was possible for his defence, yet the assaults given were so terrible, that the City was entered by force, after that he had defended it many days, and ORESTES taken: on whom, and the soldiers which were with him, ODOACERS soldiers executed extreme cruelty. And from thence ORESTES was carried prisoner to Placencia; where, by ODOACERS' Orestes take●… and slain by Odoacer. commandment, he was put to death. After that ODOACER had obtained this victory (as AVOUSTULUS his Empire had but a weak foundation, and less equity of his side) all things went against him, and prospered with his enemy: and so with small difficulty, and as little resistance, ODOACER took all the cities of Italy, and presently proclaimed himself Lord and King thereof. When AUGUSTULUS understood that all the towns and people took part with ODOACER, Augustulus abandoned Rome to Odoacer. he departed from Ravenna, where he than kept his Court, to go to Rome: but by the way, before he came thither, being out of hope, he voluntarily put away his Robes and Imperial Ensigns, abandoning Rome, and fled; contenting himself with the hope of saving his life, when he had reigned two years a peaceable Emperor: and so he afterwards ended his life in poverty and misery (as it is to be presumed); for, the Historiographers make no more mention of him. Rome being abandoned by AVOUSTULUS, ODOACER without any resistance possessed himself of all Italy, which he enjoyed fourteen years in great prosperity: after which we will Odoacer made himsel●… Lord of all Italy. tell you who were Lords thereof. And so in this AUGUSTULUS ended the Empire and dominion of Rome; which afterwards had no Emperor for the space of three hundred and thirty years. This happened in the year one thousand, two hundred, nine and twenty, after the building Anno 1229 after the building of Rome. Anno 529 after that julius Caesar made himself monarch of the Roman Empire. of Rome; and in the five hundred, nine and twentith after that JULIUS CAESAR made himself Tyrant and Lord thereof; and in the year four hundred, seventy and seven, after the birth of our Saviour CHRIST. In these times (as PAULUS DIACONUS and BLONDUS writ) there arose a Nobleman in England, by lineage a Roman, descended from those which in ancient time had dwelled in that Island, whose name was AMBROSE; who joining with the Britan's, the ancient Inhabitants of that Country, against the Angles, fought many battles with them: but in the end he was overthrown and slain. Whereupon, many of those Britan's resolved to abandon that Island, and in Barks and Ships (such as they could get) embarked themselves, and sailed over The Britan's abandoned England, and went over into Britanny in France into that Coast of France which for that cause is now called Britanny; where in those days dwelled a people called Veneti, Cenomanni, and others: where, sometimes by leave, and with the good will of the Inhabitants, and sometimes without it, they inhabited and possessed themselves of that Country; and have continued there ever since with so good success, that the name thereof and their language continueth there until this day, and is one of the best Provinces of all France: wherein have been mighty Princes; but, by means of sundry alterations, the French King is now Lord thereof. After this, the Emperor ZENO reigned in Constantinople, and ODOACER in Italy, some years peaceably; so as there happened not any thing in the Empire worth the writing▪ but in the end fortune turned her wheel in such manner, that ODOACER justly lost all that which he had wrongfully gotten; and one Tyrant was bereft of what he had taken from another Tyrant: which happened in such manner as we will set down. THEODORICUS, son of THEODOMIR King of the Ostrogothes, who in the time of the Emperor LEO the First had lain in hostage in Constantinople, when his father and uncle made peace with LEO, who granted unto them Austria, Hungary, and Missia, to inhabit; at this time his father THEODOMIR being dead, THEODORICUS succeeded him in the Kingdom: whereof when the Emperor ZENO was advertised, he sent Ambassadors to him; giving him to understand, that he was very glad of his succession; and therewith requested him to come to his Court, for the great desire he had to see him, and to do him honour: which THEODORICUS gladly performed, remembering the honour and good entertainment which in former time he had received in Constantinople. Wither when he came (besides that he was very solemnly received at his first coming) Theodoricus, King of the Goths, came to the Emperor Zeno's Court. he was afterwards very honourably entertained by the Emperor ZENO; who gave him Ensigns of Arms, and other honours and dignities, assigning to his people pay and perpetual pensions: and so was THEODORICUS beloved and esteemed by the Emperor & his whole Court. And, living in this manner with great contentment for a certain space; his people that came with him, and those which remained behind also in his Country, being accustomed to the wars, and to rob and spoil, and now grieved with living idle in peace, continually persuaded him, that (imitating those from whom he was descended) he should seek to make some conquest, and not to spend his life in banqueting and feasting: but principally they counselled him to sue to the Emperor to give him leave to make a Conquest of Italy, which ODOACER had taken and usurped; and they told him so many things thereof, that in the end he resolved to follow their counsel: and, finding a time and place convenient, he made a fair speech to the Emperor, entreating him to grant him what is before-said; which, Bishop JOHNANDES writes at Theodoricus made suit to the Emperor to give hi●… leave to conquer Italy from Odoacer. large in his Book of the Original and Acts of the Goths. When ZENO had heard his discourse, and understood his meaning, he was very sorry for it: for, he desired ever to have had him near to himself, and not to have suffered him to have departed; aswell for the love he bore him, as for the fear and doubt which he ever had of the Goths. But seeing his resolution, after counsel taken with the Senate, he was of opinion that he might well grant him (as he requested) the conquest of Italy; considering that the Empire had lost it, and that it was now in the power of ODOACER; wherefore it were better that a King which was a friend and a confederate should possess the same, than another; and if he did not accomplish his conquest, yet it was a means to weaken both their forces; of which the Empire stood in fear, having been oftentimes molested by them. When the Emperor had made this Grant, and confirmed the same by public instruments, THEODORICUS took his leave, and went into Hungary and into Missia, where his people inhabited: there he gathered together the best and choicest men of war he was able for this enterprise, and began to march forwards with his Army; but by the way he was hindered and encountered by certain Kings and barbarous people which were the remnant of ATTILA his troops: so as by that time he came into Italy, he was well trained in the wars, and his soldiers were accustomed to vanquish. ODOACER, who some days before was advertised of his coming, had levied a very great Army, and had assembled together the people of that country; whom he persuaded to aid him, and to defend themselves. When THEODORICUS was arrived in Italy, he encamped himself by a river's side called Theodoricus entered Italy, & Odoacer went to encounter him Sonzu, near to the ruins of old Aquileia, to refresh his Army in those fertile fields. As soon as ODOACER heard of his coming (as he lay in wait for him in those Marches) he drew so near with his Army, that in short space they came to a battle (which THEODORICUS with great courage offered, and ODOACER refused not: for, it seemed that both the Commanders desired the same); which was one of the most cruel and bloody that hath been seen: for, A battle betwixt Odoacer and Theodoricus. Odoacer was overthrown by Theodoricus. the Commanders and soldiers of either side were very valiant; and the one fought to win a Kingdom, fame and honour, and the other fought to preserve all these. The Fight lasted a great part of the day; and, after great slaughter, and effusion of much blood on either side, THEODORICUS obtained the victory, and ODOACER was feign to flee when he had done all that was possible for him to maintain the Fight. And although ODOACER lost this battle, yet he lost neither courage nor hope to defend himself: but, gathering together the remainder of those which escaped from the battle, he raised new forces; and, again taking the Field near to the City of Verona, returned to fight with THEODORICUS, who followed him thither: and the two Kings came the second time to battle, which was no less cruel than the first; for, this was the last of ODOACER'S hope: but he was again overthrown; for, those supplies which came to his aid forsook him, and he lost great part of his Army fight; and afterwards Odoacer overcome the second time by Theodoricus. in his flight passing the river Po, many of his people were drowned. In this flight ODOACER never stayed till he came to Rome: where he thought to have gathered a new head, and there to have resisted his enemies; but they would not receive him: for, seeing that he had been twice overthrown, they had no hope or confidence in him; but sought to gratify THEODORICUS, so as the City was in Arms: wherefore ODOACER returned, and with the best forces he was able to gather together, put himself into Ravenna. THEODORICUS for that time forbore to pursue him; but went to Milan and took it, with other cities in that quarter: whereupon, many cities in Italy sent to him to yield their obedience, and many companies of soldiers came to serve him in his wars. In the mean season ODOACER Wars in Italy between Odoacer and Theodoricus. fortified himself with arms, men, and victuals, thinking at the lest to have been able to defend himself in Ravenna, which at that time (after Rome) was the principal city of all Italy. THEODORICUS being in a rediness to besiege it, there followed so sudden an alteration, as he neither could, neither durst to stay before it: for by the procurement of one of ODOACER'S Captains, who was either a precedent or admiral of some part of Italy, many Captains, towns, and people again took part with ODOACER; and they grew to so great a head, that THEODORICUS was in such fear, as he put himself into Pavia, and many days passed before that he drew his Army again to field, so as neither ODOACER came to seek him, nor he ODOACER. Within few months after, they made frontier wars: and THEODORICUS, recovering forces, committed his Mother and Sisters to the keeping of EPIPHANIUS Bishop of Pavia, and went to Ravenna (wherein ODOACER lay) and laid Theodoricus besieged Odoacer in Ravenna. siege thereto: but ODOACER so manfully defended the same, that in three years space (for so long the siege lasted) he not only made head against THEODORICUS, but made so many sallies upon him, and gave him so many alarms, as he never suffered his Army to rest. But in the end wanting victuals, and out of hope of any relief, having first tried all means both to offend and defend, and seeing it availed not, he resolved to yield to THEODORICUS, upon condition that he should give him assurance of his life, with promise to allow him some place in Italy, wherein he might live; which promise was ill performed: for he commanded both him and his son to be slain: and so ended the life and reign of ODOACER, which cannot justly Odoacer slain by the commandment of Theodoricus. be termed, cowardly. ODOACER being dead, the remainder of his Army of Heruli, which escaped from the battle, were entertained by THEODORICUS, and he gave them pay, and in short space made himself Lord of all Italy, finding not any resistance; afterwards he went to Rome, where he was received with great joy and solemnity, as well for the fame and good report which they had heard of him, as for that he was sent thither by the Emperor ZENO. And this moreover did greatly help him to get the good will of the city; that at his very first coming thither, he caused a great quantity of wheat to be distributed amongst the citizens, whereof they then stood in great need: And so he remained Lord of Rome, and of all Italy, calling himself king Theodoricus went to Rome and made himself Lord thereof and of all Italy. thereof, as ODOACER had done, thirteen years before. This THEODORICUS was a very virtuous, just, and a most excellent Prince and governor, and made himself very mighty, and much beloved and feared: but above all, he was very wise and circumspect in preserving his estate. And to the end to make himself the more mighty, he procured alliance with all the kings then in Europe: for he presently treated a marriage with ANDEFREDA the French Kings daughter, which he solemnised with great feasting and triumph. And of his own three daughters, one he married to SIGISMOND King of the Burgonians; and another to ALARICUS King of the Visogothes, and of Spain; and The alliance and league made by Theodoricus. his third daughter called AMALASIUNTHA, he married to a Prince of Germany called EUTHARICUS; and his sister ALMAFREDA he married to HONORICUS King of the Vandals and of Africa, who was GENSERICUS his heir and successor. So as with all the Princes near unto Italy, he made some affinity and league of friendship, and held that kingdom, which with such honour he had conquered, with no less honour, the space of thirty years. Whilst these things passed in Italy, ZENO the Emperor of Constantinople and of the East, had somewhat to do with the Bulgarians, who ever since the death of ATTILA had inhabited What befell the Emperor Zeno in Constantinople. Germany, and had made an incursion into the province of Thracia, and done much harm in that country: but they quickly returned to their habitation. In Constantinople also happened a great fire, which burned a great part of that city. There befell unto ZENO also another great disaster, plotted by a favourite of his, who was steward of his palace, whose name was YLLOS', The treachery of Yllos against the Empress Ariadne. which was thus: This YLLOS' made the Emperor believe (though unjustly) that his wife the Empress, whose name was ARIADNE, daughter to the Emperor LEO, lived dishonestly; and so ZENO being deluded, commanded her secretly to be slain. And he to whom the charge of the execution was committed, revealed the secret to a young gentlewoman of the Empress' chamber; who presently advertised her Lady thereof. And she at the very instant without any delay, fled from the palace in the closest manner she could, leaving her in her chamber, which had advertised her thereof, and went to the house of ACACIUS then Bishop of Constantinople. The Emperor the next day, assuring himself that his commandment had been effected, clad himself in mourning attire, feigning that his wife had died naturally. But presently the Bishop, came unto him: who with great authority severely reprehended his lightness and hasty resolutions; advertising him of his wife's innocence; and that her accusation was untrue. Finally, he handled the matter so well, as he persuaded him of the truth, and reconciled By what means the Empress was delivered from death. him to his wife, and made a perfect peace between them. But the Empress ARIADNE, after that she understood that it was YLLOES which had accused her, as a woman would be revenged, and commanded a certain man, whom she held fit for that purpose, to kill him; who the better to bring his purpose to effect, lay in wait for him: and purposing to have stricken him upon the head, his blow failed, and it happened unto him as to S. PETER: for missing his head, he smote off one of his ears, and so he escaped. And daring not to remain in the Emperor ZENO'S Court, he resolved to commit a greater treason than the former; which was to go into Asia, and there to rise and rebel, with a great part of the East: which he might easily do, for he was very cunning and of great account; and ZENO for his conditions was in those parts very ill beloved. But he speedily sent a good Army against him under the leading of a Captain called LEONCIUS: but this YLLO used such means and persuasions to LEONCIUS, as he did the like: and so of one tyrant there arose two, which made themselves Lords of a great part of Asia the less. But within few days after, the Imperial Army which had Leoncius conspired with Yllos, and both were slain by their soldiers. conspired with them, after that the soldiers were grown rich by spoil and booty, repenting their errors, and to obtain pardon, upon a day mutined and slew them both, and brought their heads to Constantinople. And so was ZENO freed from this trouble and revolt, and lived the remainder of his time in rest and peace: notwithstanding that he put certain Noblemen to death without any just cause. All these things being past, in the seventeenth year of his reign ZENO died of a natural death in Constantinople. It is written of him that he was exceedingly ill The death of Zeno. favoured and deformed, and of a loathsome aspect and gesture. He is not reckoned among the good Emperors; and it is also said of him, that he would sometimes be drunk. He died in the year of our Lord four hundred, fourscore and fourteen. THE LIFE OF ANASTASIUS, THE FIRST OF THAT NAME, AND SEVEN AND FIFTITH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. ZEno being dead, Anastasius was chosen, who was greatly favoured by the Empress: to whom she was married, at the end of forty days after the Obsequys of her dead Husband. This man, finding all things in peace, in the beginning of his reign did many good deeds: but he suddenly altered his condition, and being spotted with the heresy of Eutiches or Euticetus, which made a quaternity of the Divinity, he began to grow hateful to God and men; and many countries rebelled against him. Against which putting himself in order to fight (although that he overcame many of the Rebels) nevertheless he was once brought to such an extremity, as he was driven shamefully to buy his peace with money; and afterwards the Persians', rising against him, gave him many crosses in sundry battles: but finally he made a truce with them, and during the time of the truce, he was slain by a thunderbolt from heaven. ZENO had not any son that might succeed him in the Empire: wherefore, after his death some of the chiefest Lords procured themselves to be chosen; among which was this ANASTASIUS: who although he were not of any Noble Family, yet he was a man of great reputation, and well beloved. By reason whereof, and also for that he was in great favour with the widow Empress, he was chosen Emperor, with the aid and assistance of Anastasius chosen Emperor. an Eunuch, called VRBICIUS, who was of great authority in the Court. And ARIADNE did not only procure his election aforesaid, but within forty days after the obsequies of her dead husband were solemnised, and his body entombed, she married with the new Emperor: and by this mean obtain●…d ANASTASIUS the Empire. In the beginning whereof, without any contradiction, but with the general contentment of all men, he was obeyed: and he not only found the Empire in peace, but there was peace also in Italy, France, Spain, Grermanie, and Africa; they governing those kingdoms as their own, who were successors to them which first usurped and took them from the Empire; notwithstanding that shortly after there arose great wars between them. THEODORICUS, who was called King of Italy, made choice of the city of Ravenna for his royal seat; which was by him ennobled with sumptuous buildings: and in his absence he commanded the like to be made in Rome, and did much good through all Italy, directing all things like a good and an excellent Prince; in so much as the people praised God for him, and held themselves happy, in that they had so good a man for their Lord and governor. But returning to our new Emperor; as soon as he was crowned, he commanded by a public decree that all such debts as were due to his chamber of accounts, or as we say, his exchequer, until that day, should be pardoned, and not be recovered from the debtors; which amounted to a very great sum. He began also to give offices and places of charge to such persons as were of worth, and sufficient for them, and not for money (as the custom was) by reason of late wants. By means whereof and of other apparent signs of a good prince, in the beginning of his reign, he was very well beloved. But this lasted but a while: for he was infected with the heresy of EUTICHES; who held an abominable opinion of the person of The heresy of Eutiches. CHRIST. And for as much as nothing can be of any assurance, or acceptable without faith; this Emperor began to grow secretly hateful to God, and publicly odious to men; and so although that he died old, yet he died an evil death: And in his life he was never free from tyrants which rebelled; and other wars and troubles. The first which rebelled, were the people of Isauria (a very valiant nation in Asia the less) the occasion whereof was, for that he took, from them, that pay which his predecessor ZENO had promised, and given them, when he subdued the tyrant ILLOS, who (as we said) falsely defamed the Empress. This nation making choice of a valiant and expert soldier, whose name was LILINGUS for their Lilingus rebelled in Isauria against Anastasius. captain; made cruel wars upon the lands of the Empire, for the space of six years. In which time, between the soldiers of ANASTASIUS and of LILINGUS, there happened some battles, and many conflicts and skirmishes; until that LILINGUS dying, the Isaurians being scattered, and lost through want of a captain, were cruelly punished, and many cities were ruined, and laid waste, as relateth JORDANUS the Bishop: who although briefly, yet he expresseth the greatest part of that history. There arose also against ANASTASIUS, another captain in Cilicia, at the same instant, Athemidorus, Sabianus, Mundo, and Pompey, Tyrants. called ATHEMIDORUS, but he was soon brought to ruin. In Slavonia and Dalmatia, rebelled two mighty men and very rich, called SABIANUS and MUNDO: and near to Adrianople another whose name was POMPEY: and within the city of Constantinople, were certain tumults and insolences committed, wherein many men were slaines. By reason of all which rebellions, ANASTASIUS was much perplexed; and being in great fear, he came to some compositions (little to his honour) and lost sundry towns. Being freed from this trouble, he had another civil war, which was of great importance and long continuance, against a valiant soldier, a Scythian borne; but trained and broughtt up in the wars of the Romans, and in the Emperor's house, and court: he was high constable, or commander of his men of war, and was called VATILIANUS; who either of ambition and desire to be absolute, or for some displeasure or discontentment (which historiographers writ not) rebelled against ANASTASIUS; and with threescore thousand men, which he levied, of Huns, and other nations, began cruel war against him, both by sea and land; so as sometimes he came within three miles of the imperial city of Constantinople. Against whom the Emperor raised a great Army, and made his nephew HIPATIAS General thereof; who before he could come to fight any battle, Hypatias made General against Vatilianus. by a wile was taken prisoner by the Huns, and delivered into the power of VATILIANUS: After which, the Emperors other captains were overthrown; so as the war continued six years: and in the end thereof, the Emperor bought his peace of VATILIANUS, for a great sum of money which he gave him, and so was delivered from the peril, although not from the disgrace and dishonour of buying peace. In this war (as writeth ZONARA'S) called JOANNES MONACHUS (as relateth JOHANNES CUSPINIANUS) ANASTASIUS Proclus, an excellent Philosopher. was greatly assisted by the skill and industry of PROCLUS, an excellent philosopher and Mathematician, who was most skilful in inventing instruments, engines and stratagems. Among other matters, they report one thing of him, which seemeth incredible, which I dare neither affirm, nor deny, but will recite it for a wonder, let the reader believe what he listeth; yet I say that the secrets of nature are so great, as we aught not to hold all for impossible which we cannot comprehend how it may be brought to pass. That which I say, these authors writ for certain, which was, that as we now see certain glasses, which being set in the sun, with the reflection of the beams thereof will set tow or flax on fire, and such like other dry stuff near at hand: so did this PROCLUS make a very great many of these glasses, which wrought Wonderful burning glasses. effect with such force as being set upon the high turrets of the walls and bulwarks, they set on fire and burnt whole fleets of ships in the harbour, with all the people that were in them; and in like manner any other engines that were erected against the walls, wheresoever they were (if the sunbeams might reverberate from those glasses) wherewith the enemy was greatly annoyed, which was done in the same manner as we now see tow set on fire. Whilst these things passed in the Empire of Constantinople, there were great wars between the King of France, and Spain, and THEODORICUS King of Italy: which for that they are long to recite, and nothing to my purpose, I omit. But returning to our Emperor, who seemed now to be at some rest, being freed from war with VATILIANUS; there happened another war with the Persians', which was of as great importance, and no less perilous, the cause whereof was this. At that time in Persia reigned a King both mighty and valiant, whose name was CAVADAS; who by reason of Cavadas king of Persia. wars and other expenses, stood in need of a sum of money, therewith to pay a certain King which was his neighbour to whom he was indebted: which by ambassage he requested the Emperor ANASTASIUS to lend him, as to a friend and confederate (as he then was). But ANASTASIUS taking counsel upon the matter, was advised not to grant it, for that it was a mean with his own money to join in league of amity and friendship, those which were the ancient enemies of the Empire: and that therefore the best course was to take away the mean from the Persian, to be able to make payment; to the end that they might make war one against another, and so waste and consume themselves. And in this manner it was concluded, in the best for that might be, to excuse the matter, without granting what the King requested. The King of Persia having received this answer, was so extremely enraged therewith, as he resolved to make war against the Roman Empire: and putting his determination in execution, levying a great Army, and making great preparation for the wars, he personally entered the limits and confines thereof, and made cruel wars, and encamped him●…elfe before the city of Amida, which was then a great and a famous city in the province of Mesopotamia, as writeth PROCOPIUS, before which were many conflicts: but in the Wars with the Persians'. end the Persian took it, and held the same for some space. As he lay before this city, ANASTASIUS raised the greatest Army that ever he had before; which he divided into four parts, and sent the same under the command of four Generals, against CAVADUS: Anastasius his Generals against the king of Persia. Ariovindus, Patricius, Celer, and Hipatias. whose names were ARIOVINDUS, who then was Praetor in the East; and CELER, the Captain of the Emperor's guard; and another was called PATRICIUS borne in Phrygia; and the fourth was HIPATIAS, who was the Emperor's Nephew, as is before said. And with these went other great men: as JUSTINUS who afterwards was Emperor, and some other noble and and expert men in the wars. These Armies marched by several ways, and directed not their course to relieve Amida; but to make war in sundry parts of CAVADAS his kingdoms. He being advertised of their coming, went to meet with ARIOVINDUS; who behaved himself so cowardly, as not daring to fight, he retired very shamefully, and left his campefull of many rich things, and of great value, which were taken by the Persians', who had them in chase, and pursued the Imperial Army. The other two Generals, to wit, PATRICIUS and HIPATIAS, joining their forces together, being near the enemy, began the war, without any certain knowledge where the King was, after the retreat, or rather flight of ARIOVINDUS; and they by chance met with eight hundred horse of his, the King being but a little behind them with a very mighty Army: who putting themselves in order for their defence, were all slain and cut in pieces, without any news learned of them by the Romans: and they having no sight of CAVADAS his troops, pitched their tents upon a river's side; the currant whereof ran directly that way as CAVIDAS came, and so they began to victual and refresh themselves, of their weary journey; and went into the water, and did fetch water out of the said river. And as CAVADAS and his Captains saw the water come down troubled, bringing therewith other things which seemed to be lately thrown into it, they suspected as it was; whereupon CAVADAS in all haste commanded his Army to march in order ready to fight. Which came so suddenly Cavadas his victory against Anastasius his Captains. upon the Imperialists, that before they could range themselves in order, they were broken and overthrown: and the most part of all these careless Captains were slain, except some which escaped by flight. And without question if at this time the Huns had not come down out of Scythia Asiatica, and with great power had not made war upon the Persians', which diverted CAVADAS his thoughts into other parts, and made him return into his country, to take order for the defence thereof, he had after this overthrow done great spoils in the Empire. But he upon this occasion retiring himself, there came in good time the fourth Captain called CELER, with his Imperial Army, who began in better order and more advisedly to follow the wars: and gathering together those troops which ARIOVINDUS had left (for he himself was commanded by ANASTASIUS to come to Constantinople) and joining with PATRICIUS the Captain which escaped, they besieged the City of Amida, which the Persians' had taken; and after a long siege, they got it by a wile. This most cruel war continuing two years, with great slaughter and loss to either side; and the Persians' being A truce with the Persians' for 〈◊〉 years. much distressed by the Huns, and other nations which with them entered their countries, a truce was concluded with the Empire for seven years. Afterwards, the time of the truce being expired, ANASTASIUS commanded a city to be built in Mesopo●…amia, which he called after his own name, Anastasia: wherewith the Persians' were much displeased. But they were so oppressed by the Huns, as they durst not break with the Emperor, and so the peace continued during the life of ANASTASIUS, wherewith he was well content: for in the wars he had lost both many men and much reputation; and being (as we said) infected with the heresy of EUTICHES, he reigned in great trouble. In the end when he lest thought thereof, The death of the Emperor Anasta●…ius, slain by a thunderbolt. when he had reigned seven and twenty years, a Thunderbolt fell from heaven which slew hi●…, in the year of our Lord, five hundred and nineteen, leaving not any son that might succeed him. THE LIFE OF JUSTINUS, FIRST OF THAT NAME, AND EIGHT AND FIFTITH EMPEROR of ROME. AFter ANASTASIUS JUSTINUS EUROPALATES succeeded in the Empire. And truly it is a wonderful thing to consider from how base an estate, and from how poor a The parentage and course of life of justinus before he was Emperor. beginning he mounted to so high a dignity; and of the ways and means whereby he attained thereto. Which for an example of the strange adventures and variable accidents in this life, I hold worthy to be related in such sort as it happened. This JUSTINUS was borne in Thracia (yet some say, that he was of Slavonia, or Dalmatia) of poor and simple parentage; so as from his infancy he was bred up in keeping of beasts. But as it pleased God in his secret judgement, to ordain him to reign and rule, to some good end; he inspired him to leave that base kind of life: so as at the age of seventeen years he went to the wars, with a resolution to continued in the exercise of Arms. And he proved so worthy a soldier, that within short space he purchased the name of Valiant, and fought oftentimes with great dexterity and courage, with his enemies in single combats man to man; and in all occasions made good proof of his person. Wherhfore within short time he was made a Captain, and within a while after an Earl; which (as is already said) at that time was, and still is, a great dignity. In that estate was he when ANASTASIUS died, being now well grown in years: And as presently after his decease the Lords began to consult whom they should make Emperor; a great Courtier named AMANTIUS, who was an Eunuch, and had been the Emperor's Steward, and was now the best moneyed man of his time, sought by all means to make a great and mighty man, called THEOCRETIANUS, who was his great friend, Emperor. And for as much as the Army and men of war bore greatest sway in Amantius sought to get the Empire for his friend Theocretianus. the election (for, now nothing was done in such order as it behoved, but by force and for benefi●…) he therefore determined to buy the good wills of the Captains and men of war. And to this effect he purposed first to win JUSTINUS, and to use him for a mean to persuade the rest; and conferred with him concerning the same. And, coming to a composition, he gave him a great sum of money, to the end he should divide the same among the Captains and men of war where he thought good; conditionally that THEOCRETIANUS might be chosen Emperor. When JUSTINUS had gotten this money into his fingers, he forgot to deal for THEOCRETIANUS, but secretly sought to buy their good wills for himself; and carried the matter The means where by justinus got the Empire. so cunningly, that when AMANTIUS thought that the soldiers would have made his friend Emperor, he found that they had nominated and would have JUSTINUS. And in this manner they presently swore fidelity and obedience to him, by the general consent both of the Senate and Army: for besides what is already said, he was well beloved, and held for a virtuous man, and a good Christian. AMANTIUS seeing himself deluded, although for the present he could not refuse to yield him obedience, yet shortly after he practised the death of the new Emperor, and conspired with THEOCRETIANUS, who pretended to have been chosen Emperor; and with another called ANDREAS, and with MISSAHALE and ARDABURIUS (all which were of the Emperor's chamber) to the end they should kill him as soon as any opportunity were offered. But it pleased God that their treason was discovered; and, it being proved, JUSTINUS commanded AMANTIUS, ANDREAS and THEOCRETIANUS, to be slain; and the rest to be perpetually banished. And, the better to assure himself in the Empire, he used a mean that VATILIANUS, who rebelled against ANASTASIUS, came to Court; whom he made ordinary Consul, and General of all his men of war, and bestowed great gifts and honours upon him. But, for all this, he (as ingrateful, and a Traitor) within few days practised with some others against the life and estate of JUSTINUS: which being discovered, he was upon a day The treason and death of Vatilianus. slain in his Palace, together with PAULUS and CELERIANUS, who were confederates and complices with him in his treason. JUSTINUS being freed from this danger, and seeing himself in peace in the Empire, being a good Christian, and knowing how far the Arrian heresy had extended itself over the world, resolved to use therein all the remedy that possibly he could: whereto he was likewise persuaded by Pope HORMISDA, who from Rome sent GERMANUS, Bishop of Capra, to confer with him of matters concerning the faith. Whereupon JUSTINUS sent his decrees throughout all the East, commanding that no man should be accepted into the Church for Bishop or justinus the Emperor persecuted the Arrians. Priest, that should be of the sect of ARRIUS. At what time JUSTINUS did this good deed, TRASIMUND King of the Vandals died in Africa, who was an Arrian Heretic; and his son ELDERICUS possessed his Kingdom, whom he had by the Emperor VALENTINIAN'S daughter. This man, following his faithful mother, and not his heretical father, as soon as he was established in the Kingdom, recalled from exile all the Catholic Bishops which his father had banished (as is abovesaid), and reform all the Churches. But the Emperor and this King having done so good a deed, THEODORICUS, who ruled in Italy, being of great power, and for that he was (as the most of the Goths were) an Arrian Heretic, was therewith much displeased; resolving, if the Emperor did not revoke his decree, to use through all his dominion all manner of cruelty against the Catholics. But first he constrained Pope JOHN, who succeeded HORMISDA, to go to Constantinople, and with him THEODORUS and AGAPETUS (men who had been Consuls) to treat with the Emperor, to the end he should presently restore those Arrian Bishops which he had deposed; otherwise that in his dominions he would put to the sword all such as did not believe as he did. Pope JOHN and the other Ambassadors being arrived at Constantinople, were very honourably received; and the Pope with tears entreated the Emperor to be pleased, notwithstanding that his suit was unjust; yet to avoid the excessive cruelty which was expected, for the present, to Theodoricus King of the Goths defended the Arrians. permit the Arrian Bishops to be restored. The Emperor to eschew this cruelty, granted his request: and so the wicked Bishops were restored to their Churches; and the Emperor did Pope JOHN great honour, and those which came with him. In the mean time, whilst they were in Constantinople, THEODORICUS King of Italy, made SIMACHUS, and BOETIUS SEVERINUS to be slain, who had been Consuls, and were very Noble and excellent personages, very devout Christians, and excellently learned in all Arts. And not herewith content, having been until then a good and a just Prince; having Pope JOHN and the other Ambassadors which came with him from Constantinople in suspicion, by reason of the great honour done unto them by the Emperor, he commanded them to be apprehended and cast in prison; where they all three died of hunger and cruel usage. After which cruelty, it pleased The cruelty of Theodoricus, and his death. God that within ninety days he died suddenly, leaving a Nephew of his, called ATHALARICUS for his heir: for he had not any son. And for as much as his Nephew was but eight years old, his mother took upon her the government of the Kingdom, as a woman who was very wise and valiant. Returning to JUSTINUS the Emperor; It grieved him much for that which THEODORICUS had done: but he was not of powerable to redress the same; for, besides the wants and necessi●…ieses wherewith he was oppressed, the Persians' made wars against him, which was a Nation, of all others, most feared by the Romans. But for the small time that he lived, he had good success in those wars, and his Captains obtained some victories; SCITA and BELISARIUS being his Generals. Of which two, BELISARIUS (who then was very young) proved afterwards to be one of the best Captains in the world, and which conquered more countries, and obtained more victories, than any other man in his time: as we will hereafter briefly declare. JUSTINE, living in this prosperity, seeing himself old, and without any son to succeed him, resolved to make JUSTINIAN, who was his Nephew and his sister's son, CAESAR; and to adopt and nominate him for his successor; and so presently made him his companion in the Empire. And within four months after, falling sick, he died in the City of Constantinople, when he had reigned eleven years, or (as some Authors writ) but The death of the Emperor justin nine. I find little more written of him, then by me is rehearsed. He died in the year of our Lord, 529; and, as some say, 28. THE LIFE OF JUSTINIANUS, FIRST OF THAT NAME, AND NINE AND FIFTITH EMPEROR of ROME. THE ARGUMENT. AFter justinus, without any contradiction, succeeded justinianus, who amongst his first attempts, made one against the Persians', under the leading of Belisarius; whom with variable fortune of the wars, in the end he overcame: Yet he made a peace with them afterwards. After this, there followed a civil war in Constantinople, wherein justinian was likely to have sped but ill; but by means of Belisarius, he was freed; notwithstanding there died therein many thousands; which being ended, he returned to make a conquest of Africa, which of long time had been usurped by the Vandals; and getting it, he came again to Constantinople, where justinian prepared him a triumph. But it was not long before the Emperor sent him into Italy against the Goths, where after many changes of fortune, and treaties of peace, and of truce, having taken the City of Naples (wherein as it seemed consisted the principal hope of the Goths) he took his way towards Room, where he peaceably entered, and defended the same, with great valour, against Vitiges King of the Goths; whom Belisarius at last took prisoner. After this victory justinian recalled Belisarius, to employ him against the Persians', which was the occasion that Italy again fell into the hands of the Goths, particularly Rome, which by Totila was burnt and destroyed: and that for no other defect, but for that it could not be relieved by Belisarius, who then was sick. Who as soon as he had recovered his health, took it again from the Barbarians. And returning to Constantinople, the state of Italy was very happily governed by Narses an Eunuch. In which time justinian having applied himself to reform and abridge the Laws; when he had reigned nine and thirty years, departed this life, no less replenished with years then full of glory. AFter the death of JUSTINUS, JUSTINIANUS was without any contradiction received and obeyed for Emperor; being of the age of four and forty years. He was a powerful and a good Prince, and such a one, as might well be compared with the best in ancient time, for his good government, both in peace and war. The wars and conquests which happened in his time (which was little less than forty years) were so many, and so noble, that I cannot express the same as I would, and they deserve; following my accustomed brevity. I will therefore writ as I may; notwithstanding that the length of the time, and the variety of accidents, will compel me to exceed my prefixed limits. As soon as JUSTINIANUS saw himself confirmed in the Empire, he was not contented to preserve that which he inherited from his Uncle; but (bearing the mind and having the judgement of an ancient and good Emperor) he began to desire, and therewith to practise, to enlarge the Empire, and to reduce the same (if it were possible) to the ancient majesty and dignity. The first occasion of wars that was offered, was against The beginning of the 〈◊〉 between the ●…mperor justinian and the Persians the Persians'; who in the time of his predecessors, had broken and violated the peace, invaded the bounds of the Roman Empire, and usurped certain countries and Provinces thereof: in so much (as PROCOPIUS writeth) that for the space of fifty years before the reign of JUSTINIAN, in all the wars the Imperialists commonly had the worst, and all conclusions of peace were made to the advantage of the Persians'. The cause of this war between the Emperor JUSTINIAN, and CAVADAS King of Persia, was in truth the emulation and hatred which these two Empires, and the Lords thereof, had of ancient time borne, and still did bear the one against the other, which was continually nourished and increased, as by that which we have written may plainly appear. But the occasion and principal cause was this, JUSTINIANUS, as soon as he was Emperor, sent BELISARIUS, an excellent Captain, into those frontiers, with direction, in a certain city, which was on the borders of Persia, to build the strongest and most inexpugnable Castle that could be devised, for that City was one of the entries and passages of greatest importance: which order BELISARIUS presently put in execution. Whereof when CAVADAS was advertised, he was highly offended, and presently sent Captains and men of war, to require BELISARIUS to give over the work, which if he would not do; that then they should throw down what he had built. These men being come to the place where this Castle was a building, there passed many words, and some deeds between them: and for as much as the builders were not of force sufficient to make resistance against the Persians', the Emperor sent thither two Captains, brothers, with some companies of soldiers. These being arrived, and the Imperialists persisting in their building, and the Persians' in hindering the same, they came to fight a battle, wherein the Imperialists being fewer in number, were by the Persians' defeated and overthrown, and many were slain, others were carried away captives, and the building was laid level with the earth. When JUSTINIAN understood of this overthrow, he presently made BELISARIUS' General of all his forces in the East; who as a wise and valiant man, with all expedition raised a very Belisarius made General●… against the Persians'. mighty Army; and taking to him another Captain called HERMOGENES (whom the Emperor with a good supply had sent unto him) he took his way towards the City of Duras, in Mesopotamia, which at that time was the frontier of the Persians'; where began a cruel war between the one and the other Nation. But as JUSTINIAN, seeking to employ his time in recovering some other Provinces which the Empire had lost, desired peace with the Persians', he sent an Ambassador called RUFINUS, to CAVADAS King of Persia, to treat of a peace (if upon honourable conditions it might be concluded). This Ambassador being comn into the Borders where the King was, before that he was to come to his Court certain motions were made of peace: and as they treated thereof, the Imperial Generals were given to understand, that the Persian Army came to seek them, and was within half a day's journey, and had for General thereof a great man called PEROZAS, who was a Mirranes; which was the name of a Magistrate, of great dignity and authority in Persia. Perozas, General for the King of Persia. Whereupon BELISARIUS set his troops in order; and the two Camps came to lodge near one to the other: and so they continued the space of two or three days, ranging themselves every day in order of battle; either party expecting when the other should charge. Upon one of those days certain Archers of the one and other side began to skirmish: whereupon, the squadrons moved and broke the one upon the other; and fought in such manner, that it was a very cruel and a bloody battle, which lasted till near night: wherein the Romans in the right A battle with the Persians', wherein Belizarius had the victory. wing had the worse, and the better in the left; and every Captain did his best to obtain the victory: but in the end the Romans prevailed, and made great slaughter of their enemies; and PEROZAS the Mirranes escaped by flight. BELIZARIUS, having obtained this notable victory, within few days after recovered some places in Mesopotamia, which the Persians' had usurped; wherein also passed sundry doubtful conflicts and encounters. In the Kingdom of Armenia, wherein the Persians' held many places, SITTAS being General, and DOROTHEUS Praetor, the wars were followed Sittas', General for justinian in Armenia, overcame the Persians'. with the like good fortune; and the Imperial Army, obtaining victory, recovered most part of what was lost. The wars standing in these terms, and kindled every where, RVEINUS (who we said went Ambassador to the King of Persia) upon safe conduct came to his Court, and had many treaties and discourses with him; but no peace could be concluded: and CAVADAS, resolving to prosecute the wars anew, to be satisfied for the losses which his people had received; by the counsel of ALAMANDER, a valiant old Captain of his (who in times past had gotten many victories against the Romans) he made EZARETHA, General of his Army, Ezaretha, General of the Persians'. a man both valiant and of great experience, and a Persian born. With whom, BELISARIUS, together with SITTAS' the other General, after some encounters, came to a battle; which was one of the cruelest and greatest of all that happened in those wars. This battle was fought near to the River Euphrates, and much against the opinion of BELISARIUS; who, knowing that the enemy had the advantage, would not have fought: but his troops against his will prepared themselves. Whereupon he, seeing their resolution, marshalled and encouraged them against the Persians', which were already in order. And the fight began with so great fury and obstinacy on both sides, that for the greatest part of the day it appeared not whether party should have the victory; until such time as the Imperialists, being unable any longer to endure the toil thereof, for they were fasting, being Easter Even (Christians of our A cruel battle. Age may see how inviolably fasting days were observed in those times) they disbanded, and began to scatter. Whereupon the Persian horsemen charged BELIZARIUS his horse-troops with such force, that the Romans broke, and began to flee, and the like did the other squadrons of foot. Which when BELIZARIUS perceived, after that he had used all means to stay them, and to have renewed the Fight, and could not prevail, he alighted from his horse, and placed himself in a squadron of footmen, which kept together whole and unbroken; and, encouraging them with his presence, they all resolved rather to die than to be overthrown. And EZARETHA and the Persians', which followed the chase of those which fled, seeing that squadron to remain whole, returned with great fury, thinking easily to have had the execution of them: but they failed of their purpose, for they kept themselves so close together, that they could not be broken; and fought so valiantly, that they did the Persians' more harm than they received from them; and so til night held their ground, and kept themselves in such order, that EZARETHA and his men were feign to leave them: but they had the ransacking of their tents, and so returned to their Camp. BELISARIUS in very good order withdrew himself to a little Island, which the river Euphrates maketh in that place; whither the greatest pa●… of his soldiers which fled, were already retired. And there the next day he again set himself in order, and gathered together his soldiers: but the Persians', holding themselves for victorious, had the spoil of the Field. After this journey EZARETHA removed his Camp to another quarter: for, there he had received greater loss than BELISARIUS; insomuch that CAVADAS King of Persia, understanding what number of men were lost in that battle, held not himself content, nor for well served in that victory. And dying shortly after, his son COSROES succeeded him in his Kingdom: with whom, after many embassies and treaties, a peace was concluded; Cavadas King of Persia dying, his son Cosroes succeeded. and BELISARIUS reconquered other Countries, which other nations held in the East. Thus much honoured and victorious, being sent for by the Emperor JUSTINIAN for the wars in Africa, SITTAS remaining General, he came to Constantinople; where he was received in triumph with great solemnity. This being past, within few days after there fell so great an uproar and tumult in the City of Constantinople, that it was likely to have go ill with JUSTINIANUS: for, this tumult in the A great tumult in Constantinople beginning, growing from the factions of the common people, came to that point, that IPATIUS and POMPEY brethren, the chief men of that City, with the favour of the people which took their part, they being the Emperor ANASTASIUS sisters sons, rebelled against JUSTINIAN; and IPATIUS took the Ensigns and name of Emperor: and the war was so Ipatius rebelled in Constantinople, and was slain by justinian. cruel within the City, that 30 thousand persons were slain. But in the end IPATIUS was taken and slain, and IVSTINIAN'S troops remained victors: wherein BELISARIUS did him great service above all others. Afterwards (punishing such as were offenders, and confisking their goods) the conspiracies and troubles were all appeased; and JUSTINIAN lived more in peace, and in better estimation, than ever before. But soon after followed the wars of Africa; the occasion whereof grew through the dissension between GENSERICUS his nephews, the first King of the Vandals that ever reigned in Africa, which happened after this manner: YLDERICUS, one of the nephews of GENSERICUS, succeeding in that Kingdom, being in contention with another who was his cousin german, and nephew also to GENSERICUS, The occasion of the conquest of Africa against Gilimer, King thereof. whose name was GILIMER: both which pretended to have title to the Kingdom, upon what occasion for brevity I will omit; This YLDERICUS grew to be so negligent, that GILIMER (who was both wise and valiant) took him prisoner, and against all reason made himself King and Lord of all Africa; under this title, that the other was uncapable and insufficient for the government. Wherewith the Emperor JUSTINIAN was very much displeased: for before that he was Emperor he held friendship with YLDERICUS, who was now deprived of his Kingdom. Whereupon, after that he had required GILIMER by his Ambassadors to tender the Kingdom to his cousin YLDERICUS, which he refused to perform, he resolved to make a conquest of the Kingdoms of Africa, and rigged a mighty Navy, and sent his Noble General BELISARIUS upon that service; and to that effect commanded a great army to be levied: with which BELISARIUS embarking himself, accompanied with many Belisarius went to the wars of Africa. excellent Captains in five hundred sail of Ships, and fourscore and twelve Galleys, he began his voyage towards Africa. Wherein, a great man born in that Country, whose name was PRUDENTIUS, had taken Arms against GILIMER in the City of Tripoli, on the behalf of the Emperor JUSTINIAN; and another Captain in Sardinia, whose name was GODAS, had done the like. So as when BELISARIUS arrived in Africa, he found some which took his Belisarius being ●…rrived in Africa, King Gilimer came against him. part: and having landed his Army near to a City called Tittimuth, marching along the seacoast he took his way towards Carthage: and his Navy did the like by Sea. When the Tyrant-king GILIMER understood of the coming of BELISARIUS, with the Army which he had in readiness he departed from that City wherein he first entitled himself King, and sent commandment to his brother called AMATA, whom he left in Carthage for the guard of the City, and of YLDERICUS the deposed King, that he should presently Amata, brother to Gilimer. kill him, and such other prisoners as were in his power; and then with his whole force he should sally out, and take the Field against BELISARIUS, and at a certain time appointed should fight with him; for that he at the same Instant would charge him in the Areregard. He sent another Captain all the day long to trouble him on the one side, and to tyre his people with continual alarms. To be brief, there passed many things in that journey worthy to be noted: and, coming near to the City of Carthage, AMATA, beginning to fight at such time as his brother had appointed, was slain by BELISARIUS his Vaunguard: And GILIMER, without having intelligence thereof, with his troops so resolutely charged in the Arereguard, that the Imperialists began to retire in such manner, that if GILIMER had not made an Alt (as PROCOPIUS affirms) that day be had gotten the victory. But when it was told him that his brother was dead, he caused his troops to stand. And BELISARIUS his soldiers, understanding of the good success of their avantguard, which was fare before them, being by him animated and encouraged, returned to fight with such fury, that GILIMER was wholly overthrown and scattered, and many of his people slain, and he by flight saved his life; and his soldiers, A battle wherein king Gilimer was overthrow●… which escaped from the battle, straggled into divers parts: upon which, greater execution had been done, if night had not overtaken them. The next day after this battle, BELISARIUS marched with his Army towards the City of Carthage; where he arrived in the evening, and found no resistance; for, they opened their ports, and made great lights to have received him: but he would not by night come into an enemy's City, leaving it until the next day, and then entered with great quietness, without any Belisarius entered Carthage with victory. spoil or murder committed by any of his soldiers; he having so commanded: for, his authority and reputation was such, that no man durst do the contrary. The Vandals, which were in Carthage, withdrew themselves to the Temples and Churches; and BELIZARIUS, granting them their lives, commanded them to come forth upon his word, which he held inviolably. Possessing himself of that City, he commanded the walls thereof to be repaired, which were in many places decayed; which was the occasion why GILIMER did not retire thither. BELISARIUS, being in Carthage, sent a Post, a chief Captain called SALOMON, to the Emperor JUSTINIAN, to give him to understand of all that had passed. And GILIMER, who escaped from the battle, recovered certain fields of Getulia, called Bulla, which are four days King Gi●…imer escaped from the battle. march from Carthage: where (as a man no way dismayed) he gathered together his troops that were scattered, and levied others: and he also sent in great haste to recall his brother ZAZON, who then was in Sardinia; whither he had sent him against GODAS, which (as we said) was in Arms in that Island against GILIMER: whom ZAZON had overthrown and slain, and recovered the Isle. But ZAZON, seeing the message from his brother, left all, and came with Zazon, brother to king Gilimer came to his aid with succour. his forces to join with him. GILIMER, after that his brother was comn, having recovered a sufficient Army, took his way towards Carthage to besiege BELISARIUS, or to give him battle if he would come forth and fight: but BELIZARIUS for certain days would not take the Field, until he had throughly repaired the walls of the City, and taken order for the rest. Which being done, he took the Field with his Army; drawing near to GILIMER, who attended his coming. The next day one Army having sight of the other, each of the Commanders set his people in order: and the Fight on either side began with such fury, that in the first charge ZAZON, GILIMER'S brother, was slain, and certain other principal men of the Vandals; which struck such a fear among them, that they began to faint: and BELISARIUS charging with his squadron, they turned their backs, and fled to their Camp, which they had very well fortified; and GILIMER, unable to stay them, did the like. BELIZARIUS, gathering together his forces The second battle and victory, obtained by Belisarius against Gilimer. both of foot and horse, the very same day in the evening made towards GILIMER'S Camp, with intent to have assaulted it, and to have made a complete victory. When King GILIMER saw the battailions march, knowing that he was not able to defend himself, with some few servants which followed him he fled: and BELISARIUS with little resistance, by reason of the King's absence, got their Camp: his soldiers, putting to the sword all they found were able to bear Arms, took all the women and children captives; and in the Camp they found an infinite quantity of gold, silver, money and jewels: Which (as PROCOPIUS affirms) was one of the greatest and richest spoils that ever was seen or taken. For, the Vandals, having no place or refuge which they accounted safe, carried their gold, silver, money, and all their treasure, with them: so as within one hour they lost all they had stolen and gotten together in Africa in 95 years. For, so long had they been in possession thereof. The Vandals held Africa 95 years. The next day, BELISARIUS, to let slip no occasion, dispatched an excellent Captain called JOHN, with a good troop of horse to pursue GILIMER; he himself purposing to do the like. And, leaving good order for all things in Carthage, and a sufficient garrison, he followed with some of the choice men of his Army. King GILIMER, riding without any stay, retired himself into certain inaccessible mountains and rocks in the Province of Numidia, called Papua; in habited by a people called Maurusijs, who were great friends to the Vandals. But before he came thither, he was in danger to have been taken by JOHN; and he escaped out of his hands The flight and pursuit of King Gilimer. when he was very near unto him. But it was his ill hap that one of his soldiers, shooting at a bird, and missing it, slew his Captain; who, being shot through the throat, fell down dead: and by that mean had GILIMER opportunity to escape, and to take the rocks & mountains; where he stayed not long ere BELISARIUS came. But forasmuch as it seemed a long work to take those rocks where GILIMER was, by force; he left one PHARAS a Captain with sufficient forces to compasse-in GILIMER; so as by no means he could escape. And he with the rest of the troops returned to Carthage, and in his going and coming, took many Gilimer besieged by Pharas. Towns; and much people, with great joy and contentment came to do him service, glad to see themselves freed from so great servitude, and so restored to the liberty of the Empire. Being come to Carthage, for the full accomplishment of his victory, he sent a Captain to take the Isle of Sardinia, and sent other Captains into Mauritania, and into diverse other parts, in all which he had most happy success: for the Vandals in all places (for the most part) were ill beloved. So as in little more than four months, BELISARIUS reconquered all Africa, Belisarius conquered all Africa in little more than four months, which had been held by the Vandals ninety six years. after that the Empire had lost the same the space of fourscore and sixteen years. And truly it was a wonderful thing: for all that people were Arrian heretics, and for such the same JUSTINIAN recordeth them, in his book de officio Pretoris: wherein although that he saith, that there were one hundred and fifty years expired after that Africa was lost, it doth not therefore gainsay the ninety and six, as I have reported: for that was written nine years afterwards, and he speaketh according to the day of the making of that law. But the truth is, that they possessed Africa but ninety six years. PHARAS, which remained behind, to besiege King GILIMER, begird him in on every side, in such manner, that GILIMER seeing no other remedy, after many letters which past between them, yielded himself upon security of his life: which assurance BELISARIUS sent unto him, and to certain his kinsmen which were with him. And PHARAS as soon as he had him in his possession, came with him to Carthage to BELISARIUS, who entertained him very honourably. And so BELISARIUS Gilimer brought prisoner to Belisarius. ended his victories and enterprises: which truly was an admirable thing, and worthy of great consideration, if we call to mind the valour and power of those Vandals, and the great victories which they had obtained against the Romans, of which we have touched some. BELISARIUS' presently sent to give the Emperor JUSTINIAN notice of the success and issue of the wars, and to entreat him to give him leave to make his repair unto him, and to bring GILIMER with him. Whereto JUSTINIAN answered, that he should do therein what best pleased him, either to continued in the government of Africa, or to repair to him at his pleasure. But BELISARIUS to clear himself of certain whispering mutterings, unjustly raised against him, chose rather to go to Constantinople, and left SALOMON before named for General and Governor of Africa, with a good part of his Army; who afterwards Belisarius left Solomon governor of Africa. had wars with the Maurusijs; which rebelled, and he subdued, although with great danger and trouble. BELISARIUS followed his journey, leading with him the King and many of his kindred, men and women prisoners, with infinite jewels, treasure and riches, which was the greatest and best part of all that the Vandals had stolen from Rome, Spain, Africa, and other Provinces, in almost a hundred years before. Being come to Constantinople, the Emperor commanded him Belisarius his triumph. to be received in triumph, with all the ceremonies and solemnities, which the Roman Consuls in old time, and the Emperors afterwards triumphed in Rome. The History of JUSTINIAN must of necessity be longer than that of many other Emperors; as well for that he reigned a long time, as also for that the accidents which happened in his time, were great and famous, and the feats of Arms done in that time, noble and excellent: wherefore it shall not be fit to forbear to make mention thereof. I do also know, and (as I think) have said it, that Readers take pleasure in reading of great battles, strange adventures, conquests of countries, and alterations of Kingdoms and estates: wherefore the Histories of peaceable Princes, and of happy times, without wars and disasters, are nothing so pleasing, as are those which treat of slaughters, ruins of estates, alterations of kingdoms, notable victories, insurrections, factions, tumults, rebellions, and finally great accidents whether good or evil: for which reason fabulous books are read, and do commonly give content, for that they kill and cut in pieces thousands of men, batter Cities, and fain things in a manner impossible. Herein, following the advice of HORACE, I have determined to take care as well to please, as to profit the Reader (when I may) with the truth; relating sometimes the great deeds of Arms, without concealing the examples of peace also, and the good conditions and virtues of peaceable and mild Princes, reproving and condemning vice and sin, by detesting and abhorring those which committed the same; for to that end Histories are written, and are to be To what end Histories are to be read. read; that reading vicious and wicked actions, the Readers may fly them, and follow those which are good and virtuous. And by the variable adventures and accidents may become more circumspect, and frame the rule of their lives according to such things as may befall them. But returning to our purpose, BELISARIUS rested not long in Constantinople, before that JUSTINIAN gave him the charge of the wars, and conquest of Italy, and Sicily, against the Goths, and THEODATUS who at that time was Lord thereof: which enterprise was held to be of●…no less importance and danger, than that of Africa: and the success thereof shown it afterwards to be fare greater, in regard of the great battles and slaughters which followed. The beginning of this war (briefly) was such, as in the end of the life of the Emperor JUSTIN was by us related. For, the great and redoubted King THEODORICUS being dead, his Nephew ATHALARICUS (for that he had no son) succeeded him in the Kingdom of Italy, being of the age of eight years. Wherhfore his mother AMALASUNTA had the government of the Kingdom; who began to rule with infinite wisdom, and to bring-up her son in virtuous exercises, and in the study of learning and good letters. But it was not long before that contentions and factions arose between her and her son's kindred; and particularly the malice and envy grew between her and THEODATUS, cosin-germane to ATHALARICUS. Whereupon she, seeing herself oppressed, gave the charge of the bringing up of her son to certain principal men of them: and, leaving Rome, she came to Ravenna, where she still had great authority in the government. The enmity increasing between her and THEODATUS, who was a man of great power, and openly had made himself Lord of the Province of Tuscan; either of them, to weet, AMALASUNTA and THEODATUS, sought the friendship and assistance of the Emperor JUSTINIAN, and promised to give him entrance into Italy. As matters stood on these terms, the young King ATHALARICUS died; wherewith AMALASUNTA was greatly troubled and very heartily sorry, for that she was a widow envied, and ill-beloved of the chief men among the Goths. Afterwards, studying what course was best to be taken, she resolved to come to an agreement with THEODATUS, and to make him King of Italy; persuading herself, that he for so great a benefit could not choose but be her faithful Theodatus, uncle to Athalaricus, procured the kingdom of Italy for himself. friend; and that she should still hold the authority, and he the name and title of King. She having resolved heerupon, procured certain treaties and a meeting to be had: where, after long discourse and great promises, bound with solemn oaths, made by the one and other party, she proclaimed him King of Italy; and he joining his power with her forces (which were greater than his) without difficulty obtained the Kingdom, and all men obeyed him. But this device proved ill with AMALASUNTA, neither was it any sound course for her: for, as soon as THEODATUS saw himself an absolute Lord, and in possession, he began to rule, little to her liking; Theodatus apprehended Amalasunta, and caused her to be slain. and within few days commanded her to be apprehended, and in the end to be put to death, like an ingrateful and wicked Christian. JUSTINIAN being advertised hereof, was highly displeased (for he took part with AMALASUNTA) and detesting so vile a fact, holding this for a good occasion, through the desire which he had to recover Italy to the Empire, he resolved suddenly to make open war against THEODATUS, in hope to make a conquest thereof by arms, which before he sought by wiles and secret practices. And to that effect he chose BELISARIUS for General of his army, who then came triumphing and victorious from Africa. JUSTINIAN at that time had an Ambassador in Italy, called PETER, who went thither to treat of peace between AMALASUNTA and THEODATUS, with whom THEODATUS laboured to come to some conditions of peace, for he greatly feared the power of JUSTINIAN: and whilst that he was busy hereabouts, BELISARIUS arrived with a Navy and an army in Sicilia, for that he held it expedient first to take that Island: and suddenly landing his men, he presently took the city of Catania, and within few days after marched towards Saragossa, and with the like fortune entered, and took the same, and did the like by many other towns and cities. Than he marched to Palermo, where he found greater force and resistance, for it defended itself certain days, and many men were slain of both sides: but those which were within it fearing their ruin, yielded themselves to BELISARIUS, and so did all the rest of the Island. Belisarius took Sicilia. Such was his expedition and good hap in the wars. And for as much as he (for his fame) was greatly feared, THEODATUS seeing what had happened in Sicilia, standing in fear of him, treated with this Ambassador PETER concerning certain conditions of peace; wherein he renounced his right to Sicilia: and that in Italy in all decrees & proclamations to be made JUSTINIAN should be first named, and that every year THEODATUS should sand him a golden crown, in token of subjection, and other things which PROCOPIUS setteth down at large. PETER being go with this message, fear so much increased in THEODATUS, that he sent upon the way to recall the Ambassador which he had sent with PETER, whose name was RUSTICUS; and made him to swear, that he should not reveal his resolution until that he came into the presence of the Emperor, and saw whether he would accept of the first offer or no; and if he did not, that then he should offer the whole Kingdom of Italy to JUSTINIAN, Theodatus offered to tender the kingdom of Italy into the bands of justinian. upon condition that he should give him some lands and possessions in Graecia or else where, to live in. And to that effect he wrote a notable Letter to the Emperor, with his own hand. When JUSTINIAN had heard the first offer made by THEODATUS; as he was a valiant Prince, and of an haughty courage, he would not accept thereof: whereupon, the Ambassador discovered the second, wherein he offered him Italy: wherewith he was exceeding glad, and wrote a gracious Letter to THEODATUS, and therewith sent Ambassadors to confirm the agreement, and to command BELISARIUS, that, making an end in Sicilia, he should pass over into Italy, and possess himself of the forces thereof: but the accord was not so concluded. For, in the mean time that these Ambassadors went and came, THEODATUS his Captains had obtained a notable victory, and had slain MUNDUS and his son MAURICIUS, who were IVSTINIAN'S Captains in Slavonia, and had defeated the Imperial Army. By reason of his victory, THEODATUS grew so proud, that he not only refused to accomplish what he had offered; but, feigning himself much displeased with some speeches used Theodatus refused to perform his promise to him by IVSTINIAN'S Ambassadors, he caused them to be apprehended. This also increased his presumption: for, at that Instant BELISARIUS was go out of Sicilia into Africa to rescue SALOMON, whom he had left there. For, a Captain called ESTORZAS' mutined with the greatest part of the Army; and, making himself Lord of the Country, put to death the judges and Governors thereof. But BELISARIUS, arriving in Africa, took such order, that within very few days he overcame them in battle, and used extreme punishment in the Country; and so, leaving all in peace and quiet, returned into Italy, the affairs whereof he found in such estate as is before said. At this time (as PROCOPIUS writeth) there was seen so prodigious a sight in the Sun, that the like hath never been heard of: which was, that the greatest part of one whole year the Sun The sun gave very little light for the space of almost a year. gave so little light, that it was but equal or little more than the light of the Moon; the sky being clear and without clouds, or any other thing to shadow the same. And so, without any apparent occasion, it was obscured all that time: which, as it was afterwards conjectured, was the occasion of the famine and want of grain, which generally ensued through all the world, and did prognosticate the wars and effusion of blood which followed in Italy. JUSTINIAN, seeing the inconstancy of THEODATUS, and being greatly displeased with the death of his Captains in Dalmatia, and the imprisonment of his Ambassadors in Italy, with great wisdom, and the courage and resolution of a worthy Prince, providing for both occasions, sent into Dalmatia and Slavonia for his General, a valiant Captain called CONSTANTIUS; who recovered much of that which was lost, and renewed the war in that part. And, as for the affairs of Italy, he commanded BELISARIUS speedily to enter it with the greatest power he could. Who, with his accustomed expedition and courage, left, in the fortresses and strong holds of Sicilia, such garrisons as he thought good, and transported his Army into Italy Belisarius came with great power into Italy. at the straight of Messina, and began to self on the places and towns near the seaside, not finding any Army to hinder him; and so he conquered all the Coast to the City of Naples: wherein THEODATUS had put a great garrison of Goths, who valiantly defended the same. Where passed many conflicts: and the Besieged sent secretly to crave relief, but in vain; for, in the end they were taken by force, and the soldiers had great spoil, and made great slaughter of the Goths. But BELISARIUS, the next day assembling his Army, took such order with the soldiers, that they set all the Inhabitants of the City at liberty, and restored to them the greatest part of the goods which were taken from them; contenting themselves with the spoil of their enemies only, sparing the citizens: to whom they protested, that the cause of their coming was, To set them at liberty. Great was the fear which the taking of Naples strake into the Goths: for, they held it impregnable. Wherhfore all the chief men and Captains amongst The Goths, discontented with Theodatus, chose Vitiges for their King. them, seeing the small provision that THEODATUS made, and assuring them that BELISARIUS would not continued long in Naples before he came to Rome; One inviting another, they met at a place near unto it: and, after long debating and consultation upon the matter, they did choose a wise and valiant Captain for their King, who by name was called VITIGES, to the end that he should presently take order for the levying of men of war, and the defence of the country against BELISARIUS. Which which when THEODATUS understood, who then was in Rome, holding himself to be in no security, he fled thence towards Ravenna: but he was overtaken upon the way by a Captain called OPTARES, whom VITIGES sent to pursue him; and so was slain by his commandment, when he had reigned three years King of Italy. THEODATUS being dead, VITIGES called a council: and being of opinion that he Theodatus slain by the commandment of Vitiges. had not power sufficient to attend BELISARIUS in Rome, neither to sally forth to fight with him in the fields, resolved to go to Ravenna, and there raising sufficient forces, return to give him battle. And he was the rather induced thereto, for that he stood in doubt of the French, which had declared themselves for the Emperor. Being thus resolved, he left for governor of Rome a Captain whose name was BADERES, with four thousand mercenary soldiers in garrison: and encouraging the citizens to defend themselves, he took his way towards Ravenna. BELISARIUS, leaving a good guard and garrison in Naples, marched with his Army towards Rome; where the inhabitants knowing of his coming, resolved that they would not stand upon their defence, but opened the ports & let him in: and they so agreed together, as the Goths could not hinder it, but held it their best course to be go. And it so happened, that in one day, and at one instant, BELISARIUS entered at one port, and they sallied out at another. Belisarius entered Rome. Who after that he had made a most excellent speech to the Senate, and encouraged them to embrace their liberty, he presently applied himself to repair the walls and to fortify the city; bringing in victuals and provision from all parts: For all the country round about was at commandment. In the mean while, the new King VITIGES, (who was neither idle, nor a coward) left nothing undone that might increase his power against BELISARIUS. First he concluded a peace with the King of France, to the end he should not be his adversary, and gave him those lands which THEODORICUS held in France, thereby to be the better assured of his friendship: and sending for his ordinary captains and soldiers which he usually held in France, he commanded them to come and join with him. And from Germany and other parts he procured all the aid he possibly could. Finally, he used such means, as he raised in Ravenna, and the marches thereof, one hundred and fifty thousand men, of foot and horse; good soldiers, Vitiges levied an Army of 150000 men of foot and horse. and the most of them very well armed. With this Army he began to march towards Rome, wherein BELISARIUS was; but not with any such force as might suffice to take the field, or to fight with so great an enemy. Whereupon King VITIGES (nothing doubting of the victory) grew so proud, as he not only taken care that BELISARIUS should not fly and abandon Italy, but by the way he ever asked, whether BELISARIUS were fled or no: and rejoiced infinitely when it was told him that he fortified himself in Rome; and that it seemed, he meant to abide his coming. But the valiant BELISARIUS was fare from that which VITIGES supposed, for he was resolved rather to die, then to abandon what he had gotten. But seeing his small power, in respect of his adversary, he sent to BLESSUS and CONSTANTIANUS, Captains which he had sent into those marches, that they should presently return to Rome with their troops, where he was with his, and had fortified and furnished the city; with a resolution to defend the same, and to stop the enemy, if he purposed to go forwards, to recover what he had gotten in Campania, Pulia, and Calabria. But VITIGES held on his way directly towards Rome, imagining that it could not be held: and at his arrival there happened so great an accident, that although I know it will somewhat detain me, yet I will describe it. BELISARIUS, at a bridge over the river Tiber, about a mile from Rome where VITIGES Vitiges marched towards Rome against Belisarius. should pass, had caused two very strong towers to be built, and placed therein a very good guard to entertain the enemy: but VITIGES being comn with his Army, those that had the guard at the bridge, one night were in such fear, that without any fight they presently gave up the place; and the same night VITIGES began to pass over a great part of his Army. The next morning, BELISARIUS, suspecting no such matter, sallied forth of Rome A strange encounter. with a thousand choice horse, and came towards the bridge, to the end to choose a fit place to lodge his people, for the defence and stopping of the passage: but, being comn somewhat near unto it, he suddenly met with VITIGES men-at-Arms, who that night had passed the river by the bridge: wherewith BELISARIUS was so much despited (imagining the guarders of the bridge to be lost) that with less discretion than he aught, he charged VITIGES men with so great rage and fury, that there followed a cruel Fight; so as VITIGES his Vanguard retired to the battailion wherein he himself was: whence he charged with so great a troop of Goths, that BELISARIUS his company was held for lost; and he in his own person did wonders, slaying and wounding many of his enemies; and charged so fare in amongst them, that all Authors which writ thereof affirm, that he discharged the part of an excellent man at Arms, but not of a good and discreet General. For, he put his person in such danger, that he was held for dead; and so it was presently reported in Rome by some of his people which fled. He being in this distress, wherein he lost many of his friends and servants, being unable any longer to maintain the Fight, his people began to retire a main gallop, and he did the like, after they had slain 1000 of the Goths. And many of VITIGES his horsemen pursued them even to the very gates of Rome, which were shut: and those which held the guard there would not open them, fearing, to letin the enemy. And for that with the noise and callings, they knew not BELISARIUS by his voice, whom they accounted for dead; he, having fought the greatest part of the day, was driven to lean to the wall; and, ranging his soldiers into a squadron, made head against the enemy, and so continued fight, without any meat or sustenance, till it was night: in the which he did a valiant, though a dangerous and desperate, exploit; which was, A desperate attempt. that he charged the Goths with such fury, that they all believed (through the darkness of the night) that great troops had sallied forth of the City: and in this doubt they began to retire towards their Camp, BELISARIUS still charging them in the ariereguard, til he found a free place, and then returned; and, coming to the Port, was known and received into the city with his people, although many, fewer in number than they sallied. And so he escaped this perilous conflict, with a great number of arrows sticking in his horse & armour; and had some blows and cuts with the sword, but none of them touched his flesh: which was held for a wonder by those which saw in how great danger he had been. The next day VITIGES arrived, and overran the fields of Rome; and, being unable to besiege the City round on every side, by reason of the greatness thereof, he dividing his Army, invested it with six Camps: and forasmuch as it would be too long to recite the conflicts which passed in that siege, they were so great and strange, I will leave them all. Only let this suffice, to understand, that it was one of the most terrible and bloody sieges that ever was before any city: Rome terribly besieged and assaulted by the Goths. for, it continued one whole year and nine days; and the first seven months of that time, VITIGES and his Goths (who were valiant men) never ceased to batter and assault the City on all parts; where they did and received much hurt. And BELISARIUS and his people Vitiges besieged Rome. never suffered their adversaries to rest, neither forbore to sally forth and to fight with them in field; so as in skirmishes and sallies Writers affirm, that they slew above 40000 of the Goths: in which time he did marvels in Arms, aswell for valour and hardiness, as for wisdom and policy, as an excellent Captain. The Emperor JUSTINIAN was not careless of this siege, but sent relief and succour both of men and munition to BELISARIUS; and supplied him with certain Captains and companies of horse and foot, with corn and other victuals, which without great trouble and danger could not come to Rome. But this was not so sufficient, but that they endured extreme famine. Yet that notwithstanding, he managed things so wisely and valiantly, as VITIGES seeing Rome hardly besieged. himself and his Army tired, and weakened, sought to make a truce with him, which was concluded for three months: but it continued not so long, for VITIGES through the cunning Vitiges took truce with Belisarius for three months. and treachery of some, demanded to have leave to come in, and to see the city, within the time of the truce: whereupon the wars were renewed. And BALISARIUS sent commandment to a Captain of his called JOHN, who was Marshal of his Army, that he should make cruel wars in the marches of Ravenna, whither he had sent him with above two thousand horse, and certain other soldiers before the time of the truce, imagining that he harrying that quarter, VITIGES would rise from before Rome. This Captain sped so well in his enterprise, as he took the city of Arimino, and other places. And VITIGES standing in fear to Vitiges raised his siege from before Rome. loose Ravenna, raised his siege from before Rome, and returned to defend the rest. But in his retreat BELISARIUS charged him so furiously in the arierguard, as he slew a great number of his men. And so with shame, dishonour, and loss of his forces, VITIGES returned to the country of Ravenna, and very resolutely besieged Arimino, wherein this Captain JOHN was. BELISARIUS, to avoid loss of time, levying such forces as he could get, stayed not any longer: but whilst he went to Naples, and fortified that City, he then presently took his way towards the city of Ravenna: and so the wars were renewed in divers parts of Italy. And to BELISARIUS came a Captain sent by JUSTINIAN, called NARSES, an Eunuch, with a great supply of soldiers. This NARSES afterwards was General, and an excellent Narses sent by the Emperor to the aid of Belisarius. man: with whom, and those which he had already, BELISARIUS relieved JOHN, who was besieged in Arimino; and with some loss of men constrained VITIOES' to raise his siege. Before and after which, in Gallia Cisalpina, now called Lombardy, Milan, Bergamo, Navarra, and other Cities, took part with BELISARIUS; whither he sent some Captains, and there followed great conflicts and battles, as well with the Goths, as with THEODORICUS King of France, who came with a resolution to have made himself Lord of that Country, while they were busied in these wars. BELISARIUS, after many great adventures, fought a battle with VITIGES, who had drawn together his whole power to that end. And, to use brevity, BELISARIUS getting the victory, VITIGES, fleeing to Ravenna, was therein besieged: which A battle: Belisarius victor. siege lasted many days, and there were many treaties of the one and the other side; so far forth, as to offer to make BELISARIUS' King of Italy. But he continuing his siege, and the City being taken, VITIGES was delivered into his hands; with whom in a manner all Italy came Belisarius took King Vitiges prisoner. Belisarius left▪ Italy by the Emperor's commandment. under his obedience. The affairs of Italy standing in this estate, by the commandment of JUSTINIAN, BELISARIUS was to departed from Italy (which he aught not to have done): for, the Emperor meant to employ his person in his wars against the Persians', leaving Italy in subjection; although that afterwards through his absence there followed great alterations & combustions. For, although that JOHN, BESA and VITALIS (all valiant men, and of great esteem) remained for Commanders and Governors in his place, yet there was no comparison between them and him: for, he was a most excellent Captain. This great Captain BELISARIUS departed from Italy, carrying with him King VITIGES, and the Queen his wife, with many of his kindred, and other Belisarius c●…rried King Vitiges and his wife prisoners to constantinople. principal men of the Goths, prisoners; and was received into Constantinople with exceeding honour and much joy: And he was so beloved and esteemed, that all men, both inhabitants and strangers, went to see him as a wonder of the world, extolling his virtues and noble acts; which for the brevity of my style I am not able to express. This was also a great help thereto, in that he was a man of a most pleasing countenance, tall of stature, of an excellent constitution, Noble of condition, mild, courteous, and endued with many other rare and heroical virtues. Within few days after that BELISARIUS was go out of Italy, some Cities rebelled, and chose YDIBALDUS for their King, a valiant Captain, and of great authority among the Ydibaldus was chosen by the Goths for king of Italy, and aft●…r him Araricus. Goths; who began to grow mighty by means of the evil government, and the powling and extortions, used by the Emperor's Captains in the Country. He levying an Army (which until then he durst not do) presumed to fight with VITALIS, and overthrew him in battle, and began to be feared by the Imperialists. But, because he slew a nephew of VITIGES, one of his guard slew him, when he had reigned little more than one year. In his place was chosen ARARICUS (whom PAULUS DIACONUS and JORDANUS call ARARIUS) who was also slain within five months. And then they chose TOTILA for their King; who wrought Totila made king. the misery and destruction of Rome, as I will presently tell you, when as we have declared how and upon what occasion BELISARIUS was drawn out of Italy by the Emperor JUSTINIAN, which before we spoke not of; which passed in this manner: COSROES King of Persia, seeing that BELISARIUS (whom he chief feared) was busied Cosross, king of Persia, made war in the Empire. in the wars of Italy, sought some occasions, whether feigned or just, to make war upon the territories of the Empire; and, entering some Provinces, took certain Imperial Cities. Whereupon JUSTINIAN, who very circumspectly provided for all parts, besides the ordinary garrisons sent an Army into the East, and for General thereof a valiant Gentleman named SITTAS, Captains sent against the Persians', Sittas, Bucen and Germanus. who in a battle was overthrown and slain. And JUSTINIAN sent another called BUCEN, a very rare man at Arms; and also a nephew of his called GERMANUS, and other Captains and soldiers: so as the war was very cruel and bloody between COSROSS and them; which I have not time to relate. But the Imperialists could not make sufficient resistance against the Persians': and so COSROES entered far into the Empire; and, leaving Mesopotamia on the The Persians' took many cities in the Empire. right hand, marched towards Syria and Cilicia, and by assault took many good Cities. Wherefore JUSTINIAN, holding no man sufficient for that war but BELISARIUS, sent for him out of Italy: at what time he had brought it all under subjection, excepting some few Holds and Castles in Lombardy, wherein the Goths had fortified themselves. BELISARIUS' leaving Italy, and arriving at Constantinople, within few days after was sent into the East, against COSROES the mighty King of Persia: And with his coming the Imperialists took heart, and he revived the war with such discretion and courage, as there was a Belisarius sent against the Persians'. present alteration in all things: and having obtained some victories against certain of COSROES Captains (for he himself durst not fight with him) he recovered much of that which was usurped By means whereof the affairs of the East went daily from well to better, through the presence and good government of BELISARIUS. But in the mean season (which were two years) the estate of Italy waxed worse: for as we said, TOTILA, being made King of the Goths, followed the wars with so great courage and in so good order, as having overthrown and stain some of the Emperor IVSTINIAN'S Captains, the Goths won such reputation, as all the towns took part with them, excepting such as were held by garrisons. And TOTILA marched through all Italy, without finding any resistance, and besieged the Totila his good success in Italy. great city of Naples: which after many exploits both by sea and land, he took, and many others in that quarter; and prospered so well in his enterprises, as it seemed, that in short space he would (without speedy redress) make himself Lord of the whole. Which when JUSTINIAN perceived, grieving more for Italy, then for all the rest, he commanded BELISARIUS, that leaving the affairs of the East in the best order he could, he should make his repair unto him; and he as a servant accustomed to obey, did so. Leaving his people in the East, and coming to Constantinople, without any stay he was sent by the Emperor into Italy; whither he went Belisarius by the Emperor's commandment returned into Italy. with so great haste, that he could not lead with him above fifty thousand men: for it was thought that he should have found sufficient forces there; and was made to believe that the Emperor's party was not brought to so great extremity as it was. But he found all quite contrary, in so much as it did partly seem that his coming did more harm then good: for being wished for, and expected by his friends, and feared by his enemies, seeing him come with so small forces, the one were dismayed, and the other took courage: and so in the beginning his enterprise was very doubtful and tedious. putting himself into Ravenna, to fortify and defend the same, within few days he took such order, as notwithstanding that he could not keep the field and beard the enemy (for that he was too mighty for him) yet the Goths nevertheless did rather loose then get. Wherewith TOTILA being much displeased, and desirous to make wars to the uttermost, assembled all his whole power, and sent Captains and companies to Ravenna against BELISARIUS. And he with his whole Army went to Rome, which was so Totila besieged Rome. slenderly provided for, either with men or munition, that it seemed it could not long be defended. BELISARIUS' understanding hereof, and remembering with how much trouble and extremity he had defended that city in former time, and seeing that he had not forces to keep the field, neither could put himself into it by land, was much displeased and sorrowful, and wrote an earnest letter to the Emperor JUSTINIAN, desiring him to sand him men and money; resolving to put himself into Rome by sea from Ravenna, where he than was. And passing over into Dalmatia, and thence to Durasso, he found captain JOHN, whom JUSTINIAN had sent with a good Army, wherewith he was of opinion to be able to fight with TOTILA. But the relief of Rome he held necessary to be provided for, with greater expedition than could be made with that Army: for if TOTILA should take it, he feared that all Italy would revolt. Wheresore he resolved to go thither by sea, and to put himself into Rome by the river Tiber: (for the city called Porto in the mouth of Tiber, held for the Emperor, and Ostia on the other side of the river held for the Goths) and that Captain JOHN should cross the Sea with his Army, and coming into Calabria, should march by land, to relieve him. This being thus concluded, BELISARIUS sailed, and arrived at Porto in the mouth of Tiber; and having no sufficient power to march by land, by reason of TOTILA his great Army, he speedily rigged a great number of Barks and Frigates, which he fraughted with men and Belisarius passed up the river Tiber, with a determination to relieve Rome. munition, and so passed up the river. And notwithstanding that TOTILA had in the narrowest place of that river drawn chains, and made a bridge, and two Castles at the ends of the bridge, guarded with a great number of soldiers, by this means to stop his passage; yet BELISARIUS followed his course up the River: and coming to the bridge, he and his people in such sort charged those which guarded the same, that they broke and scattered them and passed through; and Rome had been presently relieved, and every thing had had good success, had there not befallen a strange mishap, which troubled and altered all. BELIZARIUS had left his wife and family (which wife he loved so much, as in his other wars he ever carried her with him) in the port before named, at the entry of the River, with a Garrison which held the fort, and a good Captain, whose name was ISAAZ, with express commandment that he should not sally forth without the walls, but should keep the fortress. But ISAAZ hearing the news of BELISARIUS his victory, and being desirous to do some notable exploit of himself, sallied out of the town with his Garrison, to charge TOTILA his soldiers, which lay there against him: and although that at the first he disordered them and made them retire, yet in the end he was overthrown by them and taken prisoner. Whereof BELISARIUS was presently advertised by some which fled, and the report went (without any author) that the Town was taken, and that his wife was in the enemy's A great misfortune which befell Belisarius hands. Which when he understood, he was so grieved and enraged, that without expecting any furthernewes, he returned down the River, with a determination either to die, or to set his wife at liberty; imagining that if he sped well, he might speedily return to the rescue of Rome. But being come to the port, he found the place at his devotion, and that his wife was well and at liberty, although the Captain were lost. Whereupon he took greater displeasure to see himself thus deluded, then at the first evil news; and the same night after his arrival at the port, through extreme choler and grief which he had taken, or some other unknown occasion, he was so extremely taken with a fever, that he fell down for dead, and his disease daily increasing, he was oftentimes at the point of death. In this mean time, which was for the space of many days, TOTILA did so straightly besiege the City, that they within died of hunger, and did eat dogs, cats, rats, and other things which seemed impossible. And Totila took Rome. TOTILA in the end, having the City in his power, sent his Ambassadors to JUSTINIAN, offering to be his servant and good friend, and to preserve and keep the City, if he would grant him peace; if not, that then he would raze it and make the most cruel war he could. JUSTINIAN answered that his General BELSARIUS was in Italy, to whom he referred all matters. TOTILA was so enraged with this answer, that he resolved to ruin Rome, and so he did: For he made the Capitol itself to be burned, and the best part of all the City, and the third part of the walls he caused to be thrown down, and commanded the inhabitants to abandon the City, upon pain of death, and to go to live in some other place. And Totila burns and destroyed Rome. so he left burned, desolate, and waste, that City which had commanded the World, and which had been the greatest, most frequented, and best peopled of all others. Than he marched against JOHN, who with the Army sent by JUSTINIAN, came through Calabria, towards Rome, who shown himself so very a coward, that he durst not attend him in the field, but put himself into Otranto, the furthest place of all Calabria. And so TOTILA without any resistance took all Calabria, Abruzzo and Lucania, which until then held for the Emperor JUSTINIAN. In the mean time, BELIZARIUS recovered his health, and performed one of the most Belisarius entered Rome to the end to fortify and defend the same. desperate attempts, that ever he had done at any time before; which was with those troops which he had, to go and put himself into Rome, with a resolution to repair, reedefie and defend the same; and so he did. And so first sending his wife to Constantinople, he presently went to Rome (as desolate as it lay) and caused with all expedition, trenches to be digged, and rampiers to be made, where the walls were thrown down, and all the victuals that possibly could be gotten, to be brought thither, and made a City of that which lay waste. Through the fame hereof, many Citizens, that could get to him; for the love of their country came, and put themselves thereinto with him. Whereof as soon as TOTILA was advertised, by long journeys without any intermission, he returned again, assuring himself presently to enter it, and there to take BELISARIUS: But BELISARIUS so valiantly defended the same, that to his great loss, TOTILA was driven to raise his siege. Whereby it may be imagined, Totila besieged Rome, and therein Belisarius. how well he would have defended it before it was ruinated, and he repaired it with new ports and rampiers. In the mean season captain JOHN in Calabria and Pulia gathered the Citizens of Rome together and sent them thither, in whose City BELISARIUS remained; and having fortified it, and left a good Garrison therein, with an excellent Governor called CONON; he went to join with JOHN, and other Captains, to pursue TOTILA: where many things happened too long to be recited. But the King of Persia again making wars in the East; JUSTINIAN resolved to sand BELISARIUS thither, although that afterwards Belisarius was sent for out of Italy. he went not, for peace was concluded between them. Upon this occasion BELISARIUS again went out of Italy, although not with so great good fortune, and victories, as at the first, yet with no disgrace, neither with any less honour, for he never failed in any thing, to do what behoved him, or what he was able; and so in sum went to Constantinople, where he remai●…ed all the remainder of his life. After he had lived there certain years, AGATHIUS writeth, that the Huns came down into Thracia, even very near to Constantinople, robbing and spoiling the country. And BELISARIUS being now old, was sent against them, and overthrew them in battle; and had not JUSTINIAN sent for him to return, he had wholly ruined them. Within few days after that BELISARIUS was departed out of Italy, TOTILA returned to Rome, and again besieged it, and after a long siege and great extremities and famine endured Totila besieged and took Rome. by the besieged, through the negligence of JOHN who should have relieved it, and the treason of some others, the fierce barbarian took it, but the taking of it at this time was quite contrary to the last: for now he did not any harm, but sought to repair and repeople it, and gave great gifts, privileges, and exemptions to the inhabitants, to the end they should return and devil there. Afterwards he took many other places, and passed over into Sicilia: and for that he could not easily make a conquest thereof, he left four captains with many men of war therein, and returned into Italy. And if NARSES a captain whom JUSTINIAN sent, had not come thither, he had within short space made himself absolute Lord of the whole country. This NARSES was a famous Captain, valiant, and of great experience, and very private with the Emperor JUSTINIAN; and therefore rich, and of great authority; who came Narses came general in Italy against Totila. into Italy with a great Army, levied of sundry nations, as Huns, Heruli, and other warlike people. Among which there came to his service, a people called Longobardi, who then dwelled in Hungary; and he marched by land along all the coast of the Adriaticque sea, now called the gulf of Venice, until he came to Ravenna; notwithstanding that at his entry into Italy, he had some encounters and conflicts with some of TOTILA his Captains, where there came to join with him some of those Captains and companies, which BELISARIUS had left. Staying but few days in Ravenna, he took the field with his Army, directing his course for Rome. But TOTILA who was not any way a coward, attended his coming upon the way; A battle between Narses and Totila, wherein Totila was slain. and presenting him battle, they fought, and in the fight TOTILA was slain, and his people scattered and overthrown. Which victory was the occasion that NARSES easily reconquered all Italy: for after this fight, he held on his journey and besieged Rome. And notwithstanding that the Goths which TOTILA left there in garrison, did defend it well, yet NARSES took it by assault, with great loss of the defendants. And departing from thence, he took all the towns and cities round about. After the death of TOTILA, the Goths made a great man amongst them whose name was TEYAS, their King, who took all TOTILA his treasure which lay in Pavia; and sought Teyas' made King of the Goths. to get men and aid against NARSES, and sent to entreat relief of the French, who would not intermeddle in that war. But TEYAS seeing that NARSES took cities and towns, without finding any man to fight with him, departed out of Lombardie with all the power he could make, and marched towards Campania, where NARSES stayed for him. They both lodged their Armies upon a river side: where after some notable skirmishes, they came to a battle, A mo●… cruel battle wherein Teyas was slain. which was one of the most cruel that had been fought in all that war. For historians report wonders wrought by this TEYAS, King of the Goths in his own person; but in the end being over-borne by NARSES his men, he was by them slain, just at twelve of the clock at noon, at which time he had fought about six hours; and yet notwithstanding his death, the battle ceased not, until that dark night parted them, without appearance of any victory of either side: and reposing themselves as well as they could that night, the next morning the Goths in despair, and the Imperialists despited, to see that a people without a Captain should so defend themselves, returned again to fight, without ceasing; and the Goths taking the benefit of the side of an hill, defended themselves. But in the end towards night they sent their Ambassadors unto NARSES, offering to tender all that they held in Italy, conditionally that he should give them leave to live in it, without any armour or weapons. Which request NARSES granted, for that he would not fight with a desperate people, and for the great loss which his Army had already received: and so they delivered what they possessed, and some of them continued in Italy, subject to the inhabitants, in such manner, that within a very short space the name of the Goths was wholly extinct, rooted out and forgotten, although not presently after the victory: for some Captains and companies which remained in Gallia Cisalpina, now called Lombardy, and in the Province of Traspadana, now Piedmont, began to fortify; and they craving Traspadana, Piemons. aid and succours coming out of France and Burgundy, the war was renewed, which lasted wellnear one whole year, and therein passed great battles: but in the end NARSES obtained both the field and the victory, and was absolute commander of all Italy. And it pleased God to make him the instrument to root out, and to extinguish the name of the Goths and Ostrogothes in Italy, 18 years after the beginning of this war; and threescore and twelve, after that Agathius treateth of this war in a particular Book. Narses drove the Goths out of Italy. THEODORICUS first entered and made himself Lord of that country. But to the contrary, the Visogothes in Spain grew daily more powerful, and the name of the Alanes and Suevians extinct, the Goths only remaining. At that time reigned ATHANAGILDUS in great prosperity in Spain, and ruled that kingdom the space of 22 years. These enterprises being ended, NARSES applied himself to the uttermost of his power, to the re-edifying of Rome: and for as much as it was extremely ruinated and lay waste, and many of the Citizens absent, he caused the inhabitants to reduce themselves to one part thereof; and so he took the best order he could, both for the government of the same, and of Italy also. This NARSES was a man of great judgement, a good christian, very zealous in Religion, and desirous of the good of the commonwealth, and besides all this, was one of the most excellent captains of the World. By reason whereof he held the government of Italy as long as the Emperor JUSTINIAN lived; who during all the time of these great wars, made his continual abode in Constantinople, providing men and money for the wars in all parts; as well for those of Italy as in the East, where he had dangerous wars against COSROES King of Persia. There happened in the time of JUSTINIAN (besides the wars and conquests before specified, and many others, which for brevity, and for that they were of no great importance, I omit) earthquakes, famine, and other great calamities. For in his reign the times were so variable, The valour and prudence of the Emperor justinian. and there happened such strange accidents, as the like had never been. And he (as I said in the beginning) was as an excellent prince, and exceedingly careful for the wars; providing captains, soldiers and money, without taxing or oppressing his subjects, with incredible magnanimity and bounty. By means whereof, he preserved the Empire of the East, and reconquered the Provinces of Africa, wholly subverting and expelling the Vandals out of those countries, and did the like by the Goths in Italy. And concerning his Government in time of peace, he was no less careful; so as it seemed he never had applied himself to any thing else: for as the laws and statutes made by other Emperors his predecessors, were so many, that a man could hardly read them; and so variable and intricate as it seemed that many of them did contradict one the other; he reduced them all to a conformity and brevity; drawing out justin abbridg'd the laws. of them that only which was necessary, and made other new. And in this manner he abbridged all the laws of the ancient Magistrates, judges and Lawyers, which contained about 2000 books, and reduced them to fifty, called the Digest; and compiled the 4 books of the Institutions, commonly called Instituta. And the laws and decrees of all the Emperors and CAESARS, which were dispersed abroad in very many books, he reduced to twelve; called JUSTINIANS Codex. And he made another book entitled, The Volume, wherein he included three of those twelve books aforesaid. To bring these things to effect he held about him Codex justiniani. great learned men: but the principal ministers and authors thereof were, JOHN PATRICIUS, and THEOPHITUS, and DOROTHEUS, but chief TRIBUNIANUS; all singular Lawyers and Philosophers. Besides all this, JUSTINIAN was very ●…ious in Architecture, and built many great and sumptuous edifices. But he was taxed wi●…h this vice, that he willingly gave ear, and was a friend to bake-biters, and such as spoke ill of others, and was very revengeful against such as any way offended him. He was also no●…ed of ingradice, and covetousness, and that by all ways and means he sought to increase his rents, and treasure; but he afterwards spent it all frankly and bountifully in the wars, and upon his soldiers. Being now very old and having no son that might succeed him, he chose his Nephew JUSTIN, for his companion in the Empire; which JUSTIN, was his daughter's son. They justinian made his nephew justin, his companion in the Empire. writ of him, that in his old age, he was infected with the heresy of those, which believed, that the flesh and body of CHRIST was impassable. Which heresy is to be supposed proceeded through want of judgement, whereof he was bereft some days before he died. Finally, after so many noble acts and many others, which for brevity cannot be expressed, the good Emperor JUSTINIAN being above 80 years old, left this for a better life, when he had reigned justinian died in the year 568 39 years, in the year of our Lord, 568, and was greatly lamented and deplored through all the whole Empire. THE LIFE OF JUSTIN, THE SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. Upon the death of justinian, his daughter's son justin took possession of the Empire; who was fare unlike to his Grandfather, both incondition, and in his vigilant care for the government: for he left the administration thereof to his wife Sophia. He had wars with the Persians', but they were soon ended, and he particularly applied himself to the affairs of Italy, which for the Empire was governed by Narses: For, justin in the East, gave himself to pleasure and sensuality. This Narses, having to his great glory performed many worthy enterprises, was ill rewarded by justin, and his wife Sophia: But the injuries done unto him were the occasion of so great miseries, as poor Italy shall ever have cause to lament them. For Narses calling Alboinus King of the Longobards into Italy, and afterwards desiring to have stayed them (whon he could not) he was the cause of the ruin thereof: For they made themselves Lords of the greatest part thereof, and possessed the same above two hundred years. In time of which war, justin died of the Gout, when he had reigned eleven years. IT was so hard a matter to abbreviate, and to relate, the accidents happened in the time of the Emperor JUSTINIAN; and I was so much troubled therewith, they were so many and so notable, that I do not only feel myself eased of that burden, and do likewise rejoice in that I have brought that work to an end, but am also of opinion that from henceforth I shall be less troubled: And although I be in some danger to be deceived therein, nevertheless I rejoice in this hope; wherein (with the grace of God) I will proceed. JUSTINIAN being dead, his daughter's son JUSTIN the second without any difficulty obtained the Empire: for (as we have justin obeyed for Emperor. said) his Grandfather in his life time made him his companion and proclaimed him his successor; his mother (as we said) was JUSTINIANS' daughter. His father was a great Nobleman in the country of Slavonia; he himself was of a quick and active wit, and both apt and sufficient for any thing; but ill conditioned and unworthy of the Empire, proving fare unlike his Grandfather. For, as PAULUS DIACONUS writeth, he become covetous and tyrannous, a robber and a despiser of the poor, and above all, he was reckless and negligent in matters of justice and govemement; and thereof left all the charge and care to his wife the Empress, whose name was SOPHIA, Sophia wise to the Emperor justin. whose wit was incapable thereof, neither had she conditions or virtues deserving the same. At his first coming to the Empire, this SOPHIA, to win the love and good will of the people, counselled JUSTIN, out of his Exchequer, to pay the debts of such poor men as were unable to make satisfaction without their undoing, which he did: wherefore in the beginning of his reign he was generally well beloved. There also happened war between him and HORMISDA King of Persia, who through Hormisda king of the Persians'. the death of COSROES succeeded in that Kingdom: whither he sent a Nobleman called MARTIN for General, and there passed great matters, but principally a cruel and bloody War & peace with the Persians'. battle, wherein the Imperialists prevailed; and finally they returned to treat of peace; and that was confirmed, which was made in the time of the Emperor JUSTINIAN. So the East remained in peace, and JUSTIN passed his time without care in pleasure, giving himself over to vice and sensuality. So as of him there is no notable matter to be written, but of the affairs of Italy: which happened in this manner. In the fourth year (as some writ) of the reign of the Emperor JUSTIN, and the tenth or twelfth of NARSES his government in Italy, after the great victory obtained through his wisdom and policy against the Goths; some malicious men envying his great honour and dignity, and the great riches which he had gotten in former wars, reported and wrote to JUSTIN much evil of NARSES; and as in Court (an usual thing) there wanted not some that envied him, and were glad thereof, so they found the favour to be heard; and JUSTIN through want of judgement, and the Empress SOPHIA being light of belief, were persuaded that what was told them of him was true. So without respect or regard of the dangers and troubles wherewith he had conquered Italy, they resolved to depose him from his government, and to sand him a successor, which was one of the greatest indignities that could be done him. And it pleased God to permit so great an ingratitude to be punished. For SOPHIA was not content to embase NARSES by depriving him of his Narses deposed from his government of Italy. Longinus sent to govern Italy. government, but she also disgraced him in her speeches, saying, that she would have him come to spin amongst her women at Constantinople. And a principal man called LONOINUS, was presently sent to take his place and to succeed him. When NARSES understood of this, his courage could not endure so shameful a disgrace, without great disdain. Wherhfore being no less grieved with the words used by SOPHIA, then with what they had done; it is written that he said: That, seeing that she meant to make him to spin, he promised to twist her such a web, as she should never be able to untwine: which he well performed, as hereafter shall be said. And understanding that LONGINUS was come to Ravenna, he durst not go to Constantinople, but came from Rome (where he then lived) to Naples; where he was so much beloved and honoured, as he held himself to be there in security. From thence as a man disgraced and in despair, he by often letters and otherwise, solicited ALBOINUS King of the Longobards, who was his friend, and had sent men to aid him in his war against the Goths, and at that time made his residence in Hungary, that he should come into Italy, and make himself Lord thereof; and that he would assist and direct him in what he had to do in that conquest. And ALBOINUS afterwards followed his direction. These Longobardi, as some say, were so called, for that they ware long beards. Their original and the place of their breeding (as PAULUS DIACONUS writeth The Lombard's what people they were. of them) was in an Island in the German sea, then called Scandinavia: from whence they being many, and accounting their Country too little for them (as many other Northerly Nations had done) with two Captains, the one called AYON, and the other THATON, left their Country, and went to seek some place wherein they might inhabit, either by peace or war. These Captains being dead, they chose one AGELMOND for their King, and afterwards had other Kings, and diverse wars at sundry times with variable success, against the Goths, the Vandals, and other nations; until that after many years they become Lords of Hungary; from whence their King ALBOINUS sent men of war (as we said) to the aid of NARSES against the Goths; whereof grew the occasion that he called him into Italy, to the end that he should make himself Lord thereof; who resolved to go thither, as well for the proffer made to him by NARSES, as for that he had heard of the fruitfulness of that soil, not only by common report, but also by the particular relation, made by those whom he had sent to serve NARSES in those wars. Whilst that he mustered up his soldiers, and made such preparation as for so great an enterprise was requisite, LONGINUS the new Captain and governor of Italy, settled a new form and order of government, which continued a long time after: which was, that coming into Italy he took the name and title of Exarch, which is, General or supreme governor. And resting in Ravenna, careless of seeing Rome, in every city of Italy he placed a governor called Dux: whereof (as I imagine) sprang the beginning of the title Ex●…chus the name of a supreme Governor. and dignity of a Duke, which now is used throughout all the World. And so each of them governed a City, and not as in former times, when every Province had some principal man of great authority for their particular Captain or Governor. In Rome for the greater honour The original of Dukes. was placed a Governor called Praeses, who was (as we say) a Precedent or Lord deputy. And so the Authority of the Senate, and dignity of the Consuls, was wholly lost and extinct, so as they were never after in that manner as in ancient times: for NARSES and his companion The last Roman Consuls. BASILIUS were the last Consuls. This form of government being established, and ALBOINUS king of the Longobards being in a readiness to take his journey towards Italy, it followed that Pope JOHN the third, with the general consent of all the Roman people, who infinitely loved NARSES, went from Rome to Naples, where he than was; and persuading him to return to Rome, prevailed so much as he brought him with him, where he was received with great love and joy, they pretending to protect him, and to keep him there amongst them. Whereupon NARSES repent that ever he had called ALBOINUS, and again wrote to him, to take no care to come into Italy, alleging many difficulties. But as ALBOINUS was resolved, and knew the small force that was in Italy, with the government of LONGINUS, and the little discretion and care of the Emperor JUSTIN, he would not be dissuaded from his intended enterprise, but The death of Narses. hastened his coming. Before which, NARSES died in Rome, where he left great treasure hidden, which afterwards was found; and his body was carried to Constantinople. And at the same time died Pope JOHN who brought him from Naples. King ALBOINUS departing with a great Army of Longobards from Hungary, together with a great number of Saxons and other Nations which he had levied, and were joined with him, through the desire they had to devil in Italy, all which might amount to the number of two hundred thousand men, with their wives, children, herds of Cattles, and movable goods, such as they could carry, would not abandon Hungary, but left the Huns, which lived in that country, and were the remainder of the great Army of the fierce King ATTILA (of whom heretofore we have made much mention) to guard it. Which Huns (as the Longobards prospered well in Italy) remained owners and possessors of the country, which after their name is now called Hungary, which before was called Pannonia, as some say; yet some others affirm Pannonia wherefore called Hungary. (as is before noted) that a certain people called Hungri, came from the frozen sea, and together with them the Huns dwelled in Pannonia, and so after these two Nations it was called Hungary. But howsoever it was, until this day it is so called, and the successors of the Huns have possessed it, and valiantly defended the same against the Infidels, until our time, that for our sins SOLIMAN the Turkish Emperor took the greatest part thereof. ALBOINUS passing with his Army towards Italy, came into that Province which now is called Friuli: where he took many Cities, and used no small cruelty, and much more would The coming of Alboinus and the Lombard's into Italy. have done, if he had not been somewhat pacified by the prayers and entreaties of PAUL the Patriarch of Aquileia, and of FELIX Bishop of Trevigi. But being desirous to enter further into Italy, and to leave that to safe keeping which he had gotten, he left therein for governor and to guard the passages into those countries, a valiant Captain which was his Nephew called SISULPHUS, and he proceeded in his journey: It was the will of God, that he found small resistance in Italy, for it was then afflicted, both with famine and pestilence. By reason whereof LONGINUS, the Governor and Exarch before named, was not of power to levy any sufficient Army to fight with ALBOINUS, and therefore held himself in Ravenna, where he drew together the best men and the greatest number he was able, with a resolution to make frontier wars by fortifying the Towns, and putting good Garrisons in them; which he principally did in Caesarea, which at that time was a very noble City, near to Ravenna, whither he drew the greatest number of soldiers he could possibly levy, and fortified Patavia, and therein put a Garrison, which is now called Padoüa, and is under the government of the Venetians. The like he did by Cremona and Mantua, and in other of the strongest Cities, imagining if he could hold those countries, ALBOINUS would pass no further; and if he did, he should be greatly anoyed by them in his Ariereguard. Which was no ill device, if in that Province there had been any Army to have made head against ALBOINUS and his forces in the field. But LONGINUS had neither heart nor power to do it: and ALBOINUS holding it for a long piece of work to batter and assault all those Towns, took another course, with drawing himself from them, for that he would not be forced to stay before any of these Towns: but went and assaulted Verona and Vicenza, wherein were no Garrisons; which with others, yielded without resistance. From whence passing over the river Adda, he took his way towards Milane, where the Citizens (induced thereto by the persuasion of HONORATUS their Bishop) Alboinus took Milan and other towns. gave up the City, to free themselves from slaughter and sack. After this, other places did the like: for the famine was so great, and so general, as without any force the towns yielded, being unable to victual themselves for a siege; excepting those places which were victualled by LONGINUS: amongst which in that quarter were Pavia and Briselli, now called Vercelli, which by the said LONGINUS were sufficiently furnished with all things needful. ALBOINUS resolved to besiege them: and having been now six months in Italy, he besieged Pavia: but it defended itself so valiantly, that the siege continued three years. In the beginning of which time, perceiving that it would be a long siege, remaining before it with such part of his army as he thought sufficient, he sent the rest to make war in other parts of Italy, and to make a conquest thereof: and they all sped as he desired: for they took many Towns, Cities and Castles in Italy. And the Precedent or governor The wars of the Lombard's in Italy. of Rome fearing to be besieged, and seeing the great scarcity and famine which was in the City, sent to desire relief of men and victuals of the Emperor JUSTIN, who commanded a great quantity of where to be brought from Africa to Rome, and some soldiers also. Wherewith the city was well relieved, and the Longobards at that time came not thither, neither durst they invade Ravenna, nor the cities adjoining: for they were all very well fortified and garrisoned by LONGINUS. But in other places they made themselves Lords of a great part of Italy, in so much that between Bologna and Milan there were few places of strength, but within three years war were brought under their subjection: and so they afterwards possessed all that province above two hundred years, with variable fortune, as hereafter we will relate; and by them it was called Lombardy, and is so still unto this day. About the end of this time ALBOINUS took Pavia: and seeing himself mighty, he took his way towards Verona, Gallia Cisalph●…na called Lombardia by the Longobards. whither he had caused his wife Queen ROSAMUND to come, with his treasure and wardrobe; and there holding his Court he gave himself to feasting and banqueting, and was slain by treason, by the order and consent of his wife, whose father he had slain, and in a The death of Alboinus. banquet gave her to drink in her father's scull: for revenge whereof she worthily practised his death. ALBOINUS dying in this manner, after many encounters and battles, the Longobards chose for their King a great man of blood and of worth amongst them, called CLEPHIS, or Paulus Diaconus lib. 2. cap. 24. Clephis king of the Lombard's. CLEVE, who proved a most cruel Prince; and renewing the wars, committed great crueltirs in those cities which held of the Empire, in the province of Venetia: for in those days the city of Venice, which in the time of ATTILA began to be inhabited, was greatly increased by those which (to escape the cruelty of the Lombard's) went to devil in those Lands, and were now of force able to defend themselves; and this city began to be famous and of great The prosperity of Venice. account, and hath coutinued and increased until this day: so as it is now one of the most famous cities in the world. At this time the Emperor JUSTIN who lived viciously, careless and negligent, in Constantinople was taken with so grievous pain of the gout in his feet, as he died thereof. And some days before his death, by the consent of his wife SOPHIA, by whom he The death of the Emperor justin was wholly governed (for that he had no son) he made an excellent Nobleman, CAESAR, whose name was TIBERIUS: and having exhorted him very effectually to yield obedience unto SOPHIA, having swayed the Imperial sceptre 11 years, he died, in the year of our Lord 579: and after some, 576. THE LIFE OF TIBERIUS, SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE AND ONE ROMAN EMPEROR. Such were the conditions of the Emperor JUSTIN in his life time, that when he was dead, no man lamented or mourned for him, except his wife SOPHIA, who through her husbands in sufficiency governed and commanded all, and had a conceit to have continued it; meaning to have married with TIBERIUS, who presently upon the death of JUSTIN was created and crowned Emperor. But, as he was a virtuous The virtues of Tiberius. man, just, pitiful, mild, charitable, and endued with such virtues, as in a good and Christian Emperor were requisite, he would not have her to wife; all whose conditions he knew to be quite contrary; and with whom even in the life time of JUSTIN (as some writ) he was at some controversy. TIBERIUS when he was created CAESAR, made distribution of much of the Imperial treasure to the poor; and afterwards at his Coronation named for Empress a great Lady whose name was ANASTASIA, with whom he was secretly married. Whereupon SOPHIA at the same feast practised by treason to have had him slain, with The treason of Sophia. a determination to have made one JUSTINIAN, another of JUSTINIANS' nephews, Emperor. But, as it pleased God, the good TIBERIUS escaped this treason, and others also which SOPHIA practised; and his Coronation was held with great solemnity: and the treachery of SOPHIA being discovered (she craving mercy) he pardoned both her and JUSTINIAN. But many days passed not before she attempted the like, in a house of pleasure whither TIBERIUS went for his recreation. At this time he caused her to be apprehended, and despoiled of all her riches. But as he was mild and pitiful, he pardoned her her life, and gave her maintenance, and made her to be served with great respect and honour; but he took from her all her old servants, placing others to attend her by his appointment; he again pardoned JUSTINIAN: for he knew that he was induced to all that he did by SOPHIA. And he was afterwards greatly beloved by TIBERIUS, and served him faithfully, as PAULUS DIACONUS writes. These were the private and domestical accidents which in the beginning befell TIBERIUS. In the general estate of the Empire, he ever maintained justice, and reigned valiantly. Africa, and all the provinces which the Empire held in Asia and in Europe, peaceably obeyed him. But the wars in Italy against the Lombard's, and in the East against the Persians', did put him to much care and trouble. In the wars of Persia he had good success, whereof we will first speak briefly. For as soon as TIBERIUS came to the Empire, he sent his Ambssadors to King HORMISDA, to confirm the peace in such manner as his predecessors held the same before him. But HORMISDA, who saw himself rich and mighty, would not accept thereof, but made war upon the Frontiers of the Empire. TIBERIUS speedily sent a Wars with the Persians' and their King Hormisda. mighty Army against him: but at that time they fought not. For, there was a truce concluded for a time: which being expired, a cruel war began chief in the Kingdom of Armenia; where the Roman General and Army came to a battle with HORMISDA: which Fight was very cruel, and of long continuance. Nevertheless, the Romans had the victory, and A battle wherein the Persians' were overcomn. HORMISDA saved himself by flight; and therein were taken the greatest and richest spoils that ever were gotten from the Persians': all which were given to the men of war, excepting the King's treasure, and the vessel of gold and silver for his service; which (as PAULUS DIACONUS saith) was carried to TIBERIUS in Constantinople upon twenty Elephants (which had not other loading) with a great number of prisoners; to whom the Emperor commanded rich and gallant apparel to be given, and then to be set at liberty, to return to their Country. And in the mean time the Imperial Army entered the Country's subject to the Persians'; and, burning and spoiling the same, returned with victory. But within a small time after, HORMISDA levied the greatest forces that he was able, and made a very valiant and expert man of war, General thereof: for, by reason of his last overthrow, he made a law, that the Kings of Persia should never be present in any battle; and so he again renewed the war against the Empire, to recover his lost honour. Against whom the Emperor sent a new General, a valiant and wise Earl named MAURICE, who afterwards was Emperor; who with the like good Maurice made General against the Persians'. fortune sought to fight with the Persians': and, levying infinite numbers of soldiers on either side, they fought a great part of the day, until that, after many thousands of the one and other side were slain, the victory shown itself to be of MAURICE his side: and he recovered certain A battle wherein Maurice had the victory. places, and conquered others from the Persians'; so as HORMISDA was constrained of necessity to conclude some peace or truce with the Emperor. And MAURICE came with victory to Constantinople: where he was solemnly received by TIBERIUS, who married him to his own daughter, in reward of so noble a victory. Whilst these things passed in the East, the affairs of Italy prospered not so well: for, CLEPHIS, the new King of the Lombard's, made cruel wars against those Towns and Countries which held of the Empire; and all things happened so according to his desire, that he took many cities: The state of Italy against the Longobards. and, being desirous to repose himself for a while, he sent his Captains and their companies towards Rome. And they took all the Cities in the marches thereof; and Rome itself was besieged by them, and was in great danger to have been entered by force. So that (as Authors affirm) if CLEPHIS had lived but a little while longer, he had made himself Lord of Rome and Ravenna, which were the two eyes and fortresses of all Italy. But his designs were made frustrate by death, like to other Kings and Captains, who have been as great and greater than ever he was; whose death was practised by the treason of his own people. After his decease the Lombard's would neither choose nor have any more Kings at that time: but there arose thirty principal Thirty tyrants of the Lombard's men, or (to speak more properly) thirty tyrants; who invested themselves in thirty of the best Towns which they held in Italy. And so every of them governed his Town and the Territory thereof. And each of them likewise made wars apart by himself; sometimes the one aiding and assisting the other against the Empire. And as the Emperor TIBERIUS was busied in making provision for his wars against the Persians', and did not sufficiently provide for Italy, these Captains of the Lombard's had opportunity to extend their power there, and took many other Cities, coming before Rome and Naples. In which war they committed such cruelties, robberies and insolences, as the like had never been seen. So that from Rome to the Eastwards there remained little more subject to the Empire than the Kingdom of Naples, and the City of Rome, with some Towns in the marches thereof; and the City of Naples fell also into the hands of the Lombard's: but we cannot certainly say, whether at this time or afterwards. Yet Ravenna held for the Empire, and some other strong holds near unto it; which, through the wisdom and foresight of LONGINUS, were defended. And there also held for the Empire of either side of the river of Po, Como, Cremona, Mantoa, Padua, Bologna and Vercelli: and the Lombard's at this time had all the rest. Thus the war was managed on either side with great cruelty: for, the Lombard's as they were barbarous, and had not yet well received the faith of CHRIST, robbed and spoiled all, aswell sacred as profane, without any difference. Whereto, besides what is already said, this was a great furtherance, that in the time of this combustion TIBERIUS fell so sorely sick, that he could not apply himself to the government of the Empire; and his infirmity never left him till he died. Wherhfore the Romans, oppressed by the Longobards, motioned a treaty of peace; and a truce was concluded between them for a certain time. Which truce the Lombard's granted, for that the kings of France (wherein at that time reigned three brothers) being much grieved to see the Lombard's grown so mighty in Italy, sent a great Army against them, which was already entered Lombardy. And they also the more willingly granted the truce, for that the Saxons, which until then had aided them in their wars, had now left them and were returned. TIBERIUS being sick in Constantinople (as we said) as a good Emperor desirous as well to provide for the time to come, as he had done for the present and past; nominated for CAESAR and his successor his son in law MAURICE. And afterwards leaving all the Empire entire and in peace, as he inherited the same (the state of Italy only except) in the seventh year of his reign (although some say less) he died, in the year of our The death of Tiberius. Lord, five hundred fourscore and five; and after some others, five hundred fourscore and nine. His death was much lamented by all estates, for his great virtue and integrity, and for that he was liberal and bountiful to all men. THE LIFE OF MAURICIUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE AND TWO ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. THE Empire being come to Mauricius, son in law to Tiberius, he shown himself to be of a very vile disposition, and particularly sinned in covetousness, notwithstanding that in Martial affairs he was very wise and politic. He sent Captains and men of war into Italic against the Lombard's, accordingly as Pope Pelagius had requested, with whom after long war, in the end a truce was concluded: he afterwards broke the peace with the Persians', and the war had this issue, that after many routs and overthrows equally given and received, of the one side and the other; the new King of Persia, to suppress a Tyrant which rose against him, become a friend to the Emperor of Constantinople. After which peace, bending himself to the affairs of the West, he governed the estate with indifferent good fortune, through the valour of the Exarcht, which he sent into Italy: yet in this time God sent many plagues and scourges into the World, as inundations and overflowings of waters, famine, and Pestilence, which happened more in Rome then in any other country. Besides which miseries, it was besieged by the Lombard's: and Maurice for the hatred which he bore to Gregory (who then succeeding Pelagius, was Pope) would not relieve it, so as to abase the Pope, he was content to loose all Italy, which God afterwards severely punished. For his own soldier's rebelling against him, made a private Colonel, whose name was Phocas, Emperor, who coming towards Constantinople with an Army, made Maurice to fly: and he being unable to levy such forces as might defend him, taken by though soldiers of the new tyrant, was brought back to Constantinople, where having first seen the death of his wife and children, by the hands of an executioner he had his head stricken off; all which he endured with great resolution when he had reigned twenty years. MAURICIUS peaceably obtained the Empire, by the death of his father in law TIBERIUS, whom he nothing resembled in his virtues, for he was both vicious and covetous; yet in the affairs of the wars, he was very provident and diligent: and as he was both valiant and politic in martial actions, so he made choice of singular Captains for the wars which were many, very great and dangerous. Whereof great part happened at one instant, notwithstanding that they were in sundry parts and Provinces. Wherhfore to deliver that in few words which I have gathered together, it is requisite I should writ each several accident apart: which I will perform in the best manner I can, so as in the end of all, the whole may be understood. Beginning then with the affairs of Italy, I say that the truce made with the Lombard's, was not of their part throughly observed, but that daily from one city or other, there were robberies committed, and some encounters and bicker. Wherhfore as LONGINUS was but of small power, and the Romans were in great fear to be besieged; Pope PELAGIUS the second wrote a Letter from Rome to GREGORY whom he had sent to Constantinople, informing him of the state of Italy, and of the great danger and necessity wherein it was, and gave him especial charge to be an earnest suitor to the Emperor, to sand relief and men against the Lombard's; which he procured with such efficacy, as the Emperor MAURICE (notwithstanding that he was much troubled with the wars of Persia, whereof we will speak hereafter) provided a new Exarch and governor for Italy, who was a good soldier and a wise man called SMARAGDUS, with a good number of soldiers; and sent for LONGINUS to return. SMARAGDUS came by sea to Ravenna, and with him Saint GREGORY. His Smaragdus bame Exarch ●…to Italy. coming, for the fame and good report which was sp●…ed of him, gave great joy and hope to the Imperialists in Italy; and he presently took order for martial affairs. And forasmuch as▪ near unto Ravenna, a valiant captain of the Lombard's, called FEROALDUS, held a city called C●…, and had made, and still did make cruel war against those of Ravenna; he resolved to use all means to dispossess him thereof; and to drive him quite from thence. And to this effect he sent to DOCTRULA an Imperial captain and governor of the city of Vercelli, that leaving a competent garrison in that city he should come with his forces to join with him: who making provision of boats and baikes, purposed for his better security, to pass down the river of Po, to the end that being arrived at Aspene●…ico, which is at the mouth of the river, he might sail from thence by sea to Ravenna. But FEROALDUS had intelligence hereof; and with the greatest power that he could make, came likewise with barks to stop his passage down the river: where they came to blows, and DOCTRULA by means of the aid which came to him from Ravenna had the victory, and FEROALDUS was overthrown and fled by water to Classi, which the new Exarch SMARAGDUS in the mean time had besieged and battered, so as it was ready to have yielded when FEROALDUS came; who then hindered the same, by encouraging the besieged. But as soon as they understood that he was overthrown by the enemy and came thither by flight, they resolved to yield, and did so. SMARAGDUS entered the city; where all the Lombard's which were found therein, were put to the sword, and in like manner their governor FEROALDUS, in revenge of the like cruelties committed by them. This victory obtained by SMARAGDUS, was so highly esteemed, as those of his party resuming hart and courage, and their adversary's waxing fearful, he recovered some cities and holds, the greatest part whereof yielded of themselves. Which the captains of the Lombard's considering (who after the death of CLEPHIS continued as tyrants and would not choose them any King) they resolved to make choice of one whom they all should obey, and under whom they might live; for they were of opinion, that if they continued so divided, they should be all ou●…throwne and brought to confusion, as they already began. Having resolved hereupon▪ they chose one of King CLEPHIS his sons, whose name was ANTHARIS, a young Antharis chosen King of the Longobards. man of great spirit, and who had purchased greater fame in the wars then any other man of his nation; and so was much spoken of both among his friends and enemies. The name of a King, and so valiant, as was ANTHARIS, caused a great alteration in the estate; to whom all the captains and governors contributed of their treasure, each of them giving him the one half of what he had, for the maintenance of the wars, and his new estate. The first enterprise he undertook, was against Vercelli, and DOCTRULA the governor thereof, aswell for the late dishonour which he had done them, as for that the city at that time was of great importance; wherefore he besseged it both by water upon the river of Po with barks, and by land with great forces which he had raised; and forced it in ●…uch manner, as notwithstanding that DOCTRULA did all that possibly he was able to do, being out of hope to hold the place, he came to a composition with him, and gave it up; and so he came down the river to Ravenna; and ANTHARIS made great spoil in the city, destroying the best part thereof, and razed the walls down to the earth, so as they were never after repaired or made like as in former time they had been. ANTHARIS having obtained this victory, resolved to go against FRANCILIONE, who held the city of Como, and other fortresses in the Lake of Como, and had very gallantly defended the same for the space of seventeen years. But in the mean season motions were made of peace or truce, and either party was glad to treat thereof. SMARAGDUS, for that he stood in fear of the King, who was both young and valiant, and also for that he imagined himself to have no sufficient power to make head against him, and the King being but newly come to his government, holding not himself throughly settled and confirmed; the better to establish himself therein, thought it best to conclude a peace, and to bring-under some, to whom his election was nothing pleasing. All which laid together, gave occasion that a truce was taken for a certain time, although the Lombard's never truly observed the same. During that time all Italy enjoyed some rest, and SNARAGDUS sent to Rome for Perfect or governor thereof, a A truce taken with the Lombard's. noble Knight borne in Constantinople, whose name was GERMANUS, with whom went S. GREGORY, and they were received with great joy and solemnity: for GREGORY for his Germanus gove●…nour of Rome. good life and conversation, was generally beloved and honoured. So as with their coming, and the good hope which was conceived of their new Exarch, they thought to have a hand in recovering all that which the Lombard's held, and had usurped; and in the mean time, to enjoy the peace in rest and prosperity. But it followed not according to their expectation: for God sent other persecutions, as you shall hear. But us leave Italy in this truce, and briefly speak of those wars which MAURICE made by his Captains in the East against the Persians', which for numbers of men, battles and great conflicts, were fare greater than those of Italy: for they were between two the most mighty Monarches which then were in the world, to wit, the King of Persia, and the Roman Emperor. MAURICIUS then sent his Army, and for General a worthy Nobleman called PHILIPPICUS, to whom he had married his sister. Against whom K. HORMISDA raised Philippicus, General against the Persian●…. greater forces, and made a great man called CARDARIGA his General. With whom, after some notable skirmishes and encounters, PHILIPPICUS came to a main battle, with power against power, which lasted above ten hours; the one charging the other, in such manner that no advantage could be seen, But in the end PHILIPPICUS and his troops had the victory, A battle 〈◊〉 wherein Philippicus had the victory. and slew a very great number of the Persians', and took two thousand prisoners, which he sent to the Emperor to Constantinople: and the rest escaped by flight, and with them their General CARDARIGA. PHILIPPICUS, having obtained this notable victory, marched forwards with his Army, and sent a good Commander called HERACLIUS, with some selected troops, with direction to enter as fare as he might into the Persians' country, he promising to second him. Notwithstanding that CARDARIGA was overthrown, yet was he not discouraged, neither omitted to use all the means and diligence which to a good General did belong: and so gathering together such forces as he could, making, show that he would reinforce his Army; with those small troops he had, passing over certain mountains, in a very dark night he set upon PHILIPPICUS his Arierguard; where in the fear was so great, that PHILIPPICUS, as though he had not been victorious, shamefully fled all the whole night The shameful flight of Philippicus. long, with no small loss and slaughter of his people: in so much that the Persians' imagining their flight to have been feigned (seeing how few they were) dared not to follow the chase; and so rested until that the day light freed the one from fear, and shown the other the advantage they had lost. But HERACLIUS, whom PHILIPPICUS had sent before, followed his direction with better discretion, and greater diligence: for passing over the river Tigris, with the fame of the late victory, he took some cities, and did much hurt, and returned towards PHILIPPICUS very rich with the prey and spoils of the victory. This being past, and the Roman Army being gathered again together, the Emperor commanded PHILIPPICUS, that leaving the Army with HERACLIUS, he should make his repair to Constantinople; and PHILIPPICUS obeyed his commandment. In his place was sent a valiant and expert captain called PRISCUS: who being come to the Army, shown himself so proud and haughty to the Captains and men of war, as they mutined against Priscus made General against the Persian●… in place of Philippicus. him; and he was generally so ill entreated by all men, that he was driven to save himself by flight, having received such blows and knocks with stones, as he was in danger to have been slain: and they amongst themselves choose (against his will) GERMANUS for their General, who was a man of great account in the Army. But at that time MAURICIUS was so oppressed with the wars against CAYANUS, and the Auares, and against the Slavons in Slavonia, in Missia, and other provinces (whereof we will speak hereafter) as he could not then punish so great an insolency: and therefore as soon as he understood thereof, he held it for most expedient to sand back PHILIPPICUS, for their Governor and General, and that PRISCUS should return. And besides PHILIPPICUS, he also sent another Nobleman of great estimation, called ARISTOBULUS, to pacify the mutiny and rebellion of the Army, by entreaty, Philippicus restored to his charge. gifts, or otherwise in the best manner he could: which he performed. And so PHILIPPICUS again undertaken his charge: and returned to war against MARUZAS a new General of the Persians'; who with a greater Army than any of those before named, came against him. Which is an argument of the great wealth and power of the Kings of Persia, who being so often overthrown, they still returned with great forces, and that always when they desired peace, the Empire willingly granted it. And in the end the Emperors were well contented to defend their confines against them, and held it for a matter of great consequence. These two great Captains and Armies came so near together, that both parties desired to give battle, wherein they fought so obstinately, as it was one of the most cruel battles in the World: and both the one and other party fought with such obstinacy and courage, that it lasted the greatest part of the day, but the Persians' were overthrown; not for that they were either discouraged or ran away, but for that they were almost all slain. For in the Annals of Constantinople I find written, that three thousand of them were taken prisoners, and two thousand escaped by flight, and that all the rest died fight, and with them their General MARUZAS; so as their Camp was left to the Romans, who found no man therein to make resistance. And so they spent one whole year in frontier wars, at the end whereof King HORMISDA commanded a very great Army to be levied. PHILIPPICUS, presuming on his former victories, made no doubt to give them battle; and the Persians' refused it not, and so they fought near to the City Marticopolis; and therein was PHILIPPICUS and the Romans overthrown, to their great loss and confusion. For which the Emperor was very sorry, and provided a new General for the East, and sent for PHILIPPICUS to come to Constantinople, with direction to leave the Army with HERACLIUS, of whom we made late mention, till that another General should come: which was performed. Afterwards ROMANUS was sent, and the King of Persia sent another, whose name was BARAS. These two Generals being arrived with their new charges, either of them sought to win honour against the other; and in diverse encounters, lost many men, burned Towns, and did the greatest harm every where they could, until at last they drew near, and fought in a ranged battle, wherein BARAS and the Persians' were overthrown, in the fields of Albania in Asia, which is a very great Province in the East, bordering upon Armenia. HORMISDA was so grieved for this loss, imagining that it happened through the defect of his General, as thereby to disgrace him, he sent him a woman's Garment, and commanded him presently to leave his government. Yet notwithstanding, he had set matters in very good order, and had gathered together his scattered Army. But he stood in such fear of his King, that the best remedy he could device, was to rebel against him; which he might easily effect, for HORMISDA was very cruel, and therefore hated by his subjects. After this (upon the rebellion of BARAS) VINDOIS, a man of great power (whose brother HORMISDA kept in prison) conspired against him, with many others, which for his cruelty and covetousness extremely hated him: and they took him prisoner, and made his son COSROES their king. But his other son, with his wife, they put to death, and plucked out his eyes; and afterwards his own son caused him to be slain: and so ended the reign and life of HORMISDA. But the cruelty which the son used against his father, seemed so horrible and odious, that he Hormisda king of the Persians' put to death by his son Cosroes. presently fell into as great hatred of all men, as his father had been in his life time; in so much that going to fight with BARAS, who as I said rebelled, the greatest part of the men of war which he led, forsook him, and went over to BARAS. So as COSROES seeing himself abandoned, resolved to sue to his enemies for relief, and fled into the territories of the Empire, Cosroes king of the Persians' fled into the Empire. and put himself into the power of PROBS PATRICIUS, who had the guard of the frontiers, through which he passed, where he was very honourably entertained. Whereof when the Emperor MAURICIUS was given to understand, he was very glad, and sent unto him a very honourable Captain, whose name was NARSES, and a Bishop, a man of great authority and his kinsman, offering him all favour and aid for the recovery of his kingdom, and adopted and took him for his son. NARSES, who went for General in this action, putting the same in execution, commanded all the Armies and men of war which the Empire held in Asia, to be drawn to an head: Baras overthrown in a battle by Cosroes. and so he and COSROES went to seek BARAS, who with the courage of a valiant Tyrant stayed for them, and fight was overthrown, and by flight escaped into certain mountains. After this noble victory, Cosroes-recovered all his kingdoms, and he and the Emperor continued great friends: and so ceased the wars between the Empire and the Persians', which had continued six years. This happened in the eight year of the reign of the Emperor MAURICIUS. Whilst the Emperor MAURICE managed these wars in the East, Europe continued not in ●…stnor-peace; for besides the miseries and calamities of Italy (as I will presently relate) the Huns which dwelled in Hungary, and in part of Noricum, now called Bavaria (whom we but Noricum Bavaria. now called Auares) after the name of a King of theirs who was called by that name, then reigning over them a King called CAYANUS, who was both proud and very valiant, and therewith very mighty, they and he concluded amongst themselves to make war against the Empire: which they followed with such resolution as it caused no small fear: for entering through the upper Missia, which now containeth the two provinces of Servia, and Bassina, he found so small resistance, as he came into Thracia, now called Graecia or Turkey, for that therein standeth the great city of Constantinople: against whom MAURICE sent an Army, and for General thereof Wars between Cayanus and Commenciolus▪ a valiant and prudent captain whose name was COMENCIOLUS. These two made cruel wars, and after many skirmishes came to a battle, which I leave, being too long to recite; wherein CAYANUS was overthrown with great loss of his people, and so was constrained to retire. But within short space after, he returned again with no less power than at the first, to war in the marches of Slavonia, and MAURICE sent thither his son THEODOSIUS, and his father in law GERMANUS, with other Captains; who had so good success, that although Cayanus & his people driven out of Hungary. they lost in some encounters, yet they not only drove them out of that which they had formerly usurped, but also wholly rooted them out of all Hungary. But MAURICE either for fear or retchlesness forslowed those wars, and losing opportunity (which is seldom recovered) the inconveniences ensued, which we will describe. For a kind of people called Slavons, a nation inhabiting fare in the north, which until that time had never been heard of, sent their Ambassadors to the Huns Auares (moved thereto, by the news which they had heard from them) and offered to come to their aid, as in deed they afterwards did, joined with The Slavons came to make wars in the Empire. them, and did much harm in the lands of the Empire, and out of it, as hereafter we will relate in few words. Let us now return to Italy, which we lost in peace and at truce with the Lombard's: wherein it happened, that as neither party concluded the peace for any ●…emorse of conscience, or for the fear or love of God or their neighbours; but for their own advantage and private interest, and to await a fit time and oportuni●…ie for the wars (as for our sins it often happeneth) and as it was not pleasing to God, neither made according to his will, so it pleased not him to maintain the same: for he sent his wrath and scourge upon Italy, and chief upon A wonderful deluge in Rome and all Italy. Rome, ad to a place which mostneeded amendment. The first was with rain, which fell in the month of September and October, for the space of many days continually without ceasing, in such so it, that the water was so high, as the rivees and lakes of Italy overflowed and drowned an in●…nite number of people and carteill; and the river Tiber waxed so high, that all the fields which were not hilly and mountainous, were overflown with water; so as all men feared that it would have proved another general deluge; particularly in Rome, where the river Tiber did swell so much▪ that in some part it was as high, and in some other it exceeded and overflowed the ●…ess of 〈◊〉 city; and though wat●… entered in such manner into it, that it spoiled and defaced the greatest part of the buildings near to the ruler. The flood afterwards ceasing, the fields remained so slimy, so muddy and so soft, that they could not be tilled nor sown; by reason Italy and Rome plagued with ra●…, famine and pestilence▪ 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 all famine ensued through all Italy. And in like manner through the excessive moisture, the earth and the air were so corrupted, as the plague began, which raged in such manner▪ that many towns were left desolate, and dispeopled; and where they died lest, two thirds of the people perished. But in the city of Rome (as all writers affirm) was the greatest 〈◊〉 of: for in the beginning it took away Pope PELAGPUS the second, in whose 〈◊〉 (against his will and perforce) 〈◊〉 as chosen Saint GREGORY: who seeing the wrath 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, 〈◊〉 many devout prayers to God, and many sermons and orations to the people, The Litany ordained to be said in the Church by Saint Gregory. exhorting them to amendment of life, and repentance for their sins, to the end that it might please his 〈◊〉 to with hold his punishment from them. And in this extremity he ordained 〈◊〉 〈◊〉▪ which is to this day used in the Church. Finally, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 mercy took ●…ity on them, and the plague ceased, and the earth began to be more cheerful, and to change colour, and to bring forthfruit. But yet this favour which the Lord bestowed on them, availed not to establish any peace or amity among those which escaped this plague: for, the Lombard's, having gotten supplies of men of war, without any respect of the fear or love of God (the time of the truce being expired) renewed the wars with greater fury than at the first. And forasmuch as the Land had been punished with so great calamities, and lay waste and dispeopled, it was an easy matter for them to do great harm among the Imperialists. First, their King ANTHARIS in person went against FRANCILION, who commanded in the City of Como, with two other strong fortresses in the Lake of Como: and besieging him the space of six months, being no longer able to defend the City, he gave it up, and went to Ravenna; that City having valiantly defended itself with much honour the space of twenty years. The taking of this City greatly enriched King ANTHARIS: for, FRANCILION had in that time gathered together and had in it much treasure. Departing from thence with great honour and wealth, he took other places. Whereupon the Emperor MAURICE, at the entreaty of Pope GREGORY, and the Exarch SMARAGDUS (who daily solicited him for aid and relief) sent to CHILDEBERT, who at that time reigned King of France, a great sum of money, to the end he should enter Italy with some great power, in his behalf: and the King of France promised to do so, and began to put it in execution. Who coming into Italy, the fame of his coming began to work great effect; and some Captains of the Lombard's revolted to him. But CHILDEBERT imagining, that, if the Emperor again recovered Italy wholly to himself, he should hardly live in safety in France; he therefore, coming to a composition with ANTHARIS, returned into his Country, without intermeddling in other men's quarrels. At his return died ANTHARIS, King of the Lombard's: and the principal men of that Nation, falling at variance among themselves about choosing of a new King, at last agreed that he should be King whom TEODELINDA (which was the last King's widow) should take to husband; and she made choice of AGISULPHUS, Governer of Taurino, now called Turin: and so he was made King, who was as valiant a Prince as any his Predecessors had been before him. At that time the Emperor deposed SMARAGDUS from the government of Italy, and sent thither for Exarch a Knight called ROMANUS (of whom we made mention in the wars of Persia) with some companies of soldiers for the defence of Rome, and to make war in other places. ROMANUS, coming in the mean time, whilst the new King AGISULPHUS was busied with some of his Captains, who holding certain Cities rebelled against him; provided and furnished, with men and victuals, Milan, Mantua Cremona, and the rest of the Cities which were in greatest danger: and, setting all things there in order, he came to Rome; from whence afterwards, with those forces which he brought, and those also which before his coming were in the City, he departed to recover the Towns and Castles which the Lombard's possessed in that Quarter: many of which he did win by force, and others voluntarily yielded themselves. Whilst the Exarch was busy about these things, the Pope sent three very learned men into England; who with their preaching converted the King and the Inhabitants thereof to the true faith, which until then was not throughly received among them. The like care he took for Italy, and for all the other Provinces: and TEODELINDA (the wife of King AGISULPHUS) being a devout Christian▪ he persuaded her and her husband to 'cause their people to leave their idolatry; which he obtained: and afterwards he entreated him to surrender to the Church the goods and revenues which he withheld from it. About this time grew great contention between the Bishops of Rome and of Constantinople about Contention betwixt the bishop's o●… Rome and of Constantinople for the supremacy. the supremacy: for, JOHN Bishop of Constantinople alleged, that to him did appertain the Papacy, and to be Universal Bishop of the Church seeing that Constantinople was the head of the Empire. Against which, the Bishop of Rome opposed himself with all his power; alleging himself to be CHRIST's Vicar, and Head of the Church: so as there passed many things of the one side and the other about this matter. In this mean time died ROMANUS the The Exarch Romanus dying, Gallicanus was sent in his place. Exarch; and another was sent in his place, whose name was GALLICIANUS or GALLICANUS, who was a virtuous man and very valiant: and he presently applied himself to redress many things which ROMANUS had perverted and put of order. And although he much desired war, yet through the counsel of the Pope he took truce: which being expired, he carried himself so valiantly in the wars, that he took the City of Parma by assault from the Lombard's, and therein took a daughter of King AGISULPHUS, whom he had by his first wife; and grew to be so strong in field, that AGISULPHUS durst not give him battle. Whereupon, seeing himself ouermatcht, he sent to the Slavons for aid, who were already joined with the Auares: and GALLICANUS levying new forces died in Ravenna, and SMARAGDUS was again sent thither to be Exarch; who came into Italy with so small forces, that his coming did rather encourage, than dismay or daunt, the enemy: which proceeded from this; The Empeperor so deadly hated the Pope's presumption, that, rather than to endure the same, he was content to loose all Italy. And to this his dislike was joined the trouble which the Slavons, who came to his enemy's aid, did put him to: for CAYANUS the fierce and proud King of the Auares (the Slavons and their king MUSACIUS being come into Germany) joined his forces with his enemies, and some Frenchmen came also to them, and entered the bounds of the Empire. The Emperor sent against them one PRISCUS, a captain of great account, with a mighty Army, to stop their passage over the river Ister, now called Danubius; who warred so advisedly and with so great valour and discretion, as most times that he fought with them he obtained the victory. And one Musacius King of the Slavons taken prisoner by Priscus, General of the Emperor's forces. night he gave the Slavons a Camizado, and took their King MUSACIUS prisoner, and slew a great number of them. There afterwards happened many things in that war, which would be too long to relate: for CAYANUS King of the Auares, as he had many men, and those very expert and accustomed to the wars, besides the multitude of the Slavons, never ceased to make cruel war against the Emperor MAURICE; yet sometime they took truce, which lasted some space: and PRISCUS and he met and spoke together concerning an agreement. After all this, CAYANUS with his Auares and Slavons entered Dalmatia, and did great harm, robbing and spoiling many towns there. But PRISCUS coming to relieve them, he retired Cayanus invaded the Empire. to his loss, and altering his course took his way towards Thracia: and marching without stay, came within few day's journey of Constantinople. And as the report and fear is usually greater than the danger, so he strake so great a terror into the citizens of Constantinople, as they were of the mind to have abandoned the city, and to have passed over that arm of the Sea into Asia, as the Annals of Constantinople do testify. But the Emperor MAURICE (as in truth he was valiant) commanded all the people to be put in Arms, and the gates of the city to be shut, and order to be taken in all things that were needful, using infinite diligence; and gave direction for the defence of the countries through which CAYANUS was to pass. But all this needed not, for at that instant there fell so pestilent a mortality in CAYANUS his Army, that A great plague in Cayanus his camp, whereof seven of his sons died in one day. in one day seven of his sons (for he had many) and a great number of other people died of the plague: wherefore he was constrained to return into his country: And the Emperor sent for General another Captain, whose name was COMENCIOLUS, who joining with PRISCUS, obtained certain victories against CAYANUS. But he was of so haughty a mind, and therewith so politic, that notwithstanding that he was overthrown, yet within very few days he ever reinforced his Army, in such sort that he put his enemies in greater fear, then at the first; and in the end at the request and entreaty of the Lombard's which lived in Italy, he resolved to war in Slavonia, drawing near unto Italy: where, although that he found some resistance, yet the Slavons which came with him seized upon a great part of that country, and remained there: and in process of time it left the name of Illyricum, and after their name until this Illyricum called Slavonia. day is called Slavonia; and so from henceforth we will call it. From this nation (as BLONDUS, VOLATERRANUS, and others affirm) the Bohemians and Polonians are descended: for part of them took those countries, and upon sundry occasions took these names. The origine of the Bohemians and Polonians. As matters stood upon these terms, the Lombard's in Italy and their King AGISULPHUS, knowing how much the Emperor hated the Pope, resolved to besiege Rome; which they did with a very great Army, and the Pope was therein besieged above one whole year, and by his industry only the city was defended, for from the Emperor came no relief at all: whereupon he wrote him certain letters, which are yet extant, out of which is drawn great part of this history. But notwithstanding all this, the Emperor MAURICE would not relieve him, but rather wished his destruction: but yet both he and the city escaped, and at the years end ACISULPHUS raised his siege and departed. It is written, that upon a day about noon, in the city of Constantinople, in the open market place of that city, there appeared a man to the Emperor in the habit of a Monk, holding a sword Prodigious visions appeared to the Emperor Maurice, prognosticating his death. in his hand, who speaking with a loud voice, said, The Emperor MAURICE shall die by this sword: and this man presently vanished amongst the people, so as no man could say whence he came, nor who he was. This is written by Pope GREGORY, which you may believe if you will. They also say, that in his steep he saw a soldier whose name was PHOCAS, who murdered his wife and his children, and afterwards slew him also. With this dream he was so much troubled, that he presently commanded his soon in law PHILIPPICUS to be sent for, who was charged by him to have had a determination to rebel against him; and he (not without great fear) came to him. The Emperor, after he had desired him to pardon him for the false accusation wherewith he had slandered him, asked him whether he knew any man of account in the Army called by the name of PHOCAS: whereto he answered, that he knew a Centurion in the Camp of that name, whom he had a little before made Pouruoier for the Camp. MAURICE again demanded, what manner of man he was: Quoth he, He is a choleric, licentious young fellow; but therewith fearful, and a coward. Whereto they say, the Emperor (being much troubled and in despair) replied: If he be a coward, of necessity he must be cruel, and desirous to shed blood: and so, shedding many tears, he told PHILIPPICUS what he had dreamt; who was therewith also much troubled. In the mean time there came messengers unto him, which he had sent to certain religious persons to desire them to pray for him; who in some sort did recomfort him, persuading him to be of good cheer: for, God would have mercy on his soul. But yet he never ceased to bewail his sins, and lived in continual sorrow and contrition. And PHILIPPICUS persuaded him to use some great liberality to his Army and men of war, thereby to win their love, and the better to live in safety from them. But he followed not his good counsel: and so within few days after, his death was practised, in such manner as followeth. He commanded his brother PETER, whom he had made General of his Army, against the Slavons in Slavonia, that to avoid charge and expenses, in any case he should winter in the same province, and lodge his Army in such villages and other places, where he might most annoyed the enemy. Whereto notwithstanding that PETER answered to the contrary, and entreated that he might not do so, alleging that the Army should sustain intolerable trouble and extremity in those mountains; yet he continued so obstinate in his command, as PETER of force must obey, although against his will: and the Army took this in so ill part, that without any respect of duty and allegiance they mutined; and choosing the aforenamed PHOCAS for General, they marched against PETER, who was lodged about a day's journey from thence, and he fled to the Emperor. BLONDUS writeth that the Captains which fled, were THEODOSIUS, the Emperor's son, and GERMANUS his father-in-law. But I heerin follow the Commentaries of Constantinople, and ZONORAS', which seem to be more conformable to the truth: for, they writ, that the whole Army sent an Ambassage to THEODOSIUS, willing him to come unto them, and they would make him Emperor; and if he would not that than GERMANUS should come: but, they refusing, or not daring, to accept their offer' the Army chose the same PHOCAS for Emperor; and he took his way towards Constantinople. Phocas chosen Emperor. Which when the Emperor MAURICE understood, calling to him his son THEODOSIUS, and GERMANUS his father-in-law, with COMINCIOLUS, PHILIPPICUS, and other great Captains, he began to take order for the defence of the City, and to levy soldiers, and to make preparation for the wars. But, as this revolt happened through the permission and ordinance of God: so the people mutined in such manner, that nothing could be done to any purpose; and there were many great tumults in the City. And among the people, and the Emperors own kindred also, some laid the fault of what was befallen, upon others; and some were in hope to be Emperors if MAURICE lost the Empire: and others took part with PHOCAS the new Tyrant or Emperor. During this confusion and hurly-burly, PHOCAS, as fast as he could march, came to Constantinople, accompanied with all the men of war: and MAURICE, who (until then) had ever been so mighty against all nations, having now no sufficient power to defend himself, fled out of the City, and took shipping in a small Bark, with his wife and children, and passed over the The Emperor Maurice fled from Constantinople Straight called Saint GEORGE his Channel; and, entering into the City of Calcedonia (which is on the other side) was there overtaken and apprehended by PHOCAS his soldiers, who was already comn to Constantinople. And, being brought back again, PHOCAS commanded him to be put to death: but he first made his two sons, three daughters, and his wife the Empress, for his greater torment, to be slain in his presence; which he saw and endured with admirable magnanimity: and, as a faithful Christian, recommending himself to God, he called upon his holy Name, many times repeating these words; justus es Domine, & rectum iudicium tuum. And The death of the Emperor Mauricius. so he patiently suffered death, and had his head stricken off. He died in the 63. year of his age, and the twentith of his reign, and in the year of our Lord (after most writers) 603. Some writ that when he fled from Constantinople, he sent his son THEODOSIUS to the King of Persia, there to be kept, and that afterwards he was delivered into the power of PHOCAS. And so ended and was extinguished the whole house and lineage of the Emperor MAURICE. There were also put to death, by PHOCAS his commandment, the Emperor's brother, PETER, and other principal men. In the time of this Emperor there were wars between the Kings of Spain, and France, and between the Saxons and the Suevians, between the French and the Auares, and some others: which for that they concern not my history, I omit. In this time also the Turks began to be known in the world: for it is found written, that they made wars in Asia against the Persians'. Than also began the name of the Bulgarians to be known in Europe, a fierce people, of whom we will speak hereafter. THE LIFE OF PHOCAS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE AND THIRD ROMAN EMPEROR. AFter the manner as I have before declared, was the Emperor MAURICE put to death: who, as he was valiant, wise, and venturous in the wars, if he had been bountiful and liberal, he had been accounted for a good Prince, and had longer enjoyed the Empire. For all authors affirm, his covetousness and sparing to have been the cause of his death, I mean of his corporal death: for the ways and judgements of the Lord are unsearchable and incomprehensible. And to say the truth, covetousness is one of the most dangerous and hateful vices wherewith a Prince can be infected: for besides that it maketh him ill beloved and odious to his subjects, it is the fountain and root of greater evils in those which are rich and mighty: for from thence grow violences, wrongs, rapine, bribery, extortion, cruelty, intolerable taxes, and impositions, no reward for service, condemning the innocent, absolving the guilty for money, coveting other men's goods, unjust war, and shameful peace. Finally, in Kings and Potentates covetousness is the mother of all evils, and a vice which maketh their reign and government short and miserable; as may be proved by many examples. And to the contrary, liberality hath been the occasion that many (notwithstanding that they were wicked) reigned longer than others. And forasmuch as I have not time to make any long digression, I conclude that the covetousness and miserable sparing of the Emperor MAURICE, made PHOCAS so mighty, as to be able to bereave him both of his Empire and life. And the same vice was afterwards the cause of his death also: as we will show you, as soon as we shall have related what happened in the Empire. When the Emperor MAURICE was dead, there was none that durst lift up his hand against PHOCAS, and therefore he was generally obeyed of all men (excepting NARSES▪ the general commander in the East, before named.) This NARSES when he understood that PHOCAS had caused MAURICE to be slain, he with an Army went into a city of Arabia, called Edissa; with a resolution to yield him no obedience, but with the aid of the Persians' to make himself strong against him. But PHOCAS was crowned in Constantinople by the Patriarch thereof with great solemnity, and great joy and gladness of the people, who are ever desirous of innovations: And as they suddenly desire them, so they as suddenly abhor them. And the like happened in Rome upon the news of his election: for the Romans hated MAURICE, for the enmity between him and the Pope whom they loved. As soon as Pope GREGORY understood that PHOCAS was made Emperor, he wrote unto him a notable epistle, which until this day is extant; wherein he admonished and counselleth him what he aught to do, to be a perfect Emperor. The first thing that PHOCAS did, was to sand into all the provinces and nations of the Empire, privileges, exemptions and kind letters, with new garrisons and soldiers where need required: all which he did with such expedition and in so good order, that he made himself well beloved of his subjects, and respected and feared by strangers: but both in the one and in the other it continued but short space. And to GERMANUS who was Praetor and governor in the East, he sent commandment presently to go and besiege NARSES who rebelled against him. In the mean season, AGISULPHUS King of the Lombard's (who in the troublesome time wherein PHOCAS was chosen, and before his election, had taken the cities of Cremona, Mantua, and Volturnia, and therein had done irreparable harms, aswell in the walls and buildings of the city, as among the citizens, the inhabitants, and their goods) for fear of the new Emperor concluded a truce with SMARAGDUS the Exarch, and with Pope GREGORY, and with all Italy, for one year. And from thenceforth to be the better able to live in security, he sought to match his eldest son ADOALDUS with the daughter of THEODOBERTUS King of France. And so PHOCAS reigned in great prosperity the first year; until he began to discover his base condition, and little worth, together with his extreme covetousness, and negligence in all things; by means whereof he become little regarded and esteemed by all men, whereof ensued wars and troubles. In the second year of his reign died Pope GREGORY, and SABINIANUS succeeded him, who also took truce for another year with AGISULPHUS, which was afterwards prolonged for other three years more, by Ambassadors sent by AGISULPHUS to the Emperor PHOCAS. And in the second year also of the reign of PHOCAS, began the war against the Persians', which in all men's judgement was War with the Persians'. least to be feared, considering how greatly COSROES King of Persia, stood bound to the Emperor MAURICE, and to the Empire, for restoring him to his kingdom. The cause of of this war is written so diversely, that I therefore leave to set it down: in the beginning whereof, GERMANUS the General in the East, levied an Army to make head against him, and they fought a battle, wherein GERMANUS was overthrown, and the greatest part of the Imperial Army slain: he being wounded escaped by flight, and within eleven days died thereof. When PHOCAS understood of this loss, he then granted the peace, which we spoke of, to the Lombard's, and procured the like with the Bavares, with the Huns, and with the Slavons. With great diligence and little discretion, he sent the greatest part of his power into Syria, for the wars in the East, under the conduct of very good Captains; and commanded LEONCIUS, and MAGNATES, who were two of them, to make war upon NARSES; who upon the faith and security given unto him yielded himself: but PHOCAS breaking his faith and promise, made him most cruelly to be burnt. His Army in the East had yet another battle Phocas violating his faith made Narses to be burnt. with COSROES, and was again overthrown with great dishonour and confusion. Whilst the Emperor's Captains lost these battles, there grew very great tumults and factions in Constantinople, and in many other cities in Asia; which rose of very light and frivolous occasions. Which were, that as in ancient time, in Rome, and afterwards in Constantinople, they used certain sports and games of running with chariots, and on horse back, after a kind of turneying, as heretofore in the life of DOMICIANUS we have declared: so now some clothing themselves in green, and others in grey, the common people which saw the same (as their manner is) affected some the one colour, and some the other; and this so much increased, that (as in times passed there had been great scandales, and murders done upon the like occasions) so it pleased God to permit, that in the time of PHOCAS, the matter grew to that extremity, as there were infinite slaughters and murders committed, in Syria, in Egypt, in Graecia, and in many other provinces: which the Emperor by his letters and commandments was not able to prevent. For notwithstanding that he was very cruel, and did wrongfully put many to death; yet was there small account made of him; for all men knew the baseness of his mind, and his disordinate vices, and covetousness, and how that he applied himself to nothing, but to his pleasure amongst women, and to seek new means to increase his tributes, and to heap up money: by reason whereof every where were tumults, confusions, and riots; and the princes and nations bordering upon the Empire knowing this, determined to seize upon such part thereof as they could. CAYANUS with the Bavarians and Huns, coming from Noricum (by them called Bavaria) and from the countries of Hungary and Austria; after they had enlarged their territory, concluded to make war upon the Lombard's (which was the only thing that kept the Empire in peace) and fight a battle with a great Army, and a Captain of them, the Bavarians obtained the victory. After which CAYANUS took by force a city called Forum julij, which he wholly destroyed, and having done much harm and taken great spoils in the province of Venice, he returned to his kingdom. Than the Slavons who before had made themselves Lords of a great part of Illyricum, in this time took all Illyricum, and Dalmatia, which now contains all the coast and country from Friuli to Durasso, by them called Slavonia. In this mean time, COSROES King of Persia was not idle, but entered with a mighty power into Mesopotamia, and took it all, and part of Syria, where, in battles and conflicts, he wholly defeated the legions and Roman Mesopotamia, Armenia, and Cappadocia taken from the Romans by the Persians'. Army. On the other side, his men of war made themselves Lords of Armenia, and Cappadocia, and did much hurt in other provinces of the Empire. Whilst these things passed in these parts; In Africa, which of long time (even since the death of the Emperor JUSTINIAN) had been in peace, and in the service and obedience of the Empire; HERACLIUS whom some call HERACLIANUS, who for the Emperor PHOCAS was governor thereof, seeing his pusillanimity and evil government, began to leave his service and to do what best pleased himself, without any respect or regard to his decrees or commandments. And to the end the mischief should be general, in the city of Antioch in Soria, the Infidels rose against the Christians, and slew a great number of them, together with the Patriarch of that city; upon whom PHOCAS commanded great punishment to be inflicted. Finally, in all the provinces there was great disorder and little justice, and those provinces which bordered upon the enemies were spoiled, and a great part of them lost. And the matter came to this issue, that one of these two things of necessity must ensue; which were, that either the Empire must be rend in sunder, and wholly lost, or else PHOCAS must die. Whereupon the principal Captains, Hard conditions for an Emperor. and his chiefest friends, seeing it expedient for the common good, and the estate of the Empire, conspired against him, and resolved to kill him. Among which was his greatest favourite PRISCUS, who by letters agreed with HERACLIUS (who governed Africa and rebelled, and to whose daughter PRISCUS was married) to kill him, and make his son HERACLIUS which was his wife's brother, Emperor. There were also confederates in this treason (if it may be said to be treason to kill a tyrant and a traitor) PATRICIUS, and other principal men. And as PRISCUS was in great credit with PHOCAS, so he feigned to reduce his father in law HERACLIUS to his service; and under this pretext, he first brought his brother in law HERACLIUS to Constantinople, for a pledge and assurance of his father's loyalty. This treaty was double: for his father was presently to come to Constantinople, with the greatest power that he was able to make, under colour to pass into Asia, against the King of Persia; and according to this rumour he did so, and came with a very great Army, and suddenly landed in Thracia, which coast is now called Romania. And his son who remained in Constantinople with the favour and in company of PRISCUS, and many others, entered the palace and slew PHOCAS; and then Phocas slain by Heraclius which after him succeeded in the Empire. presently arrived his father with his forces, and according to the agreement between them, young HERACLIUS was made Emperor, and generally obeyed. In the manner of PHOCAS his death, authors which writ thereof make some difference: but they all concur in this, that he was slain through the conspiracy of the Captains, and great men before named; in the eight year of his reign, and of the incarnation of our Saviour CHRIST six hundred and eleven, without leaving any son to succeed him in the Empire. THE LIFE OF HERACLIUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE AND FOURTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. HEraclius having slain the tyrant Phocas, without any contradiction was made Emperor; who ●…ound the Empire very weak and in great combustion. In the beginning of his government, the city of jerusalem was taken by Cosroes King of Persia; and the cross of Christ which was left there by Helena mother to Constantine the great, was carried away. He obtained victory against john Campsinus a Captain of his, which rebelled against him, and made himself a tyrant over part of Italy; by another of his Captains whose name was Elutherius, who by reason of this victory grew so proud, that he also dared to rebel, and to call himself King of Italy; but he was presently slain by the same Captains which took his part. And having concluded a peace with the Bavarians, ●…e made his son Constantine, Caesar, and his companion in the Empire; and leaving him (for that he was very young,) under good keeping in Constantinople, he went against Cosroes, who had taken from him a great part of the Empire. To which war he went himself in person: and having given his enemy two great overthrows, he constrained him to fly. When he had expelled Cosross, and recovered many countries of the Empire, he made peace with Cosroes son, who rose against his father, for an injury received from him; which peace was a great help to the Empire, and very hurtful to Cosroes: but by means thereof, the son bereft the father both of his kingdom and life. In these times began the sect of Mahomet, against which Heraclius in the beginning made no resistance, making no account thereof: but afterwards he began to fear the same when he could not suppress it. This Emperor made a great exchange from virtue to vice; so as when he grew old, he become superstitio●…ss, an heretic, and libidinous, giving himself to pleasure, as a young man, when it had been more requisite and more honourable for him to have lived gravely, as an old man; and took to wife a young woman, giving himself more to carnal delight, then for his years, and the dignity of so mighty an Emperor was fit. But falling into the dropsy, he died suddenly, when he had reigned twenty years. AS the life and conditions of PHOCAS were odious to the world, and his reign so unhappy and infortunate, that the Imperial sceptre and dignity was likely to have wholly fall'n and to have come to ruin; so all men rejoiced at his death. And forasmuch as HERACLIUS was the actor and executioner thereof, they very peaceably and joyfully received him for Emperor; who was a man fortunate in the wars, and obtained many noble victories, and possessed the Empire many years, although that in the end many things happened contrary, for his sins and little constancy in the Christian faith; as in his history w●… will relate, as briefly as possibly we may. PHOCAS and those of his party being put to death, HERACLIUS was with great joy and solemnity crowned in Constantinople, by the hands of SERGIUS, Patriarch thereof; his father HERACLIUS being there present, with PRISCUS and other great men, who had been confederates in the conspiracy against PHOCAS. And upon the same day he solemnised his marriage with a great Lady, whose name was EUDOXIA, who afterwards in the second year of his reign died in childbed, of a son called CONSTANTINE: and he married for his second wife wi●…h a niece of his own called MARTINA, which also bore him a son called HERACLIUS. This Emperor HERACLIUS found the Empire in such combustion, and so rend in pieces, as it seemed impossible to continued. The affairs of the East were in such case, as we told you, In what state Heraclius found the Empire. where COSROES had defeated all the armies, and entering into the Empire, daily taken towns and forts. In the province of Arabia Petrea, which bordreth upon Egypt and judea, the Saracens rebelled, with whom accursed MAHOMET afterwards made himself very mighty. CAYANUS and the Bavarians which inhabited Bavaria, Austria and Hungary, seeing the At what time Mahomet began to grow mighty. Empire so weakened, come into Thracia, and made wars there. In Illyricum or Slavonia, the Slavons were of great power: and in Italy, although there was peace with the Lombard's (for they were defeated and weakened by the overthrows which they had received from the Bavarians and Slavons) yet there wanted not combustions and tumults: for PHOCAS before his death had bereft SMARAGDUS (oftentimes before named) of his Exarchat and government, and had sent thither another Captain called JOHN; who coming to Ravenna, with his wife and family, and a great number of judges and officers for all Italy, PHOCAS was by that time dead; and JOHN being more earnest in demanding tributes, and other exactions than he aught to have been, the people were therewith so much incensed as they slew him: and so Italy remained without a governor. And at that time the Church of Rome being without a Bishop by the death of Pope BONIFACE, and by reason of discord among the Clergy, that seat being void the space of eight months, a Captain which lived in Naples, called JOHN CAMPSINUS, who governed that city with the territory thereof, determined to rebel and make himself Lord of Pulia, Calabria, Campania, and of a great part of that country, which at this day is the kingdom of Naples; imagining that the new Emperor should have enough to do to defend or to recover the rest, and so he might make himself King of Italy. HERACLIUS coming to the Empire so torn and dismembered; to encounter with so many extremities, in the beginning used not such diligence, as was requisite, neither had he power or means. For as all Authors writ he found the Empire so disarmed & vnfurnished of men of war, as there were neither old soldiers, neither experienced legions left, but they were all slain and scattered. Nevertheless he began to make Captains, and to levy men of war, and sent CRISPUS with such forces as he could get, together with such as his father brought him out of Africa, into the provinces of Asia the less (now called Turkey) to guard and defend the same, seeing they were not able to give battle to the Persians': and he caused his father to return into Africa, which was all that the Empire peaceably enjoyed, together with Sicilia and Sardinia; and he himself remained in Constantinople, procuring peace with the Bavarians and their King CAYANUS, by all possible means, as well by gifts as entreaty. But these things were so long adoing, that COSROES King of Persia, as master of the field, taking some Cities by surprise, and others by force, came conquering all Syria, and from thence into Palestina, and so to the City of jerusalem; not the old jerusalem, for that (as is already said) was destroyed and laid waste by TITUS and VESPASIAN, but to that which the Emperor ADRIAN new builded, in the same place, or at lest near unto it, as already is declared; which then was a great and an excellent City. And entering it by force he used great cruelty, and did The City of jerusalem taken by the Persians'. much harm to the Christians; so as therein (as it is written) were slain 80000 persons; and taking the wood of the cross of Christ, which HELEN mother to CONSTANTINE the Great had left there, and carrying it thence with him, he set it with great reverence upon the top of his chair, or royal Throne, made of fine Gold, set with many jewels and Pearls. He likewise carried with him prisoner ZACHARIAS the Patriarch of jerusalem, who was an excellent Prelate. This taking of jerusalem, some Authors writ to have happened about the end of the reign of the Emperor PHOCAS: but the most certain and true opinion is, that it befell in the time of HERACLIUS, wherein I place the same. CRISPUS who was sent by the Emperor, and then was in the province of Cappadocia in Asia the less, endeavoured to levy soldiers, and to provide (so much as in him lay) for the defence of those Countries, against the great power of the Persians': but it availed not at that time. And for as much as it was bruited that the Persian meant to go into Egypt, and thence to make a conquest of Africa; HERACLIUS father to the Emperor being then in the City of Carthage, levying a great number of men of war, departed thence, marching along the Sea coast, to go into Egypt to make head against the Persians'; where we will leave him, and tell you first what ensued after that JOHN CAMPSINUS rebelled with the City of Naples, and all that Province. The Emperor being much moved with his audaciousrebellion, sent a Captain into Italy, whose name was ELEUTHERIUS, with a good number of soldiers; which captain was of a great and noble family, and very wise and expert in the wars. He as soon as he arrived Eleutherius scent by the Emperor against john Campsinus. at Ravenna with his fleet, was received end obeyed there; and understanding who they were which had conspired in the rebellion and insurrections past, he punished some of them, using greater clemency than severity. And therewithal he speedily assembled such forces as remained in the government of Ravenna; with which, and with those which he brought with him, he purposed to take his way against CAMPSINUS, who lay in Naples; and by the way went to Rome, where he was well entertained and honoured by DEUS DEDIT, who then was Pope. And marching towards Naples, CAMPSINUS considering that by prolonging the wars he daily lost, and the Emperor's party increased; with the greatest and best power that he was able to make he took the field, and near to the city of Naples they two fought a cruel Campsinus overth●…owne and slain by Eleutherius. battle; but ELEUTHERIUS obtained the victory, although very hardly; for CAMPSINUS fought valiantly, and died fight. After this battle, ELEUTHERIUS with small difficulty recovered all that CAMPSINUS had usurped, and returned with victory to Rome: and for his better security, and to bring to effect such things as he had projected (which we will presently tell you) he practised to prolong the peace with AGISULPHUS King of the Lombard's, which was concluded for other ten years. And he procured and levied money, wherewith he paid and contented his soldiers and men of war: for which his doings so valiantly and so speedily accomplished, the Emperor HERACLIUS sent him the authority and title of Exarch and Governor of all Italy; where with he came to Ravenna, which was the seat of the Governors, leaving all Italy in peace and in quiet subjection (Lombardy excepted, and the rest which the Lombard's possessed) by means whereof he grew so proud and so ambitious, as without the fear of God, or respect to the Emperor, knowing himself to be greatly beloved by his soldiers, he rebelled against his sovereign Lord, and took upon him the title of King of Italy, and presently departed with his Army from Ravenna towards Rome, meaning to make himself Lord of all the country. But it Eleutherius rebelled and called himself king of Italy. pleased God to give him speedy punishment: for the same Captains which advanced him, and upon whom he had grounded his disloyalty; the same I say, to show themselves loyal to the Emperor, within few day's journey from Rome slew him, when he nothing suspected any such matter; and the Army approved his death, and they altogether returned to Ravenna, and sent Eleutherius slain, and his head sent to the Emperor. his head to the Emperor to Constantinople; who being advertised of what had passed, was very well pleased with what they had done. Than he sent for a new Exarch, a Noble Constantinopolitan, called YSANTIUS, who was very well entertained. And at the same time died the valiant AGISULPHUS king of the Lombard's, and his son ODOALDUS being a child of The death of Agisulphus king of she Lombard's tender age, was made their King; and the wise and Christian Queen THEUDELINDA his mother, took upon her the government, and governed that kingdom very wisely and discreetly, and observed and renewed the peace made with the Italians, and the Imperialists; and so Italy remained for some space in rest. But in the war against the Persians', matters happened to the contrary: whereof we will make a brief relation, and what end it had. HERACLIUS the Emperor's father, who was Governor of Africa, marching with great power towards Egypt, to make head against the Persians'; being very joyful; and of great power, by the way died of an infirmity. By his death all was out of order and came to nothing: for The death of old Heraclius. there was not any man amongst them capable of the government, or fit to lead an Army. This happened in the sixt year of the reign of the Emperor HERACLIUS; who all that time remained in Constantinople giving himself to pleasure and ease. When the King of Persia understood of the death of HERACLIUS the governor of Africa; with the greatest haste he could make, he sent a very mighty army into Egypt; and as that kingdom was unfurnished of men of war, and the Persians' become victorious, so in few days they made themselves absolute Lords thereof: and the same year passing further, they conquered Africa even to the city of Carthage; for no city neither people were of power able to make head against them. Which HERACLIUS understanding, he sent Ambassadors to King COSROES, with mild words entreating him for peace, desiring him to desist from shedding so much blood, and to The insolent answer of the king of Persia to the Emperor Heraclius. rest satisfied with what he had done. To this Embassy the Infidel made answer, so hautily, and with such pride, that among other things he sent him word, that he would grant no peace to HERACLIUS, except he would renounce the Faith of JESUS CHRIST, and adore his Idols. With this answer the Ambassadors returned, and the Persians' the year following (prosecuting The City of Carthage taken by the Persians'▪ their wars) besieged the City of Carthage, and took it, with the marches thereof, and leaving governors and Garrisons in that country, returned into Asia most richly laden with spoils. HERACLIUS having observed how much of the Empire he had lost, resolved with himself to go in person to recover the same, or to loose the rest; whereto the Bavarians and their King CAYANUS, were a geeat hindrance. But to the end that the reader may the better understand the matter, let him know, that these Bavarians (in former time called Huns Auares) of a long time called their King's CAYANI, as the Egyptians called their Kings PHARAONES, and as many other nations gave their King's ordinary and peculiar names. I say then, that CAYANUS returned with his forces to infested the country of Thracia, which till then had free passage. And this was the cause that the Emperor HERACLIUS was detained two or three years, after that which happened in Africa; until at length he sought all ways and means to come to a peace with CAYANUS, although to his dishonour & with loss of reputation. Finally, it was concluded and confirmed with great oaths and promises: and so leaving Heraclius made his son Constantine, Caesar. all Italy and Graecia in peace, he resolved to march against the Persians', and to that end he named and ordained for CAESAR and his companion in the Empire, his son CONSTANTINE, to make his abode in the city of Constantinople. And forasmuch as he was very young, he appointed SERGIUS, Patriarch of Constantinople, and BONOSUS a wise and noble gentleman, for his governors and tutors. Which being ordained, preparing the greatest power and munition that he was able, with many prayers and solemn processions, he departed from Constantinople with great solemnity; and embarking himself with his people, he passed over into those provinces which were under his obedience in Asia, and entertained into his pay many other nations. And forasmuch as his soldiers were but newly raised, he thought it not fit presently to march until that they were better practised and trained. Which being done, calling upon the Lord for aid, he entered into his enemy's countries. This his journey was so much bruited and observed by all the nations of the world, as there was no man but had an Heraclius in Asia. especial eye thereto. COSROES K. of Persia, being well informed, how valiant & good a captain HERACLIUS was & how resolute an army he led, resolved not to give him battle, but retired himself within his country, and made all the victuals to be withdrawn and carried away, and the trees to be cut down, and laid athwart the ways where he supposed the Emperor would pass. And on the other side, he sent an huge army of very expert old soldiers, under the leading of a captain called SAVARAGUS, or SALVARUS (for in the●…e names the authors ever vary) to the end that he should charge the Emperor, either on the flank or on the back, who with great resolution and in good order marched against King COSROES; and by the way recovered and won many cities. But holding it for no assured course to leave so great an army behind him, he took another way, and sought out SARAVAGUS; and having passed the great mountain Taurus, the two armies approached the one near the other, not far from a river: before which time there passed many conflicts and other accidents between them, which I cannot possibly set down at large. The conclusion thereof was, that they came to blows: and as the Persians' of long time had been victorious, and made small account of the Romans (I always call those Romans which were of the Emperorus army: for although that the seat of the A battle between the Romans and the Persians', with the success. Empire was in Graecia, yet the Emperors ever took a glory to be called Roman Emperors, and their armies, the Roman armies) and as the Imperialists holding themselves for disgraced and dishonest, had a great desire to be revenged (the presence and great valour of the Emperor being a great help thereto) both the one and the other fought with so great courage and obstinacy, as the battle continued long, and was very cruel. And although that in the beginning it was very doubtful, yet in the end the Emperor obtained the victory, and made great slaughter of his enemies. With this victory the Imperialists were so much encouraged, as they abandoned the fear, which until then had possessed them; and the Emperor was wonderful joyful to see himself victorious. And forasmuch as winter drew on, he purposed to retire himself, being laden with exceeding rich spoils, and many prisoners; intending to return the next spring with greater force, which was in the eleventh year of his reign. But on the contrary side, COSROES was very sorry, and much grieved; and imputing the fault to his General, deposed him from his charge, purposing to have caused him to be slain, and made another General, called SAIN, or SATHIN, a very valiant man and of great account: and gathering together the remainder of the last Army, he commanded him to raise one fare greater; and that he should follow the war with a greater resolution and vehemency. The Emperor who had not shaken off all care that was needful, although he would willingly have accepted of peace, conditionally that he might have had that restored which was taken from him (which he attempted, but could not obtain) after that he had made his accustomed prayers to God, courageously returned to the wars. And as this SAIN desired to excel his predecessor SARAVAGUS, and to recover what he had lost, without delaying of time, he went to meet the Emperor, and desiring to come to a battle with him, he drew his Army near unto his; which wanted neither force nor courage to fight. The next day in the morning (seeing themselves so near together) they began to set their people in order: but their troops of either side were so great, as they spent almost one whole day. Whereupon they took truce, until the next day, to avoid fight by night: so resolute A truce for one night between the Persians' and the Romans. was either party, and so they slept in the same place, and in the same order as they were set. The next morning by sun rising, the one Army began to move toward the other; and there began one of the most bloody and cruel Battles that had been seen, which continued most part of the day without any sign of advantage or victory of either side, fight at equal hand: but by that time the Persians' had so oppressed the Romans, as they began to show their weakness; and the Emperor was in fear to have been overthrown: but it pleased God miraculously to relieve him, for suddenly fell so much rain and hail, with so terrible wind and tempest, beating upon the backs of the Romans, and in the faces of the Persians', which did so much trouble them and put them out of order, that in a very short space they were broken and overthrown, and turning their backs ran away. The Emperor HERACLIUS remained with the victory, A miraculous victory. master of the field, when he had slain thirty thousand of his enemies in the battle; although with no small loss of his own people; having obtained two so great and notable victories against the Infidels. The Emperor sent to make all this known in Constantinople▪ in Italy, and in all the other provinces of the Empire; for which every where was made great joy: and in the mean while he himself was not idle; but reinforcing his Army, and encouraging his people, he recovered a great part of Syria, and Mesopotamia, which he had lost; part in his own person, and part by his Captains, and he still followed his victory, until that the great waters, by reason of the winter stayed him and forced him to return, and to winter that year in the province of Albania. COSROES King of Persia, as he was a mighty prince, and his dominion great, so the loss of these two battles, was not such as to bereave him of means again to make head against his enemy: for gathering together his whole forces, he levied men of war, and issuing his treasure, raised a greater and a more mighty Army, than any of the former; and made a prudent and resolute Captain called RAZATENES General thereof: who being very valiant, was not afraid to draw near to the way, where he knew the Emperor was to pass the nex spring. Finally, after many skirmishes and effusion of much blood, and such like casualties of the war, HERACLIUS putting his whole trust in God, sought to come to a battle, which the Persian refused not; so as with equal minds, and in a manner, with equal force and Armies, two squadrons first began the fight in the morning, and afterwards others, and in the end all, and this battle continued until about sunset: wherein the Imperialists in power and courage surpassing the Persians', constrained them to turn their backs, and to yield themselves for overthrown. The Persians' the third time over thrown by the Emperor and their general slain fight. And RAZATENES as a good Captain, failing in no part of his office, died fight, for that he would not live being overcome, after that many thousands of men were slain and wounded of the one side and the other. In these three great battles; and in many other of less account, it is written, that the Emperor himself in person, shown great valour; especially in this last, where he slew with his own hand, three men of great esteem which he encountered in sundry places of the battle, besides others which he slew and wounded of less account. By means of this victory, HERACLIUS grew so powerful, and COSROES so weak, and his forces were so much diminished, that daring no longer to defend that which he had Cosroes abandoning what he had usurped fled into Persia. usurped in Armenia, and Mesopotamia, he abandoned the same; and passing over the river Tigris fled into Persia: HERACLIUS also passed that river, and overrun the country burning and spoiling great cities. In this manner conquering the kingdoms of COSROES, and COSROSS not so hardy as to defend the same, but by flight hiding himself; for his refuge and defence in his life time he made his second son whose name was MEDARSES, against all equity and reason, equal with himself in his kingdom; for he had an elder son, a man of greater spirit, and of more discretion, called SIROES; and (as it often happeneth to the wicked) by the same means whereby he thought to have defended his kingdom, he lost it, together Cosroes made his second son equal with him in his kingdom, whereby he lost the son together with his life. with his life: for his eldest son took this injury done to him by his father in so ill part, as he practised to bereave him both of life and kingdom. To which purpose he began by Letters and secret messengers, to treat with the Emperor, entreating his favour, and to be at peace with him: in requital whereof, when he should be established in the kingdom, he promised to yield unto him what he should require, if it were in his power. In conclusion, briefly to set down the Composition, they agreed upon these conditions: That he should resign to the Emperor all those lands and countries which his father and predecessors had usurped in the provinces of Asia, and all that which they had gotten by conquest in Africa, and all the treasure of his father's royal house. And that he should resign the two invincible fortresses, which the Persians' held in the principal passages of the river Tigris, with the cross, and the Patriarch which they brought from jerusalem, and that he should be a perpetual friend and ally to the Emperor. This league being concluded, SIROES was so magnanimous, and therewith so well beloved, as within few days, with the aid and favour of HERACLIUS, and such forces as he sent him, he got both his father and his brother into his power, whom he caused to be slain; and thoroughly performed all that which he had agreed upon with HERACLIUS; and so enjoyed the kingdom in peace, although of less power than his father was. And HERACLUS returned, leaving all the provinces of the Empire restored and furnished, and all the passages of the river Tigris fortified, the most joyful and honoured Prince that then lived in the world. Being come to jerusalem, he sent his Captains into Africa, which he wholly recovered, and reduced the same to a quiet government. This was in the sixt year after that he began the war in his own person, and the sixteenth and seventeenth of his reign; although in these computations there be ever some difference between authors. When he came to jerusalem, he restored ZACHARIAS the Patriarch thereof, and the cross which had been fourteen years in Heraclius restored the cross to jerusalem. The exaltation of the cross. the power of COSROES, and came into the city bearing the same upon his shoulders, with the greatest joy, feasting and solemnity that could be made: and this restitution of the cross was so highly esteemed, as it was afterwards solemnised every year upon the fourteenth day of September, which is called the exaltation of the cross. In those days the false Prophet MAHOMET, the deceiver and seducer of the greatest part of the world, with his illusions and tromperies, in the country of Arabia drew many to his sect, The success of the false Prophet Mahomet. and grew a mighty tyrant; whom HERACLIUS might then easily have defeated: but making small account of him, he contented himself with the taking of a certain people from him called Saracens, which falsely boasted themselves to be descended from SARA, ABRAHAM'S wife; who were also called Scenites, and lived in the fields, as the Arabians do at this day: and giving them pay, the Emperor sent them into other provinces, which at that time seemed to have been a sufficient redress. Having taken order for his affairs in those quarters, he returned to Constantinople, whither he came with the greatest triumph that could be made. Herein is The Emperor Heraclius came victorious and triumphant to Constantinople. some difference: for some authors writ, that before his going to jerusalem he returned to Constantinople▪ but it importeth not whether were the first; but in the end the Emperor came to repose himself in Constantinople, with very great honour and reputation amongst his subjects, and was by all other Kings and Princes at that time much beloved and feared. In Italy all was in peace with the Lombard's in those days, ODOALDUS reigning with his mother THEUDOLINDA; and she dying, the subjects making no account of him, for that he was a very child, denied him their obedience, and chose ARIOLDUS, who was of the blood royal: and he maintained the peace with the Empire in as ample manner as did ODOALDUS and THEUDOLINDA. HERACLIUS having so good success in all things, as aforesaid, prosperity (as ordinarily it worketh in many men) made him proud and careless, forgetting God, and those works and exercises of piety whereby he had attained to that prosperity. For in steed of prayer and contemplation, he gave himself to pleasure, to augury, southsaying and divination, prognosticating things to come, by superstitious and unlawful Arts and means; and from one to another fell into heresies: for being seduced by two wicked Prelates, Heraclius become an heretic. the one called PYRRHUS, Patriarch of Alexandria, and the other a Bishop called CIRUS, he came to believe that there was a will only in Christ, and so consequently he denied the two natures, divine and humane. Neither could the admonitions and Letters of Pope HONORIUS avail to dissuade him from that heresy, who banished PYRRHUS into Africa. It pleased God to permit, in his secret & incomprehensible judgement, that MAHOMET began so to prospero and prevail in his proceed, that HERACLIUS began to stand in fear of him, of whom in former time he made small account; for, he had daily news, that he levied men of war, which came unto him as well out of Arabia, as out of Persia; some deluded through his allurements and suggestions; others, to enjoy the great liberty which he gave them to rob and steal: for, these were the miracles wherewith in the beginning he planted his devilish sect. And it followed that the Saracens, which we said HERACLIUS had gotten from him, by reason of the Emperors ill pay and entertainment, mutined, and went to MAHOMET into Arabia. So as he went out of Arabia felix, where he first gathered head; and, making himself Lord of Mahomet his success. the three Arabiae, went into Egypt, and afterwards into Syria, and into Mesopotamia; and had so good success, that with those Saracens, and such other forces as he could get, he resolved to make himself King of Persia. Whereto, this was a great help; for as much as that Kingdom was much wasted and weakened, as well by civil dissension, as through the great slaughter made therein by HERACLIUS: and besides this, the Inhabitants of mere lightness revolted to MAHOMET. There reigned at that time in Persia a great man whose name was HORMISDA, allied to the forepassed Kings: for, SIROES (who was HERACLIUS friend) reigned but one year in that Kingdom; and after him his son ADHESSER likewise but a year. By the death of which two, HORMISDA attained to the Kingdom; but not in peace, nor without great tumults and contradictions. At that time MAHOMET marched towards Persia with his Saracens, and much other people; against whom came HORMISDA: and they two fought a very great battle; wherein HORMISDA was overthrown and slain. Yet some writ, that MAHOMET was first overthrown. This only battle, and the illusion and deceit of his sect and superstitious religion, brought all Asia under his obedience, together with all Africa, Babylon, and all the other Provinces subject to the mighty Kings of Persia. And he wholly subverted that Empire; so as from that time forwards it had not any title of a Kingdom: but all those Nations lost their names, and from thenceforth were called Saracens and Mahometists, after their false Prophet and Leader; The original of the Saracens & their success. whereas in truth they aught to have been called Agarenes, Ismaelites: for, MAHOMET descended from ABRAHAM, by AGAR a bondwoman, and his son ISHMAEL. The Emperor, understanding of these victories, applied not himself to resist the course thereof with such magnanimity as he aught to have done, notwithstanding that he knew he returned into Syria and Palestina, with a resolution to take jerusalem: but he sent thither only to fetch from thence the Cross of CHRIST, and to bring it to Constantinople: from whence afterwards in process of time it was brought to Rome. MAHOMET then came, and took many great Cities in Syria, wherein he found small resistance; and, among them, the City of jerusalem, publishing himself every where to be the Prophet of God. Yet some writ, that jerusalem was not taken by MAHOMET; but, by his Successors, after his death: but it imports not greatly whether it were taken by him or others. Within few days after these victories, MAHOMET deceased, being of the age of two and The death of Mahomet. forty years: but, leaving disciples of his wickedness, his sect and superstition died not, nor took any end; but continueth until this day, and will continued until it shall please God for his mercy's sake to cure this contagion. For, his Successor remained, a great Arabian Captain called CALIPHA: and him others succeeded, who conquered Africa, and other Countries; as in Calipha, Mahomet's successor. the process of this History shall be expressed. While these things passed in the East; in Italy, notwithstanding that there was peace with the Lombard's, as it is often seen that foreign peace breeds civil war; so MAURICE CARTULARIUS, who was Precedent of Rome, making small account of the Emperor, or of his Exarch ISANCIUS, rebelling made himself a Tyrant. Against whom, ISANCIUS came from Ravenna, and after many adventures apprehended him, with many other his confederates; and, carrying him to Rome, smote off his head: and shortly after this, ISANCIUS died. And the Emperor HERACLIUS sent a Nobleman, called THEODORE GALLIOPA, to be Governor of Italy. But none of all these things could move the mind of HERACLIUS to levy any Army against the Saracens; he gave himself so much to his pleasure and licentious living, marrying in his old age with his brother's daughter, who was a young damsel, called MARTINA: and so it pleased God that upon a time he was taken with the dropsy; whereof he died suddenly, when he had reigned thirty years, in the year of our Lord 641. Others say, that he The death of Heraclius. died of a disease called Priapismus, a strange sickness, and such as with modesty cannot be expressed. He left behind him two sons, and one daughter, which he had by his first wife. His daughter's name was EPIPHANIA: one of his sons was called HERACLIUS; the other, CONSTANTINE, whom he made CAESAR, when he went to the wars in the East against the Persians'. By his second wife he had one son, a child of ten years old, called HERACLIUS also. And so ended this Emperor: of whom it may be said, that two Emperors might well have been made; one very good, and the other passing ill, considering the contrariety in his actions. At what time the Emperor HERACLIUS died, the Empire of the East was much decayed: for, all the Provinces of Syria, Mesopotamia, Egypt and Arabia, were in the power of the Infidels. In Italy, THEODORE GALLIOPA was Governer: and in Lombardie, through the death of ARIOLDUS, ROTARIUS was King. The Slavons possessed Illyricum: and the Huns and Bavarians held Hungary, Baviere, and Austria. In Spain reigned: he Goths: and the French prospered in France; and in Germany sundry other Princes. So as the Empire contained Thracia, the Provinces of Graecia, the Isles of Sicilia and Sardinia and the greatest part of Italy in Europe; and in Asia, Armenia, Asia the less, Cilicia, Pamphilia, Galacia, Bythinia, Cappadocia, and other Provinces, with all Africa: which I have set down of purpose, to the end the Reader may the better understand what shall be said hereafter. THE LIFE OF CONSTANTINE, THE THIRD OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE AND FIFT ROMAN Emperor; And of his Brother HERACLIANUS. IN the History of the lives of the two sons of the Emperor HERACLIUS, PAULUS DIACONUS and BEDA seem to descent from other Historiographers; first placing the Empire of HERACLIANUS, who was younger than CONSTANTINE, and son of his second wife MARTINA: but I follow the opinion of other authors. The Emperor HERACLIUS being dead and buried, there was no open coutradiction that might hinder his eldest son, born of his first wife EUDOXIA, who died in child bed of this CONSTANTINE (which CONSTANTINE had a young man to his son, called CONSTANS) from obtaining the Empire; aswell for that he was made CAESAR in his father's time, as also for that in right he aught to have it, being his father's eldest son, and of full age; and also for the hope which they conceived that he would prove a good Prince. He was then presently accepted and crowned with great joy and solemnity; but to the great discontentment and grief of his mother in law MARTINA; whose wickedness did so shorten the reign of her son in law, as there can be no worthy action written of him, that he either did, or that passed in his time; saving that he gave good signs and shows of a good Emperor, and began to be beloved by his subjects; which increased the hatred of that mischievous woman his stepdame; and he The Emperor Constantine the third poy so●…d by his stepmother Martina. reposing his trust in her, she gave him poison in his meat, whereof he died in the fourth month of his reign: and they also say, that it was done by the direction and counsel of PETER the heretical Patriarch of Constantinople. The Emperor CONSTANTINE being thus wickedly made away; the murtheress MARTINA, with such favour and aid as she procured, made her son HERACLIANUS Emperor, brother to him whom she had poisoned▪ being of the age of eleven years; and she took upon her the government: but this villainy could not long continued, for the Nobility detesting so detestable a fact, rose against MARTINA and her son, when Heraclianus succeeded his brother Constantine in the Empire. he had reigned scarcely two years: in which time I find not any thing written to have been done of importance; and therefore I cannot divine aught, saving that in this year the Saracens took the city of Cesaria, which they had besieged the space of seven years; and therein slew seven thousand soldiers of the Empire. The Senate and Nobility joining with CONSTANS, son of the deceased CONSTANTINE, and Nephew of the Emperor HERACLIUS, made him Emperor; apprehending MARTINA and her son HERACLIANUS: and so ended the unlucky and unfortunate reign of those two brothers, which scarcely merit to be accounted amongst the Emperors. When as the mother and son were apprehended, the mother had Heraclianus and his mother Martina were thrown out of the Empire, he having first his nose cut off and she her tongue. her tongue cut out, and the son his nose cut off, and both were exiled into the province of Cappadocia in Asia the less. Also PYRRHUS the Patriarch which came from banishment out of Africa, and came to intrude himself into these counsels, died likewise, as an heretical Wolf clad in shepherd's raiment; and in his place was chosen PAUL, who in the end proved like to his predecessor. Which befell in the year of our Lord six hundred forty four. THE LIFE OF CONSTANS, THE SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE AND SIXT Roman Emperor. THE making of CONSTANS Emperor (whom some call CONSTANTINE) by the Senate of Constantinople (which we may call Roman;) and the death of his uncle HERACLIANUS, of whom Constans by some called Constantine. we now left writing, was all at one instant: and the great wickedness used by MARTINA in poisoning his father, made the reign of the son more firm and assured. But CONSTANS proved not such a one as they hoped, and as indeed was needful for the present estate of the Empire; for he was infected with the Arrian Heresy: and concerning the affairs of the East, he contented himself to make head against MAHOMET'S successors; by placing garrisons in the passages of Cilicia, to keep them from entering into Asia the less; and so they remained Lords of those provinces which they had gotten in the East. Pope THEODORE understandign that PAUL the new Patriarch of Constantinople held some erroneous opinions of the Christian faith, wrote unto him certain loving monitory Letters, persuading him to amendment, and to conform himself to the truth. But when he perceived his labour to be in vain, he proceeded otherwise against him, and depriving him of his dignity, he commanded him to be banished: but the new Emperor would not permit it, but rather shown himself to be of the same opinion; which made a general confusion every where; for the head being sick, the rest of the members ill execute their office. In Constantinople and in Graecia, the catholic Christians were much afflicted with the new heretics; for that the Emperor took their part; and in Asia, they held wars with the mahometical Saracens. In Italy, although there were peace with the Lombard's, through the good government of the Exarch THEODORUS, and the care and endeavour of the Pope, yet the devil after his accustomed manner sowed tares among the good seed; which was, that by the means of some of his disciples, he persuaded ROTHARIUS' King of the Lombard's to lean to the opinion of his ancestors, which was the Arrian heresy; and the more earnest the catholic Christians were in resisting the same, with so much the greater obstinacy he placed in every city an Arrian Bishop, where before had been catholic Bishops. Pope MARTIN who A counsel held in the time of Pope Martin. succeeded Pope THEODORE, against the new heresy held by the Emperor and some prelate's in the East, assembled a council of one hundred and five Bishops; wherein they which held those opinions, were condemned and proclaimed heretics, and he deprived the said Patriarch and sundry Bishops of their prelacies and dignities: wherewith the Emperor CONSTANS was highly offended, and did that which hereafter shall be declared. On the other side, the Pope by all means sought a reformation in the Lombard's, which he could not effect during the life of ROTHARIUS; for he made war against the Imperialists, after they had Wars between the Lombard's and Imperialists. lived many years together in peace: which war was very resolutely begun with great preparation, by ROTHARIUS of his part▪ and by the Exarch THEODORE of the other side. The Exarch coming from Ravenna drew his forces to an head in the city of Bologna; for now the cities of Italy by reason of their long peace and rest, were grown rich and populous; and ROTHARIUS levied no less an Army in the city of Parma; and the one taking his way against the other, they came to join near the city of Modena: where (as SIGI●…ERTUS and PAULUS DIACONUS do report) after some encounters and skirmishes, they fought a very cruel battle; wherein the Romans were overthrown, and seven thousand of them The victory of the Lombard's. slain; and the Exarch THEODORE escaped by flight. ROTHARIUS' having obtained this victory, came to the coast of Genoa; and assaulted and took many Cities, which until then he could not do, and so marched victorious, until that THEODORE the Exarch gathering together those which were scattered, levied a new Army; wherewith he entertained the enemy, and victualled his frontier Garrisons. The Emperor CONSTANS understanding hereof, took no care to relieve his Exarch, but being very much offended with Pope MARTIN, he put THEODORE out of the government of Italy; and in his place sent another called OLYMPUS (as very an Heretic as himself) giving him direction, to seek to bring all the Bishops in Italy to hold of his opinion; and if that he could not bring it to pass, that then he should use his best means to get the Pope into his hands, or to kill him. With which commission and resolution being arrived in Italy, he departed from Ravenna, and took his way towards Rome, under colour to go visit the Pope; accompanied with many Soldiers and men of war; first procuring an agreement and truce with the Lombard's. Being come to Rome he sought how to apprehended the Pope; but being unable to effect the same, he agreed with a desperate bold Soldier to kill him, which took no effect. During the time that these things passed in Italy, the Infidels (MAHOMET'S successors) were grown so mighty, as they now contented not themselves with Egypt, and those provinces which they held in the East; but preparing a great Fleet in Alexandria in Egypt, they muaded Spoil made by the Saracens. the I'll of Rhodes, and took it, and afterwards other Lands in those Seas; and from thence came spoiling and robbing through all the Levant Seas, even to the I'll of Sicilia, wherein they took some towns upon the coast; and landing their Army, there burnt and spoiled the country in the main land: whereof when OLYMPUS the governor or Exarch of Italy was advertised, within whose government Sicilia was contained; coming first to an agreement with the Pope, he took his way towards Naples; whither he had commanded to be brought, the greatest number of men and ships that could be gotten from all parts of Italy: and finding himself sufficiently furnished, he went to seek his enemies, resolute and in very good order: and they understanding of his coming, assembled themselves, with resolution to fight with him, which he refused not: And so, when as the two Navies came within sight one of the other, they set themselves in order, and each General animated and encouraged his people, and the fight began with great fury, and was maintained with such resolution, as many thousands of men of the one and other side were slain. Notwithstanding, in the end the victory seemed to incline to the Imperialists; yet before they could obtain it, they had lost so many men and ships, that although the Exarch might have driven the enemies out of the Island, and have recovered what was lost; yet he was so beaten and distressed, as it seemed not that he had overcome. And (as Historians affirm) he endured so great toil, and was so tired in the battle before and after The death of the Exarch Olimp●…us. it, as he fell so extremely sick, that within few days he died. The Emperor CONSTANS understanding of this victory; Being then in great care and suspense, forgetting to amend his lewd life, to leave his heretical opinion, and to give God thanks for this victory, he grew very proud, resolving again to procure the destruction of the Pope: and to that end gave the charge of the government again to THEODORE, from whom he had taken the same. In the end he sent THEODORE into Italy, with a secret charge, to do that which he afterwards performed, and I will discover: and for his consort and companion Theodore sent into Italy. therein, another adventurous fellow whose name was PAULUS PELLARIUS. In this time died ROTARIUS' King of the Lombard's; and another called RODOALDUS succeeded The death of Rotaris king of the Lombard's, whom Rodoaldus succeeded. him; who shortly after falling in love with a great man's wife, and being taken with her, was slain by her husband; and ARRIOPERTUS succeeded him. All which observed the peace with the Empire. And the new Exarch THEODORE coming into Italy, and with him his friend and companion, was very well entertained afterwards in Rome: for from the first time of his being there, the people were well content with his government. Remaining certain days in Rome with his people, and concealing his purpose, he went one day to the palace, as though he had go to visit the Pope; and seizing thereon, apprehended him, and delivered him to his Pope Martin apprehended and sent to Constantinople. associate PWL: who presently departed with him towards Ravenna, and speedily took the Sea and went to Constantinople, where the Emperor held him for certain days prisoner, and then banished him to Chersona in Pontus, which was in the confines of the Empire; where he afterwards Pope Martin died in exile. died, when he had been Bishop of Rome six years. A little before this, died the king of the Lombard's ARRIOPERTUS, who (as I said) succeeded RODOA●…DUS. This ARRIOPERTUS left behind him two sons, which were but young, the one called PERTHERITUS, and the other GUNDIBERTUS; between which (each desiring to The death of Arriopertus king of the Lombard's. be absolute) there grew dissension and discord: and GUNDIBERTUS which was the younger rose with Milan; the elder brother which aught to have been King, remaining in Pavia, than the head of that kingdom. When this came to the knowledge of one GRIMOALDUS, a great Captain of the Lombard's, Duke and Governor of Beneuent, and other towns; he leaving his son ROMOALDUS with a good garrison therein, came to the city of Pavia; which he entered by force, and drove out the young King PERTHERITUS, and took such order in all the rest, Grimoaldus made kieg of the Lombard's. as the two brethren were driven to abandon their country; and he remained in their place a mighty King. The Emperor CONSTANS in Constantinople, surmizing that by means of the wars which the Lombard's made amongst themselves, he coming with any great power might drive them out of Italy; this his desire he resolved to put in execution, and to that effect made his son CONSTANTINE his companion in the Empire, that he might remain in Constantinople. And The Emperor Constans made his son Constantine his companion in the Empire. so preparing a great fleet by Sea, and a great Army by land, he came into Italy to the city of Tarentum; where landing his men, he marched therewith to join with the ordinary companies which THEODORE commanded. GRIMOALDUS the tyrant King of the Lombard's (more like a wise and provident Prince, than one that was any way fearful or a coward) had by that time levied all the power that he was able to make, both to defend himself and to offend his enemy. After many adventures in this war, the Emperor went to besiege RIMOALDUS the son of GRIMOALDUS in Beneuent, and did put him and the city to great distress: showing himself very valiant, he published that he came to restore Italy to her former liberty, and that he would again make Rome the seat of the Empire; alleging that it was greater reason to honour the mother, than the daughter. Whether this were feigned, or in earnest, I know not; but I am sure the King's son being besieged, sent to his father for aid, who (as I said) The Emperor Constans 〈◊〉 Italy. was not careless thereof, but daily increased his forces, that he might be able to fight with the Emperor. But he staying longer than ●…IMOALDUS would (for so was the son called) he wrote certain pitiful Letters to his father, by one who was husband to her which had nursed him at her breast: whom the father, meeting upon the way, sent back again to certify his son of what he had seen, and to tell him that he came to visit him. This man, seeking to get into the City, was apprehended by the Emperor's soldiers: and being brought into his presence, and examined, and his reports found conformable to that whereof he was otherwise advertised, the Emperor being in great fear, resolved not to abide his coming; desiring first to do some notable exploit, whereby he thought to have taken the City; but it happened contrary to his expectation: which I have thought good to relate for an example to others which are servants and vassals to Kings and princes; which was thus: CONSTANS, promising great matters to his Nurse, requested him to go to the walls; and that, calling the besieged Prince, he should advice and counsel him to give up the City, for that his father was not able to relieve him. And heerwitnall he threatened the Nurse, that if he did not so, he would presently 'cause him to be slain. The Nurse, seeing that there was no other way left for him to encourage the Besieged, feigning a desire to satisfy the Emperor, promised to perform his command. Whereupon the Emperor, the next night following, commanded him to be brought near to the wall, with a guard which held him fast bound: and he, coming thither, called aloud to those within, willing them to call ROMOALDUS to him, for that there was a man which much loved him, desired to speak with him. ROMOALDUS, as soon as he was advertised hereof, came to the walls, and with a loud voice asked who would speak with him. His Nurse, knowing him well by his speech, and he him also, answered: It is the Nurse which bringeth you an answer from your father; who willeth you to be of good cheer▪ for, this day he arriveth at the River Satrico, and within these three days will be here with an infinite Army. I can say no more: for, I am in the enemy's hands, who already begin to murder The loyalty of a Nurse. me: I recommend unto thee my wife and children. Having said these words, those which were within the City were therewith greatly encouraged: and those without were so much despited, that they presently slew him, by the Emperor's commandment: who, not daring to stay any longer (to his great shame and dishonour) raised his siege from before Beneuent, and took his way with his Army towards Naples. GRIMOALDUS, being comn with a very great Army, sent an excellent Captain called VITOLA, with the best and most choice men of the Army to pursue the Emperor: and he, marching a great pace, overtook him at the passage of a river called Caloro. The Emperor, being already passed with the greatest part of his Army, VITOLA charged his arieregard: and there began a fierce battle; wherein the Emperor's people (for that they could not be seconded by reason of the river) were overthrown, and the most part of them slain: and so the Emperor was drinen to retire to Naples both with loss and dishonour. Being to departed from Naples to Rome, he commanded a Captain of his whose name was SABURUS, born in Naples, that he with twenty thousand chosen men should stay behind to guard that City and Province: who more hardy than wise (the Emperor being go) with the Army aforesaid drew so near to the Lombard's, that the King's son, ROMOALDUS, desiring his father to give him leave, came with his forces to fight with him; in such sort, that with equal desire of both the Captains the two Armies joined, with Ensigns displayed: and, after great slaughter of men of the one and other side, the Lombard's obtained the victory, and following the chase slew SABURUS the General, and many of his men. The Emperuor with all his The victory of the Lombard's. troops was solemnly received into Rome, as well by VITILIANUS who then was Pope, as by the Citizens and Inhabitants thereof; but he continued there but twelve days: and when he had visited the whole City; not as an Emperor and their Lord, but rather like an enemy, he commanded to be carried out of the City all the best statues of Marble and Metal, of most excellent and curious workmanship, and much gold and silver, and other rare things: all which being brought aboard his Ships and Galleys, he commanded them presently to departed; and he himself went from Rome to Naples, without making any provision against the Lombard's: by reason whereof, they become mightier than before. The Emperor came to Naples, purposing to passover into Sicilia: and, being passed with much people, he went to the City of Syracuse, now called Sarragossa, having (to no purpose) all his Army together in Arms, as though he had meant to have done some great exploit; so as men greatly suspected it, and were of sundry opinions. But he did it to no other end, than, under colour to repair the harms which he had received, with excessive greediness to gather the rents and services of all the Provinces of the Empire; and to impose new taxes and tolls in Africa, in Italy, in the Isles of Sardinia and Sicilia, and in all the rest of his dominions: which as it usually happeneth unto all Princes which do so without just cause or reason, he grew to be extremely hated through all the Empire, and was afterwards the cause of his death. He remaining thus in the I'll of Sicilia, continually feasting and banqueting, never leaving to require loans and imprests, and to lay new impositions upon the people, ransoming and pilling them through out all the Island, and in Africa and Italy in like manner; and being hated of all men, the Sicilians adventured upon a day (he being in a bath) to kill him; by the direction and commandment of Constans slain by the Cicilian●… in a Bath. a Captain of his called MI●…ENCIUS, or as others writ, MEZENCIUS and MAGVENCIUS, a bold audacious fellow and well beloved; more for the constitution of his body (which was very comely, tall, and well proportioned) then for his valour or no bilitie. This happened in the seven and twentith year of his reign▪ and in the year of our Lord, six hundred sixty and eight. CONSTANS left behind him three sons; CONSTANTINE who remained in Constantinople, for CAESAR and governor, HERACLIUS and TIBERIUS. About this time in Italy died King GRIMOALDUS, whom we but now said to have made wars with the Emperor: and he being dead, thither came out of France, whither before he had fled for refuge, PARTHARIS or PARTHERITUS King ARRIOPERTUS son, whom GRIMOALDUS had thrown out of Pavia, and deprived of his estate; as we have already related. THE LIFE OF CONSTANTINE THE FOURTH OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE AND SEVENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE Emperor CONSTANS (as I have said) was slain in Sarragossa in Sicilia: and as soon as he was dead; MEZENCIUS who caused him to be slain, or (after some) whom he himself slew; with the Mezencius made Emperor. favour of those which assisted him in that action, took upon him the title of Emperor, and for the present, all the rest of the people of Sicilia approved and confirmed the same; more for the desire of innovations which are ever pleasing, then for any good liking they had to his person. Whereof the Emperor's son CONSTANTINE was soon advertised, who then remained in Costantinople, and held the name of Emperor, and had done so ever since his father departed thence, and was therewith so much perplexed & in such fear, considering the strangeness of the accident, as he for the time not only had not the heart to do aught in revenge of his father's death, but was also in fear to have lost the name of Emperor, which he then held; and therewithal scarcely durst maintain what he possessed in Graecia. The like in a manner befell THEODORE the Exarch or governor of Italy: for notwithstanding that he had a good troop of soldiers, well trained, and of good experience; yet he durst not seem to be greatly grieved for the death of his sovereign LORD; neither to attempt aught against MEZENCIUS. The cause was for that all the people greatly rejoiced at his death; for he was generally hated for his covetousness. In this confusion all things passed for some days; all men expecting the success of the new tyrant; not daring to declare themselves either for the one or other party; for he had with him many good men of war. But as his entry was by treason, and grounded upon an ill foundation; and in him were neither the virtues nor merits requisite in an Emperor; the Captains and men of war began to murmur as what he had done, and to wish his death; which was speedily published, and it gave all men occasion to take heart, and to seek revenge for the treason and murder committed upon the person of the dead Emperor CONSTANS. The first were the Italians; and so THEODORE the Exarch began to stir, levying and mustering forces, therewith to pass into Sicilia, as he did; and the companies which were in the provinces of Africa did the like; whereto the peace with the Saracens and other nations, was a great help; for it seemeth, that CONSTANS being in Sicilia so accompanied with men of war, they durst not make war against him. These great forces coming into Sicilia against MEZENCIUS, Mezencius slain. and he being slenderly supported by his own people, was in short space taken and slain; and many of his friends which were with him, were taken and carried prisoners to Constantinople, to the young Emperor CONSTANTINE; who presently after this victory began Constantine made Emperor. every where to be obeyed and held for Emperor, and took upon him the resolution and courage of a Prince. Some also writ that he went into Sicilia. And notwithstanding that afterwards he proved a good and virtuous Emperor; yet in his beginning he committed a most cruel fact, which was; to put to death his younger brothers, thereby to live assured that they should not seek to deprive him of the Empire: and some also writ that he caused the tops of their noses to be cut off: but the truth is, that he commanded them to be slain; and so he become Lord of the whole Empire, without any difficulty. But the Saracens, Mahometists, and PHADALAS or SOPHIA'S their King, seeing this combustion, and the fit opportunity to invade the Empire, by reason of the before recited accidents in Sicilia, and also for that it seemed that CONSTANTINE was not yet firmly settled in his throne; they as closely and covertly as might be rigged a mighty navy at Alexandria in Egypt; with a resolution to invade Thracia, and Graecia: and if the dissension happened which they expected, then to take those provinces: but afterwards as matters proved better in Constantinople then was hoped for; they altered their determination, and invaded Sicilia, which was left ill The Saracens made war in Sicilia. provided of men of war: and they came with such force and power, as they entered the city of Sarragossa, and some other towns; where robbing and spoiling, they continued certain days: and it seeming to them an hard matter to hold those places, carrying away with them an infinite number of prisoners and great richesses of gold, silver, and other jewels; they returned to Alexandria. In the Constantinopolitan Commentaries I found this war written more at large; where it is affirmed, that they first made war on the borders of Thracia and Graecia, the space of many days, and took many places; and that in the end being repelled thence by the Emperor, they went to Sicilia, so writeth ZONARAS: but after the first manner, writeth PAULUS DIACONUS, an Author near to that time, and afterwards others of less antiquity. I sometimes set down the sundry opinions of Authors (although it shall not be needful always to do so;) to satisfy the curious Readers, that they may not condemn my History, finding therein any thing contrary or differing from that they shall read in some others. But although that I do not always thus, let them rest assured that I follow an Author, which writeth it as I relate it; for in the diversity of opinions, I follow that which seemeth to be most true and probable, weighing all conjectures: and when I cannot or desire not to do so, I briefly set down both opinions, as now I have done. That which to me seemeth to be the most certain, is, that they first invaded Sicilia, and did as I have related; and afterwards raising greater power through their success and victory, there ensued that which these Authors set down, which is, that they a long time made war on the Coast of Graecia, and the confines of Constantinople; where they took many places; out of which by the diligence and valour of the Emperonr, they were driven by force: this war lasted full six years. All authors affirm that CONSTANTINE herewith not contented, sent a great Army by land against the Mahometicke Saracens, into the province of Soria, which is the ancient Victory of the Christians against the Saracens. Syria, which fought with all their whole power, and the Christians obtained the victory; and of the infidels were slain thirty thousand. And they were brought to such distress, as their Prince or King, whose name was MAVIAS', sent to entreat the Emperor for peace, offering very profitable and honourable conditions; and thereby bound himself to pay yearly to the Mavias' King of the Saracens sought to the Emperor Constantine for peace. Emperor, a great number of pounds or marks of gold; and for the present, to release many thousand prisoners, which he held captives: whereupon the peace was granted and confirmed by CONSANTINE, to ease himself of that trouble; that he might apply himself to the reformation of some other matters concerning the Christian faith; for he was concerning what he aught to believe, a very good Christian. This was concluded in the tenth year of his reign. But there presently ensued another trouble and a war equal to the former; which was, that a certain people of the provinces of Scythia (the fountain of many others before mentioned) Wars between the Emperor and the Bulgarians. called Bulgarians; not those which I heretofore spoke of, but others, of the same name and nation, came down into Thracia, being in number above one hundred thousand persons; and they began to make war in the Empire, with a desire to take some good country, wherein they might devil and inhabit, as many other nations before them had done. For the Northern countries are barren and ill inhabited; yet by reason of the cold, men multiply and increase in them exceedingly, as we daily see by experience, and PAULUS DIACONUS noteth the same. The fury wherewith this people came, was so great, as they did infinite harm; and they made themselves Lords of some especial countries; which being made known to the Emperor (in whom there wanted not the courage of a valiant Prince) he raised his forces, and in his own person went to defend his subjects; and the war for some days was very sharp and cruel; and the Bulgarians sought to fight with him in the plain field: which he (presuming much of his people) as a valiant Prince, refused not; so as they sought with banners displayed, which A battle between Constantine and the Bulgarians, wherein he was overthrown and put to flight. battle was exceeding terrible. But it seemeth that through some his ill direction, or the great force of his adversaries, the Emperor was overthrown, and many of his people slain, and he himself was constrained to use the common remedy of those which are overcome, which is to fly, by that mean to escape and to save his life. And as in the battle he had done what he was able; so afterwards gathering his people together, he retired with great good order and discretion. But it pleased God that at what time, as it seemed, and when it was feared, that the Bulgarians would have brought the Empire into great distress, merely of their own accord they The Bulgarians sue to Constantine for peace. sent to the Emperor, and suing for peace desired him to give them some place where they might inhabit, and they would become his friends, yea and his subjects: whereto he gave ear (considering his present estate,) with a very good will. And so treating of the matter for a certain The province of Serui●… given to the Bulgarians, and therefore called Bulgaria. space, the province of the lower Misia was assigned unto them, and was (after their name) called Bulgaria: wherein they have quietly and peaceably inhabited, until that of late years they were subdued and conquered by the Turks; a new scourge and plague to the Christians, after MAHOMET. While these things passed in Sicilia, in Graecia, and in Asia, which was during the space of ten years; in Italy although there were peace between the Lombard's and Italians, yet there Wonderful alteration of the elements i●… Italy. failed not other miseries and persecutions: And there happened so great and so many tempests and alterations in the air, as it seemed that the four elements had conspired against mankind: for the winds were so furious and violent, as they overthrew many buildings, and rend up many trees by the roots: and the rain likewise was so great and tempestuous, as it destroyed all their tillage, as well for bread-corn as all other kind of herbs and seeds: And therewith fell an infinite number of thunderbolts, and fires from heaven, which slew a great number of people: and the earth with these so great alterations become so corrupt, as there ensued many contagious diseases. Wherefore the people repenting them of their sins, made their prayers and supplications to God, that it would please him to cease these so great calamities: but yet the relics thereof remained a long time after. At this time died Pope DEODATUS, and by reason of his death the seat was void four months: making a new election in Rome, DONUS only so called, was chosen Pope, who was held for a Saint, and lived two years and a half (as saith PLATINA). In his time THEODORE Archbishop of Ravenna wholly submitted himself to the Church of Rome, whereas some of his predecessors, with the favour of the Exarches or governors had before him denied the same. Others (amongst which is BLONDUS) affirm, that this happened in the time of his successor AGATHUS, wholived two years & a half: in which time, although but short, he treated A Council held in Constantinople. with the Emperor concerning a general council to be held, principally against the heresy of the Monothelites, which was dispersed over all the Churches of Graecia, which confounded the two Natures in CHRIST, Human and Divine; affirming that in him was but a will only. And so for this time the Greek Church remained united with the Latin: but it pleased GOD afterwards to suffer it to come (as we now see) into the power and subjection of Insidels. In this Council were many other matters handled concerning the reformation of the Church and the Ceremonies thereof; and this was the sixt of those Counsels which for their excellencies were so renowned and famous, and among the rest called Universal. Great was the reputation which the Emperor CONSTANTINE purchased to have celebrated this Council in his time, and to have finished so holy a work. Within few days after, Pope AOATHUS died, by whose authority it had been called; and LEO the second borne in Sicily succeeded him, who was worthily advanced, being learned, eloquent and of a holy life: he ordained the Pax to be given in the Church, which is observed in the Church of Rome until this day. He being dead, BENEDICT the second succeeded him: with whose election the Emperor was so well pleased, as after he had confirmed the same, he renounced the right and custom which the Emperors held to confirm the election of Popes; to the end that from thenceforth, as soon as by the Clergy they were chosen, they might use their authority, without any need of the Emperor's confirmation, or of their Exarches or governors, as of long time they had used. CONSTANTINE living in this prosperity, had peace with the Saracens; and the Provinces of Africa, and the I'll of Sicilia were in quiet, and so was Italy: for the Lombard's being at variance and dissension among themselves, very firmly maintained the peace with the Empire: and the estates of Graecia with the territory of Constantinople, were all in very quiet subjection. But this good form and manner of government, was disturbed by the Emperor's death, which shortly after ensued, when he had reigned seventeen years, and had protected and defended the Empire which he inherited, with justice and equity, reforming errors in the Christian Religion, as aforesaid. And thus it was, that falling grievously sick in Constantinople, and the incurableness of his disease being in short space bruited abroad through the World (as usually it happeneth) in some parts his death was published before that he was dead: whereof GIZET King of the Saracens, whom they called AMURATES, being advertised, and believing the same to be true, with all haste ●…evied a very great Army both by Sea and Land, which he forthwith sent from Egypt, and conquered Wars made by Gizet King of the Saracens. all the coast of Africa to Carthage: wherein, by reason of the Emperor's death, he found no sufficient resistance. The wars of Africa proceeding in this manner, the Emperor died before he was able to provide for the same, as he would have done if he had lived. He departed out of The death of the Emperor Constantine. this World in the year of our Lord, six hundred fourscore and six; his wife's name was ANASTASIA, by whom he had lawful Heirs; of which JUSTINIAN and JUSTIN succeeded him in the Empire; as presently shall be declared. THE LIFE OF JUSTINIAN, THE SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE AND EIGHT ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. THis Emperor attained to the dignity being very young: in the beginning of his reign he made wars against the Turks, and constrained them to sue for peace: which for that he maintained not, it so happened that losing a battle in the second war, he was driven to sue for peace: and returning home with disgrace was deposed from his Empire, having his nose and his ears cut off: and in his place Leoncius, a captain of his was made Emperor. Afterwards another of his Captains, whose name was Tiberius, rose against Leoncius, and deposed him from the Empire, and condemned him to perpetual imprisonment, with a determination to have put him to death with greater torment. Which Tiberius, was likewise driven out of the Empire by justinian: who with the aid of his father in law the King of Bavaria, returned and recovered the Empire; wherein using extreme cruelty against the favourites of Tiberius and Leoncius: finally moving wars against the Bulgarians, wherein he had but little good success, he was compelled to return home, to his great shame and dishonour. And beginning to stand in fear of one Philippicus, whom Tiberius had banished, and seeking means to kill him; Philippicus rebelled against him, and being made Emperor came to abattaile, wherein both justinian and his son Tiberius miserably ended their tragedy, represented in this scene of the world with such variety of fortune, as never any other Emperor was so much tossed and turmoiled as he was: and he governed the Empire at both times six and twenty years. IT is a rule in Rhetoric, observed by great Orators, in the beginning of what they purpose to treat of, whether in A rule in Rhetoric. writing, or pleading; to procure the attention, and willing audience of their hearers, or readers: which is principally done when they extol or magnify that which they have to say; letting them know that it shall be very pleasing or profitable: for with a desire to know some great matter, or moved with the greediness of profit, or alured with the hope of the delight and contentment which is promised, they attentively hear, or willingly read what is proponed: yet the author must always be careful to perform what he doth promise, and that in his speech he come not short of the expectation held of him. Coming now to writ the life of the Emperor JUSTINIAN the second, son to the Emperor CONSTANTINE the fourth; with an imagination to be found true in what I shall say, and that he which shall read the same shall not be deceived, I entreat the reader to be attentive. And although I tell not wonders and marvelous things happened in the heavens and on earth: yet truly he which with attention shall read the history of fifteen years succeeeding, shall see a pleasant and strange Comedy, which Fortune, or (to say better) the world represented in those times. The principal and chief parts whereof, we may say, were acted in the person of JUSTINIAN; who sometimes as an Emperor, and sometimes as a private man, came upon the stage: I may very well say so, seeing that he was twice chosen and obeyed, justinian his 〈◊〉. and twice also utterly deprived and bereft of his Empire: so as it seemed he went in and out, making a show upon the theatre of the world: and with him other two or three Emperors or tyrants, which were in his time: as LEONCIUS, TIBERIUS, and PHILPPICUS: which like actors in a tragedy did nothing but put off and on their masks: for sometimes you should see them come in with a nose, and sometimes noseless: sometimes by force, and sometime by favour; the one supplanting the other. Finally, I say that in my opinion, this history seemeth to be like an old wife's tale, or a feigned fable, only to depaint some strange adventures, or great misfortunes, it being for certain a most true history: from which may be drawn a notable example of of the inconstancy and uncertainty of the estate of this life, and lightly to accounted thereof; and to the end that men leave to toil and to take such care for the obtaining of riches and sovereignty; and that they grow not proud when they have attained the same, neither be grieved or dismayed when they loose them, but always accounted them for doubtful, without any firm continuance: considering what peril and danger they undergo in getting them, and how little assurance they have to enjoy them. Coming now to our history, it passed thus: After the death of the Emperor CONSTANTINE, as he held the Empire in good order and government in his life time; so his son JUSTINIAN after his decease found no difficulty, but was gladly received and obeyed of all men: and notwithstanding that he was very young, being but sixteen years old, yet he began peaceably to govern his Empire; saving that in Africa in the time of his father's sickness, and after his decease, the Saracens became Lords of a great part thereof. In the beginning of his reign he commanded great forces to be levied, for the defence and recovery of Africa; and as to a new Prince, so many and so good men of war made repair unto him, as the Saracens stood in fear of him. Wherhfore VALDULA their King and Captain which succeeded GIZITES (the authors differ much in these names) sent to him for peace: and for as much as he offered very large conditions, JUSTINIAN granted the same for ten years. The first of which was, that he should restore all that which he held in Africa; which was the City of Carthage, and all that which lieth between that and Egypt, near unto the Sea side, besides other contributions of money and horses, which were to be paid unto him yearly: and this peace being confirmed, there was generally peace through the whole Empire, without any suspicion of war: yea and some Historians report, that there was an universal peace through all the world: so as neither the Kings of France, Spain, nor England; neither the Princes of Germany, or the Kings of the Bavarians, of Slavonia, of Misia, of Bulgaria, neither the Huns which inhabited Hungary, among themselves had any wars, or were at contention with any others: The like was in the estates and Provinces of the East. Which peace and concord JUSTINIAN through pride and evil counsel disturbed, by warring contrary justinian contrary to his league, made wars against the 〈◊〉, and what ensued, to his promise and agreement made with the Saracens which he began very resolutely with great preparation: and after that he had sent LEONCIUS for his General, he went in person and did much harm, and recovered some Countries in Soria, and entered Mesopotamia; where the Saracens reinforcing their troops, and repairing their Armies, gathered together an infinite number of them, and came to give him battle: which the young Emperor refused not; but yet after great slaughter of his people he was overcome, and driven to fly, and to abandon what he had recovered, being brought to such extremity, as he was forced to sue and entreat them for peace: which after many treaties and demands was concluded, & the Saracens for that time remained in quiet. In this time died THEODOR Exarch or Governor of Italy, and in his place was sent another prime man called JOHN, and Pope CONON aforesaid also died: after much controversy about the election of a new Bishop, for an Archbishop called THEODORE, and another called PASCAL, sought to have been Popes, and with money had bribed the Exarch JOHN, to assist them with his voice and favour; the matter being likely to have come to blows, they all agreed to choose one whose name was SERGIUS, borne in the City of Antioch in Syria, who was chosen and obeyed for Pope: yet afterwards there were some tumults about that matter, which concern me not. In those days died CUMPERTUS, who then was King of the Lombard's, and there succeeded a son of his called LIMPERTUS, of whom we have not made any mention, for that they lived in peace with the Italians and the Emperor's subjects. The Emperor JUSTINIAN being returned out of Asia o●… Constantinople, with great loss and disgrace for the war aforesaid; repairing his losses received, and making new provision with little discretion and worse direction, resolved to begin the war again: wherein he had no better success then in the former: And this was against the Bulgarians which inhabited Misia, with whom his father had made a perpetual league of amity; and JUSTINIAN (as a light inconstant young man) War made by Constantine against the Bulgarians. breaking the conditions, entered their Country with a great Army, with such power and fury, as neither the Bulgarians, nor their King durst take the field to give him battle; but retired, and abandoning many places, fortified themselves in the strongest; which so much emboldened the Emperor, as he prosecuted this war with less heed and circumspection, than so important a case required: which when the Bulgarians perceived, recovering courage, they assembled a multitude of men: & cutting off all victuals from the Emperor's Army, & stopping the passages of certain rivers, they brought him to such extremity, that although he would retire, he found so great danger and difficulty therein, as he was compelled to sue to them for peace, Constantine sued to the Bulgarians for peace. against whom, of his own mind, voluntarily and without reason he had made war; which they granted, upon condition that he should restore to them all the prisoner, and the Towns and other things which he had taken: And that he should personally swear▪ well and faithfully to maintain the same, as well by himself as by all his Princes and chief Captains. JUSTINIAN returning from this journey, with no more honour than from the first, caused a new Council to be assembled in Constantinople, to disannul that which in the former had been determined, concerning certain points in religion: The Pope being herewith discontented, sent his Legates to hold his place there, and to see what the Council would treat of: wherein by the Emperor's authority there were some things handled against the resolution of the last Council: whereof the Pope being advertised, he reproved and disannulled what was there concluded; The Pope began to contend with the Emperor. Pope Sergius disannulled the Council assembled by the Emperor, Constantine. and confirmed the last Council, and sent commandment to dissolve the present. Wherewith the Emperor was so highly displeased, as he presently sent ZACHARIAS the Commander General of all his men of war, to Rome, with commission to apprehended the Pope, and to sand him to Constantinople. ZACHARIE being arrived in Italy about this exploit, notwithstanding that he dissembled the matter, yet was it soon discovered, and SERGIUS had so won the hearts of the people, that all the companies which lay in Ravenna, and the marches thereof, and in other parts of Italy, came with all speed to Rome, with intent to have slain ZACHARIE, and to have released the Pope, whom ZACHARIE had already seized on. When ZACHARIE understood with what fury these men of war came against him, despairing of any other remedy, heyeelded himself to the Pope's mercy, whom he then held prisoner: And the Pope pardoning the offence, protected him, and hide him in his Palace; then sitting in his Throne, holding a great state, he attended the coming of the Army which came from Ravenna, together with the Roman people: who very earnestly desiring him to deliver ZACHARIE into their hands, he made an Oration unto them, persuading them to moderate their displeasure, seeing that he had pardoned the offence: whereto they all consented, and ZACHARIE, being brought into his presence, had leave to departed, although with much shame and disgrace. And the Pope so cunningly handled the matter, that he brought the Emperor into such hatred, and made him so odious to the people, as their whole study was how to depose him from the Empire: and as they were all willing thereto, the effect easily ensued. JUSTINIAN having represented (as I said) the first act of the Tragedy, a great Captain called LEONCIUS before mentioned, whom he had of long time held prisoner, resolved to rebel against him: and having secretly conferred of the matter with GALLICANUS the Patriarch of Constantinople, and with his other friends; upon a day he suddenly came from his house, accompanied with many armed-men; and gathering men together against the Emperor, Leoncius rebelled against the Emperor. he went to the Prisons, and set all the prisoners at liberty; and the people very willingly accompanying him, he went to the Emperor's palace, where he easily apprehended him: And proclaiming himself Emperor, deprived the other of his Empire; and he was crowned with great joy of the people, which ever delighteth in novelties, but chief with the change of Princes, and great Magistrates; for the present estate doth never please them, they ever commend that which is past, and still desire a new. LEONCIUS was crowned, and JUSTINIAN had his ears and his nose cut off, and some say his tongue also, to make him seem ugly and the more to be abhorred; and having Leoncius made Emperor. brought him to this estate, he banished him for ever, to the City of Chersona in Pontus, the furthermost bounds of the Empire. Which befell him in the tenth year of his reign, and in the year of our Lord GOD 696, yet some say more; where let us leave him for some space▪ whilst that LEONCIUS may in the mean time act his part of the Tragedy which we promised. The great hatred which the people bore against the Emperor JUSTINIAN, was the chief occasion that moved the Tyrant LEONCIUS to rebel and take upon him the name and state of Emperor: for JUSTINIAN was brought into such hatred with the people, that they would have accepted of any man that had dared to attempt to have made himself Emperor; and much sooner of LEONCIUS, who was a valiant and expert man of war, and had held great charges and offices. In the beginning all things succeeded according to his desire; for JUSTINIAN had neither the heart nor means, during his banishment, to restore himself; neither was there found any resistance or contradiction in any other man in the Empire: and so LEONCIUS began to enjoy his Empire in peace. But the Saracens or Agarenes and HADIMILECH their King, who already had a resolution to subvert and wholly to ruin the Empire; seeing the dissension therein, and not holding the state of LEONCIUS firm; with a great and mighty Army from Egypt (as at other times they had done) they invaded the Provinces of Africa, and took many Cities and strong holds therein: against whom LEONCIUS, with no small fear and care, sent a singular Captain called JOHN; but he gave him The Saracens invade Africa. no such Army as he might be able to give his enemy's battle; by reason whereof, he was constrained by policy and stratagems, to maintain the wars; so as he defended the Country for some time, daily soliciting the Emperor, to sand him such supply of soldiers, as therewith he might be able to fight with them: and seeing that neither by Letters nor messengers he could obtain his suit; upon a time when he thought his absence might be lest prejudicial; leaving his Army in the best order he could, and a very good Captain called TIBERIUS ABSIMARUS for commander in his place; he took his way towards Constantinople, to confer with LEONCIUS about the sending of some better supply for the wars of Africa, and coming suddenly thither, he found not that provision which he expected and was needful; and therefore was driven to stay longer than was expedient; for the Emperor busying himself about other matters of small moment, took lest care for those things which were of greatest importance. The Army in Africa seeing his long absence, began to murmur against their Captain, for so leaving them; and likewise against the Emperor LEONCIUS: and from murmuring in speeches, they become so audacious, as to persuade TIBERIUS ABSIMARUS, who was left for their commander, to make himself Emperor: and he was presently created and obeyed by the whole Army. And as ambition and desire to command is a thing which chief inflameth the hearts of men; so TIBERIUS to his own ruin, accepted that which they offered him; as hereafter this History shall make manifest. But as he was neither careless nor Absimarus created Emperor. a coward so he speedily, when he had taken upon him the title of Emperor, resolved to get the possession and government thereof; and preparing with the greatest haste that might be to take the Emperor LEONCIUS unprovided, he departed from Africa, abandoning the same The loss of Africa. to the Infidels, which was the cause that afterwards it was wholly lost: and he with a very good fleet brought his people to the coast of Graecia; where, with the aid and favour of his friends and kindred which were on Land, he took harborough, and came to Constantinople; wherein LEONCIUS had fortified himself, thinking to defend the same: whereupon they came to blows, without any just cause of either side; for, he which came to deprive the Tyrant, did it to the end to be so himself: but in the end he prevailed, and TIBERIUS entered by force, and become Leoncius deposed by Tiberius. Lord both of the City and of LEONCIUS; although not without much trouble, and slaughter of many men. And upon LEONCIUS he commanded the same punishment to be inflicted which he had given to JUSTINIAN; which was, To have his nose and ears cut off, and to be committed to perpetual imprisonment; with an intent to have showed him greater Leoncius had his nose & ears cut off. cruelty; LEONCIUS having reigned theree years only: which was about the year of our Lord six hundred ninety and nine. After this manner LEONCIUS left the Theatre, and TIBERIUS played his part, during the time that LEONCIUS was in prison, and JUSTINIAN banished; and until such time as JUSTINIAN returned to the stage, which was as soon as TIBERIUS had acted his part. In such manner as I have declared, TIBERIUS tyrannised the Empire, and as it may be conjectured by Histories, had continued long, if he could have been contented, and not have attempted more than was fit for him to have done; so as he himself wrought his own confusion. The first thing he did after that he was Lord and absolute, was, To command many of LEONCIUS his friends to be either slain or despoiled of their goods; as Favourites of a Tyrant. And truly he had reason on his side, if he had had authority to have inflicted such punishment, and had not himself been guilty of the same crime, and been a Traitor and a Tyrant to him to whom he had sworn fidelity, as to his Emperor; and also to the Commander who left him in his place; punishing the treason wherein he himself had been a partaker, and had approved the same. And this his holy zeal extended itself so fare, that a great familiar friend of his whose name was PHILIPPICUS, and who had greatly aided him in his enterprise, and to bring him to that estate, only for saying that upon a night in his sleep he dreamt that an Eagle alighted Philippicus banished for a dream. upon his head (imagining that to prognosticate him to be an Emperor) he was by his commandment apprehended and banished into an Island, where he could have no conference or society with any body; notwithstanding that he was a Noble Gentleman, and of high parentage: from whence he afterwards sent him to the City of Chersona, whither the deposed Emperor JUSTINIAN was also banished. We will tell you hereafter what happened to this PHILIPPICUS: for, he was one of the Actors in this Comedy. TIBERIUS, having executed these his cruelties, sent his brother HERACLIUS with an Army to aid the Armenians, who in ancient time had been subject to the Empire, and now rebelled against the Infidels; where he won a great battle, and slew a great number of them: but it seemeth that he did not long enjoy the victory; for, the Infidels in process of time prevailed, and their Empire greatly increased. In Italy also there fell discord and dissension between the Lombard's and Italians, who had lived together a long time in peace. The cause whereof was, for that TIBERIUS, through the death or absence of JOHN the Exarch abovenamed, sent into Italy for Exarch or Governer, a Chamberlain of his called THEOPHILATUS; wherewith all Italy was much grieved: for, the greatest part thereof now pretended to be subject to Theophilatus Exarch of Italy. the Pope; or at lest hated the government and Empire of the Greeks. THEOPHILATUS came not to Ravenna his Predecessors used to do, but landed in Sicilia, from thence to come to Rome: which when it was published, all the companies which lay in Ravenna, and in other places, came to Rome, attending his coming; rather as an enemy, than as their General: and so being arrived, if JOHN which at that time was Pope had not protected him, he had been slain. But through his favour he had liberty to departed and go to Ravenna, being out of hope to do what he had projected; for, in Rome they would not obey him. Whereupon he procured the Lombard's to make war against the Romans, or at lest against those Cities which the Romans held nearest to Rome; principally Beneuent: whereof was Duke and Governer a great man called SISULPHUS, who was therewith much annoyed: but the Pope repaired all his losses with his riches and treasure; and, buying peace, the estate of Italy recovered rest and quiet. But our Lord would not permit TIBERIUS to rest in peace: for, waxing jealous of the Emperor JUSTINIAN, which earlesse and noseless lived an exile in Ghersona, or, as some say, understanding that JUSTINIAN intended to procure aid to recover the Empire, whereof he was Tiberius' sought to put justinian to death. dispossessed by the Emperor LEONCIUS, he began to practise his death; and to that effect sent some to deal with the Inhabitants of that City. JUSTINIAN being advertised hereof, and standing in great fear of his life, in the best manner he could, took shipping; and sailing over the Sea called Euxinum or Ponticum, landed justinian fled to the King of the Bavaria●…, with whom he made alliance. in Europe, and came to the King of the Bavarians, who was a very mighty Prince; by whom he was not only well received, but was also married to his sister or daughter. And he appointed him an house and estate, promising him all aid and favour to restore him; so as there began to be a great alteration throughout all the Empire, seeing that JUSTINIAN was now to return to play his part upon the Theatre of this world. TIBERIUS being advertised hereof, took it to heart (as indeed he had reason) and imagining that he should prevail little by force, he practised Tiberius' practised with the King of the Bavarian to deliver justinian into his hands for money. to see whether money would take effect, which commonly can do more than either sword or lance; and to that effect dealt with CAYANUS (for as I said so the Bavarians called their King) to deliver JUSTINIAN into his hands; for whom he would give him a great sum of money. And this covetous and inconstant King, greedy thereof, agreed with him upon the sum, and promised to accomplish his desire: and being ready to have put it in execution, by chance JUSTINIAN had intelligence thereof; and so alone pursued by him which was either his father in law, or his brother in law, he escaped by flight. About one year after that he had long wandered, he went to the King of Bulgaria, whose name was TREBELLIUS; who justinian saved by the King of the Bulgarian, by whose aid he returned to Constantinople, and put Leoncius and Tiberius to death. pitying his calamity, gave him great entertainment; and in short space made so great provision of men and arms, as he took his way with him towards Constantinople; where were many which desired his return, for the hatred they bore to TIBERIUS. To be brief, in short time and with little difficulty, although with some effusion of blood, he came to the Imperial city, and entering it by force TIBERIUS fled: but being afterwards overtaken and brought back into his power, he committed him to that prison wherein LEONCIUS was, whom he had deposed and cut off his nose and his ears: and making them both to be first carried through all the public streets of the city, he caused them openly to be slain, after that TIBERIUS had reigned seven years. Such are the rewards which the world giveth to those, who to bear sway and to command, forget God. And so ended these two mighty Emperors, or more properly, justinian made Tiberius his brother to be hanged. proud tyrants. And JUSTINIAN, not content to execute his wrath upon those two alone, caused TIBERIUS brother to be hanged; and many of the friends to both of them, to be either spoiled or slain: the Patriarch GALLICANUS, who conspired with LEONCIUS against him, had his eyes plucked out. And they further report of him, that as often as he would have justinian made the Patriarch of Constantinople his eyes to be put out. wiped his nose (if he had had it) he caused some of those which had been followers of his enemy LEONCIUS to be slain. And so the banished Emperor JUSTINIAN recovered his throne and Empire; and returned again to the theatre, to act the rest of his tragedy, which was nine years after that he had been cast out of it; in the year of our Saviour JESUS CHRIST justinian returned to his Empire. 706. Presently after that JUSTINIAN saw himself restored and settled in his Empire, having executed such cruelties, as the like had seldom been heard of, upon those he supposed had offended him; he sent great and rich presents to TREBELLIUS King of Bulgaria, who had helped him to recover his Empire, with a very solemn and pleasing ambassage: but as it shall hereafter appear, he continued but a while so grateful. He also sent for his wife THEODORA, daughter of CAYANUS King of the Bavarians, from whose Court he fled; who lived in a certain place absent from her father: for as some writ, she advertised her husband of the treason which her father pretended against him. And she being come, he made her to be honoured as Empress and Augusta: and his young son whom he had by her in the time of his exile, he caused to be chosen and called Emperor. Other matters concerning his government and execution of justice, were corrupt and out of order: for as the Princes were wicked, so were the subjects; for such as is the head, such are the members: so that so fare as I can conjecture, these were the most miserable and lamentable times, that ever the Christian Commonwealth endured since CHRIST was borne; GOD permitting it for a punishment of the wicked, wherewith the world did then abound; and for the greater reward of those which suffered amongst them: for besides the wars & troubles of the tyrannising Emperors, there was so little faith and fear of God, that the Church lost then all the provinces of Africa; wherein, in steed of Christ perfect God and man, MAHOMET is adored and worshipped unto this day, without recovery. Which to relate in such manner as it passed, I neither have time, neither found I it distinctly written: but that after that TIBERIUS went thence with the name of Emperor, and deposed LEONCIUS from the Empire; the Saracens seeing the country abandoned, came out of Egypt, Arabia, and other Provinces of the East, and made a conquest thereof; finding so small resistance, that within the space of four years they become Lords of all the Countries, from Egypt, The Infidels connquered Africa. unto the Province of Mauritania Tingitania, and to that which now is Ceuta, Tangiar and Arzila: wherefore we call those of Mauritania, Mauri or Moors and Arabians, for that they came out of Arabia; being 170 years after that Africa was recovered from the Vandals, and had served and been subject to the Empire. And within ten years after, with the joy of their victory (DON RODRIGO then reigning King in Spain) they being aided by a traitorous Earl called DON JULIAN, and others, they came over into Spain, and in three years conquered The conquest of Spain by the Infidels Moors. almost all the country, slaying in battle King RODRIGO, and the most part of the Goths, excepting some few which lived in the Mountains of Biscay, Galicia and Ouiedo: from whenee afterwards (although abandoned by the Christian Kings and Princes) they have by little and little, not without great trouble and effusion of much blood, recovered their country: and finally about 100 years since, the Infidels were driven out of all Spain by King FERDINAND and Queen ISAEEL. So as if other Christian kings had done their parts aswell as the Kings of Spain, it is to be thought that Christendom had not been so much diminished, but had again recovered what it then lost, and had been restored to that greatness wherein it was in the time of some ancient Emperors. But seeing it is the judgement of God, we will leave it to him, and return to our History, which is of the Emperors only. JUSTINIAN being in Constantinople, executing his cruelties against the friends and kinsfolks of TIBERIUS and LEONCIUS, it so happened that the subjects to the King of Bulgaria, which had been so much his friend, fell at odds with some of the Emperor's subjects of Thracia, a province of the Empire, wherein standeth Constantinople, about parting their bounds: which when he understood (forgetting the benefits received) upon this small occasion he raised an Army against TREBELLIUS King of Bulgaria, and entering his Country, ruined many places, and committed great spoils: wherewith the King, being greatly moved, gathered such forces together as he could, and came to fight with the Emperor; and they two fought a cruel battle, wherein the Emperor was justly justinian made war upon the King of Bulgaria, and was overthrown in battle. overthrown, and fled out of the Country of the Bulgarians: and so this war was ended to his dishonour. But as God never made any thing without some goodness; so this Emperor ever respected and reverenced the Church of Rome and the Pope, namely CONSTANTINE who then was Pope, after the two JOHNS, the sixt and the seventh, which succeeded S●…RGIUS, who went to Constantinople to see the Emperor, and by the way met with JOHN TOZOCOPOS, who came to be Governor of Italy; and coming to Rome would have taken up the Church rends and goods, but he was resisted by the Pope's ministers; some of which he slew: wherefore he grew so hateful, as he was driven to go to Ravenna; where for the same cause, or the hatred which they bore against the Exarches and former governors, the people upon a day mutined, and killed him. The Pope was with great honour received by the Emperor, and when they had seen one the other, the Emperor prostrated himself upon the Earth, and so much abased himself, as to kiss the Pope's foot, with wonderful show of obedience: for as it may be gathered by this Prince's doings, he was both fearful and revengeful, which are vices usually going together. Hence it sprang, that in his greatest prosperity, he began to stand in fear of PHILIPPICUS, who lived in exile in Pontus, by the commandment of the tyrant TIBERIUS; and for no other cause, but for saying that he had dreamt of an Eagle. And JUSTINIAN desired also to be revenged of the City Chersona, alleging for his reason, that the Citizens had abused him when he lay there in the time of his banishment: wherefore he commanded a great Army to be levied, and a Navy to be rigged, to go and ruin that City, and to kill PHILIPPICUS, who lived there merrily and well content with his banishment, if they would have suffered him to have been at rest. But it pleased God to order matters in such sort, that what JUSTINIAN did to assure himself in the Empire, was the cause of his ruin, and the loss thereof: for PHILIPPICUS understanding that he came against him, and acquainting those of Chersona therewith, who also expected their own destruction, he resolved to take upon him the name of Emperor, and to die like a soldier fight. Before which there passed other matters, which I omit: but the conclusion is, that seeing no other remedy, they all consented together, and the Army and Captains, sent by JUSTINIAN against Chersona, forsaking him revolted to PHILIPPICUS, who by his surname was called BARDANIUS. And he seeing himself fitted with power for his purpose, instead of being assailed, resolved now to give the assault; and therefore in great haste, with a very great power, he went towards Constantinople, where JUSTINIAN expected him: for after that he understood what passed, he had raised a new Army; and encamping himself about twelve miles from the City, attended the coming of PHILIPPICUS: who as soon as he arrived set himself in order of battle, and JUSTINIAN did the like; and they fought the greatest part of the day very resolutely: but in the end the victory remained with PHILIPPICUS, and JUSTINIAN was overthrown and slain in the battle, and together with him his son TIBERIUS, being but a very child, with much people justinian and his son slain in a battle against Philippicus. of either side. And so ended the cares and Empire of the most unfortunate Prince JUSTINIAN; seeing that in his time were so many disasters and calamities: whose life and acts were such as I have showed you. And if the Reader have attentively observed what I have written, I guess he will not hold me for a liar, in that which I said in the beginning, that the History of his time, for the variety of changes which then happened, was as a feigned Comedy; or to say more properly, a Tragedy, considering the beginning and end thereof. He died in the year of our Lord 712 little more or less, and in the 27 year after he first began to reign. THE LIFE OF PHILIPPICUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE AND NINTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE Emperor JUSTINIAN being overthrown and slain, PHILIPPICUS called also BARDANIUS or BARDANES, remained Emperor: of whom there is little to be written, for that he enjoyed the Empire so little, and for that the Authors which I follow, make small mention of him. And of that little which we know of him, the first is, that as soon as he came to Constantinople, and was there sworn and crowned, he began to hold certain doubtful opinions of the Christian faith; aswell concerning the Divinity of Christ, as some other matters, contrary to the resolution of the sixt general council, holding with the Monothelites: and hereupon he assembled certain Bishops in Constantinople, banishing CYRUS the Patriarch thereof, and in his Rome placing a Monk called JOHN. And therewith not satisfied, he wrote his Cyrus' Patriarch of Constantinople banished by Philippicus. Letters and sent an Ambassage to the Pope, requiring him to approve his opinions. Which the Pope not only refused to do, but for answer, commanded him upon great curses and excommunications to renounce the opinions which he held: and in Rome, in the Cloisters, and the Porches of Saint PETER'S Church, he commanded the Conclusions of the sixt general Council to be written, to the end that all men might know and believe the same. Whereof when the Emperor was advertised, he presently commanded that painting and writing to be razed and defaced, and the like to be done to all the crucifixes, images, and pictures of CHRIST, of our Lady, and of the Saints, which he affirmed were not to be adored, or to be set up in Churches. But his commandments were little regarded by the Pope, or the Roman Philippicus excommunicated by the Pope. people; for by a general decree they proclaimed him a schismatic and an Heretic: and the Pope further commanded that in their divine service he should not be prayed for, neither should there be any mention made of his name in any public act or proclamation; which was executed accordingly: by means whereof he become odious and hateful to the people of Rome, and generally of all Italy, wherein the Empire and government of the Greeks' began to be of small authority; by reason of the great power of the Lombard's, and the great command and Authority of the Popes. For as much as the Emperors were contrary to them in some points of Religion, the people abhorred them, and denied to be their subjects: but PHILIPPICUS, notwithstanding the Pope's fulminations, would not be diverted from his determination; wherefore and for some other occasions, certain principal men secretly conspired against him; the chief of which, was one ANTHEMIUS; which succeeded in this manner. The Emperor resting himself upon a Whitsonday even, after certain disports on horseback, used in those times; the conspirators violently rushing into his lodging apprehended him, and carrying him thence to another place plucked out his eyes; and leaving him blind and imprisoned, refusing to Philippicus being deposed, had his eyes put out. kill him, they deprived him of his Empire, when he had reigned but one year and a half: and they advanced the same ANTHEMIUS to the Empire, and gave him to name, ANASTASIUS. This happened in the year of our Lord, seven hundred and fourteen. THE LIFE OF ANASTASIUS, THE SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE AND TENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. IF the malice and liberty to sin in those times had not taken such root, ANASTASIUS had been an excellent Emperor, and had well governed the Commonwealth; for he was a virtuous and iustman, and of a deep understanding and judgement: But by reason of the former government, the wicked were so accustomed to the liberty of ill doing, as they could not endure to be ruled by any one that should minister and execute justice. For, as in a body diseased and so full of corrupt Humours, that the natural virtue is therewith oppressed and overcome, being unable to resist the humour, no Physic can prevail or work any effect, but is rather loathsome and cast up again: even so it happened to ANASTASIUS, and to THEODOSIUS the third also, who was his successor: for men were then so hardened and ●…ousled in doing ill, and so accustomed to escape without any punishment for the same, as it seemed an hard and intolerable matter for them to endure their good government, for the small time they lived in subjection: as in their places shall appear. As soon as ANASTASIUS was Emperor, of two things he took especial care; the first Anastasius his chiefest care. and principal was for the Christian faith and religion, wherein some of his predecessors had erred: the other was to take order for the defence of the Empire, which he found ill guarded and out of order. Touching the first, he sent his Letters and Ambassadors to the Pope, whereby he protested to believe and to hold that faith which the Church of Rome believed: and approving and ratifying the general Counsels, he commanded all his subjects to hold and believe the same. And as concerning the Empire, knowing that the greatest harm that it received was from the Saracens (MAHOMET'S Disciples) who then had conquered all Africa; against them only he resolved to employ all his whole force and power, seeing that he could not obtain the peace which he had first procured. And thereupon he speedily levied Captains and Soldiers, and made a man of great esteem (whose name was LEO) General of his Army for the defence of the frontiers against Soria, for from thence the Infidels invaded Asia the less. And for the Seas, he rigged a very great fleet, and therein shipped his mighty Army with an intent to sail into Egypt, and to make a Conquest thereof, attempting first, the City of Alexandria. All which being set in order, and sufficient provision made of all things necessary, the Emperor being very joyful, hoping that some great exploit would have been done, the fleet departed from Constantinople and sailed to Alexandria, where the fear wherewith the inhabitants were stricken, was greater than the hurt they received: For, the Imperialists, having besieged the City, through want of certain necessaries (either in deed or feigned) raised their siege, and returned to their ships, sailed to the Isle of Rhodes, and some say to Phoenicia in Asia the less, to make provision of Engines, and other necessaries, which they said were needful for the battering of Alexandria and other Towns. Whereof when the Emperor had intelligence he was greatly displeased, and reprehending his Captains, sent them new provision of all things necessary, commanding them presently to return to the war which they had already begun. But in that age military Discipline was as much decayed and corrupted as other Sciences: and as I said in the beginning, The people being accustomed to live licentiously after their own fantasy, and being discontented with the government of a good Emperor, the Army mutined, and agreed among themselves to leave their enterprise against the Infidels, and to turn head against the Emperor ANASTASIUS. And taking land in Asia the less, the greatest and chiefest part of the Army marched over land: and imagining, that without an head and leader, the Army could hardly be well governed, they made choice of one to be their Emperor, whose name was THEODOSIUS, a man of mean parentage, but yet honest and of good behaviour, and well known to them all, for he had been treasurer or receiver of the Exchequer, and of Theodosius chosen Emperor. the revenues of the Empire: Who, for his good conditions, was well beloved of all men, and him they chose and made Emperor against his will. In my judgement he had reason to refuse it: For in truth the estate of the Empire and the faith and obedience borne to the Emperors in those times was such as not only those which were unworthy aught not to accept of the Empire, but even those also which were capable, and most sufficient and of greatest power, had reason by all ways and means possible to eschew the same. ANASTASIUS understanding of the Rebellion of his men of war, and how they had chosen THEODOSIUS for their Emperor, made little account thereof (for he disdained him for the baseness of his birth, and the small experience he had in the wars) nevertheless he raised a great power, and went into Asia to seek him: and meeting him near unto the City of Nicaea, the principal City in Bythinia, they fought a battle, wherein through the secret judgement of God, ANASTASIUS was overthrown and taken prisoner, Anastasius taken prisoner by Theodosius. when he had reigned one year and three months only; yet some say three years: And the new chosen THEODOSIUS obtained the victory, together with the Empire; and ANASTASIUS being deposed, remained prisoner and in his power, whom he made a priest. Which after the computation of ABBAS WESPERGENSIS, and of MATHEW PALMERIUS, was in the year of our Lord, seven hundred and seventeen; PHILIPPICUS being yet living, whom ANASTASIUS had deprived of the Empire; so as he was his companion both in estate and fortune. It seemeth that in the time of this ANASTASIUS, the Infidels made an end of the conquest of Spain. THE LIFE OF THEODOSIUS, THE THIRD OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE AND ELEVENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THEODOSIUS seeing himself such as he never thought to have been (obeyed, and sworn Emperor, without any resistance or contradiction) went to Constantinople: and as he was noble in bounty and goodness, so he lost no jot of his good conditions, by being advanced to the greatness and height of the Empire, but rather seemed to have increased the same. First he would not suffer ANASTASIUS to be put to death, neither to be any way grieved in his person; but only to be assured of him, he caused him to be made a priest, and gave him exhibition, Theodosius made Anastasius to become a priest. wherein he continued until the time of the Emperor LEO, when by persuasion of a certain captain he sought to have recovered the Empire: which cost him his life, as hereafter we will recount, if so it shall be expedient. THEODOSIUS having set matters in order for the general, he particularly commanded the images and pictures which PHILIPPICUS had caused to be razed and defaced, to be repaired and new made; and in other matters concerning religion, he commanded his subjects to observe and hold that which the counsels had decreed, and the Church of Rome maintained, and so made show of a pleasing Emperor. But fortune nevertheless showed herself his enemy; for Leo whom his predecessor ANASTASIUS had made General for the defence of Asia the less against the Saracens, and who yet had not done him any homage; under the pretence and colour to restore his master ANASTASIUS, joined himself with ARTAMASDUS another captain, which in the confines of Armenia commanded the ordinary garrisons of the Empire, and they both with all their whole power came against THEODOSIUS; and coming to Nicomedia they apprehended a Leo entitled himself Emperor. son of his which was there, and from thence marching forwards he began to usurp the name of Emperor. Against this force and violence wherewith LEO came, THEODOSIUS durst make no resistance; but upon assurance that he should not be put to death, or receive other wrong in his person, he yielded himself into his hands, and chose to live a religious life in a Monastery, and taking the habit remained therein, before that one year was expired, after that (against his will) he had been made Emperor: so as now with him there were three Emperors Three Emperors lived at one time deposed. which lived deposed. The first was PHILIPPICUS, whom ANASTASIUS had east in prison, and had plucked out his eyes, whose end what it was I find not written: the second was ANASTASIUS, whom (as I said) this THEODOSIUS made to take religious orders and habit: and now the third was the same THEODOSIUS, who yielding himself to LEO, Theodosius beca●…e a Monk. made choice rather of a religious life than to stand to his defence. Wherein if voluntarily he did it, or at lest endured it with patience, (as is most likely) seeingthat he was made Emperor perforce and against his will, truly he was in the right, and chose the better part and left the worse to LEO, which was the Empire: which he most wickedly governed, as hereafter shall appear. This was in the year of our Lord seven hundred and seventeen. THE LIFE OF LEO, THE THIRD OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE AND TWELFTH ROMAN EMPEROR. Whilst that these Emperors of a years standing, as Constables of Country villages, or (to speak more properly) Tyrants, did strive to subvert one another, they had no care to make head against the Saracens and Infidels, which daily increased, and grew more mighty, so that Christendom was now despised and oppressed: for besides that which happened in the Empire, which now was of small force in the Kingdoms of France and Germany, were also wars between the French and the Burgonians, and likewise between the Frizons and the Suevians, and between the Saxons and the Bavarians, and other Nations too long to be recited in this History. At which time CHARLES MARTEL in France (through the fame of his noble acts) grew to be very much esteemed, and conquered and subdued some, or the most part of all these said Nations. This CHARLES MARTEL was Praetorian Perfect, or rather High The original of Charles martel. Constable of France, which was the highest dignity in that time next to the King; who by reason of the insufficiency of King CHILDERICUS, who afterwards was deposed, and of his own great valour (although the other had the name) he had the authority of King. And in Italy also were some iunovations, so as the Infidels daily more and more prevailed: and having conquered the greatest part of all Spain, they extended their power thence into France, and took Catalonia, and afterwards Narbone, and besieged Auignon; which was within the bounds of the Gothish kings of Spain. But those countries being afterwards recovered by the Kings of France, they continued in their subjection. These heathen Princes also conquered the Isles of Maiorica and Minorica, and other Islands in that Sea, with the Isle of Sardinia. Presently after that THEODOSIUS was deposed from his Empire, and that LEO the third of that name, was received and established, being unworthy thereof; ZULEMON (whom some call after another manner) King and Captain of the Saracens, and now Lord of Asia, of Africa, and of Zulemon king of the Saracens made war against the Empire. Spain, making small account of LEO, or of the decayed and weakened Empire; resolved with himself wholly to subvert the same; And to that effect used all the means and devices possible, to levy men and provide shipping, to go or sand against the great City of Constantinople, together with all Thracia and Graecia. The provision which he made was so great, that some authors affirm, he had in his fleet three thousand sail of ships, and an incredible number of men of war, which he sent under the conduct of two Generals, the one called MASGILDUS, and the other SOLIMAN. These Armies came into Europe, and passed the Straight of Constantinople, without any resistance: for although that the Emperor LEO had intelligence of their coming, yet was he not able to taise so great power as might suffice to keep them from landing. Wherhfore he thought it a better course to defend the City; and so suffered himself to be besieged, rather than to abandon it to the enemies, who made themselves Lords both of Sea and Land, and besieged the City round both by Land and by Sea, for the space of three years continually. And notwithstanding Constantinople besieged by the Saracens. that the Besieged valiantly defended it, yet it was thought for certain, that it would have been lost, if in the Besiegers had been such valour and policy as was to have been expected in such men: but, through a desire to rob, they dispersed themselves so over the land, that they were thereby greatly endamaged, and the City was the less distressed, and had the better opportunity to provide such things as were wanting. And particularly some Captains with part of this Army, seeing that no man made resistance against them, wandered up & down the Country overall Thracia, kill and robbing until they came into Bulgaria, which in ancient time was called the lower Misia: for defence whereof, the King of that Country sent so Bulgaria whilom called lower Misia. good an Army, that he not only defended his Frontiers, but overthrew his enemies, and slew of them (as some Historians have written) two and thirty thousand. But their power was so great, that all Christendom stood in extreme fear of them, and held the Emperor LEO and all Graecia for lost. At that time there was so much ambition and so little charity among Christians, that they could not be induced to give-over the wars and private contentions among themselves: for, in Italy the Lombard's in larged their dominion, and took all such towns as they could get either by force or policy. The Frenchmen and other Princes did the like; and even their own Captains and servants failed them in this extremity: for, SERGIUS, who was Praetor or Governor for LEO in Sicilia, holding the Emperor for lost, with the consent of some others chose one GREGORY for Emperor; and, making him to change his name, they called him TIBERIUS: Gregory called and chosen Emperor. what end he made I will tell you hereafter. Only the Bulgarians assisted the Empire: for, in truth they had interest therein, considering the danger that hung over their own heads if the Saracens prevailed. And the Christians which in Constantinople were besieged, made such prayers and supplications, that it seemed the Lord took compassion of them, and protected them: for, no humane power was sufficient to have resisted so great forces. Which, as Historians affirm, was manifestly a divine miracle, that in so long time as the siege lasted, the whole Empire had not been lost, comparing the garrison which was within to defend the City, with the multitude and power of those which besieged it: to whom, by God's appointment, befell so many misfortunes and disasters, that without any man's help they were ruined. First, in the time of the siege died their King ZULEMON, whom they also called AMURATH; and about the The death of Zulemon, King of the Saracens. Aminthas' Humar chosen king of the Saracens. choosing of a new King they fell at so great variance and dissension among themselves, that they were disordered, and the Besieged greatly recomforted; until at the last AMINTHAS' HUMAR was chosen, who followed the war more faintly and recklessly than before: and there afterwards followed such cold weather, such storms, and so many plagues of famine and pestilence among them, that the greatest part of them died, as well by Land as by Sea. Besides this, there followed so many tempests and violent winds upon the seas, that in the best and safest Tempest, famine and pestilence, fell in the army of the Saracens by sea and land▪ harbours their ships were overset and cast away; in such sort, that the Infidels were so much diminished and decayed, that the City of Constantinople was not only freed and delivered from that siege, but also few of them escaped with their lives from before it: for, of three thousand sail which they brought thither in the beginning, so few returned with their people, that it seems to be a matter incredible: and, besides those that were cast away by foul weather at sea, the Historians writ, that very many of their ships were burnt by one man's industry. Finally, all that great multitude and number of men and shipping, which seemed to have been sufficient to have over run the whole world, and to have laid the same waste, in little more than two years was lost and consumed: and LEO remained the sole absolute Lord of all that which before he possessed; who shown not himself so thankful to God for his so great benefits as he aught to have done. He had also no less good hap against TIBERIUS a Tyrant, which rebelled in Sicilia, who in short space was brought to confusion▪ for, the Emperor LEO sending from Constantinople the Captain of his horsemen called PAUL, with the title and authority of Governer of Sicilia, and with Letters to the Captains and soldiers there; PAUL by a stratagem got into the City of Syracuse, now called Sarragossa: where he shown his authority to those of the City & of the Army; and they all, knowing that the Emperor whom they held for lost, was alive and at liberty, obeyed his command; and with such favour received and entertained their new Captain, that they apprehended their new King, and delivered him into the power of this PAUL, who put him to death: and SERGIUS the Praetor of Sicilia, who was the Author and Paul put Gregory to death▪ Original of this rebellion, fled into Italy to the Lombard's; and so that Island remained in peace and obedience to the Emperor. The Emperor LEO being freed from so great distress and oppression, aught truly to have applied himself to the service of God, and to have rendered thanks for the same, and to have relieved his poor subjects and vassals, of the losses and harms by them sustained: but he to the contrary, under colour to recover the charges which he had been at, laid new impositions and taxes upon the people, and took order that the Churches should have been ransacked; against which Pope GREGORY, to the uttermost of his power, opposed himself. By reason whereof (dislike growing between them) the Emperor sought to have made away the Pope, or to have taken him prisoner; and to that end he sent thither for Governor one MARINUS, Leo sought to kill or imprison Pope Gregory. and afterwards the Exarch PAUL, where there happened many accidents which I omit; until that at last the Pope found relief where he never thought to have had any, which was in LEUTPRAND King of the Lombard's. After this, the Emperor seeming desirous to beaten peace with the Pope, requested him to 'cause the images to be taken from the Altars, and to be put out of the Churches and temples, in such manner as he had done in Constantinople: whereto the Pope making a presumptuous answer, with great authority sent his Letters and Bulls through all Christendom, excommunicating the Emperor, and commanding the images to The Emperor Leo excommunicated by the Pope. The Pope's ●…lminationss. be honoured and had in reverence. The pontifical command of this Pope GREGORY, was of such authority, and the Emperor was thereby brought into such disliking with the people, as most of the cities in Italy, and the men of war in Ravenna took part with the Pope against him; and there was so great debate and dissension in Ravenna, that they slew the Exarch PAUL, and desired the Pope to depose the Emperor LEO, and to choose another in his place. This dissension gave occasion and opportunity to the Lombard's (contrary to the peace) to take the city of Bologna, and many other cities and towns in that quarter. Which the Emperor perceiving, The Emperor sought the Pope's death. he desired and practised the Pope's death or imprisonment, and to that end sent a new Exarch or governor into Italy, called EURISTIUS; who landing at Naples (to be near to Rome) endeavoured either by force or policy to execute his commission, writing letters to many his friends in Rome and elsewhere, to that effect: which put the Pope and his friends in great fear and perplexity, seeing themselves of the one side oppressed by the Emperor, and on the other standing in fear of the Lombard's. Wherhfore they sought by all means to be at peace with them: which LEUTPRAND their King in consideration of his own advantage and benefit, granted, and came to Rome; having occasion to pass by it with an Army against certain Captains which rebelled in Spoleto and Beneuent; so as the Emperor's practice was the second time made frustrate, but he had his will in throwing down and burning all the images: and for as much as the Patriarch GERMANUS would not consent thereto, he deposed him from his prelacy, and placed another in his room. Matters standing in this estate, Pope GREGORY died, who was the second of that name; and another of the same name borne in Syria, succeeded him, who commanded a general council to be assembled in Rome, whither came many The kingdom of Antichrist erected. The Emperor Leo excommunicated by the council held in Rome. Bishops: and therein the use and veneration of images was again approved and ratified, and the Pope proceeded against the Emperor, in such manner, that he was excommunicate and Anathematised by the council. In that time happened many terrible earthquakes, whereby many cities in Asia the less, and in Graecia, were ruined: and the Saracens came out of Syria into Asia the less, doing much hurt, and took certain cities in Cappadocia. Before this, the Emperor made his eldest son being a young man, whose name was CONSTANTINE, CAESAR, and nominating him his successor, married him to the King's daughter of Bavaria called YRENI. Leo made his son Constantine Caesar and his successor in the Empire. This seemeth to have passed in the seaventeenth year of his reign, all which time with the rest of his Empire, which was in all four and twenty years, he governed with greater rigour than beseemed a King or an Emperor: and notwithstanding that he wanted neither valour nor policy to maintain himself in the Empire; yet matters were carried with such violence and covetousness, that in his time were great wars. In Italy the Lombard's took many cities, and besieged Ravenna: and the people within it, once again slew their Exarch or governor. In Asia the less the Infidels entered the country, and robbing and spoiling the same, carried away an infinite number of captives, and made conquest of a great part of the country. And all the provinces The death of Leo, Emperor of Constantinople. thereof, with Graecia, Italy, the Isles of Sicilia and Creta, now called Candia, which were in his subjection, were greatly oppressed with tributes, impres●…ss, and other intolerable exactions; in such manner, that many rejoiced at his death: which happened in the year of our Lord seven hundred and one and forty, he dying of a Dysenteria; and in his place remained his son CONSTANTINE the fift of that name, who was very like to his father. The house and kingdom of France in these days greatly increased, through the valour and wisdom of CHARLES MART●…L; who conquered and annexed to that Kingdom the Countries of Freezland, Saxony, Austria, Burgundy, and other great estates. The City of Venice was now very great and famous, and began to be governed by Dukes. THE LIFE OF CONSTANTINE, THE FIFT OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE AND THIRTEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. COnstantine, being established in the Empire, made present preparation for the wars against the Infidels in Egypt; but he was molested and hindered by Artausus a Tyrant, who took Arms against him, and entitled himself Emperor: wherefore he returned, notwithstanding that he was already arrived at Alexandria, and took Constantinople by force, and punished the tyrant, although not with such severity as his offence deserved. At that time, Aistolphus King of the Lombard's making war against Rome, Pope Stephen sued to the Emperor for aid: but he provided no such Army as the importance of the case required; thinking to pacify Aistolphus by Letters and Ambassages. Whereupon the Pope, seeing the delay and little regard of the Emperor, called the French into Italy to relieve him; and they, coming, twice freed the City of Rome from the hands of the Lombard's: wherewith Constantine (understanding what the Pope had done) was displeased, and sent him an Ambassage promising succours; which came not in time: for, the French, being already passed the Alpss, had compelled Aistolphus to rend●…r the Cities which Pepin gave to the Church of Rome. A Council was called in Rome, and the Emperor was condemned for an Heretic about the pulling down of Images: and at that time also ended the Kingdom of the Lombard's under Desiderius their King. And Constantine, making war against the Bulgarians, fell sick of a kind of Leprosy, called Elephantia; and, dying, left the Empire to his son Leo, when he had governed the same 35 years. NOtwithstanding that LEO was but a bad Emperor, and therefore ill-beloved; yet, as soon as he was dead, his son was received and obeyed, in hope that he would have proved better than his father, or else for that in his father's time he was grown so mighty, that they durst not attempt to make choice of any other. But he proved so good a scholar to his father LEO, that in all things he excelled and surpassed him much, and lived longer than he; so as these seem not to be the lives of Emperors which we now relate, in comparison of those which are past: but, like as in great vessels wherein wine or some other good liquor hath been kept, as it consumeth, so it becometh of a worse taste, and in the bottom there remain some leeses and dregss; so befell it in the Eastern Empire, wherein had been very great and mighty Princes, whose beginning was such as you have seen, and whose end we may say drew near, seeing that within few years the title & dignity of the Empire was translated from them to the French and Germane; notwithstanding that in Graecia there remained Emperors a long time after. Presently after that CONSTANTINE was crowned; to give some sign of a future good Emperor, he provided a great Army and a Navy, there with to go in person into Egypt: and Pope ZACHARY, understanding thereof, sent him two Ambassadors to congratulate his coming Pope Zacharie sent his Legates to Constantinople with articles to be held and believed. to the Empire, according to the custom of his Predecessors; dissuading him from his father's opinions, and exhorting him to believe as the Church of Rome did: and he therewith sent him in writing the Articles which he would have him to believe. These Ambassadors stayed so long upon their way, that, when they arrived at Constantinople, the Emperor was already departed with his fleet towards Egypt against the Infidels, thinking to have surprised the City of Alexandria, and afterwards to have conquered the whole Country: for, in that Kingdom, and in other Provinces which were but lately lost, lived many Christians, which continued therein a long time; and in some Cities were Bishops, by the permission of the Saracens. Within few days after the Emperor was embarked, an eminent man which remained in Constantinople, whose name was ARTHAUSTUS, being assisted by many which took his part, Arthaustus took upon him the name of Emperor. rose with the City, and was called Emperor: whereof CONSTANTINE was speedily advertised, even at such time as with his fleet he was comn within sight of Alexandria in Egypt. Having certain notice thereof, without any longer stay he returned towards Constantinople: and ARTHAUSTUS, who was in possession thereof, put himself in Arms, with much people to defend the same. But CONSTANTINE, landing, besieged the City, and, entering it by force, apprehended the Tyrant, and commanded his eyes to be plucked out, and to be perpetually Constantine put out Arthaustus eyes. banished; which in my opinion was too small a punishment for so great a treason: but then was used so much disloyalty, that it was not punished accordingly as it deserved. This being soon ended (although not without bloodshed) he heard the Pope's Ambassage, finding his Ambassadors there in that confusion: which he answered with good words, but without performing what they required; persisting in his opinion concerning the abolishing of Images, and other points which his father held; and therewith he desired that the Church of Rome should do the like: which put the Pope into a great agony, as well by reason hereof, as of the tyranny and wars of the Lombard's. And the Emperor's succours failing, it pleased God to sand it from other parts; all which, from the root and ground, passed in this manner: At that time the Christian faith and religion flourished in the Kingdom of France, principally among the Princes & great Lords thereof; wherein by the death of CHARLES MARTEL, who as we said was high Constable of that Kingdom, his two sons, whereof the one was called CARLOMAN, and the other PEPIN, remaining in their father's place, came to the government as absolute Lords of the whole Country. Which Kingdom was then much greater than now it is (although it be yet very great): for, besides that which the French now hold, they then possessed a great part of Germany; as, Austria, Saxony, Flanders, Burgundy, Suevia, and other Provinces. The elder of these two brethren (which was CARLOMAN) making no account of the world, wherein he had such part, determined to leave it, and went to Rome to Pope ZACHARY, who gave him Church-orders; and he become a Monk of the Order of S. Carloman became a Monk. BENEDICT, wherein he continued and died. His brother PEPIN remained alone in the government of the Kingdom of France, and did many noble feats of Arms, enlarging that kingdom against the enemies thereof; and he governed the same so well, that there was no speech or mention made of King CHILDERICK. Wherhfore, forasmuch as in truth the King was a man of small discretion, and altogether in capable of the government, Pope ZACHARIE Pope Zacharie deposed Childerick King of France from his crown. deposed him from the Kingdom, and confirmed and approved the election of King PEPIN, as, THOMAS AQVINAS, ROBERT GACVIN, and PAULUS EMILIUS, French Historiographers, writ. CHILDERICK become a religious man, and in him ended the line and lineal descent of the Kings of France, extract from the blood of the famous Francons: and the Crown passed to the line of this PEPIN, wherein it continued almost two hundred and forty years, until such time as there happened another change; as shall be declared when time and place shall permit. This PEPIN was father to CHARLES the Great, who afterwards was Emperor: wherefore it behoves me here to make mention of him. The state of France standing in this manner, in Italy died Pope ZACHARIE, and STEPHEN the second of that name succeeded him: in the beginning of whose Papacy, AISTOLPHUS was King of the Lombard's; and, as we may say, of all Italy: for, his brother RACHISIUS, who was King, become a Monk of the Order of Saint BENEDICT. This new King, seeing Rachisius', king of the Lombard's renounced the kingdom, and become a Monk. the small care the Emperor took for the affairs of Italy; breaking the peace whereto he himself was sworn, raised a great power (as a man that had sufficient means) and cruelly harried the Land, and then besieged, battered, and took the City of Ravenna, which of long time (excepting Rome) had been the principal City of all Italy, and the seat of the Exarches or Governors: and he also won many other Towns, which until then had valiantly defended themselves; so as there remained no more but the City of Rome and the Territory thereof: for, in a manner all Pulia and Calabria were held by them. Which when Pope STEPHEN the Second saw, he sent to give the Emperor to understand thereof; plainly manifesting to him, that if he did not speedily sand relief, all Italy would come into the power of the Lombard's. The Emperor in this case made not such provision of an Army and men of war as the necessity of the cause required, and sent but only an Ambassador to the King of the Lombard's; and other Ambassadors were sent by the King to the Emperor, and long treaties and many speeches were spent about the matter: but AISTULPHUS, without respect of any person, sent to the Pope, requiring him to give up the City of Rome into his power; if not, that he would King Aistulphus his message to the pope. then come and take it by force, and cut off the heads of all such as he should find therein. The Pope seeing this; after long consideration and consultation had about the matter, with the consent of the whole City, seeing there was no other remedy, resolved to sand to PEPIN King of France for relief; which was done with the greatest secrecy that could be, he seeking by other means to entertain King AISTULPHUS with presents & promises. The King of France willingly heard his Ambassage, and promised to do what he required; and therewith sent to the Pope, counselling him for his more safety to come into France. In the mean time returned the Ambassadors which were sent to the Emperor to Constantinople; who brought no other relief, but direction for the Pope to go in person to King AISTULPHUS, and to entreat him for peace. The Pope, having already fully determined of his journey, must of necessity pass through AISTULPHUS dominions, and therefore resolved to do both; and so departed from Rome, accompanied with the Ambassadors of both the Kings, and of the Emperor, and came to Pavia where the proud King AISTULPHUS then lay; but could not come to any composition with him: for, he required to have the dominion and rule of Rome and the rest of Italy, and that they should yearly give him a certain piece of gold for every head. And notwithstanding that they treated of peace, yet he daily made preparation for the wars: so as the Pope, in the best manner he could, took his leave of him, and by long journeys came into France, holding his way towards King PIPPINS Court; who commanded his eldest son CHARLES, who afterwards was Emperor, that as soon as he were come into France, he should conduct and accompany him; and he himself afterwards came three miles from Paris, where he than held his Court, to meet him: and, alighting from his horse, he kissed the Pope's foot, and would ride no more, but led the Pope's horse by the bridle. And in this manner, with too great humility, he conducted him to his Palace; where he was magnificently received, and royally entertained: and there he confirmed King PEPIN'S election, and so anointed and crowned him King of France. King PEPIN, after many matters which passed about this business, resolving to relieve the Pope, caused an Army to be levied: but he first sent Ambassadors to King AISTULPHUS, to treat with him concerning a settling of peace, offering him reasonable and honourable conditions. Whereto he answered with greater pride than befitted him: for, making small account of King PEPIN, he reposed his chief trust in the multitude of his men. The peace being broken, and the war resolved, PEPIN commanded his troops to march; whose Vanguard, Wars between King Pepin and Aistulphus King of the Lombard's. in passing the Alpss, fought with AISTULPHUS his forces which guarded the passages: which being broken and scattered, the King passed with his whole Army; and, AISTULPHUS, staying in the Plains with the rest of his power, and unable to make head against him, was forced to retire: whom King PEPIN pursued, until he had shut him up in the City of Pavia, where (being Master of the Field) he besieged him: during which siege, many rapines, robberies and outrages, were committed. Pope STEPHEN seeing what ill was befallen, notwithstanding that he apparently saw the victory, and that he himself was the procurer of the Peace between Pepin and the Lombard's. war, yet he laboured for peace, and dealt with AISTULPHUS to that effect, persuading him to resign what he had taken, and to bind himself by oath to maintain the peace, and to give hostages and security for the observing of the same. AISTULPHUS being thus besieged, and hearing these news, in outward show praised God, feigning great humility and thankfulness to the Pope; and extolling him, he promised and swore to his most obedient son, and so a peace was concluded: for King PEPIN pretended nothing, but restitution to be made to the Pope, and the quiet of the Church of Rome: and as it seemed that he had effected the same, taking with him forty men of account, which AISTULPHUS delivered unto him for hostages and pledges, for the performance of his promise, he within a certain prefixed time, raised his siege from before Pavia, and returned towards France, leaving a great Nobleman called VERNERIUS to see the conditions performed: whereof the Pope holding himself assured, departed also towards Rome; and AISTULPHUS accomplishing some matters of small importance, with fair words deferring the principal (which was the rendering of cities and towns) temporised, until that King PEPIN was returned into his country. Afterwards contrary to his oath, he would perform nothing of what he had promised, but went to Ravenna, and thither sent for the greatest part of his forces; and continuing his pretended purpose, within a very small time after, took his way towards Rome, where the Pope was; and encamping himself before it, held it besieged the space of three months; Rome besieged by the Lombard's. in which time (as all histories bear record) he did greater harm in the fields and territory thereof, then had been done before in three hundred and forty years, by the Visogothes, the Ostrogothes, the Heruli, the Lombard's themselves, or any other nation. In the beginning of this siege, what passed I have not time to set down; but that the Pope sent his Ambassadors down the river of Tiber, and thence by sea to king PEPIN into France who was then the Pope's only refuge, to entreat him to come to his relief; whom they found busy in making preparation for his voyage, notwithstanding that they had not requested him: but with their coming fare greater haste was made. Whereof when AISTULPHUS had intelligence, he raised his siege from before Rome, and came into Lombardy, with an intent to have stopped king PIPPINS descent from the Alps; where we will leave them for a while, to the end hereafter to make a●… end of the story. And let us now speak of Constantine, of whom this History treats, whom we have not without reason forgotten: for in truth it hath been to give light to the reader, to understand the cause and reason why the Pope transported the Empire into the Western parts, and first into the house of France; for which cause it was requisite to declare what is said, and what shall be spoken hereafter: for although it be not directly of the Emperors, yet it is very expedient for the history, and the clearness and order of what we shall writ hereafter. I say then that CONSTANTINE was not idle all the while that these things passed in Italy, but attempted to make war against the Infidels, sometimes in Egypt, and sometimes in Syria, but ever with ill success. His Empire was also much distressed and weakened, by reason of a great pestilence, which fell among the inhabitants in those parts, which was so terrible, that it was feared the land would have been dispeopled; which, as HUGO FLORIACENSIS writeth, began in Calabria, and from thence passed into Sicilia, and afterwards into Graecia, and to Constantinople, afflicting those countries. So as it is thought and held for certain, that if there had not happened to arise new and unexpected enemies against the Saracens, the East Empire had been in great danger to have been lost. But in the time of this calamity the Turks descended, in a most huge multitude, out of Scythia Asiatica; for being in a manner innumerable, and in a cold and barren country; The origine of the Turks. moved thereto through the fame of the wealth of Asia, they came into the province of the Alanes, and afterwards into the countries of the Colchi, and from thence descended into Armenia; and lastly into Persia, and so into Asia the less, spoiling and subduing those countries: in such sort that the Mahometists could not attempt aught against the Christians, neither were of power sufficiently able to defend themselves, and therefore concluded a peace with them: and so the Turks remained Lords of a great part of those provinces, and afterwards received the accursed sect of MAHOMET, which they found in the countries by them subdued. The Saracens being much troubled in this war, suffered CONSTANTINE to live in peace. But the Turks did him much harm, for they took from him certain provinces in Asia the less; and therein, and in the rest of Asia, continued a long time after, mixed with other nations, having no rule or dominion, but lived obscurely, until that about two hundred and fifty years afterwards, (as when time shall serve we will tell you) one amongst them whose name was OTTOMAN, began the dominion and Empire which they hold this day. This nation of Ottoman King of the Turks. the Turks (setting a part all other opinions) had their original beginning in Scythia in Asia: Of all the ancient writers, only PLINY in his sixt book, and POMPONIUS MELA in the end of his first book, make mention of them, and place them amongst the Sarmates in the confines of Scythia, over the Caspian passages in the Hyperborean mountains; and they say that they lived dispersed in the fields, by that which they could get by hunting; so as they were unknown (yet some mention was made of them) until this their descent in the time of CONSTANTINE the fift; and so for almost other five hundred years, there was no great account made of them. The opinion of those which say that the Turks descended from the Trojans, is merely false, and shall not need to be reproved, or impugned, for that it is ridiculous, and not to be regarded: for what is before said is true. But returning to my story, I say that the affairs of the East remaining in this estate, and the Emperor knowing that AISTULPHUS King of the Lombard's had besieged Rome, and that the Pope had sent to the French King for aid, and that he made preparation to come to relieve him; being greatly grieved therewith, in great haste he sent two of his favourites to the Pope, requesting him not to retain the succours of France, for that he himself would assist him. But this took no effect, for as much as they spoke too late, and also for that the Pope and state of Rome had no good conceit or hope of him: so as the Emperor's Ambassadors stayed not in Rome, but went to the French court, where they sought to have diverted the King, and to have dissuaded him from going into Italy. But King PEPIN relented not, but rather with a greater and better Army passed the Alps; in which passage were many skirmishes, and many men were lost of the one side and the other. But in the end AISTULPHUS King Pepin came the second time into Italy. durst not abide the battle: but setting all matters in the best order that possibly he could, he retired himself into the city of Pavia, which was the head and royal seat of that Kingdom; wherein King PEPIN again besieged him, and he presently began to treat of peace, offering to tender whatsoever he had taken. The Emperor's Ambassadors solicited, that Ravenna and all that government might be restored to the Emperor, and the rest to the Pope: Whereto King PEPIN answered, that he came to that war, only for the defence of the Church of Rome, and that all that therein was conquered, should be her inheritance, and no bodies else. Finally, a peace was concluded: and AISTULPHUS, before the siege was raised, rendered unto the Pope, Ravenna, and all the cities which in those wars he had taken, in that Exarcha●…e, or out of it; amongst which were Bologna, Mantua, C●…sena, Modena, Rezzo, Parma, Placentia, Ferrara, Favencia, and many other cities and towns, whereof King PEPIN made to the Church of Rome a perpetual King Pepin his donation to the Church of Rome. donation; as a thing by him conquered and gotten. The Emperor's Ambassadors seeing this (being out of hope) returned, and the peace was confirmed. So as the government and dignity of the Exarches was wholly ended and extinguished The Exarches abolished 〈◊〉 Italy. in Italy, the which had continued one hundred threescore and fifteen years, and the Popes remained sole Lords of all those countries, and possessed the same together with the city of Rome, and the rest. King PEPIN being returned into France, King AISTULPHUS which The death of King Aistulphus. deferred the delivery of certain places, thinking to have effected some innovation, was overtaken by death, the manner whereof is written diversely. And after his decease one DESIDERIUS, a great man among the Lombard's, was chosen for their King; who was Duke of Hetruria, now Tuscan. And notwithstanding that some great men persuaded RACHISIUS, brother to AISTULPHUS, who of long time had been a Monk, to take upon him the name and title of King, yet this took no effect: and DESIDERIUS, with the favour of Pope STEPHEN, to whom he promised to be a perpetual friend, remained King; and so the peace was established. Pope STEPHEN applied himself to the government of his Church, and the estate thereof▪ But when he was most busy about those matters, he was taken with an infirmity; whereof he died, and PAUL the first of that name, a Roman borne, succeeded him. In the mean while that K. PEPIN made wars against the Lombard's in Italy, the Emperor CONSTANTINE endeavoured to put the Images out of the Churches, and made peace with The Emperor made peace with Hadalia King of the Saracens. HADALIA King of the Saracens, to the end that he should induce the Christians to do the like, which were in Armenia, Palestina, Soria, and in all the other Provinces in his subjection, which were infinite, and continued in those countries a long time after, and it is said that many live there until this day. This Emperor is reported to have restrained the liberty of the Monks and Prelates very much, without respect to their immunities and privileges; amongst which he cut off the head of CONSTANTINE the Patriarch of Constantinople, for opposing himself Constantine caused the Patriarch of Constantinople to be beheaded. Wars between Constantine & Thessalius king against him, and therewith suppressed certain Monasteries. In this time there grew war and dissension between him and THESSALIUS, King of Bulgaria; who entered Thracia, and did much harm, spoiling and wasting the lands of the Empire; against whom CONSTANTINE levied an Army, and fight with him obtained of the Bulgarians, and the issue thereof. the victory; and THESSALIUS returned by flight, with loss of many of his men: for which disgrace, and for his evil carriage in the battle, his people rose against him, and slew him; and chose another called SABINUS for their King: who, to make the Emperor his friend, consented and agreed with him to deface and cast the Images out of the Churches; wherewith his Subjects were so much discontented, that, if he had not escaped from them by flight, they had slain him: but he went to the Emperor, and was there protected; and the Bulgarians chose another for their King, whose name was PAGANUS. At this time, CONSTANTINE made his eldest son, called LEO, his companion and successor in the Empire: this LEO was afterwards absolute Emperor, and the fourth of that name. Whilst that CONSTANTINE was busied about these matters Pope PAUL in Italy lived in peace with the Lombard's and their King DESIDERIUS, according to the composition made and established by King PEPIN of France; who within short space after died, having The death of King Pepin. Charles surnamed the Great, and his brother Carloman, succeeded their father. been one of the most excellent Princes of the world. After the death of PEPIN, CHARLES and CARLOMAN his sons succeeded him, which divided the Kingdom between them; and, by the death of CARLOMAN, it came wholly to CHARLES. Presently after that King PEPIN was dead, Pope PAUL also died; whose death caused a Schism in the Church of Rome: for, DESIDERIUS King of the Lombard's, sending a Captain of his with certain troops of soldiers to Rome, procured his brother CONSTANTINI to be made Pope; who, without regard of the order of election, took possession of the Palace, and held the papal state for the space of one year: and others of a contrary faction and opinion, chose another Pope, whose name was PHILIPPICUS; but, CONSTANTINE being of greater power, PHILIPPICUS was deposed. But, as all was done by force and violence, so by the like force it was determined: for, the people and clergy agreeing together made choice of STEPHEN the Third, who was a Sicilian born, and compelled CONSTANTINE to resign the Papacy, and put himself into a Cloister. Pope Constantine deposed and made a Monk. The first thing that the new Pope did, was, Again to set up Images in Churches; and to that effect wrote to the two sons of PEPIN the deceased King of France, to sand to the Emperor some of the Prelates which were in their Kingdom; which then was so great, that it extended itself from the Alpss to the Pirenean Mountains, and thence so far as to Hungary, and on the other side to the sea: so as these two Brothers were Lords of all that which we now call France, together with Flanders, Frieseland, Braband, and on both sides of the river Rhine, of Austria, Baviere, and other Provinces of Germany, besides what rebelled in his time, which was a great part: all which, this CHARLES conquered and pacified, although not without great travel, and made himself alsolute Lord of the Whole. The Pope by their consent summoned a Council to be held in Rome, where in the Emperor CONSTANTINE was again condemned; and all that he and his father had commanded to be done in Constantinople, was reproved and disannulled: The Emperor condemned by the Pope and his Council. but this took small effect, for he little regarded it. The Council being dissolved, DESIDERIUS King of the Lombard's sought to have caused some alteration in Rome and in Italy, by means of one ANFIARATA the Emperor's chamberlain, who then was in Rome: wherein although there were no Governors for the Empire as in former time (for, it now seemed, that the Popes had the sole government) yet was this ANFIARATA of great authority; who (with the assistance of DESIDERIUS, which sought to procure the Emperor to have some footing again in Italy, thereby to weaken the power of the Pope, and of the French) apprehended certain Romans, and committed them unto prison. Three years passed in these matters; and, Pope STEPHEN dying, ADRIAN the first of those which were so called was chosen: who at his first entrance released those out of prison which The death of Pope Stephen. were committed in the time of Pope STEPHEN by ANFIARATA. Whereupon King DESIDERIUS, seeing how much the papal power by means of France increased, sought to have made a league with him: which the Pope refused, alleging that he would not believe him who had no better held his word. At this time died CARLOMAN King of France; and his brother, who afterwards for his great acts was called CHARLES the Great, made himself Lord of that Kingdom: and the widow Queen, wife of the deceased King, went with her sons to King DESIDERIUS into Italy; who, being glad of her coming, received and entertained her very honourably, thinking to have raised some trouble & dissension among the French; and to that effect practised with Pope ADRIAN, to make the eldest son of King CARLOMAN, King of that part of France which his father enjoyed, with intent by that means to have set him and King CHARLES at variance, whom hereafter we will call CHARLES the Great: whereto the Pope would not be induced, and DESTDERIUS purposing by force to bring it to pass, began to make war on every side. The first was against the City of Ravenna and the marches thereof; and he took the Cities of Ferrara, Faventia, and other Towns: and the Pope by Ambassages and Letters entreating him to desist from those wars, he threatened to besiege Rome itself, and took his way thitherwards. Whereupon the Pope sent three Bishops to meet him upon the way, and by them sent him a decree, wherein he charged him not to pass any further, neither to presume to come within the bounds of the territory of Rome, upon pain to be presently excommunicated. And notwithstanding that DESIDERIUS was a very resolute man, and of an haughty spirit, yet as soon as he had received this decree, without setting one foot further, he returned with his forces to the City of Pavia; but the wars ceased not. For all which the Emperor CONSTANTINE was nothing sorry, he so much envied the Pope's greatness: and in Constantinople he caused one STEPHEN to be slain, for defending the ambition of the Romish Prelates. About this time he rigged a very great fleet of about two thousand sail of ships; to transport his Army over the sea called Euxinum, against the king of Bulgaria; which fleet was overthrown with so great a Tempest, as the greatest part thereof was cast away and sunk. The Pope knowing that by the Emperor he should not be relieved in his wars against DESIDERIUS, sent to CHARLES the Great for aid, who with very great forces took his way towards Italy: but he first required DESIDERIUS by Ambassadors to make satisfaction for the harms which he had done, and to be at peace with the Church: And seeing that he prevailed not, he marched forwards with his troops; and DESIDERIUS engrossed his forces to stop his passage: but being unable to compass it, he sent the wife and children of CARLOMAN to Verona, fortified Pavia, and suffered himself to be there besieged. Wherein The coming of Charles the Great into Italy he was ill advised: for by reason thereof the greatest part of his governors and Captains, seeing him thus distressed, losing all courage, sent to yield their obedience to the Pope, and desired to be received for his friends and vassals; and giving up their holds, many of their people went to Rome, to devil and abide where the Pope should appoint. CHARLES the Great leaving an uncle of his at the siege of Pavia, went against Verona; which he took without any great Charles took Verona. difficulty, together with his sister in law, and nephews which were therein; and from thence went to Rome to kiss the Pope's foot, and to hold the Feast of Easter, where he was received with all the solemnity that could be devised. At this his coming thither he confirmed to the Church and to the Popes of Rome, the donation which his father had made, of Ravenna, and other lands; and made another of many Charles his gifts to the Church of Rome other places, amongst which is reckoned the Isle of Corsica, and all the coast of Genoa, with the Cities of Parma, Ancona, Urbin, and many other Towns, which BIBLIOTHECARIUS setteth down, besides Rome and the territory thereof; which the Popes had already in possession, whether by the pretended donation of CONSTANTINE the Great, or by the donation made by the said King PEPIN, or by common consent or ancient prescription, I know not. So as to the Emperors remained but only that part of Italy, which was called Magna Graecia, which is part of Calabria, and of Pulia, and a great part of that which now is the Kingdom of Naples. CHARLES the Great having been only eight days in Rome, returned against DESIDERIUS; who, after six months besieging in Pavia, yielded upon Composition, and Desiderius King of the Lombard's yielded to Charles the Great. CHARLSS carried him with him, and banished both him and his sons into a certain Island; and then took Milan, and all the other Cities in Lombardy, which is the ancient Gallia Cisalpina, where he placed Frenchmen for Dukes and Governors; and in other Duchies and Cities of that Kingdom, he placed Dukes of the same nation of the Lombard's, which become his subjects and did him homage; and so Italy remained in his obedience and subjection, excepting those Provinces and lands which were left to the Church, and those which the Pope The end of the kingdom of the Lombard's. held in former time; but all in peace and quiet. And so ended the Kingdom of the Lombard's, which had continued 204 years in Italy. CHARLES the Great having ended these exploits, returned with triumph and victory into his kingdom of France: and within short space after there befell him a very dangerous war, against certain nations in Germany, which rebelled against him, namely the Saxons and other people in those quarters, which he subdued, although it were long first, and with great travail, but with great honour and the fame of an excellent captain. But for as much as it is tedious to relate it, and also for that it happened before that he was Emperor, we will speak no more thereof, to be the better able to relate what happened after he was Emperor; as shall be said hereafter. The Emperor CONSTANTINE, who now had reigned a long time, renewed the war against the King of the Bulgarians: which began between them with great fury and violence; but it lasted not long: for, he was taken with a kind of leprosy called Elephantia, whereof he afterwards died: but he first concluded a peace with the King of Bulgaria. After which, his infirmity increased in such manner, that he died; leaving his son LEO, whom he had by his first wife The death of the ●…mperor Constantine. YRENE (who already was in possession) for his successor, when he had reigned 35 years, in the year of our Lord 777. THE LIFE OF LEO, FOURTH OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE AND FOURTEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. IN the time of the Emperor CONSTANTINE, by his order and commandment, his son LEO was chosen Emperor, and his companion; whom he had by the King's daughter of Bulgaria, with whom he was married, whose name was YRENE. And LEO had to wife a woman born in Athens, whose name was also YRENE, which was the fairest woman of her time; and for wisdom and policy, one of the most Noble and excellent Ladies that ever was in the world. Wherhfore without any contradiction he was presently held and obeyed as Emperor, in the place of his deceased father. In the beginning of his Empire he made show to be very devout and affected to the churches, and to religious persons of whatsoever order, seeking to advance them to dignities. And he likewise made preparation of men and shipping against the Infidels, and went into Asia in person, and invaded the Province of Soria; but his journey took small effect: for, within short time after, he returned, with loss of some of his people, and of his own reputation. This Emperor LEO had also other wars with the Infidels, by his Captains; wherein happened many accidents, but not of any account. In this manner he passed the first three years of his reign; and in the fourth with this show and appearance of a good Prince, he practised with his subjects, to choose a young son which he had, called CONSTANTINE (as was his grandfather) Emperor. And in the same year also; he, knowing that sundry of his Court were of the Romish Sect concerning the worshipping of Images, he made many of them to be apprehended, and openly disgraced, and deprived and deposed them from their dignities: whereupon he began to be hated, and held for an evil Prince. But by his wife's means, and his own death which shortly The death of the Emperor Leo. ensued, it was mitigated: for, he died of a carbuncle which arose in his head; without leaving aught done by him worthy of memory, at lest that I have found written. This happened in the fi●…t year of his reign, and in the year of our Lord seven hundred fourscore and two. He was much condemned for the taking of a Crown of Gold, and certain stones of great price, out of the famous temple of S. Sophia, which by the Emperor MAURICE were offered and dedicated to the Image of our Lady in Constantinople, which he took from thence, and put upon his own head. In this time in France and Germany flourished CHARLES the Great, of whom (for that he was afterwards Emperor) I have made this mention, as well in matters of war, as peace; who honoured and favoured valiant and hardy knights, and letters also and learned men: he procured justice to be maintained in all his dominions, and that his government should be just and upright. Whereupon he created many Dukes and other dignities, and among them the twelve Peers of France, which are so famous in all Histories. He also made and ordained the parliament at Paris: afterwards in the year 790, in the life time of CONSTANTINE son of this LEO, he founded an University in the same City, which hath been famous and excellent, and is yet so unto this day: and another in the City of Pavia, which was the cause that both chivalry and learning so much flourished in his time. In the time of the Emperor LEO, of whom we now leave to make any more mention, the said CHARLES came into Spain; where he was by treason overthrown at Roncevaulx, and lost the flower of his nobility and Chivalry: by means of ALONSO the Second, called the The battle of Roncevaulx. Chaste, aided and assisted by the Moors and Infidels which then lived in Arragon, and in the territory thereof. In matters which preceded and succeeded this battle and the causes thereof, and which passed therein, there is great difference between the French and Spanish chroniclers, and among themselves of either Nation. Wherefore, and for as much as the acts of CHARLES the Great (before that he was Emperor) concern not my History, I therefore leave to speak any more thereof. And also for that we know that FLORIAN DE CAMPO hath written thereof at large in his general History of Spain: of whose singular diligence there is no doubt to be made, but that he hath inviolably observed the truth, without omitting any thing worthy of memory, especially in a matter so famous and memorable; and therefore referring the Reader to him, I will return to prosecute my journey. THE LIFE OF CONSTANTINE▪ THE SIXT OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE AND FIFTEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. LEO being dead, his son Constantine (notwithstanding that he was but a child) succeeded him, and through the wisdom of his mother, and the oath of the men of war, was obeyed-This woman was so discreet, that she ruled the Empire ten years, and was the cause of the Council assembled about the controversy for Images, and agreement to be made between the Greeks' and Latin Churches. But the young man coming to riper age, bereft her of the government, and made her to live apart from him; and become so displeasing, that his own people conspired against him, although the conspiracy took●… not the wished effect. But he being ill beloved, certain of the principal men of the Empire incited her to resume the government; and she setting aside the love of a mother towards her son, apprehended him, and caused his eyes to be plucks out, as he had done by many others. This was the cause that the Eastern Empire was translated into the West; for the Pope seeing the East Empire to decline, and that it was governed by a woman, he anointed and crowned Charles the Great, Emperor, with whom Yrene sought to have been married: but it took no effect, she being dissuaded by the Princes of Graecia; but she made a firm and assured peace with him, which she not long enjoyed: for sundry valiant men, which took in ill part to be ruled by a woman, conspiring against her, by a wile apprehended, and deposed her from the Empire, giving the charge thereof to a very Noble man, whose was Nicephorus. WHen as LEO the fourth was dead, his son CONSTANTINE being little more than twelve years old, was received for Emperor (notwithstanding his small age); whereto his mother's wisdom and valour was a great help, and also for that the subjects of the Empire were sworn to him in the life time of his father, yet this could not be effected without difficulty; for some principal men disdaining to be commanded by a child, and a woman, secretly practised to make NICEPHORUS Emperor, who was the young man's Uncle, and brother to his father LEO: although that through forgetfulness, no mention was before made of him. But this was not so secretly done, but that YRENE had intelligence thereof, and took so'good order, that she apprehended and bavished those which were the Authors thereof, and made their hair to be cut, which then was a great disgrace: yet upon NICEPHORUS she inflicted no Punishment inflicted upon such as conspired against the Emperor Constantine. other punishment, but only made him take a Monastical habit; and so the Empire remained in peace to her son. But notwithstanding that the young man was Emperor, yet his mother commanded all, and (as all Authors writ) very uprightly and prudently; for she was a wise and a very excellent woman, and above all was very much devoted to the Romish religion, whereof this may serve for proof; for she seeing the discord between the Greeks' and Latins about the worshipping of Images, and other points in Religion wherein they disagreed, endeavoured very earnestly, that a general Council might be called; and her industry took such effect (although somewhat long first) that a council was assembled in the City of Nicen, in the Province of Bythinia, where other counsels in former time had been held; in which were three hundred and fifty Bishops, and therein were handled many matters concerning the estate of Council held in the City of Nicene. the Clergy, and those were condemned for Heretics, which denied the veneration of Images in the Church. So as during the government of YRENE, the Images and pictures of CHRIST, and our Lady, and sundry other Saints in the Eastern Churches were again set up; whereat the common people which ever delighted in novelties, was very joyful; and so was THERASIUS the Patriarch of Constantinople, which succeeded PAUL, who had sought & much desired the same. And for that he could not obtain it of the Emperor, LEO, seeing himself grown old and sickly, before his death, he left his dignity and made himself a Monk: who going to visit the Empress YRENE, she demanded of him the reason of so noble a change; she making an eloquent Oration, he told her, that he had left the world, for that he could not resist the Emperor, and for that he would not die separated from the Union and obedience of the Catholic Romish Church, beseeching her to procure the said Union, which could not be but by a general Council; for the effecting whereof, she should use her Authority, & that for his part he would not live out of the Church, but continued in his Monastery to do penance for his sins, the which he said was to discharge his Conscience before his death. It is said, that this THERASIUS was he which principally moved YRENE so earnestly to solicit the calling of a Council; the resolution whereof concerning Images, is contained in two verses, which then were made, and at this day are placed in a Church in Venice, which in Latin are thus: Nam Deus quod Imago docet sed non Deus ipsa, Hanc vide as, sed ment colas, quod cernis in ipsa. Which in effect is as much to say, as, That which this Image doth show and signify, is God; but the Image is not so: behold the same, but with the mind reverence that which thereby is represented. Having ended a matter of so great importance as that which I recited; in all the rest of the time of her government, both before and after the Council which were some years, she bore herself fare more like a politic valiant man, than a delicate and beautiful woman as she was: but her son CONSTANTINE, who was now comn to man's estate, and like to his father, disliked his mother's government, and in the end deposed her from the same, and from the Council also, making her to live privately, without any authority, when she had with great wisdom governed in his name the space often years, and maintained the Empire with justice, in peace with all the world. It is written, that in those days was found in Constantinople, in a very old Sepulchre, a plate A plate of gold found upon the breast of a dead body in Constantinople. A wonder, if true. or leaf of gold upon the breast of a corpse, which therein had been buried; wherein were written these words, CHRIST shall be born of the Virgin MARY: Thou shalt see me again at such time as CONSTANTINE and his mother YRENE shall be Emperors. This was held for a great matter, and YRENE and her son made great account of this Table: for, it seemed to be written before the coming of CHRIST. The Emperor, being now at liberty, began freely to use those qualities whereto he was naturally in clined; in such sort, that he become ill beloved, and they again the second time conspired against him, seeking to make his uncle NICEPHORUS, Emperor. But, as to Princes (whether good or bad) most matters are commonly discovered: so this conspiracy was likewise revealed; and he, knowing it, commanded some of those which had been practisers therein, to be apprehended, whom he severely punished; and commanded his uncle NICEPHORUS to be perpetually banished. After this, he put away his wife, who was a very Noble woman called MARY; and, divorcing himself from her, shut her up in a Nunnery, and married one of her maids called THEODORA, of whom he was enamoured; a woman of no desert, but only that she was fair and very beautiful. At such time as CONSTANTINE and his mother reigned in the East, CHARLES the Great was King of France; so called for the great exploits which he had performed: yet some Charles the Great, why so called. are of opinion, that he was so called by reason of the great constitution of his body; for, he was corpulent, very big limd and tall, and had not lived at his ease, but had vndergon great and dangerous wars. In the beginning of the Emperor CONSTANTINE'S Reign, King CHARLES came in person into Italy to see the Pope, and to pacify certain combustions raised by some Dukes, who were desirous of innovations: which being quieted, he had intelligence that the Duke of Baviere (for, now they were no more called Kings) rebelled against him, with an intent to exempt himself from his subjection; and to that end had levied his forces. Whereupon, CHARLES resolved to go against him in person, and by another way to sand his son PEPIN upon the same service; and so he began to make cruel war against him: whereof when the Eastern Emperor CONSTANTINE was advertised, imagining that CHARLES, being busied in those wars, would not be able to provide for the affairs of Italy, he sent commandment into those Countries which he held for him, and some new troops which he levied for that purpose, that they should make war against the Pope and King CHARLES; which they presently put in execution: but the Dukes of Beneuent and Spoleto, and of other Cities, made such speedy preparation against them, that they were easily repelled and overthrown; so as from thenceforth they lived quiet and at peace. And CHARLES had likewise so good success in his wars against the Bavarians (although not without effusion of much blood) that he pacified all that state, and reduced the Provinces to his service. From thence he went against the Slavons, which held the Provinces of Istria and Dalmatia, by them called Slavonia; and in one Summer brought all under his dominion. Afterwards, raising a new power, he resolved to make a conquest of Hungary and Austria, being the ancient Pannoniae, which the Huns Auares, had of long time possessed, as is before said: And notwithstanding that this was a very dangerous war, and that therein were many great and notable battles (wherein all the Nobility, and the greatest part of the common people of those Countries, died; so as the Land lay in a manner waste and dispeopled) yet in the end, in the eightth year after the beginning thereof, he become absolute Lord of all the Country. After these Charles the Great conquered Hungary and Austria. Charles ward against the king of Denmark, and subdued the Saxons. foresaid wars, he had wars with the King of Denmark: for, the Danes harried the seacoasts with their fleets; and heerin (as well as in the rest) this glorious Prince had the victory: and he afterwards made peace with their King, and resolved to make an end of subduing the Sexons; whose wars at times, as they rebelled, continued thirty years, and he slew of them in one battle thirty thousand: and in another, which he fought with them afterwards, he brought them wholly to obedience, and made them subject to the Empire, and, for his better security, he led the principal of them with him into France. In which conquests which I so briefly have recited, some battles were fought by himself in person, and some by his son PEPIN: in all which, he won the name and reputation of a most excellent Captain. These things being past, in the year of our Lord seven hundred ninety & five, Pope ADRIAN died in Rome: through whose death they chose Pope LEO the third of that name; who presently after his election, sent great Presents and a solemn Ambassage to CHARLES the Great. In these times the Emperor CONSTANTINE'S men of war did greatly annoyed those of CHARLES the Great: for, after that he lived apart from his mother, he become very cruel, and in his government negligent and disorderly: wherefore he grew to be so ill beloved by his Subjects, that some of the chief of them persuaded his mother YRENE to depose him, and resume the government of the Empire into her own hands; whereto they promised to assist her. The mother, who had a courage more like a revengeful man, than a delicate woman, preferring the displeasure which she had conceived, before the love of a mother to her son, with the aid of those which took her part in that action, upon a day by a wile seized on him, and caused Irene made her son's eyes to be put out. his eyes to be presently plucked out, as he had done to many others: which was one of the strangest and most cruel and inhuman parts that ever woman played in the world. And this being done, all obeyed her; and she alone had the government of the Empire, which yet was very great: for, it contained, in Europe, Thracia, and all the Provinces of Graecia, the Isles of Sicilia, Candia, and those in the great sea called Archipelagus, and that part of Italy which was called Magna Graecia, and all the Provinces of Asia the Less: all which were governed by this valiant woman, with great policy and authority. Who when she understood of the victories & great power of CHARLES the Great, desiring to be at peace with him, and fearing his greatness, she commanded those Cities which she held in Italy, and the Governors of them, to hold good correspondence and neighbourhood with those Cities which were under the Pope, or King CHARLES: and, besides this, she sent her Ambassadors unto him, excusing herself of that which had happened concerning her son, and made him many great offers. Which, CHARLES gladly entertained: for, he was a mild Prince to the meek, and rough and cruel to the proud and rebellious. All Italy being in peace under the shadow and protection of CHARLES the Great, where now was no memory of the Lombard's which were wont to oppress it; the devil, a sour of dissension, acted his part in the City of Rome: which was, the Pope LEO sitting (as they say) in Saint PETER'S Chair, two Priests, Cardinals of great account, called PASCAL & CAPULUS, conspired against him, and held so strong a hand among their complices, that they upon a day apprehended him going in Procession; which they did with such an uproar and tumult, that they had almost slain him; and handled him in such manner, that (as most Writers affirm) they put out his eyes, and cut out his tongue, and so they committed him prisoner to a Monastery of Saint ERASMUS; publishing abroad, that they did it for the crimes by him committed, and the errors which he maintained: and being there, as BIBLIOTHECARIUS and some others affirm, he was miraculously restored to his sight and speech; and a chamberlain of his used such secret means, or with the permission of his Keepers, that he was hidden in a certain grave or sepulchre, and by night conveyed to the Duke of Spoleto, who then was Lieutenant to CHARLES the Great in Italy (which offices then were given for ever, or for term of life); by whose aid he went to King CHARLES in Germany, to complain of the violence done unto him: whither already messengers were sent by the other two, PASCAL and CAPULUS, with informations and accusations against him. But, notwithstanding, the Pope was solemnly entertained & honoured by him: and, remaining there some few days, the King promised to come in person to Rome; and appointed so many Prelates and religious men to accompany him, as sufficed to bring him thither, and to restore him to his seat and estate, with great processions which were made for him: and the two Priests Cardinals aforesaid, which were so mighty, absenting themselves, ever gave out in speeches, that they attended the coming of the King. King CHARLES the Great, having taken order for the affairs of France and Germany, wherein he was a most mighty prince, determined to come into Italy; and at his coming, by the hand of his son PEPIN, he pacified some tumults there, and came to the city of Rome, accompanied Charles the Great came to Rome. with many great Dukes and other princes his subjects; whither repaired out of Italy and from other parts, many Bishops, prelate's and other great men; and he was received with such honour as to him did appertain; where kissing the Pope's foot he did him such other superstitions reverence, as the custom was. After this, having continued eight days in Rome, he commanded all the prelate's and Prince's which then were in the city to be assembled; and the Pope himself, and all the rest being together, there were some which complained and accused the Pope to the Emperor: and so the Emperor began openly to ask every man's opinion concerning those accusations; whereto all answered, That no man aught to judge the Head of the Church: which the King observing, he forbore to ask any more questions. Than the Pope which hitherto had been silent, rose from the place where he sat, and went into a pulpit which was there, and with a loud voice said, That seeing of his life and behaviour, no man would or had authority to make enquiry, or to give sentence, yet the next day (following the custom of his predecessors) he would purge and clear himself, as it behoved: and therewith for that day the Consistory was dissolved: And upon the next day, they all being assembled in like manner, he again went up into the same place, and taking a book of the holy Evangelists in his hands, said with so loud Pope Leo his speech in the Consistory in his own defence. a voice as they all might hear him, that he swore by God, and those holy Evangelists, that all that which his adversaries had laid to his charge, was false and untrue, and that he had neither committed or thought any such matter as they objected; but that they had of malice and envy slandered him: and that he therefore publicly made this protestation, and confirmed by his oath, seeing that to them all the manner of his life and government was well known. Having ended this his protestation, his oath was allowed, and himself commended; and the King commanded his accusers, PASCAL and CAPULUS, to be sought out and apprehended, and would have condemned them to death: but the Pope was contented to spare their lives, so as they might be committed to prison, and thence condemned to perpetual exile. Eight d●…ss after, the Pope having first considered how much the Greek Emperors envied his greatness, together with the small affection they bore to the worshipping of Images, and other points wherein they were opposite, and separated from the Church of Rome; and how requisite it was to have an Emperor which might maintain the provinces of Italy in peace, which upon every light occasion were disturbed: but chief to show himself grateful for the benefits which he and the Church of Rome had received from him and the house of France, but above all for accepting his protestation in his own defence, for a sufficient proof of his honesty; he resolved to make CHARLES the Great, Emperor; and to translate the head of the Empire into the West. Wherewith, as most writers affirm, he did not acquaint the King, conceiving the greatness of his mind to be such, that he neither had desired it, neither would have accepted the same. And having ruminated hereupon; against the day of the nativity of CHRIST, he commanded all the Priest Cardinals, and all the other prelate's to come to a Mass, whither CHARLES was also invited, and came, together with all the other princes; and so about the midst of the Mass, the Pope then saying it, he turned about from the Altar to the people, and with a loud voice said, That he did there elect, created, and publish CHARLES the great, the most mighty and victorious King of Italy, of the Germans, and of the Frenchmen, Emperor, and ever AUGUSTUS. Which being done, he set the Imperial Crown upon his head, and all those which were present consented thereto, with acclamations and applauses, saying, To the most godly, ever AUGUSTUS, great and most victorious Emperor CHARLES, God grant long Charles the great crowned Emperor and his son Pepin King of Italy by Pope Leo. life and victory. This acclamation being ended, the Pope anointed him, and therewith anointed and entitled his son PEPIN with the good liking and consent of his father) King of Italy; which coronations were performed, with such feastings and solemnity, as the discreet Reader may well imagine; upon the birth day of CHRIST, which was the five and twentith of December, in the year of our Lord eight hundred; four hundred threescote and eight years from the time that CONSTANTINE the great transferred the seat of the Empire into Thracia, to the city of Constantinople, and three hundred and thirty years from the time that AUGUSTULUS was the last Emperor in Italy. And so CHARLES remained Emperor, and the Empire was transported from the Greeks' to the Germans; for although that CHARLES was King of France, yet his original, lineage, and country was in Germany, and so it appeareth by histories; and notwithstanding The original of Charles the great. that he was King of the French, he was borne in Germany, and the Frenchmen also had their original and descent from Germany; and the kingdom of France extended itself so fare in the time of this Emperor, that the most of the provinces of Germany were called by the name, and contained within the Kingdom of France; so as there is no reason that any authors should say, that the Empire was first transposed to the French, and afterwards in process of time to the Germans; the which is maintained by OTHO FRISENGENSIS, GODFRIDU●… VITERBIENSIS, WESPERGENSIS ABBAS; and others, although of less antiquity, yet of no less diligence, as PLATINA, MARTIANUS, ROBERTUS GAGVIN, and most diligently JOHANNES NAUCLERUS; and above all, BEATUS RENANUS, HERICUS MUCIUS, in his notable books of the state of Germany, and CUSPINIANUS in the life of the same CHARLES. These matters being thus ended, the new Emperor returned towards his Kingdom and countries; leaving his son PEPIN King in Italy, which he left in very good order. In this his journey (authors writ) that he did many graces and favours to the city of Florence, and Favours bestowed by Charles the Great upon the city of Florence. that he commanded the decayed walls and buildings thereof to be reedefied, and many other fair edifices to be erected; and that he procured gentlemen to come and inhabit the same. The fame of this his election being spread over the world, the manly Empress YRENE, which ruled the Empire of the East, sent Ambassadors unto him, desiring peace with him, and (as some writ) to treat of a marriage between them, seeing that they both were single: and although that the treaty of marriage took no effect (for the Princes of Greece persuaded YRENE to the contrary) yet a peace was concluded between the two Empires: The Empire of Gracia containing that which it then held in Asia, which I have already mentioned; with that country which now is the Kingdom of Naples, or the greatest part thereof; the Isles of Sicilia, Candia, and the rest; with Albania, part of Slavonia, and all Graecia and Thracia, the city of Venice and the dominion thereof, which is not lightly to be regarded, remained friend to all, and subject to none. Venice ever a free city. This being concluded, YRENE the Empress enjoyed not the same long after: for in the end, as she was a woman, men of haughty spirits, holding it for baseness, disdained to be commanded by her, and found means that a man of high degree, great power, and of noble parentage, whose Nicephorus made Emperor of Gracia in place of Yrene. name was NICEPHORUS, should rebel against her, and take upon him the title of Emperor: which took effect, so as by a stratagem she was taken, and dispossessed of her Empire. THE LIFE OF CHARLES THE GREAT, AND THREESCORE AND SIXTEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR; & OF NICEPHORUS in Constantinople. THE ARGUMENT. WHen as Charles the great was made Emperor, he was of the age of fifty and eight years: and returning into Germany, he wholly converted the Saxons to the Christian faith, and made an accord with Nicephorus Emperor of the Greeks': which afterwards was broken, for that Nicephorus aided the Venetians, against him and his son Pepin; but Charles finally making peace with the Uenetians, left them in that liberty, wherein they have maintained themselves until this present, and came to a full peace with Nicephorus. He divided the Empire between his three sons, and commanded Pepin to go to Corsica and Sardinia, to defend the same against the Infidels which went thither to inhabit. And under the command of Charles his son he overcame many other Nations, Rebels, and Infidels, and become so great as the King of the Mahometists sought his friendship. Two of his sons died, to wit, Pepin and Charles, so as his whole hope remained in jews, whom he made his successor; And being now very old, departed out of this world, overcome with a pain in his side, having governed the Empire fourteen years; and his kingdom, seven and forty. COnsidering the great pains I have taken in writing this History (I take God to record) that I stand in more need of some rest, and to be eased of so great a burden, by abbreviating the History, and leaving out as much as may be without confusion, then to redouble my toil, through the occasions which now present themselves. I say this, for that the Pope in this time had transferred the Empire to CHARLES the Great; and it hath ever since continued in Germany: And in Graecia also remained Princes, which in like manner were called Emperors, and pretended good right; so as we may say that the Empire and the title thereof was divided, and came to be two Empires and to have two Emperors. But I find myself in a great confusion, to think how this matter may be handled: for, first to writ of one, and then to return to writ of the other, as did BAPTISTA IGNATIUS, in the short epitome which he wrote of the Emperors; it seemeth to be inconvenient to bring one of them to an end, and then to make the Reader turn back again seven or eight hundred years in the history. And to writ one or two lives of the Empire, and then as many of the other, as did JOHN CUSPINIAN, that liketh me as ill: for it greatly confoundeth the history, and so in a manner neither the one nor the other can be understood; and to relate all together at large (for the many occasions which are offered, and the diversity of the times and places) I see not how it can be. To treat only of the one (as some have done) and wholly to leave out and forget the other, I also hold it for an injury and cruelty. To let sink and die in oblivion a matter of so great importance as is the dominion of the Greek Emperors, which continued so long afterwards: or to leave the successors of CHARLES the Great, in which at this day the Empire remaineth, were to leave the right way which leadeth to the place whither I am bound, and to take another whereby I should never attain to my journey's end whither I am to travail. Wherhfore seeing that I cannot go both ways; after some considerations, I have resolved to take for my principal subject and history of the Empire, that which the Church of Rome approved and then established, which is that of Italy and Germany, in the person of CHARLES and his successors; recounting their lives and acts with such order as I have observed in those which are already past; and by the way of discourse ever to make some mention of the Greek Emperors, as occasion shall be offered whereby he that shall read this history, may understand the success of both Empires, under the name and title of one only. Having resolved upon this course, let us return to our CHARLES the Great, whom we left newly made Emperor; and to NICEPHORUS who tyrannically usurped the Empire of Constantinople, by deposing the Empress YRENE. I say then that CHARLES was fifty eight years old, when (as I have related) he was by Pope LEO the third crowned Emperor in the city of Rome; and had reigned three and thirty years the mighty King of France and Germany; all which time he had spent in the wars, against rebels and Infidels (whereof in Germany were many) with great felicity and victory, taming and subduing diverse nations and provinces. CHARLES being come into Germany, wholly subdued the Saxons, and reduced them to the Charles the great subdued the Sa●…ons'. faith, wherein as the other nations of Germany, they ever were inconstant and stubborn. NICEPHORUS who then reigned in Constantinople, knowing his great power; after that he had settled himself in his throne, and was well assured of those whom he had dispossessed, and had most cause to suspect, and had banished YRENE; he sent Ambassadors of great account to Nicephorus sent an ambassage to Charles the Great. CHARLES the Great, very lovingly desiring him to hold him for his brother and friend. The Emperor CHARLES who was a benign Prince, knowing how mighty the Saracens were, and the great danger that all Christendom should incur through discord between the two Empires, concluded a peace with NICEPHORUS; and with his Ambassadors sent others of his own, to confirm the same: which was established in the same manner and with the same conditions, as it was made with the Empress YRENE; the city of Venice remaining friend to both parties without any subjection to either. There was also a peace concluded between him and GODFREY King of Denmark, which some call DACIA: whereupon the said GODFREY departed out of his kingdom, royally accompanied, to see and speak with the Emperor although that this interview took no effect; for his people dissuading him, counselled him not to see him: nevertheless the peace was made, and took place. After this, it followed that for some matters which the Venetians attempted against the Empire of CHARLES, in the behalf of NICEPHORUS Emperor of Constantinople (yet some affirm that it was through the false information of FORTUNATUS Patriarch of Grado) CHARLES the Great commanded his son PEPIN King of Italy, to make wars against them: which he began very resoutely, and took the cities and fortresses which they held in the main land, and besieged the city of Venice itself both by sea and land; to the relief whereof the Greek Emperor NICEPHORUS sent a fleet. Of these wars of Venice ancient authors do writ so diversely, that a man can hardly say which was the truth: for some say that Venice was wholly taken; and others say that but some Lands thereof, and that the place which is called Rio al●…o defended itself: howsoever it was, the war continued many days, and CHARLES granted peace and liberty to the Venetians, to live after their laws and customs, for that he was to renew the peace with the Greek Emperor, which he had broken by reason of the Venetian wars. Some writ that the Emperor received a great affront in these wars: but howsoever, the Venetians won much reputation to have valiantly made head against him. CHARLES living in this prosperity, made his will and testatment: wherein he divided his Charles' his and testament. kingdoms between three legitimate sons which he had, to wit, CHARLES, which was his eldest son, PEPIN, and LEWES; wherein he made his son CHARLES King of the greatest and best parts of France and Germany; PEPIN he made King of Italy and Bavaria, and other provinces; and LEWES of Provance, and of that part of France which bordereth upon Spain, and other provinces. Which his testament he sent to be ratified by Pope LEO; and shortly after gave to his sons the names and titles of Kings: but all succeeded after another manner; for God otherwise disposed thereof at his pleasure. This testament I have seen written by some authors. It afterwards happened that a great fleet of Infidels which inhabited Spain, with the aid and assistance of the Africans, invaded the Isles of Sardinia and Corsica: for the defence whereof the Emperor CHARLES sent commandment to his son PEPIN▪ that he should sand thither a Captain, whose name was BUCAREDUS; who took so good order as he drove the Infidels out of those Lands, and slew five thousand of them in one battle. And with no less good success, he undertaken another war with the Dukes of the Bohemians, and of the Polonians, which is part of the ancient Sarmatia, who infested the countries under his dominion; against which he sent his son CHARLES, with great forces of Burgonians, Saxons and Germans. And the young CHARLES imitating his father, warred valiantly and with discretion: and coming first to a battle with the Bohemians and LEO their Duke, he overcame them, and slew LEO; although that therein passed many days, and there was an intermission in this war: and in the end he had the like success with the Polacres, so as they all become subject to his father. For which his victories he was so much feared and renowned through the world, that a great King of the East, and AMURATH the greatest of all the Mahometists, sent their Ambassadors with rich presents to him, desiring peace and friendship; and Ambassadors sent to Charles the Great. the like did all the Kings Christian. Whilst as these and such like matters happened unto CHARLES the Great, NICEPHORUS Emperor of Constantinople, shown himself to be very covetous, imposing new taxes and tributes upon his countries and subjects; having ever a desire to disturb the Empire of CHALES the Great (which he never forbore to do) endamaging his countries, by robbing and spoiling the same, and secretly favouring his enemies, whereby he got little honour, and less profit: for this envy and malice being fixed in his heart, he not only left to make wars against the Infidels, as he aught to have done, but knowing that they would war with him, he bought his peace of them; and to his great shame and disgrace bound himself to pay them yearly a great sum of money; and for that instant sent them great gifts and presents, having his purpose wholly bend against the Christians: which cost him his life, as presently shall be declared. CHARLES living in this tranquillity, GODFREY King of Denmark made war against him, who was a mighty Prince, and commanded a large dominion; and with great forces came into Friesland and into Saxony, where he did great harm. Against whom the Emperor addressing himself (although now old and unwieldy) speedily departed with a great Army, and by the The death of the King Denmark. way news was brought him, that the said King was dead, and his Army returned; which was held for great news, considering how great wars were expected. And, upon the same day, news came also, how that his son PEPIN, who in great prosperity reigned in Italy, was dead The death of Pepin, King of Italy. in the City of Milan: for the which he was sorry, and returned to the City of Aken, or Aix; whither Ambassadors came to him from HERMIGUS' King of Denmark, which succeeded GODFREY, humbly desiring peace: the like came from NICEPHORUS, Emperor of Graecia; and the like petition also came from AMBULAT, a King of the Moors, who reigned in a great part of Spain: to all which, he made gracious answers; and, granting their petitions, gave hearty thanks to God, for that he was generally so well esteemed. But, after this prosperity, a great calamity and scourge ensued; which was, that it pleased God to take away his other son called CHARLES, who lay on the Borders of Germany, for the defence thereof: so as now his whole hope rested in his third son LEWES. NICEPHORUS the Emperor of Graecia, being assured of CHARLES the Great, and having bought his peace of the Infidels, took his son STAURATIUS for his companion in the Empire; determining to make war against his neighbours the Bulgarians, whose King was then called CRUNUS, with whom he fought some battles; wherein he had the victory, and slew many of his enemies. By reason of these victories he grew so proud and insolent, that, making small account of his enemies, he managed the wars with little care or discretion: which this CRUNUS perceiving, he raised the greatest and best power that he was able to make, and the most secretly that might be, marched by night, and, before that it was day, assaulted the Emperor's The death of the Greek Emperor Nicephorus. Camp; who being unable to set his people in order, they were defeated, and the Emperor was there slain; and his son STAURATIUS, being sore wounded, escaped by flight: and so ended the life and Reign of NICEPHORUS. At this overthrow great treasure was lost, and much of the Greek Nobility then perished: which happened in the year of our Saviour CHRIST eight hundred and five, he having reigned nine years. His son STAURATIUS, coming to Adrianople, and saluted and sworn Emperor, was so ill inclined, and so insufficient, Stauratius, succeeding Nicephorus, was depo●…d by Michael who succeeded him. and therewith (above all) so deformed, ill favoured, and churlish in behaviour, that there was not any man pleased with his succession; so as within four months after he came to the Empire, he was dispossessed thereof by his brother-in-law MICHAEL; who, apprehending him, put him into a Monastery: and this MICHAEL, remaining peaceful Emperor, was a virtuous man, and a good Governer; but so inclined to peace, that afterwards, through his excessive fear of war, he lost his Empire, as we will show. Now, as soon as he was chosen Emperor, he with all expedition sent his Ambassadors to the old Emperor CHARLES the Great, desiring friendship and peace with him; which was concluded in such manner as it was with his Predecessor NICEPHORUS. And CHARLES the Great, being now very old, desiring to take order for the estate of the Empire, called a most solemn Parliament in the City of Aquisgran or Aken, where he made his son LEWES to be entitled CAESAR, and his Successor; and his nephew BERNARD, son to PEPIN, King of Italy, with the consent of Pope LEO, who until then lived. And, this being performed, the rest of his time he spent in almsgiving, enriching the Churches and Clergy, relieving the poor; and reforming abuses, he ordained good laws and statutes. The year following, the Infidell-Sarazins of Spain and Africa, invaded Sardinia and Corsica; wherein they made cruel war, and did the like on the Coast of Italy: but yet (though not without great trouble) they were repelled and scattered by the Emperor's Captains, and by his nephew BERNARD King of Italy. It followed, that MICHAEL Emperor of Constantinople, being assailed by CRUNUS King of Bulgaria, against his will was forced to take the Field, and to fight with him; and in the first battle got the victory: but fight again the second time, he was overthrown, and therewith lost both the day, and the courage to rule; so as he voluntarily renounced the Empire: or (as some say) a principal Captain of his, called LEO, rebelling, and he not daring to make head against him, deposed himself from the Michael, Emperor of Constantinople, deposed himsel●… from his Empir●… Empire, and went into a Cloister, having reigned not fully three years. And this LEO, who was son of a Gentleman called PARDUS, was made Emperor: and presently, in the like manner as MICHAEL had done, he sent his Ambassadors to CHARLES the Great, to establish and confirm the peace concluded with his Predecessors; which was performed. In the mean time that LEO was chosen and crowned, CRUNUS King of Bulgaria, following the victory which he had obtained against the Emperor MICHAEL, marched with his Army the direct way towards Constantinople, whither the Emperor LEO had drawn his forces, and had raised new; and CRUNUS came so near unto the City, that he might well see the same. Which disgrace LEO could not with patience endure (being a very valiant man) but took the field with all his forces, in very good order, and made head against his enemy; who with the joy of the late victory attended him: and there was fought between them a cruel battle, which lasted a great part of the day, and many men were slain of either party. And therein happened a notable accident seldom seen in other encounters, which was, that in the fury of the fight the Emperor and the king chanced to meet; and either knowing his adversary, there charging one the other, the Emperor carried himself so well, as he overthrew the King dead to the earth; so that within a while after, the Bulgarians began to retire, and presently to Crunus King of the Bulgarians slain by the Emperor Leo. run away, in such manner that LEO had a full complete and noble victory, together with the spoil of their Camp; and so returned to Constantinople with great joy. The Bulgarians being now contented to defend their own limits, the Greek Emperor remained in peace, as CHARLES the Great did in Germany. But as all things in this world have an end; so ended the good fortunes and great power of CHARLES the Great, together with his life: for being The death of Charles the Great. then of the age of threescore and eleven years, he was taken with a pain in his side, whereof within the space of seven days he died, in the year of our Lord eight hundred and fourteen, when he had reigned Emperor fourteen years, and seven and fortith King of France and of Germany; and of Italy forty two. During his whole life he had much reverenced the Church & employed his authority to advance it, and bountifully imparted his treasure to enrich it: but this great abundance in so plentiful a peace, made Churchmen to grow dissolute. The Emperor CHARLES being well instructed in religion, knowing how much it did import that learning and good life should shine in those which were to instruct others, he called five Counsels in diverse parts of his dominions: at Mentz, at Rheines, Tours, Chalons and at Arles: and by the advice of these Assemblies he set down orders for the reformation of the Church, in a book entitled, Capitula Caroli Magni; a reverend testimony of the singular piety of this great Prince. This noble Prince was endued with so many excellent virtues, that we read of very few in ancient histories that excelled him, so as justly he may be compared with any of the most excellent whosoever; for in martial discipline, in valour, and dexterity in arms, I know not any that hath exceeded him: he obtained so many victories, fought so many battles, and suddued so many fierce and warlike nations, before, and after that he was Emperor, as any of the most famous that ever was. He was tall of stature, very well proportioned in all parts, passing strong, of a fair and grave countenance, valiant, mild, pitiful, a lover of justice, liberal, very affable, pleasant, well read in history, a great friend to Arts and Sciences, and sufficiently well seen in them, and a man which above all honoured and rewarded learned men. He was very charitable and a great alms giver; and so good an harbourer of strangers, that in Syria, in Africa, in Egypt, and in other provinces of the Infidels, wherein Christians lived, he found means to have hospitals, and alms houses, for such as were poor; and in his kingdoms, and even in his court, he harboured and relieved strangers and pilgrims. Concerning his faith and religion, he was very zealous; and the most of the wars which he made, were to enlarge the Christian faith. He superstitiously honoured & obeyed the Church of Rome, and the Pope Bishop thereof, and other Bishops and prelate's, and commanded his subjects to do the like; whereof besides histories, some chapters in the Decretals, bear record. He was likewise very devout, and spent great part of the time in prayer, and hearing divine service. In his diet he was very temperate, and a great enemy to all riot and excess; for at his table were never served above four or five dishes, and those of such meat as best pleased his taste; which he used to the same end that God created them: which was for his sustenance, and not for a show and pomp, as now adays is used; in such sort that them eats which naturally are but to please the taste, or at the most the savour or smell, they will now have them to satisfy all the other senses; and likewise finding new inventions, the greatest part of their life is spent at the table; and so they eat of a greater number of exquisite meats, dressed in such manner and with such sauces, that it is hard to know what taste they have, so as they seem strange and rare: and sometime meat is made of such things as were not created of GOD to such purpose, no more than he made Goats to draw carts, or to till the earth. Our CHARLES was not as some are at this day; for as he was rich and mighty, so he was temperate and virtuous; and maintained his body with what was needful and wholesome. His ordinary exercise was hunting, when he had leisure, in time of war; and in time of peace, he gave ear to such as did read histories to him; and sometimes he heard music, wherewith he was much delighted, and had good skill therein. He was much condemned for having many base santies and daughters, but this was in the time of his youth; for afterwards it is to be supposed, that he contented himself with his wife: and for remedy of this imperfection, although he was three or four times a widower, yet he ever married again the daughters of mighty Kings and Princes. Finally, to make an end of that whereof I have treated at large, he was an excellent Emperor, and feared and loved God, and died, as I said, very old and honourably; in peace with the Kings of Spain, England, Denmark, Bulgaria, the Greek Emperor LEO, and with all the Princes of that time. His body was buried Where Charles the Great was buried. in a sumptuous temple, which he caused to be built in the city of Aquisgrane or Aix. The authors from whom I have drawn this relation, and where the Reader may read the rest, concerning CHARLES the Great, and the other Emperors, and the histories of those times, are those which ordinarily I use to allege, since that the most ancient authors have failed; to wit, the Annals of Constantinople in the twenty third book, where they make an end, BLONDUS in his second book of his Decades, ZONARA'S a Greek author, SIGISBERTUS, and the Abbot WESPERGENSIS, and MATHEW PALMERIUS, all three in the process of their Chronicles; PLATINA in the life of the Popes, CUSPINIAN, BAPTISTA IGNATIUS, BENEVENTANUS DE ROMALDUS, JOHN CARION, JOHN EUTICHIUS, RAPHAEL VOLATERANUS, all these in their Emperors, VINCENCIUS an Historiographer in his Mirror. Besides the which it shall be necessary to see, and so may he do which shall be a curious Reader, the French Historiographers, in matters which concern the time of CHARLES the Great, which are PAULUS EMILIUS a singular author, ROBERT GAGVIN, and MARTIN, OTHO FRISINGENSIS in the fift book of his histories, wherein he treateth at large of CHARLES the Great, and likewise RICHARD of Saint Victor, and the Archbishop TURPIN. THE LIFE OF jews, THE FIRST OF THAT NAME, SURNAMED PIUS, AND THREESCORE AND SEVENTEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR: in whose time LEO and MICHAEL reigned in CONSTANTINOPLE. THE ARGUMENT. jews being come to the Empire, confirmed the peace with the Emperor of Graecia, and made war in Dacia; from which it was requisite that he should return in person, for redress of certain accidents which happened in Italy; which he easily pacified by means of his Nephew Bernard, than King of Italy. This Emperor renounced all authority to confirm the Pope's election. Bernard King of Italy rebelled; but being overcome, he was led prisoner into France by his Uncle jews, who gave to his eldest son Lotharius that government. He overcame some Tyrants which rebelled against him, and confirmed to the Church the donation made by his father. There happened unto this Emperor one pitiful accident: which was, that his own children rebelled against him, and deposed him from the Empire: but they afterwards repenting, restored him to his estate. In which time befell a very great disaster and ruin to Rome and Italy; for the Mahometists understanding of the discord between Christian Princes, and standing in no fear of Michael the Greek Emperor, having prepared a good Navy, scaled Civita Uecchia, and robbing and burning, came to besiege Rome: from whence (so soon as they saw succours come out of Lombary) they returned. They also did much harm in Sicilia. After which ruin, jews, falling sick of a grievous infirmity, died within forty days, having first set in order the state of the Empire. IN such manner as I have related in the history of CHARLES the Great, his son LEWES was by him in his life time nominated, and chosen Emperor. Wherhfore when as his father was dead, he was by all men peaceably held and obeyed for such, and proved a virtuous Prince; and for his virtue and goodness was called PIUS. The first thing he undertook, was to come to the city of Aken, where he held a general Diet or Parliament; and took order for all things, concerning the peace, and government of the Empite, and the kingdoms which he inherited; Peace between the Emperors jews and Leo. whither came Ambassadors from LEO Emperor of Greece, to ratify the peace made with his father: for the better assurance whereof, he sent Ambassadors with those which came, to the end that LEO should confirm the same in Constantinople. He resolved also, as a new Emperor, and greedy of honour, to make war against the Danes, in the behalf of EROALDUS, and RANFREDUS, two Kings which were friends and subject to the Empire, and were deposed from their kingdoms by the sons of GODFREY. For this enterprise he made great preparation, sending for his nephew BERNARD King of Italy, as is before said: and for the better defence of his countries he left his 3 sons, to wit, LOTHARIUS, PEPIN, and LEWES. LOTHARIUS which was his eldest son, he made governor of Bavaria, and the marches thereof; and to PEPIN he left the government of Aquitania, and other places thereabout: in the other provinces, he confirmed the Dukes thereof, and in all he set very good order. Departing with his Army, and being come into Saxony, the weather grew so cold, as during all that winter he could march no further: so as he was constrained to winter in a city in Saxony called Parburnia, or Parburina; for the cold was so extreme, as the seas in all that coast were frozen, and the war was afterwards made by his Captains. LEWES returned into France, by reason of other accidents which happened: for it fell out that in Rome, some great men seeing Pope LEO old and sickly, conspired against him. Against whom he proceeded, determining to have done justice upon them; for which cause there was a tumult in Rome, and in some part of Italy: whereof when LEWES was advertised, he sent commandment to King BERNARD, speedily to go thither, to prevent rebellion in those parts: And BERNARD did so with all possible expedition, and fully pacified all matters in Rome, and in all Italy. Within few days after, Pope LEO died, having been Pope one and twenty years and in his place was chosen STEPHEN the fourth, who presently after his election went into France to the Emperor; and finding him in the City of Arles, was honourably received, and he with very great ceremonies and solemnities, crowned and anointed LEWES The Emperor jews crowned by Pope Stephen. Emperor, and then returned to Rome. The coronation and solemnities being ended, there ensued some rebellions in the Dominions of LEWES; for the Gascons, and other people their neighbours, rebelled; for that LEWES had taken from them their Duke and Governor, called SIGVINIUS: for it seemeth that then Dukes were made governors of Provinces, and that they for the most part, continued their whole life time in their governments, or at lest a very long time; from whence afterwards came the great houses of Germany, and other parts: some by the Emperor's gift; and others by force, making themselves tyrants; which in process of time were ratified, and confirmed in their dignities. These aforesaid governements were also given with the titles of Earldoms, From whence the title of Dukes and Marquesses are derived. and Marquesses, as it appeareth by Histories: For, there was given unto them a mark of land, or land (contained within certain bounds or marks) to govern; so as they derived their titles in such manner as did the Dukes. At this time another king of certain Lands in the North sea, taking part with the King of Denmark, made war also against the Emperor LEWES: upon these two occasions LEWES raised new Armies. The matters of Gascony were ended in few days with little difficulty; but the wars with the Danes were more doubtful; for in the beginning the Saxons and the Imperialists had ill success; but at last the Emperor provided such Captains and Soldiers, as they not only obtained the victory, but restored EROALDUS to his kingdom, who lived in subjection to the Empire, having been before deprived. This happened in the third year of the reign of the Emperor LEWES: in the beginning of which, news came that Pope STEPHEN was dead, who had been Pope but seven months, whom PASCAL the first succeeded, and executed his authority in the Popedom, without the Emperor's confirmation, being thereto urged by both estates of Rome, ecclesiastical and secular: whereupon he sent to excuse himself to the Emperor; for Pope Adrian and the clergy had granted that pre-eminence to his father CHARLES the Great, and to his successors, which was observed until this time; which authority LEWES renounced, as it appeareth by the chapter Ego Ludovicus in the distinction 63. LEWES accepted this excuse, and ordained that from thenceforth the Imperial authority should be observed in this manner, viz. that as soon as the Pope was chosen, he should give the Emperor to understand thereof, as to a friend de●…oted ●…o that Church; but not that he should stay until the Emperor had confirmed his election. Yet notwithstanding, the Popes afterwards used to sue to the Emperors to approve their election, until the time of LEWES nephew to this LEWES, who voluntarily left this custom: which had continued from the time of ADRIAN the second, as shall be declared in time and place, if our memory fail us not. Whilst these things passed in France, in Germany, and in Italy, LEO (as I have above said) r●…ling the Empire of Constantinople, and through his victory obtained against the King of Bulgaria, living some space in peace and prosperity, and highly esteemed; waxed so proud, and therewith so severe and cruel to his subjects, as he purchased their hatred; whereto this was a Leo cast the images out of the Churches of the Greek Empire. furtherance, in that he sought to put down the images in their Churches, as some of his predecessors had done. And it afterwards happened that one MICHAEL, a man of mean parentage, whom he had advanced and preferred to great estate, and had placed near about himself, and then held in prison, with a resolution to have cut off his ears, was of power with the favour of many men of great reputation which took him out of prison, and assisted him herein, to murder the Emperor LEO, and to seize upon the Empire; when he had reigned seven years and certain The Emperor Leo murdered. months. He left behind him four sons, which afterwards had diverse adventures; but none of them obtained the Empire. In this manner MICHAEL got the Empire of Constantinople, wherein we will leave him, to make a conclusion of the history of LEWES the Emperor Michael succeeded Leo in the Greek Empire. of the West. And thus it passed, that having until then had good success in his affairs; in the parliament which he lately had commanded to be held in Aken, among other matters, which therein were ordained, one was, that his eldest son LOTHARIUS was made his companion The Emperor jews made his son Lotharius his companion in the Empire. in the Empire, and his second son PEPIN King of Aquitania, which containeth Languedoc, Gascony, Vienne, and Anjou: and his third son LEWES was made King of Bavaria: and these three brethren presently took upon them the government of their principalities. But (as nothing in this world is permanent) after this there befell some troubles and wars between the Emperors and the Danes, who began to rebel: through which occasion, by the counsel and persuasion of certain wicked persons, whereof some were prelate's, his nephew BERNARD, King of the greatest part of Italy, rebelled also, and denied the duty of superiority, Bernard king of Italy rebelled against his uncle the Emperor jews. which he owed to his uncle LEWES; and lenying an Army, held the Alps and the passages into Italy, thereby to defend himself. Whereof when the Emperor had advertisement, adjudging him in the Parliament for an open enemy, he departed towards Italy, and by the way levied men of war: whither when he came he was of such power, that BERNARD durst not stand to his defence, but yielded himself into the Emperor's hands; who after that he had pacified the state of Italy, returned into France, and leading BERNARD with him prisoner would that his doing should be determined by justice, as so great an offence required; and he, Bernard King of Italy being condemned to die was executed. was condemned to death, and so was executed: others writ, he cast him into prison and put out his eyes. And LEWES in BERNARD'S place made his son LOTHARIUS' king of Italy, whom before he had made CAESAR, and his companion in the Empire: and he departing thitherwards, at his arrival was there anointed and crowned by Pope PASCAL. After this little dangerous war, there followed another against the Duke, or Governor of little Britanny (a Province of France) who also rebelled, with the people of that Province, intitling himself an absolute King, and not subject to the Emperor; and his courage was so great, that he levied an Army, and came with him to a battle, wherein this tyrant whose name was VIOMARCHUS was overthrown, but not without great difficulty and essusion of blood; but the Emperor had the victory. After which, ensued the death of his wife the Empress called HERN●…GAR, for whom he was exceeding sorrowful; but yet he shortly after married the second time. After this, the Emperor LEWES lived two or three years in peace; at the end whereof, a Duke, Governor of Hungary, moved with a desire to reign, rebelled and began to war in Austria, which in ancient time was called the upper Pannonia, and in Dalmatia and Slavonia likewise; against whom LEWES raised a great Army, and the tyrant being in sundry Lewes' pacified the tumults in Hungary. skirmishes and battles overthrown, submitted himself, and the Emperor granted him his life; and so those Provinces remained in peace. After this, certain Romans came to complain to the Emperor against Pope PASCAL, pretending that he had caused certain principal men to be slain, for that they were his followers and desirous to do him service: whereof the Pope excused himself by his Ambassadors: which the Emperor not only accepted, but much favoured and honoured the Papal Sea. And for as much as there arose sundry doubts and questions, which of the Towns and Cities of Italy appertained to the Empire, and which to the Pope; the Emperor LEWES made a new donation to the Church of Rome, ratifying the charters of his father, and grandfather; which RAPHAEL VOLATERANUS writeth in the third book of his Geography, as A new donation to the Church of Rome, made by the Emperor Ludovicus Piu●…. having seen the Original in the Pope's library, in the Vatican; the tenor whereof, as he setteth it down, is as followeth, at whose peril I writ the same. In the name of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the holy-Ghost; I LEWES the Emperor, do grant unto thee PETER the Apostle, prince of the Apostles, and for thee, to thy Vicar, the Lord PASCAL the highest Bishop, and to his successors for ever, the City of Rome, with all the jurisdiction thereof, and lands and marches thereabouts, the confines, cities, ports and places upon the Tuscan and Mediterranean Sea, Civita, Vecchia, Valneo, Reggi●…, Viterbo, Savona, Papulonia, Rosello, Perugia, Maturano, Sutri, Nepe, and towards the country called Terra di Lavoro, Amenia, Seguia, Settentino, Alano, Patrico, Frusino, with all the lands and places in their subjection, and also all the government of the City of Ravenna, accordingly as my father the Emperor CHARLES of holy memory, and also our grandfather PEPIN, in time passed granted the same to Saint PETER the Apostle, that is to say, Ravenna, Bonio, Emilli●…, For●…populi, Forli, Faenza, Imola, Bologna, Ferrara, Comacchio, Ad●…ia, Ceruia, and in the Marca, Pesero, Fano, Senigaglia, Ancona, Ausino, Numana, Esio, Fossombrone, Feltro, Vrbino, the territory of Val●…ense, Caglio, Luceolo, Ogobio, and also in Terra di Lavoro, Asola, Aquino, Arpino, Theano, Capua, and all the lands therein appertaining to our jurisdiction, to wit, the dukedoms of Beneuent, Salerno, and Calabria the superior and inferior, and that of Naples, of Spoleto, Tuderto, Ori●…alco, Narnia, and all that jurisdiction; and also the Lands in the Sea called the inferior, Corsica, Sardegna, and Sicilia. All which lands and Cities, PEPIN our grandfather of holy memory, and afterwards our father CHARLES, by their prerogative in writing, gave and granted by their Ambassadors, ATHERIUS and MAYNADUS Abbot●…, of their own frank and free will, sent to Saint PETER and his successors, and we also do grant and allow the same. Moreover we will and declare, that the power and authority to choose the Pope, is, and shall remain free to the Roman Council and College, to be made without any schism or discord; and that after that he is chosen and consecrated, for the preservation of love and friendship between us, he shall sand his Ambassadors to me, and to my successors which shall be Kings of France, as the custom was in the time of my great grandfather CHARLES martel, and PEPIN my grandfather, and of my father CHARLES, and this our will and grace which we do, we give in writing, and confirm with an Oath, and sand the s●…me to Pope PASCAL our Lord, subscribed with our own hand, by THEODORE the Legate of the Holy Church of Rome. Signed, Ego Ludovicus. This donation was likewise attested by the Emperors three sons, ten Bishops, eight Abbots, fifteen Earls, one Secretary, a chamber-keeper, and a doorkeeper. The which donation the same Author VOLATERANUS, affirmeth to have seen confirmed by the Emperor OTHO the third, in the year of our Lord, nine hundred seventy and two, in the time of Pope JOHN the twelfth. Of this donation (although not so much at large) mention is made in the Decretal, in the chapter Ego Ludovicus, in the distinction 63. In which chapter is expressed, the city of Rome, with all that Dukedom, which then contained all the lands, towns and cities upon the sea side, and the Havons thereto appertaining, with all the other towns and cities of Tuscan: but their names are not set down, neither the Lands above named. This donation being made, the Pope within few days after died, having been Pope eight years; and EUGENIUS the Second was chosen, after that there had been a schism, wherein two were chosen, who were persuaded by mutual consent to renounce their election, and in their steed was chosen EUGENIUS, in the year of our Lord eight hundred, four and twenty, and in the eleventh year of the Reign of the Emperor LEWES. At the same time the Emperor with three Armies invaded Britanny in France, which again rebelled, and with the effusion of much blood subdued the same. In like manner, the year following, he defended the Kingdom of Hungary against the King of Bulgaria, which made war there, and compelled him to sue for peace. He also sent an Army to the relief of BERNALDUS Earl of Barcelona, against the Infidels of Spain, who made cruel wars upon him. And so the Emperor LEWES lived ever (although not without some troubles) in prosperity and with good success. In the mean time there were no less wars and troubles in the East Empire, wherein the Emperor MICHAEL reigned; a wicked and misbelieving Prince, who held absurd and wicked opinions, fasting the Saturday with the jews, and denying the resurrection of the dead: and it pleased God, that the whole time of his Reign was infested with wars and troubles, and the Infidels eclipsed both his honour and Empire. First, he had very dangerous wars with a great Lord called THOMAS; who taking part with LEO, whom MICHAEL had put to death, being in Asia he drew together much people, and, with the aid of the Infidels, took many Cities; Thomas rebelled against Michael the Emperor of Graecia. and, coming into Europe against the new Emperor MICHAEL, took many cities in Graecia, and besieged the City of Constantinople wherein the Emperor was, and did put him so to his shifts, that he hardly escaped from being either taken or slain. But, being thus distressed and in despair, he resolved to try the last and most perilous remedy; which was, That he, arming the greatest number of soldiers he could get, sallied forth, and with such fury assailed his adversaries upon the sudden, that he slew a great number of them; in such sort, that within very few days THOMAS was driven to raise his siege, and to retire: And it followed also, that his fleet at sea was overthrown by the Emperor's Navy; so as his power every where began to decay. Shortly after this, the King of Bulgaria came with an Army to aid the Emperor: whom THOMAS The Bulgarians came to aid the Emperor of Constantinople. resolved to encounter, before that he should join with him; and coming to a battle THOMAS was overthrown, and the Bulgarians returned to their country, rich, with the spoils of their victory. Whereupon the Emperor adventured to take the field: wherein his force so much increased, that THOMAS not daring to fight with him, suffered himself to be besieged in Adrianople; where after many chances of war, he fell into the Emperor's hands, by whose commandment he was put to death: and pardoning some, and punishing others, he Thomas a rebel put to death by the commandment of Michael, Emperor of Constantinople. subverted all his enemies, and his people returned to their obedience. Nevertheless, the Infidels in the wars and enterprises past become so hardy, that they every where invaded the territories of the Empire, spoiling and taking many places: principally there came a great fleet of them into the Iln of Candia, wherein they made great slaughter, and obtained a notable victory by sea against the Imperialists. They likewise came into the I'll of Sicilia, and took a great part thereof, as JOHANNES MONACUS, BLONDUS, and SABELLICUS do writ. The Emperor LEWES was required by Pope GREGORY the fourth (EUGENIUS being dead, after whom VALENTINIAN was chosen, who enjoyed the Papacy but forty days, and after his decease this GREGORY was made Pope) to relieve Sicilia: which LEWES having other occasions, refused; alleging, that the Emperor MICHAEL aught to defend it, for that Sicilia was of his Empire. By reason whereof the state of the East Empire at that time endured many calamities, and MICHAEL the Emperor of Constantinople living in great trouble, continued but a while, as hereafter we will declare. And although that for that time the I'll of Sicilia was relieved by the Venetians, who then were very mighty by sea; yet that had not sufficed, if a mighty man called BONIFACE, Earl and Governer of the Isle of Corsica, with the aid of a brother of his, and other great men in Italy, had not levied a good Army, and sailing over into Africa, made so cruel wars in the marches of Carthage, overthrowing the Infidels in four battles, as they were constrained to recall their Army from Sicilia (as they did in the time of SCIPIO the African, and HANNIBAL of Carthage). By this mean was the I'll of Sicilia freed from the Saracens: for, constrained by this necessity, they abandoned what they had gotten, and returned into Africa. The Emperor LUDOVICUS PIUS living in great honour and prosperity, it pleased God The Emperor jews his sons conspired against their father. to lay some affliction upon him: for his own sons, upon whom he had bestowed kingdoms and provinces, conspired against him, and began to refuse to yield any obedience; and levying soldiers, raised armies against him. The causes moving them thereto, or as they falsely pretended, Historians relate diversely. Some say it was, because he so tenderly loved his young son called CHARLES, whom he had by his second wife, his eldest son LOTHARIUS, fearing to be disinherited, sought the ruin of his own father. Others say it was, for that he retained into his service a valiant Spaniard called BERNARDODEL CARPIO, nephew to King ALONSO, of whom Spanish Historians writ wonders: of whom he made so great account for his valour in the wars, that in all matters of importance he was wholly led by his counsel. Others say that his wife JUDITH, who was a woman very ill conditioned, only ruled and bore all the sway with him: so as charging him with these defects, and others as untrue and unjust as these, they opposed themselves against their father. Some great Prelates interposed themselves to pacify so dishonest a controversy: and, seeking to reconcile them, this mild Emperor loved his sons so tenderly, and was so desirous of peace, that, to grace his sons, he repudiated his wife (although much against his will); and, bestowing many great rewards upon BERNARDODEL CARPIO, he discharged him. But the true cause was ambition and arrogancy; which increasing in them, this feigned agreement endured not long: for, the sons, by the consent of certain great men which joined with them, apprehended their father; and, bereaving him of the robes and ensigns of Emperor and King, and generally of all government & authority, The Emperor jews deposed, and put into a Monastery by his sons. put him into a Monastery: which he endured with such exceeding great patience, that when (being prisoner) he saw any of them, he never uttered any evil speeches; but willed them to take heed, that those their private friends and favourites did not one day deceive them; and to remember what duty and obedience they aught unto him being their father. Finally, there passed many treaties about this matter; and he lived one whole year deposed, and as a prisoner: at the end whereof, his sons acknowledging their error (although some writ, against the will of his eldest son LOTHARIUS) restored him to his former estate, and he forgave them: and as for the rest of their confederates, he was content in giving them a very light punishment. The Emperor LEWES being restored, his second son PEPIN (whom he had made king of Aquitania) deceased, and left one son called after his name. This domestical and civil dissension between the Emperor and his sons, was very prejudicial to all Christendom: for, the Saracens of Africa, being of great power and very mighty, and making small account of MICHAEL the Emperor of Constantinople, seeing the Emperor LEWES to be prisoner, and Italy abandoned, they with an exceeding great Navy, and a great number of men of war, came into Italy, and at their first landing took Civita Vecchia; and, dispersing sundry companies of horse The Saracens came into Italy, and besieged Rome. and foot into divers parts, they spoilt and burnt many Towns in Italy. And, not content therewith, they besieged the City of Rome itself, and battered the same for many day's space; whereby Pope GREGORY the Fourth, and the Inhabitants thereof, were much distressed, and many of them were slain. And although that VINCENTIUS, VILVACENSIS, GINARDUS, and some other Historiographers, say, that they entered and took the City, yet it was not so; for, the City defended itself: but they took all the Suburbs called Vatican, and The Vatican in Rome taken and sacked by the Saracens. burned the Church of Saint PETER. Which, coming to the knowledge of GVIDO, an excellent Captain, marquis of Lombardy, and Governer thereof for the Emperor; being thereto moved by Letters from the Pope, and sundry other considerations, he raised a great power, and took his way towards Rome: which when the Infidels understood, being loaden with the riches and spoils of Italy, they raised their siege; and, doing all the harm they could, went to Civita Vecchia, where they embarked themselves, carrying with them an infinite number of captives and great wealth, and returned into Africa: and in their way they made what spoil they could in Sicilia. At such time as Italy endured this calamity, the Emperor MICHAEL died in Constantinople, when he had reigned nine years; and (as it had not of long time before been seen in that The death of Michael, Emperor of Constantinople. Empire) his son THEOPHILUS succeeded him; who although that in conditions he was a better Emperor than his father, yet was he no better affected to the Pope, nor to the adoring of Images: for which cause he put many to death. What bef●…ll him we will hereafter briefly declare. But returning to the affairs of Italy, which was freed from the danger and oppression of the Infidels; Pope GREGORY the Fourth died, having been so above fifteen years. This Pope The Feast of all Saints ordained by Pope Gregory the fourth. instituted the Feast of All Saints, which is celebrated in the Church unto this day. After the decease of this Pope, a Cardinal called SWINESFACE was chosen: and for as much as it was a very unseemly name for so high a dignity, by a general consent it was changed, and he was called SER●…IUS the Second. This was the cause why it hath been ever since Pope Swinesface, afterward called Sergius the second. until this day held for a custom, that the new chosen Popes leave their old names, whereby they were called before, and take the name of some of their predecessors. Within few days after the death of the Pope, in the same month LEWES the Emperor of Rome and King of France fell sick and died; so as within the space of four days died three the most famous heads of the world, viz. two Emperors, MICHAEL, and LEWES, and Pope GREGORY. LEWES before he died, made his youngest and well-beloved son CHARLES, King, and Lord of Austria. And LOTHARY, who was Emperor Elect, remained his heir general of all the rest, excepting Bavaria, whereof his other son LEWES was King. And so ended the life and Empire of LUDOVICUS PIUS, in the year of our Lord, eight hundred and forty, when he had reigned full twenty six years, and had lived sixty four years; SERGIUS The death of the emperor jews. SWINESNOUT being then Pope in Rome, and THEOPHILIES son of MICHAEL, reigning Emperor in Constantinople. THE LIFE OF LOTHARIUS, FIRST OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE AND EIGHTEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR; AND OF THEOPHILUS, Emperor in Constantinople. AFter the death of LUDOVICUS PIUS, the Western Empire descended to his eldest son LOTHARIUS: and jointly therewith his father left unto him those kingdoms, Kingdoms left to Lotharius. which he and his father CHARLES the Great, possessed in France, in Germany, and in Italy, excepting those Provinces which were given to his brother's LEWES and CHARLES, which were Baviere and Austria, with some others thereto adjoining. As soon as the father was dead, these two sons, discontent with their portions, determined to take Arms against their elder brother LOTHARIUS; and LOTHARIUS in like manner pretending all to be his, for that he was the first borne, meant therefore to depose them: whereupon there presently began between them a very cruel war, either party being aided by sundry Dukes and great personages. Some writers affirm, that these two brethren LOTHARIUS and LEWES, who were sons of one mother, held together in this war against CHARLES, who was the Emperor's son by his second wife. But there is no reason why it should be so: for it seemeth not likely, that CHARLES alone could have power sufficient to make head against the other two; and also for that LOTHARIUS sought to be Lord of the whole, allowing neither the one nor the other. And it afterwards plainly appeared, that LOTHARIUS in the peace which they made, entered not as a partaker, but as absolute and alone▪ wher●… I follow the most common and most likely opinion, which is, th●… LOTHARIUS warned against the other two. LEWES and CHARLES came out of Wars between Lotharius and his br●…. Germany, with many valiant men, against the Emperor LOTHARIUS; who in like manner out of France, Germany and Italy, levied the greatest and best Army that of long time had been see●… so as all Authors which writ thereof affirm, that, since the wars between ECIUS and ATTILA, there had not been drawn together in Europe she like number of good men of war. The hatred and envy between these brethren was so great, that they could not avoid a battle, which was fought near to a little Town called Fontano: and as the Captains and soldiers of either party were valiant and expert in Arms, the Fight was the more cruel, and one of the most bloody that hath been seen, and wherein most men were slain, and most blood spilt; and it lasted a great part of the day; the victory ever showing itself doubtful, inclining sometimes to one side, and sometimes to the other, until that towards the evening, the Emperor LOTHARIUS his forces, being unable to endure the fury of their adversaries, began to faint: wherewith, courage increasing of the one side, and failing on the other, LOTHARIUS and his people were driven to flee, and LEWES and CHARLES remained with the victory. All those which writ of this conflict, affirm, that therein were slain the greatest part of all the Nobility and flower of the French Nation; and that in number more men died, than in any other that in France hath happened ever since the battle which was fought between ECIUS and The Nobility of France slain in a battle. ATTILA, King of the Huns, in the fields of Catalonia; as before we have related. LOTHARIUS' escaped thence by flight to the City of Aken; and holding himself to be there in no safety, he by sundry ways came to Viene in France, where he again gathered head, and levied new forces out of Italy and other parts; and his brethren resolved to pursue him. And notwithstanding that from the Pope came the Archbishop of Ravenna, and many other Prelates voluntarily, to treat of peace between them, yet it availed not: but LOTHARIUS would the second time try the fortune of the wars, and his brothers sought no less; so as they fought: and he was again overthrown (and the Archbishop of Ravenna also with him, who came as an Ambassador of peace, and was that day in LOTHARY his Army with three hundred horse, which he brought with him out of Italy) and, in despite of himself, was constrained to slay, the greatest part of his people being first slain. Lotharius overthrown the second time. After these cruel battles between these brethren (which, as it is to be believed, GOD permitted for a punishment, for the contumacy and disobedience which they shown toward their father) and after they had much diminished their forces, they gave care to a peace; and the said Archbishop of Ravenna, and many other Prelates, brought them to an agreement: wherein the Emperor (as a man forced and overcomn) lost much. The conditions were, that the kingdoms should be divided between them: which division so much decayed the power of France, that it never after recovered that greatness which until then it held; the accord was made in this manner. That LEWES should be Lord and King of all that part of the Kingdoms and Provinces The division of the kingdom of France between Lotharius and his brethren. which lie over the Rhine, in the East side of France, containing all Germany; to weet, Hungary, Bohemia, Moravia, Frisia, Bavaria, Saxony, Suevia, and all the rest, and should be called King of Germany: And that CHARLES, the youngest brother, should be called King of France, and should be sole Lord thereof, excepting Gal●…ia Narbonensis, now called Provence: and that those Lands which lie between the Rhine and the Maze (which ever since that time are called Lotharingia or Lorraine, after LOTHARIUS) and part of Burgundy, should be subject to the Emperor LOTHARIUS, together with Lombardy, and all that part of Italy which was in his subjection, with the title and dignity of Emperor. This peace being made with LOTHARIUS against his will; he, reinforcing his Troops, took his way towards Italy, and so to Rome: where, after some jealousies between them, Pope SERGIUS crowned him Emperor; and his Son was chosen his Successor. Yet some Writers say, that only his Son was crowned: but this in my opinion seems to be most likely. But Lotharius crowned Emperor by Pope Sergius. let us leave both the Father and the Son (for, in truth LOTHARY was of small power after that he was overcomn, and yet lived in greater peace than those times permitted) and we will say something of the Emperor of Constantinople, THEOPHILUS, and of the losses which ensued in Christendom by reason of the wars between these three brethren. The Greek Emperor THEOPHILUS dissented not from his Predecessors in points of Religion; and, concerning his government, he took very good order, and maintained himself well in his estate; yet somewhat noted of cruelty. In the East he had great and cruel wars with the Saracens, who made incursions into his Dominions in Asia the less: in which war two Captains did him especial service: the one was called MANVEL, and the other PHEEUS; the Emperor himself in person went to this war, wherein the victories were variable, sometimes of his side, and sometimes against him. Being in this manner busied, and our Emperor and the house of France (which then was the only defence and refuge of all Christendom) being weakened and diminished, by reason of the said watres, and dissension which happened; the Moors of Africa with a great Navy came into Italy, and into Sicilia, and landing in many places, took sundry Towns. Lastly, a mighty King of Africa, called SAEBA, with a great sleet of ships and Galleys entered Italy: And knowing that the Coast near to Rome was well Garrisoned and fortified, he assailed Otranto; and that place being taken and sacked, he did the like by other Towns on the same Coast: and returning from thence, he sailed into the Adriatic Sea, now called the Gulf of Venice, and took and spoilt many places. The Emperor of Gracia THEOPHILUS seeking to prevent this danger, sent a good Captain called THEODOSE, with a great fleet, to which the Venetians joined theirs, which they had already rigged for the same purpose, (containing threescore galleys): This Infidel king of the Moors was nothing terrified to come to blows with THEODOSIUS, but they fought a most cruel battle, wherein the Christians were overthrown, and the Venetian fleet fell into the hands of their enemies. But THEODOSIUS escaped by flight. The Mahometists become so haughty by reason of this victory: and it caused so great fear in Italy, that if God had not sent relief, the Infidels in short space might have made themselves Lords thereof: for presently after this overthrow, they assaulted Ancona, took it, and burned it, with sundry other Towns upon that Coast. And their power was then so great, that neither the Emperor LOTHARIUS, nor the Pope, were able to make head against them, but contented themselves to keep and defend what they had in possession: Neither was the Emperor's brother CHARLES King of France, able to set any fleet to Sea, or yield any relief: for the normans North-men. (a most fierce Nation) made wars upon him, robbing and harrying his Countries, with whom he fought many battles. Of these normans I find no ancient Authors that make any mention; whereby I conjecture that it was then some new name of the people and Inhabitants of those Countries which rose in that manner: yet SABELLICUS, and NAUCLERUS, and some others affirm, that they came from Denmark. When all other succours failed, it pleased God to sand a remedy: forthere happened so great a Tempest upon the Sea, that the greatest part of King SAEBAS fleet A fleet of the Infi●…els cast away in a tempest was sunk and cast away: and those which escaped, returned into Africa, torn, and sore weatherbeaten: and so Italy for that time was relieved, and restored to liberty: but yet afterwards they again infested it. At this time died Pope SERGIUS, having been Pope little more than three years, and then succeeded LEO the fourth, in whose time PLATINA affirmeth this shipwreck of the Moors Navy to have happened: but most say as I have written. In the beginning of Pope LEO his papacy, THEOPHILUS Emperor of the Greeks' died in Constantinople: who before his death feeling himself deadly sick, and that he could not escape, and considering also that he should leave his son MICHAEL very young; and that THEODOSIUS the Captain before named, was rich and very mighty, he resolved with himself, first to dispatch him out of the world, to the end that he should not usurp the Empire when he was dead: which was a very good resolution, and sign of a good Christian in a man so near his end. First, he caused The death of the Emperor Theophilus and his good resolution. Michael succeeded his father in the Empire. him to be detained in his Palace: and feeling his sickness so to increase upon him that he could not live, he made his head to be stricken off, and within few hours after died. After his death, his son. MICHAEL was made Emperor, and for as much as he was very young, his Mother THEODORA the Empress (as heretofore did YRENE Mother of CONSTANTINE) took upon her the government, and ruled the Empire for her Son MICHAEL, and not ill, as it is written: but as he increased in years, so there grew in him a desire to govern alone, and his Mother become more ambitious: in such manner, that the young man setting all respect apart, compelled his Mother to go into a cloister, and so he remained sole absolute Lord Within a little while after, the Emperor LOTHARIUS remaining in Lorraine, and Pope LEO in Renie; the Infidels grown proud by reason of their late victories; and coveting the The Moors landed in Ostia with intent to have taken Rome. wealth of Italy, repaired up the remainder of their fleet, and building other vessels, returned to make a conquest thereof, with greater power and resolution then at the first: And after some spoils done in some other places they sailed directly to the port of Ostia, where setting their Army on Land, they marched towards Rome, with an intent to have taken it, and afterwards all the Country: which as they hoped, so the poor Inhabitants feared. But it pleased God they were repulsed, and deceived in their expectation. Nevertheless, they came and besieged Rome, and gave a very great assault unto it: but it was so well provided and furnished, and those which were therein did so valiantly defend the same, that losing all hope to get it, and understanding that succours were coming; robbing and burning the Vatican with great cruelty, they raised their siege: first burning and profaning Saint PETER'S Church which was there, the Moors burned the Vatican & Saint Peter's Church in Rome and where it standeth at this day. And for as much as the Moors raised their siege from before Rome without taking it, the French writers attribute the honour thereof to CHARLES king of France, who (they say) came to relieve it, and for fear of whom the Moors departed; and leaving their attempt against it, setting their Army in order, they took their way towards Naples, burning and spoiling all as they went. In the mean while, Pope LEO sallying forth of Rome; with the aid of the Emperor LOTHARY, and his Son, whom in his life time he had made his companion in the Empire and in the kingdom of Italy, who sent him great supplies; he raised a sufficient Army, wherewith he went to seek his enemies, which laden with great riches and spoils, were come near to the port of Ostia; where the Pope considering how mighty they were, if they should remain in Ita●…e (as they gave out they would) and how much the Country were ruinated, if they should embark themselves with their prisoners and riches, and the Emperor staying longer than they would he should have done, he resolved to use the sword: and encouraging his soldiers, he charged his enemies, and fought with them a sharp and bloody battle, wherein many were slain of either party. But in the end it pleased God that the Christians had the victory: and a great slaughter was made of their enemies, and a great number of Captives were released, and A battle fought between Pope Leo and the Infidels. all that they had taken, recovered, and the greatest part of those which fled, were overtaken and carried to Rome in great triumph. Those which remained in the harbour at Ostia, understanding of this overthrow, hoising their sails, with all the haste they could, returned into their Country: And so was Rome freed from the great calamity and miserable servitude which it feared. Great was the joy which The victory of Pope Leo. was conceived through all Christendom for this victory, and the Pope was highly extolled, who speedily returned to Rome: where with the consent of the Citizens he resolved to compass in with a wall, all those Suburbs called Vatican, wherein are Saint PETER'S Church, and the Pope's Palace, to he end they should no more endure the like, as they now twice had suffered. To the performance whereof, the Emperor LOTHARIUS and his brethren LEWES king of Germany, and CHARLES the Bald, King of France, sent much of their Treasure: and the work began with such expedition, that notwithstanding it was very great, and the walls full of Turrets: yet in the space of five years it was perfected and fully ended: and so that part was made a City, and called Civitas Leonina, after the name of Pope LEO. The year following the Emperor LOTHARY went to Rome, to see and speak with the Pope, for that he was falsely informed that he purposed to have reduced the right title of Emperor to Constantinople, whereof the Pope gave him full satisfaction: and so contented, the Emperor returned into his Country. And seeing himself now old, and that his Empire had ever been unfortunate, aswell for that he was overthrown and dispossessed by his brethren, as The Emperou●… Lotharius divided his Empire between his three Sons. for other accidents in Italy, imputing it to his sins, especially for the disobedience and little regard which he had showed to his Father; he resolved to put himself into a religious house, and to leave his Empire to his Sons; and putting it in execution, he made a division thereof in this manner: to his eldest Son LEWES, he gave that which he held in Italy, and to the second, whose name was LOTHARIUS, he gave the Province of Lorraine, and other Lands, which in the division were allotted to him in France, and in Germany, about the river of Rhine; and to CHARLES his third Son, he gave that part of France, which is called Gallia Narbonensis, and now Provence and Languedo●…, which fell to his share in the peace which he made with his brethren when he was by them overthrown. In these estates aswell as in others were afterwards great alterations, which I have no time to relate: this done, he become a Monk in the fifteenth year of his reign, in the year of our The Emperor Lotharius renounced the empire and become a Monk. Pope joane. Lord, eight hundred fifty and six, and so he lived, and within a while died, MICHAEL continuing yet Emperor of Constantinople. And shortly after died Pope LEO the fourth, whom succeeded JOHN an English woman, as Historians affirm; who disguising herself in apparel; and changing her name, being excellently well learned, was chosen Pope, and having two years lived in the Papal dignity, died suddenly in Partu; and her succeeded BENEDICT the third. THE LIFE OF LEWES THE SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND THREESCORE AND NINETEENTH Roman Emperor. WE have already said, that the Emperor LOTHARIUS, voluntarily and of his own free will, imparted to his eldest son LEWES the name and dignity of Roman Emperor; of whose life, and for some time after, Historians have written very little; and in that little is a great confusion amongst them: which hath put me to much trouble, for that I have been so careful and have used all diligence to writ the truth. The difficulty is, in that this LEWES and his Uncle king of Germany were both of one name, by reason whereof Authors attribute the acts and doings of the one, to the other, being deceived therein and which is worst of all, there are some which of the reign of this Emperor LEWES writ nothing at all, of which BLONDUS is one, notwithstanding that in all the rest he hath showed great diligence, ending with his father▪ so as presently after LOTHARIUS, they place CHARLES the Ba●…ld, king of France, whereas to the contrary they should first writ the life and reign of this his son LEWES▪ But I will follow the most approved Authors, and (in the best manner I shall be able) will bring the truth to light, and will rather choose to say but little, and that certain, then to please with many forged accidents. In the beginning of the reign of this LEWES there happened a very prodigious thing; which was, that in the City of Brescia in Lombardy for three days it reigned blood, so fresh and so perfect, as if it had been of a Bull, or of some other beast lately It rained blood in Bresc●…a in the time of the Emperor jews the Second. killed. First of all, this Emperor was very zealous and devout in Religion; much affected to the Romish Church, and the ministers thereof (for he knew no other) and was very pitiful, mild, sincere, unspotted, of a good condition, and of his word and promise very just. After the decease of Pope BENEDICT, NICHOLAS the first being chosen, the Emperor went to Rome, to confirm his election; where the Pope and he conversed together very lovingly. It afterwards followed that a great fleet of the Moors of Africa came into Italy: but the Emperor gathered together so good forces against them, that (with small hurt done) they were repulsed: for which his care and diligence he was highly extolled. And notwithstanding that this Prince was so well inclined yet▪ 〈◊〉 Duke of Beneuent rebelled, with Capua, and some other Cities; and denying to be subject unto him, held for the Emperor of Constantinople. And whereas Italy in times past had been subject to those Emperors, they had now lost it, as being unable to defend the same; yet Pulia and Calabria were of long time after undertheir government. Against this Duke, the Emperor LEWES levied an Army, and in person went to suppress the rebellion: But ADULGI●…US being unable to defend himself against him, sent to make his excuse; alleging, that what was done, was against his will, and that he had purposed to come to his service and did so; and LEWES received and pardoned h●…: and then went to such places as rebelled▪ which he easily took, excepting Capua, which stood upon defence; but in the end craving pardon, they yielded. From thence he went to Beneuent, where ADULGIFUS received and lodged him, in outward show, as his sovereign Lord, and whom he loved; by whose persuasion and counsel (for he seemed to speak from a loyal heart) the Emperor discharged his Army, and retained few more than the officers of his house: but within few days after, ADULGIPUS (as a disloyal traitor) sought to put in execution what he had projected: and getting together certain Armed men, he suddenly rushed into the Emperor's lodging with intent to have slain him; and had done so, but that being perceived, the Emperor and those few which were with him, so valiantly defended themselves, that they got out of Beneuent, and went to Rome; from whence by the Pope's counsel, he sent such an Army, that the Traitor was constrained to forsake the Country, and to fly into Sardinia: and so LEWES remained in peace, Emperor in Italy. In the mean season, whilst he was thus busied in Italy; MICHAEL reigned in Constantinople, in Graecia, and in part of Asia, who deposed his mother from the government: but he proved careless and vicious, and applied himself only to feasting, sports on horseback, and other pastimes, his estate and house being ruled by favourites: and in the wars which he made in Asia against the Infidels, he was twice shamefully overthrown; yet PETRONAS a Captain of his obtained a noble victory. In the end, one of his great favourites, called BASILIUS Basiliu●…●…lew ●…lew Michael, and made himself Emperor of the East. (a man of base lineage and condition, whom he had advanced to great power and dignity) killed him by treason, and got the Empire to himself; for already in MICHAEL'S days he was made CAESAR. This happened in the 13 year of his reign, and in the year of our Lord, eight hundred seventy and six. Yet the Empire of MICHAEL was fortunate in one thing, which was, that the King of Bulgaria, and many other people which believed not in JESUS CHRIST (at the lest in such sort as they aught to have believed) in his time were wholly converted. In these days also France escaped not free from wars, between CHARLES the Bald, uncle to this our Emperor LEWES, and the normans; a most fierce nation: neither was The Normaus invade France LEWES the King of Germany without wars against other nations, which I am not bound to relate; neither such as happened in other Kingdoms, but only such as are for our purpose. I say then, that within certain years, LOTHARIUS' King of Lorraine, brother to the Emperor died; and his Uncle CHARLES King of France, would have made seizure on Lorraine, and all The death of Lo●…harius' King of Lorraine. the other lands which he held; but the Emperor opposed himself, and used so good means, that he took possession of all, as heir to his father: whereupon there arose great wars and controversy between them, which lasted above five years. Soon after this, the Emperor being in Milan, was taken with an infirmity, whereof he died: who in my opinion (so fare as I can gather out of Histories, left no sons to succeed him: wherefore those which say that CHARLES and LEWES were his sons, are deceived; for they were the sons of his Uncle LEWES, King of Germany and Bavaria: the cause of which error was, for that these two Princes were both of one name; but he that diligently readeth the Histories, shall find that which I say to be true, and the rest false. I do not produce reasons and conjectures to verify my opinion, which are to no other purpose, but to weary the Reader, and make the History more obscure: presuppose that I say the truth, and then all is clear. And to conclude with LEWES, of whom I have said little, and that confusedly (for that I could not clearly discover any more) The death of the Emperor jews. I say that he died in the year of our Lord 878, when he had reigned 21 years; yet some say but 19, at which time JOHN was Pope of Rome, and in Constantinople BASILIUS was Emperor, who although he entered into the Empire as a Tyrant, yet he was no evil prince. THE LIFE OF CHARLES THE SECOND SURNAMED THE BALD, AND FOURSCORE ROMAN EMEMPEROUR; AND OF BASILIUS, Emperor of Constantinople. THE death of the Emperor LEWES was soon known and published to the world, as usually is the death of such Kings and Princes as he was: but his Uncle's CHARRES the Bald, king of France, and LEWES king of Germany, who were his father's brethren, had soon intelligence of which were sons to the Emperor LUDOVICUS PIUS, the first of that name: and although they were now old and unwieldy (for they had been Kings above thirty years) yet each of them pretended to be Emperor. CHARLES for that he was King of France seemed to have the better title, for it was transferred thither in the person of his grandfather: and LEWES for that he was his elder brother, conceived as much. But CHARLES used greater expedition, and made better provision, by reason of the nearness of France to Italy, being thereto aided by his own condition; for he was naturally proud and ambitious: so that with greater celerity than any man would have thought, he had levied a great Army, and passing the Alps came into Italy, and took his way directly for Rome; but he sent his Son LEWES another way, to seize upon that which the Emperor LEWES had taken in France, by the death of his brother, which was Austrasia, now called Lorraine. CHARLES being come to Rome, where he had already by messages and letters (and as some say by money and bribes) solicited, and gotten the good will of the Romans, and of Pope JOHN the eight, or ninth, was presently Crowned by him, and held for Emperor, and in the mean time, his brother LEWES in Germany failed not to levy forces to come against him: with a resolution to deprive him of the Empire, and of his life also if he could. But CHARLES having settled the affairs of Italy in very good order (ingreat choler against his brother) returned into France, against whom he raised his whole power. They beginning to march, the one against the other, LEWES was arrested by death, at Frankford; leaving his Dominions, First, divided between his 3 sons, which were very valiant men, to wit, LEWES, CARLOMAN, and CHARLES, of which three names, the offspring of CHARLES the great made great account: which causeth a great confusion and obscurity in the History, if the Reader be not very attentive. The division was made in this manner by the mutual consent of the three brethren; to LEWES was given Saxony, Turingia, Friesland, and the Provinces within them contained, and that he should be called King of Ostrofrancia, or East France. To CARLOMAN, was allotted Bavaria, Austria, Carinthia, Slavonia, Bohemia, and Moravia, with The division of King jews his Dominion, between his sons. the title of King of Bavaria. To CHARLES befell Suevia, Franconia, and all the rest of Germany, and some Cities in Lorraine, which had been under his Uncle LOTHARIUS, and he (as his Father had been) was called King of Germany. Their Uncle CHARLES the Bald, Emperor and King of France, being hereof advertised, making less account of the Sons, than he had done of the Father, being more proud and ambitious, then hardy and valiant, entered Germany with fifty thousand men, and went as fare as Coleyn; near whereunto his nephew LEWES, the new King of East France, stayed for him, with the greatest part of his Father's Army, assisted by his brothers CARLOMAN, and CHARLES, and other great Dukes and Princes of Germany, first seeking peace: but seeing that the Emperor would not grant the same, he joined in battle with him, which was fought of either side very obstinately. And the Emperor seeing his enemies fight with such resolution, fled from the battle, and his nephew LEWES remained with the victory. In this battle and pursuit, was made great slaughter of the French Nobility: And so the Emperor returned into his Country, with less power, and more dishonour, where he reposed himself for a season: his nephews taking no care further to trouble him. After this, it happened that one BALDWIN, than Governor or keeper of that Country, which now is called the Earldom of Flanders, (and was lately so populous and so well inhabited, Baldwin Earl of Flanders, fell in love with the daughter of Charles the Bald. and then for the most part was nothing but wood and Forest, with some few little villages) fell in love with one of the Emperor's daughters; and her father being absent in the wars, he found means to convey her out of the Palace, and so hid himself with her in those woods: against whom the Emperor meaning to have proceeded with all rigour, at the entreaty of many religious persons and of estate, was persuaded to marry him to her; and doing so, gave him that country, with the title of Earl of Flanders: and this BALDWIN proved to be so excellent a man, and used such industry, that he replenished the Country with Inhabitants, which The Original of the Earledom of Flanders. so manured the Land, that within few years it did abound with people and all other things necessary; And his Son ARNULPHUS, and his successors, using the like diligence, it came to be one of the most flourishing countries of the world; of such power is diligence and human industry: this was the beginning of that estate. The Emperor CHARLES being thus in his Kingdom of France, in the mean time while that he warred with his nephews, the Moors of Africa, who had a taste of the wealth of Italy, came with a great Army, and made great spoils in the Marches of Capua, and besieged that City: Whereupon Pope JOHN sent to request the Emperor, to come The Moors came into Italy and besieged the City of Capua. to protect the Lands of the Church, which he performed with the greatest speed he could make, for he was very politic, and cunning in the levying of men of war; but before his going into Italy, (to satisfy his wife's humour) he made her brother BOATSWAIN, who was also his near kinsman, King of Provence. Coming to Rome, the Infidels leaving that coast, took another way, which was into Sicilia, which yet was under the Empire of Constantinople, whereof BASILIUS was Emperor, of whom we will presently make mention. When LEWES, CHARLES, and CARLOMAN, knew their Uncle was in Italy, they united their forces, with a resolution to go against him, in revenge of former injuries. Whereof as soon as the Emperor had intelligence, he departed from Rome with his forces, to make head against them: But it pleased God to save him that labour; which was, that coming to Mantoa with his Army, being now old and decrepit, an infirmity took him, whereof he feared not that he should have died. But a jew called ZEDECHIAS (which The death of the Emperor Charles the 2. poisoned by his Physician which was a Iew. was his Physician) poisoned him, and so he presently died: and his affairs remained confused, and out of order; leaving for his heir in his kingdoms, his Son called LUDOVICUS BALBUS, and other three which he had, who also had ill success: which appertaineth not to my History. They called this his son BALBUS, for that so in Latin they call him which stuttereth, and cannot pronounce certain letters, but have that defect in their speech. At Ludovicus Balbus, and why so called. this time in the Empire of Constantinople, reigned BASILIUS before named, who (as I have said) proved no ill Governor; for he released many of the tributes and other exactions, which his predecessors had formerly imposed upon the people: and he defended the Empire with great valour and much discretion, although that in some things he had ill success. First, against certain great troops of Infidels, which came from Alexandria in Egypt, into the I'll of Candia, and had taken many places there, he rigged a Navy, and sailed thither in person, where he fought, and was overcome, to the great damage of the Christians: and (by great hap) escaping he returned by flight to Constantinople, but not daunted, neither discouraged, and prepared a new fleet: and to try his fortune with a new Captain, he sent therewith his wife's Father, whose name was CHRISTOPHER, a man very valiant, and of great experience; who had so good hap, that obtaining the victory, he cleared that Island. After this, he waged other wars in Asia, by his Captains, against the Infidels, Turks and Persians': wherein for the most part he had good success; and lastly, against the Africanes, which for fear of CHARLES the Bald (as was above said) leaving Italy, went into Slavonia, or Dalmatia, and had taken some Towns of BASILIUS his Empire, he sent thither his Army and Navy; and with the aid of the Venetians, drove them out of those Countries, and recovered what they had taken. And so he reigned with greater honour, and to the better liking and contentment of his Subjects, than many of his Predecessors. At which time the Emperor CHARLES the Bauld died in Mantoa, when he had reigned little more than two years, JOHN the ninth being then Pope. Some Authors The death of Charles the ●…uld. say that he reigned a longer time; but the truth is as I have set down. THE LIFE OF jews THE THIRD, SURNAMED BALBUS, AND FOURSCORE AND ONE ROMAN EMPEROR; TOGETHER WITH the life of BASILIUS Emperor of CONSTANTINOPLE. IF in the time of CHARLES the Bald there were wars and troubles for the Empire; there were no less after his decease, as the Reader may well observe by the process of this history; wherein, although it seem that I use brevity, for that I waste less paper in one then in another, yet is it not so; for I seek (as much as I may) to make an even division of this book between the Emperors, whose lives I writ. But forasmuch as these Princes of whom I do now treat, lived but a short time in the Empire, (to observe an equality, and due proportion, as fare as possibly may be) I hold it reason, that the memory of them be brief, according to the time of their reign, and to the end that we may have space to writ of matters nearer to our time. The Emperor CHARLES being deceased in Mantoa, as is aforesaid, his nephew CHARLES King of Germany, with his brethren, which already had entered Italy against him, stayed with their Army: for the enemy being dead, the war was ended. His Son LEWES, who lived in France being advertised of the death of his Father, and how that his Cousins had laid down their arms: first he endeavoured to settle himself in his Father's Kingdom, and he also sent to entreat Pope JOHN to aid him and to stand his friend in attaining to the Imperial dignity. In the first he found some difficulty, being contradicted by his mother in law the Empress, who was counselled and assisted by her brother BOATSWAIN king of Provence: but the matter was carried so cunningly, that within few days he was held and obeyed for King. Now concerning the Empire, he found great difficulty; for CHARLES surnamed the Fat, being king of Germany, besides that he already had some Towns in Italy, had also the goodwill of many of Lewes' made king of France. the principal men in Rome; so as notwithstanding that Pope JOHN would have had LEWES king of France to have been chosen Emperor, yet he could not effect it: For, they not only denied to accept him, but were so audacious as to lay hands upon the Pope, to the end that The Pope apprehended. he should not do it. But he stayed not long in prison, for some of his servants, either by force or policy, released him, and he in great haste went into France, where he was honourably entertained by the King. Being there (of his own authority) he entitled LEWES Emperor; and giving him the Imperial ensigns, crowned him with great solemnity: and after this, remained one year in France; where he called a Council, and made certain orders concerning the state of the Church, and created a Bishop for the County of Flanders, where there never had been any before, being but lately inhabited. In which time the wars and troubles between The first Bishop of Flanders. the new Emperor, and his cousin german CHARLES King of Germany ceased not; who was also so called by the will of the Romans, who were the occasion of a worse inconvenience: for the Moors of Africa (seeing Italy abandoned by the Pope, and that the defence came The Moors invade Italy. slow and slenderly) prepared a great Navy, and did much harm there: whereof Pope JOHN being advertised, with the aid of CHARLES the Fat, King of Germany, who was also called Emperor, came into Italy; at whose coming the Infidels retired, and the country was freed from the great danger wherein it was: The Pope seeing how much Rome and all Italy had been better relieved by CHARLES, then by LEWES, and how much CHARLES was more favoured by the principal Barons in Italy; and to the end to come to agreement with the said Barons, altering his mind, he approved and confirmed the nomination and election made of CHARLES King of Germany who for his corpulence was surnamed the Fat; and so he anointed and crowned him Emperor; disannulling the coronation of LUDOVICUS BALBUS King of France; for which cause it was thought that great wars and troubles would have ensued: but by the intercession of certain great personages, a peace was concluded between the two Emperors in this manner: That they both should hold the name and title of Emperors, and that the country of Lorraine (about which was wont to be great contention) should be equally divided between them, and that for the Empire no war should be made; but that in all parts peace should be entertained between the lands and subjects of the one and of the other party; The Empire divided. and that in Italy (until that an equal partition were made) each of them should hold such lands and towns as he then had in possession: and if that the Infidels invaded the dominion of either of them, the other was bound to aid him with his forces. This peace being concluded (although doubtful and feigned) the Emperor LEWES died in France, whereof he was King, having reigned not fully two years; in all which time heenever The death of the Emperor I odovicus Balbus king of France. came to Rome, neither into Italy. But for as much as Pope JOHN crowned him in France, and afterwards in Rome disannulled his election and coronation, some Historiographers leave him out of the catalogue of Emperors. He left when he died two bastard sons behind him, the one called CARLOMAN, and the other LEWES, and his wife great with a son, whereof she was afterwards delivered; which son being posthumus (for so do they call him which is born after his father's decease) he left for his heir of the kingdoms of France; wherein grew great discord, wars and misery about the government and the kingdom; and in the one and other were great alterations and changes, too long to be related: for the bastard son's pretended title and right to the Crown, and so did BOATSWAIN King of Provence. Others would have the child (wherewith the Empress was great at the death of the Emperor, who was afterwards called CHARLES the Simple) to be King. The governors also took upon them the name of Kings: sometimes one was a King, and sometime another, and each of them made himself Charles the simple posthumus. Lord of what he could get. In these troubles the kingdom endured great calamity. This Emperor LEWES died in the year of our Lord, eight hundred and fourscore, according to the computation which I hold for most certain. THE LIFE OF CHARLES THE THIRD, SURNAMED THE FAT, AND FOURSCORE AND SECOND ROMAN EMPEROR; AND OF BASILIUS and LEO, at that time Emperors of Constantinople. PResently upon the decease of LEWES the Emperor and King of France, the king of Germany, CHARLES the Fat, without any contradiction enjoyed the Empire: for in the others life time he had in a manner rob him of that Majesty, which (as the Reader may well consider) was at that time but only in name; for the authority of CHARLES the Great and his successors, consisted more in letters, and in the Kingdoms which they won and possessed (which were the Dominions of Germany and Italy) then in any part of the Empire, whereof there remained Italy only, and therein the Pope held the greatest part; and the Greek Empire had ever some share: And that likewise which the Emperors held in Italy, was recovered by the said CHARLES, and by his father; yet the name of Emperor was in the highest degree desired, and the authority and Majesty thereof was very great, and so continueth until this day. CHARLES the Fat remaining then sole Emperor in peace, as his virtues deserved, leaving Italy in good order, went into Germany, to take possession of his brother LEWES his Kingdoms; who also at that time died without heirs, whose dominion contained Friesland, Saxony, Lorraine, and other provinces; and he had so good hap, that within short space after, his other brother died also without sons or issue: which provinces were afterwards divided into sundry houses and states (in process of time) by the gifts of the Emperors, and through sundry other accidents, as it plainly appeareth. I say then that he remained Lord of all Germany, and King of Italy. The next year after this, died BASILIUS Emperor of Constantinople of a very extraordinary Basilius' Emperor of Constantinople, slain by a Stag, and his son Leo, succeeded him in the Empire. death: for riding on hunting (as his custom was) he was slain by a Stag. BASILIUS in his life time had chosen and nominated his eldest son LEO for CAESAR, after the death of his other eldest son CONSTANTINE: wherefore when as the father was dead, his son LEO was crowned and obeyed for Emperor; and was called the Philosopher, for that he was much inclined to learning: BASILIUS left also another son, called ALEXANDER. The Emperor CHARLES having good success in his affairs; and knowing what wars and factions were in France; under colour to war against the Normans which harried the Country, he sought (as many others did, and had done) to make himself King thereof. Levying then a mighty Army of Germans and Italians, he entered France, and went to the City of Paris, which the Normans held besieged: and, having taken all the Country, and put the Normans to rout, he was called King of France; the young King CHARLES the Simple, or BONOSUS King of Provence, having no sufficient power to make head against him. In this war were many great fights; which, because the Authors handle the same so confusedly, I pass over in silence. And the Emperor's party become so mighty, that he not only enjoyed the title and name of King, but the Kingdom itself also: and to the end, that he might the better draw the Normans to his service, he treated with them (after he had overthrown them) of peace, and gave their King to wife a kinswoman of his, which was a Duke's daughter; and assigned to him that part of France which lieth beyond the river Sein, bordering upon the English Sea, which after them is at this day called Normandy, and is a very good Country and The coming of the Normans int●… Normandy. well inhabited. Yet some Historians say, that the Emperor CHARLES did not this, but that CHARLES the Simple afterwards did it when he came to be King of France; who at that time was but an Infant, and under the government of EUDON: but in my opinion that was too long a time, for they afterwards had wars with him. But howsoever it was, the Emperor CHARLES the Fat was Lord of the greatest and best part of France, and was called king thereof, being before that time King of Germany, and Emperor of Italy: and, setting all things there in good order, he retired himself into Germany; where being arrived, as the state of his dominion and Empire was grounded upon but weak foundations, so it suddenly fell from the height of that Throne. Some allege the cause thereof to be, for that he become foolish, proud, and unfit to govern: others say, that a disease took him which bereft him of his senses; which cometh all to one in effect. To conclude, the Princes, Dukes and Governors of the Provinces of Germany and France, seeing his great insufficiency and unaptness to govern, resolved to deprive him of his Empire and Charles the Fat deposed from the Empire, and Arnolph chosen in his place. Kingdoms: and for as much as he had never a son (being, as they writ of him, unapt by nature for generation) by common consent they nominated and chose a great and valiant Personage, called ARNOLPH, who was by CHARLES advanced to the Duchies of Bavaria and Carinthia, and (as some writ) was but of mean parentage, and no way allied to CHARLES: and so they accounted CHARLES the Fat to be the last of the lineage and blood of CHARLES the Great. But after some, which is the most common opinion, ARNOLPH was nephew to CHARLES the Fat, bastard or natural son to CARLOMAN King of Baviere; which seemeth most likely to be true, seeing that he without any gainsaying attained both to the Kingdom and Empire, and was not only entitled Emperor, but also King of Germany: but in France, after ARNOPH'S first fury, they made OTHO or EUD●…S (who was CHARLES the Simples Tutor) King of France; whom CHARLES the Simple afterwards succeeded. After this, many great matters ensued, which appertain not to my History. And so CHARLES the Fat lost both his Empire and understanding, when he had reigned nine years, in the year of our Lord eight hundred fourscore and nine; and lived afterwards about one year, in great penury and misery. It is written, that this poor Prince found himself at one Instant deprived of all means, and forsaken of all the world, degraded both of Realm and Empire; having so ill provided for his affairs in the time of prosperity, that he found himself naked without a house where to sh●…owd himself from the shipwreck of his disgrace, driven out of his Palace, and retired into a poor village of 〈◊〉, where he lived some days in extreme want, without any means or relief; in the end died, not lamented or pitied of any man, in an unknown corner, yet noted to be the Theatre where was acted such an extraordinary Tragedy, That one of the greatest Monarches of the world is dead, without house, without bread, without honour, without pity, and without memory, but to observe so miserable an end. In Constantinople yet reigned LEO, not so ill as some others: for, notwithstanding that he was somewhat cruel, yet he was a lover of justice and equity, and very zealous, and built some stately Temples. He warred with the Bulgares, and overcame them, and was overcomne by them; whose death and actions we will declare hereafter: for, he reigned 25 years. THE LIFE OF ARNOLPH, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND THE FOURSCORE AND FOURTH ROMAN EMPEROR; AND OF LEO, Alexander and Constantine, Emperors of GRAECIA. IT is already mentioned in what manner ARNOLPH attained to the Empire, who is numbered among the good Emperors: for, he was wise and upright in his government, and had both valour and courage to defend and protect the Empire; yet in his time were great wars. As soon as he was Roman Emperor and King of Germany, he had a desire to make himself King of France also; and he fought some battles with the Normans: who, understanding that CHARLES was deprived & dead, rebelled, and made wars in France, wherein he had the victory: but, constrained through some innovations in Germany, he returned thither, and abandoned France; which I omit as a matter impertinent. Being comn into Germany, his first business was with a certain people in the Province of Moravia, called Magarens, which warred in all parts of Germany; and committed such spoils, and put him in so great fear, that he sought to pacify them rather by policy than by Arms: and to the end they should live in peace and quiet, he agreed to give them that country to inhabit; so as to them was assigned the Province of Moravia, with part of Bohemia, where it bordereth upon Hungary, Poland and Slesia. Yet, nevertheless, this continued but a small time: for, this people, waxing proud of their agreement, with greater presumption invaded the country: against whom ARNOLPH levied an Army of valiant men at Arms, brought out of Hungary; with which, and his other ordinary forces, he overthrew the Moravians in a notable battle; and cutting the greatest part of them in pieces, the rest fled and abandoned the country: but, it being freed from the Subdued, was much more oppressed by the victorious Hungares; who, mutinying for want of their pay, sacked the Cities and Towns of Germany: and, crossing over the Country, without any resistance came into Friesland, and thence into Gallia Belgica; part whereof at this day is the Earldom of Flanders. These Hungars, as some affirm, were of the same Country of Hungary; and VICENTIUS in his Mirror, and MARTIN affirm, that they came out of Scythia into that Province: but whence-soever they came, it imporports not much; it sufficeth they all agreed, that ARNOLPHUS was much troubled with them, and that they burned and spoiled a great part of Germany: and ARNOLPH did all that was possible, and at length constrained them to return into Hungary, from whence (as long as he lived) they never durst come thither again. Whilst these things passed in Germany, Italy escaped not free from wars and combustions; whereof, the Emperor's long absence was the occasion: for, he had never been there, but went thither being called by Pope FORMOSUS, who was chosen after the death of STEPHEN before mentioned. This FORMOSUS was chosen against the will of the greatest part of the people of Rome, which favoured a Cardinal called SERGIUS, to whom they had given their voices: wherefore the Pope, holding himself greatly injured, went to the Emperor, and was the cause of his coming into Italy; of whom before that we enter into any discourse, it shall not be amiss to speak (after our accustomed manner) of the Emperor of Constantinople, in the life of LEO the. Fift, who (as we said) at that time held that Empire; wherein ordinarily ensued great accidents: for, the Emperor was ever at contention and variance (in Europe) with the Bulgarians, the Hungars, the Russians, and other Nations; and in Asia with the Armenians, the Persians', and other Infidels. But I desire to be held excused in that I writ not that History at large, seeing I am bound to writ but of the Emperors of the West only, who are held for the right Emperors; and of the others to make but a brief relation. LEO, having ended his war with the Bulgarians, resolved to war in Asia against the Infidels, and did so; wherein al●…hough that many losses happened to either party, yet in the end his Army (being led by a good General) obtained a very notable victory; whereby his name came to be very famous and renowned: so as in these actions, and others which I writ not, five and twenty years of his Empire were spent: in the end whereof, he died of the Colic. And after Leo, Emperor of Constantinople, died of the Colic, and Alexander succeeded him. his death his brother AEEXANDER was chosen Emperor, notwithstanding that he left a son called CONSTANTINE: but, forasmuch as he was of more years and better beloved, the brother had the Empire, and held it thirteen or fourteen months: during which time he did nothing that was good; and for abusing the Ambassadors of SIMEON King of Bulgaria, war was made against him. He bestowed offices and dignities upon ignoble and base personages, and in the end was taken with a flux of blood at the nose, which never left him until he left the Empire: and CONSTANTINE, son to his brother LEO, had the Empire; of whom Alexander, Emperor of Constantinople, died bleeding at the nose. we will speak hereafter: for, this happened in the time of ARNOLPH, Emperor of the West, whose life we now writ, which ended (as I said) coming into Italy, in favour of Pope FORMOSUS, and to recover such Cities as were therein usurped by certain Dukes and Earls; between whom and them ensued many battles: and in all Italy were factions and dissensions, especially between GVIDO Duke of Spoleto, and BERENGARIUS' Duke of Friuli, who were made Dukes by the old Emperor CHARLES; being men of the greatest account in all the Country, he thinking by this means to defend the Country against the Lombard's and French, and to hold the same in subjection, having such mighty Commanders. But these men made themselves Lords of all they could, and either of them was a great enemy to the other, and fought a great battle; wherein GVIDO was overthrown, and BERENGARIUS had the victory: who, understanding of the Emperor ARNOLPH'S coming, sought to make a league with him, and offered him his service; more to seek his enemy's ruin, than for any service he meant to do to the Emperor. ARNOLPH, being comn into Italy with a great Army, sought means to make himself Lord of the Country, assisted by BERENGARIUS, whose Dukedom of Friuli was in his way: he took many places which GVIDO had usurped, and went to Bergamo; into the castle whereof, a certain Earl (one of those which conspired against Pope FORMOSUS) was entered: who, together with others of that City, was there besieged by the Emperor; who, taking it by force, caused him to be hanged. And so he punished and did justice upon many others, and redressed many injuries and wrongs done in Italy. Afterwards he went with his Army towards Rome, where the Pope attended his coming: but his adversaries were of such power, that, whether the Pope would or not, they put the City in Arms, and (shutting their ports) would not receive the Emperor; whereupon he besieged it, which caused great tumults and mutinies therein: but in the end the Pope's authority, and the fear of the Emperor's power, so much prevailed, that he was received; wherein, by his direction, great punishment was inflicted upon such as could be taken; and the Pope crowned him Emperor with great honour and solemnity: Arnolph crowned Emperor in Rome, by the Pope. and, within few days after, he departed, with an intent to ruin GVIDO Duke of Spoleto, who was of great power, and thought as well as BERENGARIUS, to have been King of Italy. Having taken some Towns, he besieged his wife in a certain City: the Duchess practised with one of the Emperos favourites to give the Emperor a certain drink, which she made him believe would make him mild and courteous: but as soon as he had taken it, he fell into a deep sleep, which held him so long, that they thought he would never have awaked again; for he slept three days and three nights, and no man could make him to move: but in the end he awoke, and found himself so ill, that contenting himself to settle the affairs of Italy in the best order that he could, he returned into Germany, hoping in his native country to recover his health. At what time as the Emperor ARNOLPH departed Italy, Pope FORMOSUS died, and after him BONIFACE the sixt was chosen, who was Pope but twenty six days; and then succeeded STEPHEN the sixt, who was so great an enemy to FORMOSUS and to his actions, that when he was Pope, he sought to disannullal matters done by him; which was an ill example, The sueceeding Pope condemned the precedents Actions. and whereof afterwards many evils ensued: for some Popes did the like by their predecessors, against whom they had conceived displeasure. This being done, Pope STEPHEN died in the third year of his papacy, and him succeeded ROMANUS, a Spaniard borne, who was Pope but three months. And after him came THEODORE the second, who held the chair but twenty days, in which time his chiefest care was to confirm the doings of FORMOSUS, which STEPHEN had disannulled; and after his death JOHN the tenth was chosen. While these Popes ran in such haste to death one after another, the Emperor ARNOLPH with his Army went into Germany and out lived them all, and reigned in prosperity, nothing befalling him worthy memory; but in the end he was The miserable death of the Emperor Arnolph. assailed with a kind of sickness, which proved the worst disease that could be imagined, and this was an infinite number of louse; wherewith he was so tormented and eaten, that he could not be cured thereof, but died: this happened in the year of our Lord, nine hundred and one, and in the twelfth year of his reign. ARNOLPH at his death left behind him three children which he had by his two wives; by his first wife, he had ARNOLPH, whom in his life time he made Duke of Baviere, and BERNARD Earl of a certain province: and by his second wife he had LEWES, who afterwards was Emperor; he had another base son called ZENEBALDUS, whom in his life time he made Duke of Lorraine; and one daughter called BERTA, married to the Duke of Cleve. In the time that ARNOLPH reigned, began the Dukes of Normandy; for the King or captain of the Normans married the daughter of CHARLES the Simple, king of France, and making himself to be Christened, was called ROBERT, whose son was the first Duke of Normandy. There were also Dukes in Burgundy of the house of France, which a long time after were called Kings: and in Saxony also, and in other parts, as hath been observed, and hereafter shall appear in this history: for the Kings and Emperorus of those times did use to govern their cities and provinces by perpetual Dukes, so as at that time were very great Earls and Dukes, and the Emperors governed Milan by an Earl, who was called Earl of Milan; the like they did by other provinces: whereof it afterwards ensued, that their estates become perpetual, they holding the same by inheritance. At this time the principal Earls of Castille, through the many murders and injuries committed by DON HORDONIO in that country, chose among themselves too to be judges between them, and to determine their differences and wars: which were HUNNO HUNNES RASURA, and LAIN CALVO: after this followed DON ALONSO the Son of DON FRVELA, who become a Monk. And the same year that the Emperor ARNOLPH died, DON RAMIRES reigned: this DON RAMIRES performed great matters against the Moors. In France reigned CHARLES the Simple. There were then Kings in England, in Denmark, in Moravia, in Provence, in Bulgaria: and in Polonia were Dukes, and so were still until the time of the Emperor OTHO. In Constantinople (as is abovesaid) CONSTANTINE the son of LEO, and nephew to the Emperor ALEXANDER, was Emperor, and reigned a long time, for he was Emperor thirty nine years: whereof fifteen were in the company of the tyrant ROMANUS. In the beginning of his reign (for that he was a child) he was governed by certain Princes, and by his mother ZOE, and had some wars with the King of the Bulgarians, which he ended with happy success; PHOCAS being General of his Army, who was of greatest account in his Court. Afterwards, through treachery, his soldiers abandoned him, and the Bulgarians become Lords and masters of the field, so as he was constrained to buy his peace of them for ready money. After this, in despite of himself and of his mother, one which of a petty Prince, was come to be of great power, was made CAESAR and his companion in the Empire, and had the superiority the other fifteen years that he lived, notwithstanding that they both had the title of Emperors: as we will tell you hereafter. THE LIFE OF jews THE FOURTH OF THIS NAME, AND FOURSCORE AND FOURTH ROMAN EMperor; And of CONSTANTINE the Second, Emperor of CONSTANTINOPLE; And of the Tyrants in ITALY. AFter the death of the Emperor ARNOLPH, there was great confusion in the Empire: the Italians and Romans desiring to make one Emperor that should be to their liking; and the Germans desiring to do the like, they fell at such variance, that the one party held one for Emperor, and the other part another; so as rightly there was not any. And some Historiographers accounted none, from these Emperors of which we now writ, till the time of OTHO the Second, which was for the space of threescore years, little more or less; 〈◊〉 that none of them were crowned by any Pope. Moreover, the History is written so confusedly and abruptly, that it can hardly be explained. The worst of all is, that those times were most unhappy through want and defect of Emperors: for, thereof infinite wars ensued; vices, insolences and rapines abounded, little justice was executed, learning decayed, virtue was naught setby, charity languished, and the Infidels in many places had the upper hand; until it pleased his divine Majesty to bring matters to a better estate. I say then, that the Germane Princes chose, for their King and Roman Emperor, LEWES the son of the Emperor ARNOLPH: but he could not (as soon as he desired) come into Italy; without which they never held themselves Lewes' chosen Emperor. for Emperors, holding Italy for the seat and original of the Empire: for the Hungars in those days were the most feared and redoubted Nation in the world, and which did greatest harm in Germany and in Italy; for, being freed from the fear of ARNOLPH, they broke the peace made with him, and made war upon the new Emperor LEWES in Italy: whereof, the chiefest Princes and of greatest power were the above named BERENGARIUS' Duke of Friuli, and GVIDIO Duke of Spoleto; who, of Dukes and Governors, become Tyrant-Lords, each of them pretending to be Emperor: but BERENGARIUS, being of great power in Lombardy put his designs in practice, and usurped the whole Country, and any place else that he could get, in despite of the Emperor, saying, that Italy was the true seat of the Roman Empire, and that Germany might rather be said to be the patrimony of CHARLES the Great his Successors, than the Empire. But LEWES, for that he was the son of an Emperor, and descended from CHARLES the Great who restored the Empire, pretended that Germany aught to choose the Emperor. Matters standing in these terms, the Hungars salied out of their Country, and began to rob and spoil the Countries of Austria and Baviere, using in them extreme cruelty with fire and sword. LEWES, being a courageous young man, was highly displeased with this their presumption; and, gathering together such troops of soldiers as he was able with the aid of his brethren went against them, and near to the river Licus they met; where LEWES greatly desired to come to blows with them: which the Hungars and Moravians perceiving, laid a stratagem for him; for, offering to give him battle, they retired, till they had drawn him within the danger of an ambush which they had laid in a wood; and there they maintained the Fight A battle between the jews and the Hungars. to their great advantage, in regard of the place: but the Fight was so well performed by the Emperor's people, that if the Hungars had not been rescued by their ambush, he had that day obtained a notable victory. But when the advantage was discovered, and that so great a number of men on every side came rushing out of the wood upon such a sudden, with so great force unexpected, the Imperialists began to retire, and afterwards to slay; in such manner, that the victory manifestly appeared on the Hungars side, and the Emperor was driven to save himself by flight: after which they did much harm throughout all Germany, the Emperor not being able to resist or make head against them; but was constrained to withdraw himself into the country, and secretly to give great sums of money to the Captains and principal men of the Hungars, to the end they should treat of a peace; and he openly gave great pay to their men of war, and promised to allow them yearly provision for their houses: by these means he freed his country from that misery for that time; but the peace continued not long. After this exploit; the Emperor, understanding that his base brother ZENEBALDUS governed the Country of Lorraine cruelly, and as a Tyrant, he deprived him of that Kingdom, and ●…eised it into his own hands, and took LVITGVARDA, the daughter of OTHO Duke of Saxony, to wife; which Province was then subject to the Empire. In those days France escaped not free from wars and troubles. The Emperor, thinking he had settled all matters in peace with the Hungars, saw himself in a new perplexity: for, they not content with the promised pay (which was very duly paid them) a great Army of them again invaded Germany; and the Emperor in person went against them, and fought with them twice in the Province of Baviere; and both times had the victory, although with great loss of men, and with no small difficulty and danger: but not knowing how to execute his victory, or to follow his good fortune, giving too much ear to some men's counsel; the Hungars fled into their country, who (in most men's opinions) might have been wholly ruined and defeated: where they reinforced and refreshed their troops, and did greater harm in the Empire, then at the first, and were so expert in the wars, and so greatly feared, that crossing through Germany, sacking and burning many towns, amongst which the city of Basil was one, they passed into Lorraine, which then contained the estates of Flaunders, Brabant, Gelder's, Cleve, Trevier, and many other provinces; in which they executed great cruelty: and with the like fury they returned the same way they went, burning and spoiling what before had escaped; and so they retired themselves into their country, laden with riches and spoils; but fewer in number than they came from thence. This people at that time was grown so proud, and of so great power, that all Nations bordering upon them stood in fear of them, and did as the rest did: for after the same manner as they had entered Baviere, they afterwards invaded Bulgaria, and the Emperor's countries of Graecia, sacking and burning his Cities; and constrained the Emperor CONSTANTINE to give them pay, and ordinary tribute, to be at peace with them; and the Emperor LEWES was driven to do the like, to assure Germany, from this raging fire. Historiographers writ, that in those days were great wars in France and Italy between BERENGARIUS and other Princes, and the like in other parts; and that Princes used fraud and treachery one against another: so as a man can writ nothing that is good of those times; so much did malice, ambition, pride and cruelty abound. It afterwards followed, that the Hungars, moved with the fame of the wealth and abundance of all things in Italy, and through the civil dissension which was therein (the ordinary gates by which destruction entereth into any Kingdom) and for that LEWES withstood them mightily in Germany, they resolved to ransack and make a conquest of Italy: for which attempt they levied greater forces than at any time before they had done. The fame hereof put all Italy into such a fear, that they chose BERENGARIUS for their Captain and defender, who was called Emperor; but till this time was not held for such. BERENGARIUS then with great diligence and expedition levied many soldiers both of foot and horse; and, at their coming The Hungars invaded Italy. into Italy, opposed himself against the Hungars; and coming to blows, fought a battle with them some Authors say two; wherein being overthrown he fled, and lost therein the greatest part of his Army, and retired himself into the estate of Milan, wherein consisted his greatest strength. The Hungars after this victory were Masters of the Field, and spoiled all the Country, taking and ransacking many Cities, and in less than one year overrun all the Land: in which time these Barbarians, moved with the bruit of the riches of the City of Venice, made Barks, Brigandines, and other vessels, therewith to have attempted it; and so they assailed the City, and took some of those Lands: but their coming was beforehand suspected, and therefore provided for; so as although they took some part thereof, yet the Venetians so fortified the rest with strong chains, and some places with walls, that, after some conflicts by sea and by land, they despairing to be able to take the City, returned to Padua, where they had left the remainder of their Cavallerie and their luggage. BERENGARIUS, seeing by force he could not deliver Italy from Berengarius bought his peace of the Hungars. the Hungars, put that remedy in practice which LEWES had used in Germany; which was, to treat of peace by way of money: whereto the Hungars gave ear, and it was concluded; and he gave them a huge sum of gold and silver, which by the industry of BERENGARIUS was collected from all parts of Italy: wherewith, and with the rest which they had stolen, they departed rich and victorious; which had so good a taste, that it made them come thither again. The coming of the Hungars into Italy, was in the time of Pope SERGIUS the Third: for, BENEDICT the fourth being dead, of whom it was said that he was a good Bishop (which aught The Hungars came the second time into Italy. not to be accounted for a small matter, considering how few were so in those times) LEO the Fift succeeded, who enjoyed that dignity but forty days; for, a great Cardinal called CHRISTOPHER, took him prisoner; who within few days died in prison, and CHRISTOPHER remained Pope tyrannously, and within 7 months (for, violence cannot last) was deprived, and put into a Monastery: and then was SERRGIUS the Third chosen, in whose time happened this calamity through the Hungars. But, returning to our History, I say that the Hungars being retired into their Country, Italy was not therefore free from troubles: for, the Moors of Africa infested the same with their fleets; and for all this, the civil factions & discord ceased not betwixt the Princes: for, EDILBET, marquis of Tuscan, who usurped that Country, being of great power, rebelled against BERENGARIUS; and the Pope's authority and power was not such as it had been, neither were they of such force by reason of their insufficiency and little worth, and through the want of the accustomed succours from France, which they had in the time of the successors of CHARLES the Great: which considered, LEWES was of opinion, that Italy might easily be subdued, & that he might bereave BERENGARIUS both of the name & dignity of Emperor, which he usurped. Whereupon with a great Army he came into Italy: against whom came BERENGARIUS with a good number of men of war; and they two fought a battle, wherein BERENGARIUS was overthrown, with little bloodshed, by reason of the small resistance made by his people; and LEWES went to the City of Verona, near to which the battle was fought, and lay there like a Conqueror, and as one that stood in fear of no man, and therefore careless: whereupon BERENGARIUS, albeit he was overcomn, practised with some within the City, and some also of the Emperors own people, to let him into the City; so as he entered it by night, and took LEWES prisoner. Others say, that LEWES had not the victory, but that he withdrew himself into the City for fear: and so in the manner (as I said) The difference betwixt authors about the taking of the Emperor jews, and his death. he fell into BERENGARIUS' power. But howsoever it was, BERENGARIUS had him prisoner, and put out his eyes, and so within few days through grief and sorrow he died; and BERENGARIUS remained sole Lord of the Empire of Italy. In this manner ended LEWES his Empire, which he held with so much trouble when he had reigned Emperor full eleven years; and died in the year of our Lord nine hundred & twelve, after the Abbot WESPERGENSIS his computation, which I follow: other Authors (of no small authority) as, BLONDUS and CUSPINIAN, recount this after another manner; saying, that this Emperor LEWES never came into Italy, neither was overthrown by BERENGARIUS; but that in the end he died of his natural death in Germany, and that that LEWES which was overthrown and taken in Verona, was LEWES the son of BOATSWAIN King of Provence, which came into Italy against BERENGARIUS, proclaiming himself Emperor; and that BERENGARIUS released him on his oath that he would come no more thither: which oath he afterwards broke. But in that manner as I have declared it is written by PLATINA, HENRICUS MUCIUS, NAUCLERUS, JOHANNES VTICUS, Saint ANTHONY, VOLATERANUS, and some others. In this time lived Pope SERGIUS the Third, and in Constantinople CONSTANTINE, and ROMANUS the tyrant, who reigned in despite of him. LEWES left not any son to succeed him. There befell also in his time great wars & combustions among the Princes of Germany; which was tyrannised sometime by one, and sometime by another, whereby his Empire was weakened, and came to be of less power. This was the last Emperor of the line of CHARLES the Great; yet in the Kingdom of France the succession continued, although within a while after it ended also, and passed to another line, which lasteth until this day. And in Spain then flourished the Flower of chivalry against the Infidels, conquering their Countries, and Kings which reigned therein, the Earl FERNANDO GONSALVES. In Hungary, TASSON first took upon him the authority of a King: which Country in former time was governed by Dukes and sundry other Magistrates, from the time of ATTILA, King of the Huns. This TASSON was grandfather to STEPHEN who was canonised for a Saint, and the first confirmed King by the authority of the Emperor FREDERICK. THE LIFE OF CONRADE, THE FIRST OF THAT NAME, AND FOURSCORE AND FIFT ROMAN EMperor; And of those which in his time took the name of Emperors in ITALY; And of Constantine the Emperor of Constantinople. THE ARGUMENT. jews being dead, there arose a contention between the French and the Germans, about the Empire: for, either of these two Nations pretended to have a just title to choose an Emperor, by reason of their ancient authority and custom. But in the end the Germans, prevailing, would have chosen Otho Duke of Saxony; who, for that he was already old, and unfit to govern the Empire so much troubled, refused the charge, and counselled them to choose Conrade Duke of Franconia: who, by the consent of the Germans, and of a good part of the French, being made Emperor, was ever ruled by the counsel of the old Duke Otho: and he dying, left a son called Henry, whom Conrade suspected and feared. And taking occasion of war, he bent his force against him, notwithstanding that his father made such account of him, that he preferred him to the Empire; and only seeking means to bring him to destruction, took no care how matters went in Italy, which was extremely turmoiled. Conrades' brother, fight a battle with Henry, was by him overthrown: whereupon Conrade, seeing the loss and the dishonour, reinforced his Army to be revenged; and sending Ambassaedors' to Henry to submit and yield himself, they were not heard, neither could they come to any composition of peace. Whilst he was busied in this action, Conrade fell very sore sick: and, knowing his end to be nigh; more regarding the good of the Empire, than his own private passion, he chose his enemy Henry for his successor, and commanded his brother to yield him obedience; which was a very heroical deed, and befitting a Christian. THe time of the Emperor LEWES was troublesome and tempestuous, and his death caused no calm, but brought greater storms in all estates; for in his time the Imperial power was divided into two heads, in Italy, and in Germany, which were, LEWES and BERENGARIUS: and LEWES being dead, one alone pretended not, but many, to succeed him both in name and in the dignity of the Empire: France would have nominated an Emperor, alleging that sith that the line of CHARLES the Great was extinct in Germany, and that in France the same remained, and that Germany was conquered by the same CHARLES; in right therefore the title of the Empire appertained to his successors, Contention between the Germane, Frenchmen and Italians, about the election of the Emperor. and so it aught to return to the Crown of France; for CHARLES the Great had it not with the Empire as he had Italy, but it was given to him being King of France, and by that title his successors held the same. The Princes of Germany denied this, fearing to return under the subjection of the French, and stood upon the possession and authority to choose the Emperor; alleging for their reason, that the Empire was transported to the Germans in the person of CHARLES the Great and that Germany was the Empire, and not the Kingdom of France, and that they were in possession thereof. The Italians said, that Italy was the ancient true seat of the Empire, and that they gave it to CHARLES, and had authority to give it unto any other: and so they called and held BERENGARIUS for Emperor, notwithstanding his competitors. In France, LEWES, the son of BOS●…N King of Pro●…nce, challenged the Empire, for that he descended from CHARLES the Great. But the Germans, who seemed to have the best right and chiefest authority, and have so continued (having not any that might succeed LEWES, for he had no sons) chose OTHO Duke of Saxony for Emperor, a man of great wisdom and valour: but he would not Otho, duke of Saxony, chosen Emperor, refused the Empire. accept 〈◊〉 that Empire which others so much desired; for, as he was now old, so he knew that the affairs of the Empire stood in such estate, that they needed a man of greater power, and of longer life than himself. The Lords Name be blessed, that in time of so great ambition, one man was found that refused to be an Emperor. OTHO then answered those which had chosen him Emperor, that he had neither such health nor strength as to be able to govern the Empire, and therefore would not undertake a burden which he was not able to bear: but he would assist them with his best counsel; concluding, that in his opinion CONRADE Duke of Franconia was worthy to be chosen, in whom all the qualities and virtuous conditions did concur, that might seem requisite in an Emperor: And so by common consent of the Germans, and part of the French, CONRADE was chosen and obeyed for Emperor, who (as some writ) descended from CHARLES the Great. And he presently began to govern the Empire, and in all things followed the counsel and advice of OTHO, by whose means he obtained it: and so the first year he lived and ruled very happily. But the great Dukes and Princes of Germany waxing envious, and desirous to reign, ARNOLD Duke of Baviere rebelled against him, and went into Hungary, and induced the Hungars and their King to war upon the new Emperor; whereupon, in the second year of his Reign, a sharp and cruel war began: but, as he was very valiant and expert in Arms, so he drew his forces to an head, and came to a battle with the Hungars, and overthrew them, and constrained them to fly into their Country; and so freed Germany from that peril. And although afterwards it was sometimes molested, yet by his diligence and courage it was ever defended: and so he maintained the same in peace as long as Duke OTHO lived, upon whose counsel he chief relied, but never durst come to make war in Italy. After the death of OTHO, who left one son behind him called HENRY, who was a very gallant young man, and of great power, CONRADE began to suspect him; which was the occasion of the troubles which I will relate. BERENGARIUS' being held in Italy for Emperor, besides CONRADE who with better title was Emperor in Germany; LEWES, the son of BOATSWAIN King of Provence, determined to come into Italy to deprive BERENGARIUS of that Empire; who held it, not without great vexation and trouble; aswell with the Princes of Italy (whereof some rebelled against him) as with the Infidels and Hungars which infested the same. And (as I said before) some Authors writ, that this LEWES came the first time to the same purpose, and was overthrown by BERENGARIUS, and this (as I believe) was the first; and if it were the second, he came being called by some of BERENGARIUS' enemies. And notwithstanding that in the beginning of the wars he had good success, yet in the end he was overthrown, and constrained to flee. Thus much shall suffice for him, the matter being so doubtful. Yet here is some diversity among Authors; whereof some say, At that time reigned in Italy BERENGARIUS the Second, with the title of Emperor; as his father had done, who was son of the other BERENGARIUS before named; others attribute it to the father alone: but to the end we may the better understand the matter, we yield that this was the second BERENGARIUS, for that we shall hereafter have occasion to treat of another, which shall be the third. I say then, that at what time CONRADE was Emperor in Germany, and BERENGARIUS in Italy, poor Italy (besides domestic & civil wars) was afflicted with other far more grievous & pitiful. This was, for that the Towns which the Greek Empire held in Calabria and Pulia, together with the partialities and factions which were in them, were not in subjection: whereupon CONSTANTINE, who at that time reigned in Constantinople, or (as others say) ROMANUS the Tyrant, which with him governed the Empire for a time, procured the aid of the Moors in Africa, and of the Arabians; of which a great number came into Italy, giving it out, that they came to help the Greeks' to recover their right; under colour whereof, they The coming of the Moors into Italy. become Lords of all Pulia, Calabria, and the rest which containeth now the kingdom of Naples; and they drew so near to Rome, that they sought to have taken the same, without regard of the Emperor of Constantinople, under whose name they first came into Italy. The cause of all which miseries, were the wars and troubles between the Christians: for CONRADE Emperor of Germany was busied in making war against HENRY Duke of Saxony, the son of OTHO: BERENGARIUS was perplexed with the wars against LEWES the son of BOATSWAIN king of Provence, and others which for brevity I overpass: and another occasion was, the small authority and little worth of the Popes of Rome. But Pope JOHN the eleventh, whom some call the tenth, seeing this great necessity, sent to ALBERICUS marquis of Tuscan, or (as some Authors say) to his brother, which was the greatest Lord in all Italy (BERENGARIUS excepted) with whose father BERENGARIUS had war and controversy; who promised him secure: and gathering all his forces together, with the aid of many others which followed him in that enterprise, he went to Rome, wherein the Pope had already levied an indifferent good Army, which he joined with ALBERICUS his forces; and so he marched against his enemies: some writ that the Pope in person went to this war, which had such happy success, that besides many encounters, ALBERICUS fought one battle against the whole power of the Moors; wherein, notwithstanding that it was very sharp and doubtful, yet in the end he got the victory; after which he was so absolutely master of the field, that he found not any one to make head against him, and so in short time recovered all that the Moors held in Italy; excepting some little, and certain fortresses near to Mount Garganus in Pulia; whither the remainder of those Moors retired themselves: whom for that he then forbore wholly to ruinated (an error for want of foresight) it was the occasion of many calamities which ensued. ALBERICUS having obtained so noble a victory, and leaving it in such estate, as it seemed an easy matter for any other to have effected the rest; he returned to Rome, where he was received with great pomp and triumph: but within few days there arose discord and controversy between him and the Pope, each of them attributing to himselife the honour of that journey: whereupon ALBERICUS went discontented out of the City; whereof afterwards ensued great wars and mischiefs: and he was so overcomn with rage and desire to be revenged, that as soon as he came into his country, he began to practise against the Pope, and to move the Hungars to war in Italy, promising them his aid and assistance, thinking it a small matter for him to have made himself Lord of Rome. The Hungars came into Italy, and it pleased God that the greatest harm they did there, was in the said marquis ALBERICUS own countries, and amongst his subjects. In the mean time that Italy was thus oppressed, the Emperor CONRADE (whose life we now writ) sought the ruin of HENRY Duke of Saxony, who was the son of that OTHO by whose direction and counsel he was chosen and made Emperor, and was by him governed in the beginning of his reign, as heretofore hath been showed. The principal cause hereof, was the fear and jealousy which he conceived of him: for this HENRY was a young man of very great courage and valour, and above measure desirous of rule; and in the wars of Hungary had done great service to this Emperor CONRADE, and to his predecessor LEWES, against ARNOLPH Duke of Baviere, which fled into Hungary, as we have said: by reason whereof, HENRY was generally so much beloved and esteemed, that CONRADE stood in fear to be dispossessed by him of his Empire, and that he would have rebelled against him, and therefore he resolved (if he might) to make him away: first practising his death by fraud and cunning; and that taking no effect, he resolved not to dissemble any longer, but sent his brother EBERARD with an Army to destroy his country, and if he might to bereave him of his life: for which fact he become infamous, and all his actions were attributed to incomparable ingratitude: but his passion was such as he nevertheless continued his intended course. But HENRY governed himself so discreetly, and had already levied such an Army of Saxons, which were his subjects and friends, that he met with EBERARD in the field, and gave him battle; wherein his people behaved themselves so valiantly, that the Emperor's brother was overthrown, with the loss of the greatest part of his Army, and himself escaped by flight. CONRADE being advertised hereof (in extreme choler) raised the greatest power he could make, and called all the Princes against HENRY, first sending Ambassadors unto him, to persuade him to yield to his mercy, and not to persevere in his contumacy; who concluded nothing: but returning, they reported that in their presence one of Duke HENRY'S captains, whose name was DIEMATE, said, that the Duke had no reason to come to any agreement; for he knew that thirty legions of soldiers were coming to his aid. These words strake such a fear into the Emperor's Army, that without any battle, or sight of any enemy, the greatest part thereof disbanded; whereupon he was driven to retire, with a determination to return with greater force. But God, in whose hand are the hearts of Princes, in very The hearts of Kings are in the hands of God. short time altered his purposes; for CONRADE was assailed with an extreme sickness, whereof he afterwards died. And knowing that his end drew near, he in great haste sent for the Princes of the Empire; the principal of which at that time were BUCARD Duke of Suevia, SIGISBERT Duke of Lorraine, and his brother EBERARD, whom he had made King of Franconia, and many others, excepting ARNOLD Duke of Baviere, who remained in Hungary, and HENRY Duke of Saxony which rebelled. These Princes being in this manner assembled, the Emperor, as a wise man and a good Christian, having more regard to the good government of the Empire, than to his own choler or private passion (which is an extrordinary example) made unto them a very set speech; wherein in conclusion he exhorted and counselled them, that after his decease (which, so fare as he could comprehend, would be shortly) they should choose the same HENRY Duke of Saxony (who then was in his disgrace) for Emperor: for, notwithstanding that he had a brother whom he loved very well, and was worthy of great estate, yet he nevertheless chose HENRY, as only worthy to be an Emperor, and his successor; for, as he very Conrade chose his enemy Henry for his successor in the Empire. well knew, he was an excellent man, and endued with virtue, and with all the conditions which were requisite in a good Prince; and that he pardoned and restored him to his grace and favour, and that this was his last will, counsel and resolution. The Noble mind and counsel of the Emperor was generally commended; only his brother EBERARD shown himself grieved and discontented: but CONRADE persuaded him to patience, and recommended to them all, peace and concord. Than he made the Sword, the Sceptre, the Robe, and the other Imperial ensigns to be brought before him: and by the consent of all the Princes, he appointed and charged his brother to carry the same to HENRY, and in his name to make his peace and friendship with him, and to yield him obedience as to his sovereign Lord: which he performed, and continued in HENRY'S good grace and love so long as he held the Empire; which truly was a most noble part of both these brethren: of the Emperor, in making choice of his enemy for his successor: and of his brother, in voluntarily obeying him which was chosen. This his good resolution being concluded, and put in execution, within few days after CONRADE departed out of this life, leaving neither son nor daughter; when he had reigned only seven years or somewhat less, in the year of our Lord, 920; CONSTANTINE yet holding the The death of the Emperor Conrade. Empire of Constantinople. In Italy reigned BERENGARIUS with the title of Emperor, notwithstanding that he held no part thereof, but Lombardy only, and some cities near thereunto adjoining, and those not without wars and troubles, with LEWES son to the King of Provence. The state of Italy being such as I said, the Hungars invaded it, being called thither by ALBERICUS Marquis of Tuscan, and ruined the country: and on the other side the Moors of Africa sallying out of such places as they held in Pulia, troubled the state of the Church of Rome, and the frontiers thereof. And betwixt ALBERICUS and the Romans was war and discord. Forasmuch as in the life of this Emperor CONRADE, mention was made of ARNOLD Duke of Baviere, and for that heretofore this province hath been treated of, as of a kingdom, and so it is said, that LEWES King of Germany, in the division made between his three sons, made CARLOMAN King of Baviere, and now we call ARNOLD, Duke thereof, which seemeth to be a contradiction: let the Reader therefore know, that in this province (as in all others) there have been great alterations: the last was, that after the said CHARLES, the Emperor ARNOLPH succeeded in the state of Baviere, and after ARNOLPH the Emperor LEWES; who dying without issue, made this ARNOLD Duke of Baviere: and afterwards in process of time, in this Kingdom happened many alterations and changes, and in the end it joined with the state of the County Palatine of Rhine: and afterwards it was again divided; and so through sundry accidents, it came to that estate wherein it is at this day. THE LIFE OF HENRY, THE FIRST OF THAT NAME, AND THE FOURSCORE AND SIXT ROMAN EMPEROR; AND OF CONSTANTINE Emperor of Graecia: And of those which in his time were called Emperors. THE ARGUMENT. HEnry being chosen Emperor, first he applied himself to pacify the troubles of Germany, which were very tumultuous; but above all, to assure the highways from thiefs, grown by reason of the wars; and to maintain justice. There arose against him one Arnold, who lived in Hungary as a banished man; and each of them having levied a great Army, and being in a manner ready to have come to the shock, Henry called Arnold to a parley, and knew so well how to persuade him, that he overcame him with words, which per adventure he should not have done by Arms; and Arnold become his obedient subject. He took truce with the Hungars, and subdued the Slavonians: but the time of the truce being expired between him and the Hungars, and new occasions of war arising, they came in the end to fight; where the Emperor obtained so great a victory, that all the Princes of Christ endome sent to rejoice with him for the same. This good Emperor had set his mind upon the affairs of Italy, and purposed to have freed the Church from Hugh, and other Tyrants: but God, who had otherwise determined, when he was providing for his journey, visited him with a mortal infirmity; and he knowing his life to be near to an end, ordained, by the consent of all the Princes, his eldest son Otho for his successor, having reigned seventeen years, and lived sixty. THE election which the Emperor CONRADE before his decease made of HENRY Duke of Saxony, naming him Emperor and his successor, is to be thought to have been done by God's inspiration; for he proved a good Prince, and worthy the Imperial majesty. As soon then as CONRADE was deceased, all the States received him for their Emperor, and did him homage, calling him HENRY AUCEPS, that is to say, the Falconer, for The Emperor Henry called Henricus Auceps. that he took great pleasure in Hawking; and when the news was brought him that he was chosen Emperor, he was found busy in that exercise, which he used at times of leisure for his recreation, without omitting any care for his business. He then taking upon him the government of the Empire, applied himself to do justice, with a desire severely to punish the wicked; chief those which rob by the high ways side, to the end that men might pass in safety, which by reason of the wars had done much harm. He gave himself also to pacify all discord and dissension, and to establish peace and concord between the Princes, who for matters past were at variance amongst themselves: for all which he provided a good remedy, employing his wit, authority and power; and being obeyed by all men, excepting BUCCARD Duke of Suevia, who with the favour of France (for that he was son in law to the Duke of Burgundy) attempted some innovations: against whom the Emperor raised forces; but the matter was pacified, and the Duke acknowledged the Emperor for his Lord and Superior. Besides this, it happened (which some report before this time) that ARNOLD Duke of Baviere, which (as we said) for fear of CONRADE, lived as an exile in Hungary, returned to his Country, and gathering together a great number of Hungars, was so hardy as to call himself Emperor, and to deny his obedience to the Emperor HENRY; which he understanding, levying his old subjects of Saxony, and others of the Empire, went with a mighty Army against ARNOLD, who likewise marched towards him; and as a good Christian, being much grieved for the tronbles which were likely to have ensued, forbore not to procure ARNOLD to give over his attempt: and it pleased God that his good desire took effect in this manner: Both the Armies being in a readiness to fight, notwithstanding it was apparent that the Emperor had the greater number, and better and more choice men; yet he sent ARNOLD word by a Trumpet, that he, upon sufficient security, should come and speak with him; which ARNOLD performed: where the Emperor, among many grave, good, and discreet speeches, spoke unto him in these words: Take heed ARNOLD, and consider that what thou dost, is to oppose thyself against Speeches used by Henry to Arnold. God's ordinance, who is the giver of kingdoms and worldly power: Thou mayst know that I was chosen of him by the mouth of my predecessor CONRADE, before his death; and that to this election have consented all the estates of Germany, and thou only seekest to resist the will of God, and the general consent of all men. I say unto thee, take heed what thou dost, and I advice thee to come to my obedience, and I will use thee as my son or my brother: and if thou wilt not do this, I take God for judge between thee and me. And one thing I will swear and assure thee, that if it had pleased his divine Majesty that thou hadst been chosen Emperor as I am, I would have been an obedient subject, and have served thee faithfully: wherefore I pray thee, that sith I am so, thou wilt do the like by me. Thou mayest see that I entreat thee for peace, at such time as my party hath the advantage in the wars; consider well what thou dost, for I will not fail in any thing, that I have promised. These and such like speeches were of such force, and so much moved ARNOLD, that he presently submitted himself and his country unto the Emperor HENRY, and from thenceforth was ever most obedient unto him, Arnold submitted himself to Henry. without any remembrance of matters past. There happened likewise discord between HENRY and the house and kingdom of France, about the sovereignty of the province and Duchy of Lorraine; nevertheless coming to a peace and agreement, matters passed prosperously, and he continued Lord thereof. And so Germany (by means of his good government) took a taste of the fruits which justice and the tranquillity of peace bring forth. But in Italy notwithstanding that BERENGARIUS was called Emperor, the want of such a Prince as HENRY, wrought the contrary: it shall not be amiss therefore to speak of what followed, while that HENRY was busy about these matters. It is already said, how that between Pope JOHN and the Romans of the one side, and ALBERICUS marquis of Tuscan of the other, were great wars, after the victory obtained against the Infidels; and how that ALBERICUS had induced the Hungars to come into Italy against the city of Rome, and that the greatest harm they did, was in his own countries, God permitting it as a punishment for his wickedness; yet they did great spoils in the Church lands. The Hungars having in this manner rob the country, BERENGARIUS who was called Emperor, came to a composition with them; which was, that they should departed out of Italy, in consideration of a great sum of money which was given them. And Pope JOHN and the Romans (in revenge of the injury received from ALBERICUS) levied an Army, which was broken and overthrown by the Hungars, the Duke of Spoleto being General of that Army; and ALBERICUS was besieged in a town of his called Ortano, and was therein taken and slain. At the same time the Infidels which remained in Pulia levying new forces and supplies renewed the wars, which was not foreseen in time by reason of the domestical discord, and they took many castles and cities, while the Pope applied himself to be revenged of ALBERICUS; and their power so much increased that the people voluntarily yielded themselves, by reason of the small relief which they had from the Emperor of Constantinople, in whose dominion the greatest part of those countries was, or from BERENGARIUS, or from the Pope, until that fear seized Rome: wherein making ●…taine Earl called GVIDO their General, they levied a good Army and it pleased God 〈◊〉 give him the victory, and he made the Moors to retire themselves into those holds which they held before the bringing in of this second war, and so the city was freed from that fear. But this brave and glorious exploit Earl GVIDO afterwards Pope john the twelfth taken prisoner, and slain by the Earl Guido. blemished with the foulest fact that can be spoken, and such a one as my members tremble to hear it, and my hand to writ it. For this Earl GVIDO afterwards coming to Rome, with a resolution to make himself Lord thereof, he seized on the Pope and slow him, and made another Pope; but his purpose took no effect: for he whom he made Pope was presently deposed, and LEO the sixt chosen, who was Pope but seven months; and him succeeded STEPHEN the seventh: Whilst these matters passed in Rome and the marches thereof, BERENGARIUS the Emperor (whom we may call Italian) lived not free from troubles; for through the instigation of Rodulph deposed Berengarius. certain I●…alian Lords, RODVIPH Duke of Burgundy with a great Army came into Italy with the title of Emperor, where he found so many friends (especi●…lly in Lombardy) that in very short space he dispossessed BERENGARIUS, and was ●…ade Emperor and King of Italy; and BERENGARIUS fled into Hungary, thinking there to have found relief: where, as saith BLONDUS The death of Berengarius. and some others, he died, and that BERENGARIUS the nephew of the first BERENGARIUS, was he which came afterwards, as shall be specified. Some writ that he died in Italy, slain by the treason of Count FLAMBERT, who was his gossip: But howsoever, he died deprived of his dignity: and he of whom we are to treat, was nephew to the first BERENGARIUS, the son o●… his daughter, and of a marquis, which was his son in Law. I writ thus much for that there is a great confusion amongst Authors about these BERENGARII tyrant Rodulph Duke of Burgundy Emperor in Italy. Emperors, for that they all were of one name. RODULPH remaining with the victory in Italy was called Emperor, and held his Empire there the space of three years in prosperity: In which time the Emperor HENRY in Germany overthrew and repelled the Hungars; which after their departure out of Italy went into Germany, wherein they did much harm: But (as I say) the Emperor put them to rout, and chased them thence, and taking their General prisoner, constrained them to sue to him, and to make peace for ten years; he restoring to them their General The coming of the Hungars ●…to Italy. without ransom, yet they offered a great sum of money for him. RODULPHUS having feigned three years in Italy, the Hungars whose ordinary quality was to spoil their neighbours and other Provinces; solicited thereto by BERENGARIUS the nephew, under the conduct of a great man called FALARDUS, came into Italy, and encamped before Pavia, which they besieged▪ for relief whereof RODULPHUS made so small provision, that the inhabitants of the country discontented with his government, conspired against him, and slew his father-in-law The coming of Hugh Duke of Orleans into Italy. BOCARD Duke of Saxony, who came to see Milan; and then they called and solicited HUGH Duke of Arles, a Frenchman, to come to their defence, promising to receive him for their King and Lord, and to make him Emperor; which he accepted, notwithstanding his nearness in blood to RODULPH: and he came with so many good men of war, and with such favour of the Italians, that none of his enemies durst encounter him: and RODULPH leaving Italy, returned into Burgundy, where he afterwards had such success, that he was for a space King of France; and HUGH continued in Italy, and subdued a greater part thereof then any of the other tyrants had done, banishing such as he suspected, and rewarding his friends: he procured peace and friendship with the Emperor HENRY; which he granted, thereby to settle peace in Germany with the Hungars, and with other nations and Princes. And he afterwards prevailed against ARNOLPH Duke of Baviere: So that HUGO was a greater Lord and of greater power than any of long time had been in Italy; where leaving him until his turn, we will return to our Emperor HENRY. H●…NRY having overthrown the Hungars, and made peace with them for nine or ten years; as an ambitious Prince, and desirous to enlarge his Empire, after that he had taken care for the establishment of peace and justice, and for the good government thereof, he levied an Army, and sent the same into the countries of Slavonia and Dalmatia, from which he had been annoyed and endamaged: and overthrowing the inhabitants thereof in battle, he took many towns in those Provinces, and doing therein great harm; victorious and laden with spoils, he joyfully returned into Germany. The next year after this victory (which was the tenth year of his reign) he marched with his power against the Bohemians and WENCESLAUS their Duke, for that many of them held not the true faith, and also for that they refused to be subject to the Henry brought the Bohemians into subjection. Empire, and against him had assisted the Hungars: Wherein he shown such valour, that overthrowing the Duke, he took Prague, which is the chief City thereof, and brought that kingdom into such subjection, as was the rest of Germany, and so it continued all this Duke's life time. This war being thus happily ended, another followed, which was against the Danes, who with a mighty Navy came into Friesland, and into Saxony, and took certain Towns there; but he made them to fly out of all that country, to their great loss: and he also overthrew those of Norway, which then were called Abroditi. HENRY having obtained so great and so many victories, the time of the peace with the Hungars being expired, they presently sent their Ambassadors to him, to require certain pay granted to their Ancestors, at what time as peace was made with them; whereto HENRY gave no good answer; for he accounted it a matter unworthy the Majesty of an Emperor, to pay tribute for peace: wherewith the Hungars were so much incensed, that with their Duke or Captain (for at that time they had not the dignity of a King) they issued out of their confines with the most flourishing Army that ever they had, and began to war with greater fury and cruelty, than ever they had done at any time before, and never stayed until they came into Saxony, and into other places which were the Emperor HENRY'S Patrimony, where they did much harm, and shown great cruelty; which was done so suddenly, that HENRY in the beginning could not prevent it: But in short space he levied a great Army; and notwithstanding that he was extremely sick, yet neither the Princes, nor his Physicians could stay him, but that he would go with his Army: and encountering the Hungars (being so weak that he could hardly sit his Horse) he offered them battle, which they refused not; where the Emperor, although with a weak and low voice, made a speech to his soldiers, which did so much encourage them, that they presently charged with such force, and the Hungars (being a most valiant Nation) fought with such eagerness and fury, that it was one of the most bloody and cruel battles of the world: But in the end the valiant courage of the Emperor HENRY so much prevailed, that he obtained the victory, and slew an infinite number of the Hungars, and many of them were likewise slain upon The Emperor Henry his vi●…ory against the Hungars. the way as they fled; and those which survived, fled scattered into their country; from whence they never after returned as long as the Emperor HENRY lived. He won so great reputation and glory by this victory, that all the Prince's Christian, sent their Ambassadors to him, to congratulate, and to desire his friendship: But with the greatest instance came Ambassadors from HUGH, who in Italy was called Emperor. HENRY was likewise called by his subjects, semper Augustus, Pater Patriae, and other ancient names and titles of honour; and he as a good Christian gave thanks to God; and the tribute which at other times he had paid to the Hungars, he made to be distributed among the poor, and so did other good deeds, and ruled the Empire in such manner that Germany enjoyed both peace and justice, which are two blessings which make mighty and rich kingdoms. Italy in the mean time endured war and misery; for the Empire of HUGH which last reigned, being turmoiled with war and discord, was neither firm nor good, but Tyrannical and violent: by reason whereof the Infidels which in Pulia held certain Towns and fortresses, made ordinary incursions upon their neighbours. And at that time a mighty Navy of Moors came out of Africa, upon the coast of Genoa and of Tuscan; and taking land did great harm, spoiling many places, amongst which they besieged the City of Genoa: and the multitude and force of the Infidels was so great, that notwithstanding that the besieged fought very Genoa besieged and taken by the Moors. valiantly, yet they entered it by force; all the Genoese coming first to the fight in defence of thire City. After that the Infidels had entered it, they put all those to the sword which were able to bear Arms; and spoiling and sacking it, left nothing therein that was worth the carriage: and all boys, women and children they took prisoners, and carried aboard their ships and galleys, which they led away with them; and so left Genoa desolate and without any inhabitants: yet some prisoners were soon released, and some were taken in their fleets at Sea, and elsewhere, which reinhabited the City: nevertheless it was long before it could recover itself of this calamity: And some writ that the Infidel's horse troops were taken upon the way, and that the prisoners were not carried into Africa. The Emperor understanding hereof, and being well informed of the state of Italy, and that setting aside that which the Church held by so many titles and donations, all the remainder of that Western Empire, excepting some Towns in Pulia, was held by the Greeks', he therefore resolved to go thither in person with a mighty Army, to free Italy from the yoke of HUGH, and of other Tyrants; and to reform and reduce the same to such order as it aught to hold, and as he had established in Germany. And beginning to make preparation for his journey, and having mustered up his men of war, it pleased God to dispose thereof after another manner; for he was taken with a most deadly infirmity; and knowing that his end drew near, using such diligence as a good Christian aught to do, he gave order that all the Princes (if possibly it might be) might be assembled; with whose good will and consent he ordained his son OTHO (whom The death of the Emperor Henry. he had by his wife MAUD) Emperor and his successor: and his sickness increasing, within few days after he yielded his soul to God, being of the age of threescore years, in the seventeenth year of his reign, and in the year of our Lord, 937. He left two other sons beside OTHO: the one was called, by his name, HENRY, who was afterwards Duke of Baviere (for ARNOLDS' sons were deprived of that estate) he being married to his daughter JUDITH; and one other son called BRUNUS, who was Archbishop of Colein; and he had one daughter whose name was GERBIRGA, who was married to a Duke; and another called ADALCIDA, which was married in Africa to Count Paris; and another called MAUD which was a Nun. In Constantinople ended the Empire of CONSTANTINE, when he had reigned eight and thirty years, in company with the Tyrant ROMANUS; and part (as I said) alone; in which time he had great conflicts in the Eastern parts, with the Infidels in Asia, and with the Bulgarians in Europe; amongst which he won one battle by Sea against the king of Russia, wherein were above a thousand sail of ships, which came to the coast of Constantinople, by the Sea called Euxinum; and other great accidents happened too long to relate: At the end whereof he died, leaving his Empire to his son, which after his Grandfather's name was called ROMANUS; The death of Constantine Emperor of Constantinople. for CONSTANTINE had to wife the daughter of the other ROMANUS which was the Tyrant, of women I have already made mention. This CONSTANTINE was a good Prince, very devout, and excellently well learned in Humanity. THE LIFE OF OTHO, THE SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND FOURSCORE & SEVENTH ROMAN Emperor. And of ROMANUS, and the rest which were Emperors in Grecia. THE ARGUMENT. OTho succeeding in the Empire, was much troubled; for not only the Princes of Germany, but even his own brethren and kinsmen made war against him, and fought bloody battles with him: of which, after long troubles he had honourable victories? He also freed his brother in law jews king of France from certain Dukes which oppressed him. He was by the Pope called into Italy against Berengarius; and coming with a great Army, forced him to fly. Afterwards his son, and one Conrade his son in law, whom he had left for the defence of Italy, rebelling against him, and in the end the son coming to a battle with the father (a thing more beseeming Turks and Infidels than Christians) was the loser, and his father's prisoner; who seeing with how great humility, and with how many tears he sued for his life and pardon, he restored him at length to his grace: and be afterwards become most obedient. After this war there grew a greater, made by the the Hungars and Slavons, which the Emperor happily ended. He again came into Italy, by reason of Berengarius, who tyrannised the same, and forced him to fly; and coming to Rome he was crowned Emperor by Pope john. Many other rebellion's ensuend by the Popes and the Romans against the Emperor, whilst he warred against Berengarius and his son: of which, having fortunate succ●…sse he returned into Germany, and ordained his son Otho his successor; where being old, and busied in virtuous exercises, he yielded his soul to God. BEing come to writ the life of OTHO the first of that name of the Germane Emperors, of whom I am now to treat; it This Otho is called the first, for that he is first of the German Emperors called by that name. fareth with me, in my opinion, as with one which hath wandered, and is now again returned into his right way. I make this comparison, for that there are some which accounted not those amongst the Emperors, which I have placed after ARNOLPH, the son of CARLOMAN, until this OTHO; of whom I say, that after the death of his father, he found no contradiction in attaining to the name and dignity of Emperor of Germany; for his father HENRY before his death had nominated him for his successor. Truly this OTHO was very well worthy of the Empire: for he was a Prince of an excellent wit, and of a wonderful great and noble mind; and his great valour was accompanied with singular humanity and clemencio▪ but notwithstanding all these deserts and virtues of a good Prince, yet there were many great insurrections and rebellions against him; and he was a Prince which had greater wars than any other then living, for the space of of thirty and odd years that he held the Empire; in which time he passed many adventures, and obtained great victories: and notwithstanding that he underwent sundry dangers and hazards, yet he ever shown himself mild, and pitiful to the vanquished; which (in my opinion) in the end made his Empire more stable and firm, than all the victories which he obtained. As soon as his father was dead, he was in the city of Aken, or Aquisgran chosen Emperor, and anointed and crowned by OLDERICUS Archbishop of Mentz, all the Princes of Germany (which could come) being there present; and the rest which could not, wrote their Letters, and sent their Ambassadors, acknowledging their obedience: And so his beginning was very peaceable and highly esteemed, and he shown himself just, and valiant, and governed the estate with wisdom and clemency. It happened presently after this, that BOISLAUS, brother Boislaus slew his brother Wenceslaus by treason. to the Duke of Bohemia (which at that time had not the title of King) by treason slew his brother WENCESLAUS (for so was he called) to the end to have the Sovereignty; and rebelled against the Emperor: whereof when OTHO was advertised, moved with the hatred and vileness of the fact (for WENCESLAUS was a just and faithful Prince, and his father HENRY had received him for his servant and his subject, after that (as we have heretofore said) he had subdued him, he resolved to sand a good Army, under the leading of a valiant Captain: whom the tyrant Duke attended in the field, and therewith fought a terrible battle; and was overthrown with so great loss of his people, that the Imperial General assuring himself of the victory, was less careful and circumspect, than he aught to have been; but BOISLAUS within few days reinforcing his Army, gathered courage from the others neglect; and charging him suddenly in disorder and unawares, overthrew him, and slew the greatest part of his people: wherewith OTHO was highly displeased, and sending thither a new supply he sufficiently reinforced his Army: But BOISLAUS was grown so haughty, and had such relief from the Hungars, that the wars grew to be doubtful, and of long continuance, and in the mean time others happened; but OTHO'S courage and resolution was so great, that he never forgot to provide for this war, during the fury of all the other, as we will declare: yet it lasted fourteen years, before he could obtain any complete victory; and than BOISLAUS yielded as you shall hear. The Emperor proceeding in this war of Bohemia; in the greatest heat thereof, there began civil and domestical combustions and Insurrections, which resolved into a very cruel war, the beginning whereof was this. EBERARD which (as I remember) was brother to the Emperor CONRADE, and carried the Imperial ensigns to the Emperor HENRY, father of this OTHO, being a great Lord, rich and mighty, did an injury to an Earl, a man of less account than himself, and burned a town of his; which for that the new Emperor would not suffer to escape free, he condemned him in a sum of money, and to be imprisoned and banished: which sentence highly displeased EBERARD, expecting opportunity to show his discontent. It happened also that a base brother of the Emperors called DAUZMAR, found himself grieved, for that the Emperor had not given him the government of the Province of Saxony, with the title of Earl, which was OTHO'S patrimony by the death of Earl 〈◊〉, lately deceased. In like manner the sons of ARNOLD Duke of Baviere, who then died, were discontent, for that OTHO had given that estate to his elder brother BERTOLD; and they would not accept of the Earldom, and of that part which the Emperor had assigned them: wherefore upon this occasion EBERARD made a league with them, and with SIGISBERT Duke of Lorraine, notwithstanding that he had married one of the Emperor's sisters; and contending with HENRY the Emperor's second brother, who was a very young man, about the bounds of certain lands, he besieged him in a city, and very shamefully took him prisoner. And his base brother DAUZMAR, with the aid of the said EBERARD, at the same time, took a city in Saxony, and sacked it, thinking to have gotten the Earldom, which he demanded perforce as his right. The Emperor understanding thereof, marched against his brother; and entering the city by assault, DAUZMA●… was slain in a Church, whither he was brought by EBERARD the motor of this treason. And after other practices, EBERARD agreed with HENRY the Emperor's brother, whom he held prisoner, to release and serve him, saying that the Empire appertained unto him, for that his father begat him after that he was Emperor, and OTHO before. HENRY moved with a desire to reign (a thing which leadeth men to greater mischiefs) resolved to rebel against his elder brother and sovereign Lord; whereto SIGISBERT Duke of Lorraine yielded aid and assistance; who was a mighty Prince, and had the sister of the Emperor and of HENRY to wife. And as the report went, that HENRY should be Emperor, each of them desired to have the Empire for himself, and so practised the same in secret, for amongst the wicked there is neither faith nor truth: But they all agreed together to ruin OTHO; and ●…t let being removed, each of them thought to have been a sovereign Lord, and to have had the Empire. The power and Army which they levied was so great, as they took many towns: and as it usually happeneth, fame and fear advanced the effect, so as OTHO was in great danger. Nevertheless the other Princes of Germany did well and faithfully help and assist him; and he, with the courage and diligence of a good Captain, levied his forces, and marched against his enemies; and being come with his army to the banks of the river of Rhine, and part thereof being transported in boats to go against his enemies, which were encamped on the other side, whereof his brother HENRY was General; his enemies having marched in great haste, were gotten thither before them, and charged his men in such manner, as they were likely to have been overthrown in the Emperor's sight, who had not yet past the River: but in the end, the The Emperor's victory against his brother Henry. Emperor making his prayers to God, obtained the victory, and his brother being wounded, saved himself by flight. After this victory, the fame went, that the Emperor's brother HENRY was dead: which brought the Emperor this profit, that the most of the Cities which held for his brother, yielded to him: which when HENRY understood, he got him into the City of Meresbergh, which is in Saxony, and fortified the same in the best manner he could: and the Emperor followed and besieged him, and brought him to that extremity, that he was driven to give up the City upon condition, that he should suffer him freely to departed whither he would. After which he went into Lorraine, and renewed the war, joining with Duke SIGISBERT, and with Duke EBERARD, his kinsmen: who with greater fury and power then at the first, invaded the Emperor's Countries, who then was busied in besieging a town of Duke E●…RARDS', called Stisaca; before which he lay longer than was fit he should have done, through the deceit and treachery of the Archbishop of Mentz, who secretly was a traitor to him, and had intelligence with his enemies, to the end that HENRY and his confederates should in the mean time make themselves Lords and Masters of the Country: which when HERMAN Duke of Suevia, and his brother OTHO, and CONRADE called the wise, and other great Lords and Knights (which were the Emperor's subjects) understood, they joined all their forces together, and by his direction, with an Army sought their enemies; and meeting them, fought a terrible battle: But the Imperialists had the victory, and EBERARD, the ringleader, was slain fight, & SI●…SBERT D. of Lorraine, was drowned in the Rhine, near the battle: yet some say that he died in another Duke Eberard slain fight, & Duke Sigisbert drowned in t●… Rhine. battle, and that HENRY the Emperor's brother was not that day in the field, but made war elsewhere. In this overthrow were slain, and taken prisoners, all those which held with these Lords; amongst which were many Earls, and great Personages. This great victory being obtained by OTHO'S faithful friends and subjects, the city which he besieged yielded, and he prepared himself presently to pursue his brother HENRY, who fled into France. And then the Emperor went into Lorraine, where his sister yielded herself into his power, together with her son: where having set good order in that estate, and made peace Henry fled into France. with LEWES King of France, and recovered certain Towns which he formerly had lost, he returned into Germany. In this manner he wholly subdued and tamed all the Rebels; and in the end his brother HENRY humbly yielded himself into his power: and he forgave him, and gave him lands and reviews for his maintenance, and likewise pardoned the other Earls and great men which had been his adversaries, together with FREDERICK Archbishop of Mentz, who was a Traitor unto him, and was now in his power: but in the end he pardoned him also. And forasmuch as his brother HENRY continued loyal unto him, he made him Duke of Baviere after the death of BERTOLD, who died without issue male; whose brethren lost their right to that estate, for that they had conspired against the Emperor; and HENRY had his legitimate daughter to wife, and so in good grace he remained in his brother's service: Who, having brought these matters to an end, resolved to make an end of the troubles in Bohemia, which through the aid of the Hungars still continued, without any one day's intermission, from the first beginning of his Reign, which was a long time. Finally, in some battles (wherein he was himself in person) BOISLAUS was overthrown; in such manner, that he submitted himself, and become subject. Having in this manner subdued Boislaus overthrown by the Emperor. the Hungarians, the Bohemians, and such as rebelled, he resolved to relieve LEWES the French King, who was his brother-in-law, and had sued unto him for succours; whom for some occasions, too long to be recited, certain Dukes and great Lords of France oppressed. Yet some Authors say, that this his going into France was before the wars of Bohemia: but at what time, or in what order soever it was, he went thither with a great Army, and relieved his brother-in-law, and so again returned into Germany; where we will leave him to enjoy his victories & good success, and will briefly declare in what estate Italy then stood, and the accidents which then happened: which appertain to our History, aswell for that it was part of the Empire, as also for that HUGH before named reigned there with the name of Emperor, although a tyrant. HUGH having for certain years space possessed Lombardy, and a great part of Italy, no man seeking to deprive him of his estate; for, OTHO (as is already said) was busied with the troubles of Germany: in the end BERENGARIUS the Third, after many long journeys, having a desire to recover the Kingdom which his father and uncle had possessed, and of all Italy, whereof the Emperor RODULPHUS had bereft him; with the aid of certain Princes of Germany and of Italy, resolved to make war against HUGH; and to that effect levied a great number of good soldiers, and took his way towards Italy. HUGH, holding himself unable to make his party good against him, finding that such as were of greatest power and authority in the cities, did not favour his faction; he resolved to come to any composition: and so, finally, they agreed that HUGH should leave the title of King of Italy, and return to his Duchy of Arles in France, upon condition that his son LOTHARY should remain King in Italy together with BERENGARIUS. BERENGARIUS' accepted these conditions; and HUGH returned to his old Dukedom, and left his son a King, and companion with BERENGARIUS. This LOTHARY was married with ADELHAIDA, which by some was called ALVADA, daughter to ARNOLPH Duke of Burgundy, who had reigned some certain time in Lombardy, as we said before, and was expelled by HUGH. It happened that HUGH afterwards died in France: and in a short space (and after other matters that ensued, which I leave to relate) LOTHARIUS died The death of Hugh and Lothary, two Tyrants. in Lombardy. And BERENGARIUS, seeing himself freed from company, took to wife the widow Queen ADELHAIDA, which was a very excellent Lady. And sith that he found no contradiction or resistance in the Estate of Italy, against the dignity of the Emperor OTHO (from whom he had received many benefits and favours) he took upon him the name and title of Emperor, and instituted his eldest son, whose name was ALBERT, King of Italy, and began to entreat the people very badly, and in other matters to behave himself altogether like a Tyrant. At this time AGAPETUS the Second was Pope, who was held a virtuous, religious, and innocent man (which, among men of that coat, was a matter not slightly to be regarded) and he considering the violence and tyranny used by BERENGARIUS, having now been Pope the space of 6 years, sent to solicit OTHO, Emperor of Germany, to come into Italy, to free the same from so pernicious a Tyrant. The like was done by sundry other Prelates and great men. OTHO at that time was a widower of his wife EDITHA, by whom he had a son whose name was LVITOLPHUS, a valiant and high minded young man: and having heard the Italian ambassadors, at such time as he had ended the wars before mentioned, moved by their persuasions, and through the desire he had to marry Queen ADELHAIDA, whom BERENGARIUS held prisoner in Pavia, and to make himself Lord of Italy, he levied an Army of fifty thousand men, and came down against BERENGARIUS; who having no sufficient power to make head against him, in the best order that he could, gave ground, still defending the strongest castles and fortresses. OTHO marching forwards, taking towns and cities, coming to Pavia, set ADELHAIDA at liberty, and with her good liking married her, holding solemn nuptials: by reason whereof, his son LVITOLPHUS was very sorry; and after it there ensued many inconveniences. This being done, and OTHO having settled all matters concerning the State of Italy in good order, he returned into Germany, leaving CONRADE for his Lieutenant in Lombardy. This CONRADE was called the wise, and was Duke of Franconia, and son-in-law to the Emperor by the marriage of his daughter LVIGVARDA: but his son LVITOLPHUS was gone before into Saxony, which was his father's house and patrimony, where he raised some Commotions against him, for he was much grieved & discontented with his father's late marriage. OTHO being returned into Germany, and BERENGARIUS seeing that by war, he could not recover what he had lost, came into Germany, and brought with him his son ALBERTUS, and desiring pardon, yielded himself into the Emperor's power, vowing to be his loyal servant and subject; which he protested in such manner, that the Emperor thought himself well assured of him, and thereupon made him his Lieutenant in Milan and Otho made Berengarius his Lieutenant in Lombardy. ●…ll Lombardy, the ancient in heritance of the Empire, and gave certain lands to him, and to his son ALBERTUS; wherewith his son-in-law CONRADE, which before held that charge, being greatly discontented, he joined with LVITOLPHUS the Emperor's son, and so the son and son-in-law rebelled against him. BLONDUS and other Italian writers, make no mention of CONRADE'S abode in Italy, neither of BERENGARIUS his going into Germany; yet they mention his pardon, and the offices that the Emperor bestowed upon him: But ABBAS WESPERGENSIS writeth in the same manner as I have related, and so do NAUCLERUS and other Dutch writers. Italy remaining in this estate, the Emperor did not so soon abandon it (as I suppose) without some suspicion conceived of his son LVITOLPHUS, who departed from him and rebelled: truly he had reason to mistrust him, for LVITOLPHUS being accounted his successor, found many friends to join with him against his father; amongst which was his brother-in-law CONRADE, and ARNOLD, and the other sons of BERTOLD late Duke of Baviere; who dying the Emperor gave to his brother HENRY that Estate: wherefore all those which were called Dukes of Baviere, were so much discontented with him, Luitolph and other rise against Otho. that they raised an Army, and took many towns and castles, meaning by force to defend the same, with a resolution to depose him from the Empire, without regard of the faith and loyalty which they, as his son and son-in-law, aught to him. OTHO making such account of this war as the importance thereof required, levied his forces, and went against his son; who daring not to keep the field against him, fortified himself in the city of Mentz, where his father besieged him the space of threescore days, after Luitolphus besieged by his father Otho. that he had recovered many of those towns which had given their voices against him; the city in the mean time being battered, and most valiantly defended, in the end the besieged made a motion of peace: and to the end they might have time to treat thereof, a truce was granted; in which time, the forces brought by the Emperor's brother HENRY to his service, through the secret persuasion of ARNOLPHUS, and his brethren, which were called Dukes of Baviere, came to an agreement with LVITOLPHUS; with which, and with those which already were in Mentz, in a night he found means to departed the city, and to get into Ratisbone. The Emperor without making one day's tarriance, raised his siege, and went to Ratisbone, which was better fortified and furnished then Mentz, and so the siege was more hard and doubtful; and in the assaults and sallies many men lost their lives, of the one and other party. And although that LVITOLPHUS desired peace, and his father's pardon, yet the Emperor would never yield thereto, until that by the importunacy of some Prelates, he limited a certain time, wherein his faults and offences should be examined, and a treaty should be held concerning what was to be done; and so LVITOLPHUS gave up the city: And going thence, absented himself from his father's presence, till that (within the time prefixed) the Emperor being on hunting in the fields, LVITOLPH acknowledging his error, and being very sorry for it, without security from his father, came before him upon the way, bore beaded and bore footed, and kneeling at his father's feet, wept; who being amazed at▪ the strangeness thereof, expecting no such matter, stood still: Luitolphus submitting himself to his father entreated him. and the son recovering spirit, in this manner entreated him to have compassion on him, acknowledging his faults and offences to be very great, rather deserving a thousand deaths then any pardon; and therefore being heartily forie for the same, (like the prodigal child) he presented himself before his father, who also had a father in heaven, by whom he hoped to be forgiven▪ and if it might please him to grant him his life, he should be assured of him, to be ever after a loyal and obedient son, and one which lived, and would live, in continual sorrow for what was passed: if he meant to do otherwise by him, he should yet consider that he was his own flesh and blood, and although that the offence were only his, yet of the punishment inflicted upon the guilty son, the just father would bear part of the sorrow; and that in showing him mercy, there could no inconvenience ensue; but if he did to the contrary, he should loose the most obedient son that ever father had. Having ended these words, and other to the same effect, with great humility he prostrated himself upon the earth, expecting his father's sentence of life or death. This strake so great an impression into the Emperor's heart, to hear and see his son to show such humility, and to shed so many tears, that he could not for bear from doing the like: and commanding him to The pity of Otho towards his son Luitolph●…. arise from the ground, with joy mixed with tears, from himself, and the rest which were there present, he presently pardoned him, and restored him to his grace and fatherly favour, and to the same place and dignity which he held before; and so he continued constant in that loyalty and duty which he aught to his father and sovereign Lord This is a notable example to be read with attention, whereby sons and subjects which have erred and offended their sovereign Lords, may learn to repent and amend; and Princes to pardon those which truly desire to be restored to their grace and service: for although that it be most certain, that it is expedient for the good of the Common wealth, that offences be punished; yet generally no rule aught to be so strict and severe, that no exception should be allowed; seeing that sometimes for the common good, clemency is as profitable. Moreover, the shame and sorrow for the offences committed, is no small punishment to him that is pardoned. OTHO having pardoned his son, and recovered Mentz and Ratisbone, and all the other strong holds which had rebelled, and (according to the most and best authors) reclaimed his son-in-law CONRADE, (yet some say the contrary) when he should have taken rest, and have reposed himself, there arose new wars, more dangerous than the former; for on the one side the Dalmatians and Slavons entered the territories of the Empire; and on the other side, the Hungars (who now had lived sometime in rest) gathering together an infinite number of them, began the most dangerous and cruel war they ever had made; for besides that they were a most valiant and proud people, they were so many in number, that they reported of themselves, that the skies might fall and so kill them, or the earth might open and swallow them; but the power of no nations, or of any Kings of the earth was sufficient to make head against them. Against a nation so valiant and resolute, the valiant Emperor levied the best and mightiest Army that ever he had done; for it consisted of eight legions, under the leading of excellent Captains; and those, Dukes and Princes of the Empire. In this war were many conflicts and exploits of Arms worth relating, which I omit for brevity which I am bound to observe. In the end these two mighty Armies joined, and sought a battle near the river Danubius, which began about noon, and continued until night, without any sign of victory to either side; the fields lying full of dead bodies, and died with the blood of the slain and wounded; and the darkness of the night parted the Armies, and made them leave fight: but the Emperor spent the whole night in dressing the wounded, giving them meat, and encouraging the rest; and as soon as it was day, setting his troops in order, he took the field, where they again began the fight, with as great fury as the day before: But the Hungarians began to give ground, and within short space were overthrown, and the Imperialists made an exceeding great slaughter of them, and obtained one of the most famous victories that hath been in the world: wherewith Otho's victory. the Hungarians were so much daunted, that they never durst after that time attempt to make wars in Germany. There died that day of the Emperor's side some principal men, among which was his son-in-law▪ CONRADE Duke of Franconia, of whom all authors writ, that he was the best and most valiant captain of his time. Of the Hungarians died in a manner all the Nobility, and three Dukes or Reguli, were taken prisoners, which the Emperor commanded to be hanged, for an example, and punishment of the rebellion and pride of that nation. This battle was fought in the eighteenth year of his reign, after which he spent many days in processions, and in showing himself thankful to God for so noble a victory: which being ended, he sent the greatest part of his Army against the Slavons, and other nations which warred against him; all which he vanquished and subdued with the like felicity, and then went to visit sundry towns and cities of his Empire, to the great joy of his subjects. Great matters in these times passed in France and in Spain, and in other parts of the world, which I have not time to relate. In Italy BERENGARIUS and his son ALBERT (seeing the Emperor busied in those dangerous wars) forgetting the good which they had received from him, committed many tyrannies and insolences, aswell against the Church of Rome, as against the inhabitants of the country: and therein also were other tyrants in diverse other parts. At this time died Pope AGAPETUS, who held that seat almost ten years, and after his death (by sinister means more by force and favour, then by any just form of election) OCTAVIANUS, a Roman borne, the son of a man of great power and authority in Rome, was chosen Pope, and called The commendation of Pope Octavianus-called john the twelfth. The death of Romanus the Greek Emperor. JOHN the twelfth, a most vicious wicked man, and given to all kind of dissolution and ribaldry; and above all, extreme cruel and covetous. At this time died also in Constantinople ROMANUS the Greek Emperor, who was a Prince fare unworthy thereof; for he was both wicked and of a base mind, and suffered his servants to rule him. In his time were two great wars in the East Empire; one against the Mahometists Infidels, who had taken the Isle of Candia; and the other in Asia, against the Turks and Persians'. In the first, NICEPHORUS (nephew to that NICEPHORUS which in the time of BASILIUS was so excellent a Captain) was General, and wan great victories: In the other, LEO was General, cousin german to this NICEPHORUS; both which had happy success: In the rest of his government he was a wicked and cruel Emperor; for although that he had an excellent sharp wit and understanding, yet he abused the same. ROMANUS being dead, notwithstanding that he left two sons, BASILIUS and CONSTANTINE, and one daughter called THEODORA; yet by reason of their young years and the hatred borne to their father, they then obtained not the Empire; but yet afterwards in process of time they got it: and the said Captain NICEPHORUS was chosen Emperor, who in the wars was very fortunate, and both valiant and careful, but in peace careless and covetous. Returning now to our Emperor OTHO, I say, that it was above six years after his first coming into Italy, in which time having ended the wars with his son, with the Hungarians and with the Slavonians, as we have declared; when as (besides other times, that he had been prayed and entreated) Ambassadors came unto him from Rome, and from sundry cities of Italy; entreating him to come thither, and to free them from the tyranny of BERENGARIUS, and the cruel tyrannous Pope JOHN, who also sent Ambassadors to him: whereto OTHO consenting, resolved upon his journey into Italy with strong hand: and staying to set some things in Germany in order, he sent his now loving and obedient son LVITOLPHUS before him with the greatest part of his forces against BERENGARIUS; who after some victories obtained against him, and the taking of many cities, died of an infirmity: whereupon his father hastened The death of Luitolphus. his journey; but first he made his then eldest son called OTHO, of the age of seven years, whom he had by his second wife, CAESAR and his successor. And being come into Italy, neither BERENGARIUS nor his son ALBERT durst keep the field, but fled to their holds and castles; and ALBERT got into the I'll of Corsica, and BERENGARIUS put himself into a very strong castle in Mount Leon: And so OTHO, without shedding any drop of blood, took all Lombardy, and marched towards Rome, where Pope JOHN attended his coming, and had by all means possible sought his friendship; his conscience accusing him of his vices. In matters which passed at OTHO'S second coming into Italy, there is some difference between the Historiographers which writ the same: but I will follow that rule which the most of them have set down, and that which by many conjectures seemeth to be most true. Being The Emperor Otho crowned by Pope john the twelfth. come to Rome (where of long time they had not se●…e any Emperor) he was received with great selemnitie and incredible pomp, by Pope JOHN and the Romans; and with the like was by him crowned, having first sworn those things contained in the Chapter Tibi Domine in the thirteenth Distinction. The Emperor being informed in what manner Pope JOHN had attained to the Papacy, and withal of his lose kind of life; after that he had remained there certain days, in friendly sort he secretly admonished him to reform his dissolute life, and the manner of his government in the Church; and seeing that his secret warning prevailed not, he spoke to him in the Consistory before his Cardinals, with greater authority & severity, than the other would he should have done: which being ended, in hope that the Pope would have reform himself, he departed from Rome, to seek BERENGARIUS; and besieging him in a City which he had fortified, he daily assailed it with great force and resolution: in the mean time that he busied himself herein, Pope JOHN, with some of his confederates (showing himself an enemy to the Emperor) called ALBERT the son of BERENGARIUS into Italy, and made a revolt against him: whereupon, OTHO leaving to besiege BERENGARIUS, returned towards Rome, where the Pope had used great cruelty to those which held for the Emperor; among which (it is said) that he cut off the Noses, and put out the Eyes of some of the Cardinals and Citizens: but knowing with what fury the Emperor came, he durst not stay his coming, but fled, and so lurked in sundry parts: and OTHO being comn, the greatest part of the Cardinals, Clergy, and People of Rome informed him of the Pope's lewd life, and the insufficiency of his election; desiring him to place a new: whereto he answered, that if their informations were true, they had authority of themselves to choose whom they listed: And they holding JOHN'S election to be of no effect, made choice of another, whose name was LEO, the eighth of that name, who was presently received for Pope, the Emperor holding him for such: And leaving him seated in his throne, OTHO went from Rome, returning to his enterprise against BERENGARIUS and his son ALBERT; wherein he used such Berengarius condemned to perpetual imprisonment, and his son Albert to be exiled, by the Emperor Orho the second. diligence, and had so good success, that BERENGARIUS despairing to be able to defend himself, yielded to his mercy; and his son ALBERT, with his wife and children, were taken prisoners: And the Emperor OTHO (using his accustomed clemency and magnanity) would not put them to death, but contented himself to banish them: BERENGARIUS he sent prisoner, and banished into a strong Castle in Saxony; and his son ALBERT to Constantinople, and so ended the tyranny of the BERENGARII in Italy. BLONDUS a●…d other authors writ that their imprisonment was as soon as OTHO came into Italy: but I follow the Abbot WESSPERGENSIS, and the most part of all the other Historiographers. Within few days after that OTHO was departed from Rome, wherein he had left LEO the eighth for Pope; the Roman people, by the persuasion of Pope JOHN, and of his Allies and kindred (with the like lightness as they usually are moved) altered their minds, and determined to cast out LEO, and to receive JOHN; and so JOHN was restored, and LEO driven to fly, and to complain to the Emperor at Spoleto. When the Emperor was advertised hereof, making an end of such business as he then had in hand, he concluded to come within few days with his forces to Rome, against his enemy Pope JOHN, who died there before his coming: some writers say, that a Roman, taking him with his wife, slew him, when he had continued Pope nine years. The Romans hating Pope LEO, who was now with the Emperor, chose another called BENEDICT the fift; and he and they presently sent their Ambassadors to the Emperor, to entreat him to be pleased with his election: wherewith the Emperor was more offended then before, and gave them a very sharp answer: But the Romans (who by this time loathed the Germans, murmuring against the Emperor) persisted in their opinion of holding BENEDICT for Pope: for this cause, OTHO removed with his Army, and came to Rome, where Pope BENEDICT and the Romans had made provision of men and munition for their defence; and he first spoiling the territory thereof, besieged the City, and brought it to such distress, that they writ wonders Rome besieged and taken by the Emperor Otho. of the famine and want which the besieged endured; which was such, that being unable to endure the extremity thereof, they gave up the City to OTHO; who being now Lord of that City, deposed BENEDICT whom he held for no Pope; and reestablished LEO, whom he brought with him: then he stayed some days in Rome, setting all things in good order, and carrying BENEDICT with him, whom they had chosen in contempt of him, together with the sons of many of the chief men in Rome for his better security; he departed thence, and came into Lombardy; wherein, placing governors and garrisons in all the Cities which appertained to the Empire, he returned into Germany; where he was solemnly received by all the Princes and estates thereof: Within few days BENEDICT (whom the Emperor brought with him) died of sorrow, six months after his election; so that Pope LEO remained sole Pope without any competency: but his prosperity continued but a while: for within little more than one year, after that he came to be Pope, he died also; and through his death they chose Pope JOHN the fourteenth of that name, but he was not received; for the Precedent of Rome, who then was called PETER, rose against him, and with the favour and assistance of the Decarconi, which were Rulers for one year; and of the two Consuls of the City (this was the manner of their government at that time) and a certain Prince which was Earl of Campania, w●…e name was GO●…DUS, rising against the Pope, they become so mighty, that they ap●… ended him, and committed him to the Castle S. Angelo; and afterwards, being Pope john prisoner in the castle S. Angelo. masters of the City, they rel●…ased him thence; so as he lived exiled eleven months: which being passed with the aid of JOHN, Prince or Duke of Capua, he was restored to his estate, and the aforesaid GOPREDUS was put to death: this was in the year of our Lord, nine hundred sixty and seven. OTHO having reigned Emperor thirty and odd years; and being in Germany adu●…ised of what passed in Rome, and much grieved therewith, he resolved presently to take his way towards Italy, to punish so great a contempt, and to supplant other Tyrants; and putting the same in execution, he came thither with great forces of foot and horse, and brought with him his oldest son and successor; coming to Rome, he inflicted notable punishment upon this perfect PETER, and the rest of the principal offenders. This being ended, he sent his son OTHO with part of his Army against the Moors, Otho's second coming into Italy. who held many Towns in Pulia; and this OTHO drove them thence by force, and was then contracted by his Ambassadors to THEOPHANIA daughter to NICEPHORUS, at that time Emperor of Constantinople: And for as much as her father would not sand her unto him, he resolved to make a conquest of those Lands which were subject to that Empire in Italy, and did so: for which cause (as some authors writ) the Greeks' rebelled against NICEPHORUS, The death of the Greek Emperor Nicephorus. and depriving him of his Empire slew him, taking JOHN for Emperor, whose sister or cousin german OTHO afterwards married. Others say that the cause of this war was, for that the Greeks' which dwelled in Pulia, held peace and friendship with the Infidels which dwelled among them, and did assist them. But, whatsoever was the occasion, OTHO and his son bereft them of the best lands that they held in Italy; wherein PANDULPHUS Duke of Capua did him especial service. All which being brought to a wished end; Pope JOHN, with the consent and good liking of OTHO, crowned and made his son OTHO his companion in the Empire, with great feasting and solemnity: and so, very joyful and victorious, both the father and the son returned into Germany, leaving the Pope in peace absolute Lord of Rome; and so was Italy maintained seven years in peace without any tyranny. The Emperors, being comn into Germany, were with great joy received; and to them came Ambassadors of amity and friendship from all the Princes Christian. The rest of his life, which was not long, he spent in doing justice, in building of Churches and Monasteries, and in such like exercises: In which; in the six and thirtith year of his Reign in Germany, and the thirteenth year after his Coronation in Rome, it pleased God to take him out of this world, in the month of The death of the Emperor Otho May, in the year of our Lord 974. A little before the death of OTHO, NICEPHORUS Emperor of Constantinople was deposed and slain, who had reigned six or seven years, and had obtained great victories against the Infidels: but, through his evil goverument in time of peace, they rebelled and slew him; And an excellent Captain, whose name was ZIMICES, was chosen Emperor: who, the better to confirm himself in the Empire, chose for his companions the two sons of ROMANUS, who was Emperor before NICEPHORUS, whose names were BASILIUS and CONSTANTINE; and married himself to a sister of theirs called THEODORA. This proved an excellent and valiant Emperor, and subdued the Russians, and other northerly Nations, and also PHOCAS a Tyrant, who rebelled against him: of whofe end you shall hear more hereafter. THE LIFE OF OTHO, THE THIRD OF THAT NAME, AND FOURSCORE & EIGHTTH ROMAN Emperor; And of JOHN, BASILIUS & CONSTANTINE, Emperors of Constantinople. OTHO the son of OTHO, and therefore called the Second (yet in truth he was the Third) as soon as his father was dead; as well for his father's worthiness, as for that in his life time he was elect and crowned in Rome by the Pope, as we have This Otho was according to the order of the Roman Emperors, the Second; but the third Roman Emperor of that name. related, was without any contradiction received and obeyed for Emperor. This OTHO was a man of a great spirit, and very valiant, and so showed himself in all his actions; though in the later end of his Reign he was unfortunate, as you shall understand. He beginning to rule the Empire, all Christian Princes sent Ambassadors unto him, to condole the death of his father, and to congratulate his succession; and the Princes of Germany came to do him homage: only HENRY Duke of Baviere (who was his cousin german, son of the other HENRY, brother to his father OTHO, of whom we have made some mention, and whom his father made Duke of Bavaria; being a man of great power, and therewith very proud) refused to yield obedience to the new Emperor: but OTHO raised an Army, and went against him, and compelled him to submit himself, and to yield his obedience; this befell in the first year of his Reign. From thence he marched against some Towns in Slavonia, which took Arms against him. In the mean time, in the Province of Lorraine were some combustions, procured by LOTHARIUS' King of France; upon the news whereof, OTHO returned into Germany: but the French King had raised such forces, and was so suddenly entered Lorraine, that he made himself Lord thereof; pretending, that the Province did appertain to the Crown of France. And not content to have subdued all that Country, within few days after he marched forwards, spoiling and wasting the Country even to Aken; where OTHO then was with small forces, nothing mistrusting that the King of France would have proceeded so fare in that war, where he was like to have been taken, and was driven to departed thence in more than haste: but the French King retiring with great prey and spoils; the Emperor, much displeased with his doings, raised a very mighty Army, and the next year following, with great courage and equal power, entered the Kingdom of France; in such manner, that the French King neither durst nor was able to fight with him; but retired, and fortified himself in the City of Paris: whither OTHO came (the King being therein) and spoiled the Country, in revenge of the harms received; and in coming within sight of the City, he lost some of his people in a skirmish against the French: and seeing that the King salied not forth to give him battle, and that he could not besiege him with any advantage, he resolved for that winter to return into his Country: and in his retreat the King of France sent the Duke of Burgundy and other Princes, to charge him in the arieregard (as GAGVIN and other French Historians writ) and at the passage over a river, which was grown so high by reason of the rain, that it could not be waded through, he received great harm by his enemies, and they slew a great part of his Army; which the Germans do not so bravely describe (yet they acknowledge to have lost some of their people at that passage) and the Emperor being returned, resolved to have prosecuted that war; but it happened otherwise: for he gave ear to a treaty of peace between him and the French king, moved by certain prelate's; which was concluded, as we will show you; whereof the wars in Italy, made by the Greek Emperor, were the chief occasion; which passed in this manner. JOHN ZIMICES (as is before recited) having obtained the Empire of Constantinople by the death of NICEPHORUS, and taken for his companions the two sons of the Emperor ROMANUS, whose names were BASILIUS and CONSTANTINE; and having obtained The Emperor of Constantinople poisoned Basilius; and his brother Constantine succeeded john in the Greek Empire. many victories, and governed the Empire very well; was poisoned in Constantinople, when he had reigned six years and a half, and BASILIUS, and his brother CONSTANTINE, which were his brothers in law, remained Emperors; but BASILIUS bore the chiefest sway in the government, being now twenty years old; who in process of time won many great victories, aswell against tyrants which rebelled, as other people, and reigned fifty and odd years; in which time many reigned in Germany, the story whereof I am to writ, although I ever make some mention of Constantinople, as I have done hitherto. In the beginning of the reign of BASILIUS, and of his brother CONSTANTINE, they being both young, and of great power, and seeing that OTHO was busied in the wars of France, and grieving that he and his father had taken the lands belonging to the Greek Empire in Pulia and in Calabria, they resolved to recover the same, embracing the opportunity, considering that OTHO was pestered with these troubles, and that the Popes were of small power by reason of the great tyrants which were in Rome, and in a manner through all Italy by reason of the Emperor's absence. The two brethren having placed good Captains and Garrisons in the provinces of Asia, and Graecia, took their passage into Italy, and brought in their Army many Infidels, aswell such as were newly entertained, as such as in former time had made war in that country; and began to take Cities and Castles, and in short space took all the rest of Pulia, and Calabria: and Rome itself and all the country thereabout stood in great fear of them. OTHO having intelligence hereof (at what time as he was in parley of peace with France) and grieving much that the Greeks' should recover what he had conquered at the time of his father's coronation in Rome, with a resolution to recover and to defend the same, he concluded a peace with the French: wherein was granted to him the supreme jurisdiction, and all the province The Emperor made peace with France. of Lotharingia, otherwise called Austrasia, which afterwards was divided into sundry estates, as Braband, Gelder's, Cleve, Gulick, and that which now is called Lorraine; whereof he gave the Dominion to the French kings brother, whose name was CHARLES, with the title of Duke, the more to bind the king of France to observe the peace: And having taken such order herein, and in the rest of Germany, as was expedient; he went with great power into Italy, where his coming was long expected; and taking his way towards Rome, he was there again crowned by the Pope, notwithstanding that he was so in the time of his father: and he required the Cities of Italy, that at a certain time and place appointed, they should sand him their men of war, which was performed accordingly: and staying but a very small time in Rome, he drew all his Army to one head; and so went to seek his enemies, who refused not the battle: and both parties desiring the same, it was fought, wherein OTHO had very ill success. For, having a greater number, and better men than were the Greeks'; the Romans, the Beneventanes, and others which had the avauntguard, at the first encounter charged so cowardly, that without making any resistance, they abandoned the field in such confusion, that they disordered the other Battalions and Squadrons of the Germans: so as the Greeks' encouraged hereby, followed the chase of them which fled; in such manner that OTHO'S people, being unable to do as they would, and aught to have done, were broken and overthrown, and a very great number of them slain. The Emperor seeing no hope of better help, fled from the battle; and coming to the Sea side (which was not fare from thence) put himself into a small boat, which he found there Otho taken by a Sea-rover. by chance, thinking so to escape: but he was taken unknown by a Pirate, and carried into Sicilia, where he was discovered by a Merchant of Slavonia, who, upon promise of reward made by the Emperor, bewrayed him not, but agreed for his ransom. This is reported in sundry sorts: but in the end he was delivered by the Merchant's means, they nothing knowing that he was an Emperor. And so he returned into Italy, and came to Rome, whereof the Greeks might have been masters if they had known how to have followed their advantage; for, their enemies being overthrown, they had not found therein any resistance: but, God having otherwise ordained, they left the war, contenting themselves with the victory. OTHO, being comn to Rome, gathered together the remainder of his Army; and, adding thereto new supplies, the first enterprise that he attempted, was, to go to Beneuent: where he put the greatest part of the Inhabitants to the sword, and sacked the City, because they fled from the battle. It is written of him, that he inflicted cruel punishment in Rome for the same cause; so as he was therefore called bloody: the cause whereof was, The great grief and sorrow which he conceived for the loss of the battle, and his flight; considering, that through the fault and cowardice of his friends it had happened: so as they writ of him, that ever after, whilst he lived, his countenance was ever sad and pensive, and that he often gave great groans and sighs: and, finally, in his apparel, and in all other things, he shown continual sorrow and extreme heaviness; and all his speeches and discourses were, how he might be revenged, and recover this loss. After this, living in this care and melancholy in the City of Rome, he was taken with a mortal infirmity, which (as some say) came through sorrow (but not without suspicion of poison) which increased so, that he died thereof, having reigned ten years, in the year of our Lord The death of the Emperor Otho the third nine hundred fourscore and four. He left behind him, when he died, one son called OTHO (as himself) of the age of twelve years, who was afterwards Emperor; and another called HUGH, who was Duke of Saxony, and one daughter called ALASIA, which afterwards was married to a Prince of Saxony, whose name was ALRANE or ALEDRANE, and was marquis of Monferrato; in whom that house and state had beginning. All these he had by his first wife, whose name was THEOPHANIA, who had been late wife to JOHN Emperor of Constantinople. He had also another daughter called VTILHVIDA, by his second wife, which was the marquis of Ostrich his daughter, who was married to THEODORICUS, the first Earl of Holland: and, OTHO being dead, the Greeks for that time continued Lords of Pulia and Calabria. THE LIFE OF OTHO, BEING THE FOURTH OF THAT NAME, AND FOURSCORE AND NINTH ROMAN Emperor; And of BASILIUS & CONSTANTINE, Emperors of Constantinople. THE ARGUMENT. AFter long disputations and contentions about the election of the Emperor, between the Romans and the Princes of Germany; in the end Otho the son of the deceased Emperor, was chosen, being a child not fully twelve years old; and so one Crescencius in the beginning of his reign rebelled against him in Rome; who aspired to the Empire, and made himself a tyrant over many Countries, and persecuted the Pope, driving him to fly; but finally for fear of the Emperor, who came into Italy to protect the Pope, he made his peace with him, and become his subject: the Emperor being departed, Crescencius again took Arms and made a new Pope: and persecuting the Pope made by the Emperor, he constrained him to fly to the Emperor, who conducting him into Italy, took Rome, and slew Crescencius; and the other Pope died miserably. At this time, an order and form was set down for the choosing of the Emperor, and the honour being given to the Germans, the Romans were therewith much displeased; and conspiring against the Emperor, put him so to his shifts, that he was driven to fly disguised; but in the end, unable to eschew treason, he died of poison, when he had reigned eighteen years. IN such manner as I have declared, the Emperor Observing the ordinary course, this Otho was the fourth of that name, although the third of the German Emperor. called OTHO the Third deceased: and in the City of Rome, was great contention and controversy about the election of a new Emperor, between the Princes of Germany which were there, and came with him; for some would have his son to succeed him, whose name also was OTHO, being then but a child of eleven and half years old; being the fourth of that name, but the third of the Germans. Others were of opinion (by reason of the child's nonage) to make HENRY Duke of Bavaria Emperor, who was his father's Cosin-germane, the first OTHO'S brothers son; who being a mighty man and there present, sought to have gotten his young cousin into his power, to the end that he should not have been chosen; and did so, and took upon him the title of Emperor: And the Roman and Italian Princes (desiring to be freed from the Government of the Germans whom they naturally hated) sought by all means that an Italian might have been chosen; and they named one who was a very mighty Roman, called CRESCENCIUS NUMITANUS, who at that time was Governor, and Consul in Rome: for (as it is said) they had established a new manner of Government, imitating the ancient custom; for at this time they had a certain kind of Consulate. The Princes of Germany standing in fear of the Roman and Italian people (in a manner) by common consent, maugre HENRY Cuke of Bavaria (who thought to have been Emperor) resolved to choose OTHO son to the last OTHO; for although that he were but young and scarcely twelve years old, yet he gave great signs and hope of a future excellent Prince; & taking him out of the power of the said HENRY of Baviere, they departed with him from Rome towards Germany, and came with him to the City of Aken, where he was crowned with great solemnity, and obeyed and held for Emperor; and so he was in Milan, and in other parts of the Empire. But in Rome CRESCENCIUS NUMITANUS, who (as we said) sought to have been Emperor, possessed himself of the City, and of the territory thereof: and for as much as Pope JOHN took part with OTHO, he made him to be apprehended in the third month of his Papacy, and committed him prisoner to the Castle of Saint Angelo, a Crescencius apprehended Pope john the fift, and committed him prisoner to the Castle S. Angelo, where he died of sorrow. wicked and impious act, where within five months after he died of sorrow. Afterwards JOHN the sixteenth came to be Pope, who was a covetous wicked man, and consented to the Tyranny of CRESCENCIUS afore named, and rebelled with Rome against the Emperor OTHO (whereof the Emperor's nonage gave the chief occasion, and for the same cause some Princes of Germany likewise rebelled against him) but within short space, having attained to the age of fourteen years, he was of such courage and discretion, as he might well be accounted for a perfect stayed man: And with the aid of those which continued his loyal subjects, he subdued and overcame (although long first) all such as rebelled against him; with such happiness and good success, that he was held for the wonder of the World, seeing in him so great valour and so ripe a judgement in so green years. What Rebellions these were, and in what manner he had so great good fortune, none of the Historiographers do writ particularly, that I could ever see; so briefly they pass over this place: Wherhfore I can relate no more than I find written; only this they affirm, that for the space often years, he was busied in pacifying and ordering the state of Germany: in which time CRESCENTIUS tyrannised Rome; which passed in this manner: Pope JOHN the sixteenth, who (as I said) succeeded JOHN the fifteenth (as it pleased God) lived Pope but seven months; all which he spent vilely: and he being dead, a learned man was chosen, whose name was JOHN also, which was JOHN the seventeenth, but much unlike his Predecessor; for, he was an honest man: and for being so, was soon at variance with the Tyrant CRESCENTIUS; who was of such power, that Pope JOHN was driven to leave Rome, and to give place to his tyranny. He oftentimes sent to the Emperor OTHO for succours, and to come and reform the state of Rome and Italy: But the Emperor could not then perform his request, by reason of his other weighty affairs; yet afterwards he did it, as you shall hear. In the mean time, CRESCENTIUS fearing the Emperors coming, acknowledging his error, practised with Pope JOHN to return, promising him to be obeyed and respected: and he so effectually handled the matter, that a peace was concluded between them; and the Pope came, and was received with great solemnity. But, this notwithstanding, the Emperor held on his way, and came into Italy with great power (which was in the eleventh year of his reign) The coming of the Emperor Otho into Italy and was received every where as he passed, with great joy and feasting: and so he came to Rome, where the Pope and CRESCENTIUS (after some treaties and ambassages which passed) made great preparation to receive him. And the Emperor being comn near to the City; the Pope, accompanied with all his Cardinals and Clergy, and with all the Roman Nobility and Gentlemen, went forth to entertain him: and so in peace and good friendship the Emperor stayed some days in Rome; and, to gratify the Pope and the Romans, he went with his Army to Capua and to Beneuent, which disobeyed, and were at wars among themselves: whom he compelled to live in peace, to the contentment of the Romans. About this time died Pope JOHN; and the Emperor, returning to Rome, procured an uncle of his of the house of Saxony, whose name was BRUNUS, to be made Pope, and he was called GREGORY the Fift: who, being seated in his papal dignity, anointed and crowned the Emperor, with such solemnity and pomp as his father and grandfather had been before him. Which being ended, and OTHO imagining that the estate of Italy stood now in good form and order (considering that his uncle remained highest Bishop) he took his way towards Germany, and by the way visited Lombardy, and other parts subject to the Empire. In the mean time, whilst that OTHO was busied about the affairs of Italy, the Successors of CHARLES the Great were deposed from the Crown of France; which although it concern not our History, yet for as much as it is a matter of great importance, I think it worthy to be reduced to memory; and thus it was: King LOTHARY being dead (who as we said made war against OTHO the Second) his son LEWES, succeeding him, within one year died also. This LEWES being dead; HUGH called CAPUTIUS or CAPET, Earl or Governer of Hugh Capet usurped the king dom of France. Paris, being a man of great power and authority in that Kingdom, tyrannically took upon him the title of King, and made himself Lord of France; having no right thereto, but the right of war: and first he took CHARLES (brother to LOTHARIUS) prisoner by treason (who, by the death of his nephew LEWES, was called King) and caused him to die in prison, and (subduing all such as made any resistance) got the Crown and Kingdom; which hath continued in his Successors unto this day. OTHO being returned into Italy; the Romans, who had ever murmured at the election of Pope GREGORY, and loathed the rule and command of the Germans, chose the Tyrant CRESCENTIUS for Consul: by whose aid and counsel they again rebelled against the Pope; in such sort, that he was driven to flee Rome, and earnestly to entreat the Emperor to relieve him; in hope that he would have comn to his rescue, or that CRESCENTIUS and the Romans, fearing the Emperors coming, would have recalled him, and have made peace with him, as they had done with his Predecessor. But it fell out clean contrary: for, CRESCENTIUS, alleging that Pope GREGORY'S elelection was violent (the Emperor forcing the same) he caused the Bishop of Placentia to be chosen and made Pope, who was called JOHN the eighteenth (yet sundry Authors hold him not for Pope). Wherhfore Pope GREGORY, leaving Italy, went into Germany to the Emperor; who, being highly displeased, levied an Army, and came into Italy, and so directly to Rome, where CRESCENTIUS had fortified himself, and provided a garrison to defend the same; and the Emperor besieged the City: which put the Romans in such fear, that they durst not stand to their defence; but, opening the gates, desired the Emperor to pardon them; and the two tyrants, CRESCENTIUS and Pope JOHN, withdrew themselves into the castle S. Angelo, which CRESCENTIUS had so well fortified, that it was held for impregnable: whereupon OTHO came to a parley with him, to the end that he should have yielded: and CRESCENTIUS presuming that his life should have been saved (whereof he was put in some hope) delivered up the castile; and he and the Pope coming towards the Emperor, were apprehended upon the way; and CRESCENTIUS was Crescentius put to death. presently put to death by his commandment, as a violater of his faith, and one that had been twice a traitor. Others writ that he caused him to be hanged, and Pope JOHN'S eyes to be Pope john the eighteenth had his eyes put out. put out, who afterwards died miserably: such are the rewards which the world bestoweth upon those which to follow the same forget God, their own honour and honesty. These tyrants being suppressed, the Emperor restored Pope GREGORY to his seat and dignity, and set the best order in all matters in Rome, that the time would permit. Pope Gregory restored to his 〈◊〉. All this which I have recited being ended, Pope GREGORY acknowledging the succours which the Church of Rome had received from the Emperor, and from the Princes of Germany (as a man affected to his native country, and to the German nation; by the will and consent of the Emperor, and to prevent and eschew the discord which did arise, or might happen, about the choosing of the Emperor) made a law and Canon, which hath lasted about six hundred years, even until this day, which was, that the election of the Emperor, so long as the Empire should be void, should appertain to six Princes only, which we will presently nominate; three, whereof were Prelates, and the other three, secular Princes, viz. a Duke, a marquis, and an Earl, and if by chance there should be equality of voices between these six, the King of Bohemia (which then was no King) should also have his voice, and the party whereto he inclined, should make the choice, and their election should stand: the Prelates are, the Archbishop of The original of the order of the choosing of the Emperors, ordained by Pope Gregory the fift. Mentz, the Archbishop of Colein, and the Archbishop of Trevier: the Princes are the Count Palatine of Rhine, the Duke of Saxony, and the marquis of Brandenburg. And he further ordained, that no man should be chosen Emperor, except he were a German borne; and that being chosen by the Prince's Electors aforesaid, he should be called King of the Romans, and not Emperor Augustus, until that he were confirmed and crowned by the Pope, as it is observed unto this day. This decree and law (as most authors writ) was made in the year, one thousand and two: which cannot be so, for all agreed, that Pope GREGORY the fift which made the same, died in the year, nine hundred ninety and seven: but this contrariety is easily salved, for the Emperor OTHO died in the year, one thousand and two, or three; and so in that year, or the next, that law was put in execution, notwithstanding that it was made some time before, and therefore they say that it was made that year: And thus they are excused, which attribute this order and form of election to Pope SYLVESTER, which succeeded Pope GREGORY, who indeed was the man which made the same. And he further ordained, that the election should be made in the city of Frankford, and that he which was chosen, should come to the city of Aken to be crowned King of the Romans. And the Emperor OTHO ordained certain preeminences and offices, which each of these Electors should hold in the Emperor's house and court; as one to bear his Sword, another to be his Cupbearer, with such like, which concern not our history. This being ended and concluded in this manner; some authors writ, that the Emperor went into Germany, to set an order in the affairs of the Empire, where this election before recited was approved & ratified: others make no mention of this his going, but rather report, that he spent the rest of his time in Rome. Howsoever it was, after the death of Pope GREGORY (which was when he had been Pope two years and half) in his place was chosen one GILBERT, a more excellent man for wit and learning, than any in his time was to be found: but he abused and ill employed the same; for he was a great Necromancer and enchanter, and gave himself to bargaining with the devil, and to other unlawful Arts: he was a Frenchman born, Pope Sylvester a Necromanter. and was called SYLVESTER, and had been the Emperor's School master, whom most authors affirm, to have learned Magic in the city of Seville in Spain: which notwithstanding that it was in the power of Infidels, yet the Arts and Philosophy did flourish there. This people held the chair four years, in which time the Emperor came again to Rome (or had not go forth of it) and very effectually applied himself to the good government of the Empire, punishing and reforming the abuses committed by sundry, through the small authority and worth of former Popes, and the tyrannies and factions which had been in Rome: all which was done by the Pope's consent, as by him which had been the Emperor's Schoolmaster, and was placed there by his authority. The Emperor (as it is written of him) was a man of great understanding, and of a very good condition: But the Romans, who now were much discontented with the form set down, for choosing the Emperor, wherein they had no voice or authority, either to choose or to be chosen; it being the chief seat and head of the Empire; and being also extremely grieved, to see that OTHO did so absolutely command in Rome and in Italy, and made so long abode there: first they began to murmur thereat, and afterwards secretly to conspire, and to practise his death; and in the end their envy increasing, their audaciousness and contempt likewise increased: whereupon, one day when the Emperor suspected no such matter, and the people which he then had with him in the City being The Romans made an insurrection against the Emperor & would have slain him. but only Courtiers, the Romans arose with a great tumult, and putting themselves in Arms, slew many of the Germans: and then went to the Palace where the Emperor was, and being unable to enter at their first approach (for that his guard and Gentlemen which repaired thither defended the same) they compassed the house, in such sort as the Emperor had been either presently taken, or slain; but that one HUGH (who was his Lieutenant, and governed a great part of the Emperor's countries in Italy, with the title of marquis, and was well beloved amongst the Romans) came to a parley with them, desiring some treaties of peace and agreement: and with him joined HENRY Duke of Baviere, to whom they also gave ear; which restrained the fury and rage of the people: and holding them thus in talk, a mean was found whereby the Emperor (changing his habit) got forth of the City, not being discovered, and went to the place where his forces lay (and the Pope did the like) whither repaired to him all those which fled from the fury: and so for that time he escaped death. But although that he was delinered from this public treason, yet he could not free himself from that which was secret: for within short space after, being busy in gathering his forces together (with an intent (as some say) to have go into Germany, and as others say, against Rome) he was poisoned (as some writ) by the wife of CRESCENTIUS the tyrant before named (whom he commanded to be hanged in Rome) with whom, as she was the fairest woman of her time, they say, that the Emperor being in Rome had secret conversation; and that she feigning to be greatly in love, poisoned him in a pair of Gloves, which she sent him excellently perfumed: whereof within The death of the Emperor Otho by poison Anno 1002. three of four days after, he died, the poison working slowly and leisurely. Other Authors believe not this, but that he was poisoned by others; yet they all agreed that he died of poison, in the year of our Lord, one thousand and two; when he had reigned eighteen years complete, and lived only nine and twenty and a half, leaving no son to succeed him: which some affirm was the cause why he procured Pope GREGORY to ordain that manner of choosing the Emperor, as I have already described: And they say moreover that he was married with the king of Arragon's daughter, whose name was MARY, a woman not so careful for the preservation of the honour and honesty of her person, as she aught to have been. This Prince is accounted amongst the good Emperors, for his many virtues, and for that he ruled the Empire with justice, and uprightly. Before his death there appeared great signs in the firmament, as Comets, which continued many days; and the most notable was, that one day in the morning about nine of the clock, there appeared in the element a great flaming fire, like to a burning torch, which continued a great while; and the light being vanished, there appeared in the same place the likeness of a Serpent. The body of the Emperor was carried by HENRY Duke of Baviere, and the other great Lords, into Germany, and buried in the City of Aken. A little before his death Pope SYLVESTER died in Rome, whither it seemeth that he The Emperor Otho buried in Aken. was returned, who died through God's great goodness (as it is written) very penitent for his sins; and in his place was chosen JOHN the 19, who dying within four months after without doing aught worth the writing, another JOHN succeeded him, which was JOHN the 20, of whom we will hereafter make mention. During the reign of OTHO; in Constantinople reigned BASILIUS and CONSTANTINE, brethren; but (as I said) BASILIUS was the more valiant, and the man by whose counsel and direction, all actions were worthily and happily achieved in the wars: for he enlarged that Empire both in Asia and Europe, and obtained many great victories. In the beginning of their reign (as is before declared) they came into Italy, and overthrew OTHO the Second: after this, their quarrels were with tyrants; the first was with a Captain called SCLERUS a very valiant man, and of great power, who was their Lieutenant in Syria and in Phenicia; who rebelling, made himself to be called Emperor: this was a very dangerous war, but in the end he was overthrown, and escaped by flight to Babylon: but afterwards (many things happening in the mean time) he was reduced to their service. The second was with PHOCAS, another Captain of no less renown and valour than SCLERUS, who would also have been Emperor, and to that effect had levied so great an army, that he doubted not to fight a battle with BASILIUS, wherein he was slain, and therewith ended his life and tyranny; and so achieved BASILIUS these two great exploits: after which ensued the war which he had begun with SAMVEL, King of the Bulgarians; from whom, the lands of the Empire had received much harm by fire and sword, in the time of the wars with the Tyrant's aforesaid; of whom BASILIUS was sufficiently revenged in many battles, as hereafter shall be related when time shall serve: the Greek Emperors also held the greatest part of Pulia and Calabria; for the said BASILIUS and CONSTANTINE recovered the same, when they overthrew OTHO the second in Italy; and they sent some thither, with the titles of Governors and Captains, who were call Calisti, as in ancient time were the Exarchi: yet Sicilia was in a manner wholly possessed by the Infidels of Africa. THE LIFE OF HENRY, THE SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND FOURSCORE AND TENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. OOtho being dead, the German Prince's Electors, according to their authority chose and crowned Henry Duke of Baviere (Cousin German to the deceased Otho) Emperor. This Prince, in the beginning of his reign, was much troubled, by reason of certain rebels. He warred against Robert King of France, and levied a power against the Duke of Bohemia which rebelled: in both which attempts, he obtained honourable victories. He made the King of Hungary (who desired his sister in marriage) to be baptised; and went into Italy, whereto he had a great desire; and marching with an Army against the Infidels, which held many Towns in Italy, chief in Pulia, he subdued them. Returning into Germany, he invited Pope Benedict to come to visit him; and the Pope coming thither, he was received with exceeding great honour. He lived with his wife in continual chastity, and left her as good a maid as he found her; and so falling sick of an extreme infirmity, having performed all things appertaining to a good Christian, he departed out of this life; but he first entreated the Prince's Electors, to make choice of a good Emperor. IT cannot be denied, but that the three OTHOES, the Father, the Son, and the Nephew, of whom but even now we left to discourse, were very valiant and worthy Princes; and which repaired the credit and reputation of the Empire, very much torn and decayed; and for such are commended and recorded by Historiographers. OTHO then dying in Italy (as I have declared) after that the German Princes and people were returned into their Country, with the Emperor's dead body, and had buried the same, with such solemnity as thereto appertained: the afore named Princes, that were made Princes Electors (which were the Archishops of Mentz, Coleyn, and Treuler; the Duke of Saxony, the marquis of Brandenburg, and the Count Palatine of the Rhine) purposing to show their Authority, and to choose an Emperor, met together in the City of Frankford; where knowing the many virtues and merits of HENRY Duke of Baviere, they chose him for King of the Romans, and future Emperor AUGUSTUS; and he was anointed in Aken by the Archbishop of Mentz, which was in a manner by the common consent of them all, excepting HERBERT Archbishop of Coleyn, who was of a contrary faction. This HENRY was cousin german to OTHO, whom he succeeded in the Empire, and Nephew to HENRY Duke of Baviere, Brother to OTHO the first (yet second of that name) who by the same OTHO was made Duke of Baviere, as in his life we have specified; and was the second of the Emperors so called: yet the Italian writers say, that he was the first, for they do not reckon the other HENRY, Duke of Saxony, for Emperor (whose life we have before written, who was Father to OTHO the first) for that he came not into Italy, neither was crowned there by the Pope. The election of the new Emperor was commended and approved by all those which desired the good of the Commonwealth, for that he was a good Henry the second chosen Emperor. man: yet there were some ambitious, and unquiet Princes, which rebelling, took Arms against him; but he showing his power and valour, in short space tamed and brought them to his obedience: who they were which thus rebelled against the Emperor HENRY, I could never read, for writers do not specify the same. This HENRY being confirmed and assured in his seat, desired to come into Italy: but he could not bring it to pass, until the eleventh year of his reign, by reason of such wars as happened. First, some Authors writ, that there presently grew wars between him, and ROBERT King of France, who (by the report of all writers) was also an excellent Prince, although the son of HUGH CAPET, which usurped those Kingdoms: for what cause those two good Princes fell at variance I find not written: but those which make mention thereof, say, that HENRY had the victory in this war; and that afterwards they came to an agreement: which being ended, there followed a fare more dangerous war than the former: which was against BODISLAUS D. of Bohemia; who being of great power & aided by the Slavons, the Polacres, Moravians and other nations, rebelled against the Empire; and the Emperor with a great power resolutely marching against him, the wars grew to be very cruel; and some battles were fought, wherein BODISLAUS was overthrown: but not dismayed therewith, persisting Bodislaus Duke of Bohemia, overthrown by the Emperor. in his rebellion, he reinforced his army, and levied the greatest power he was able, and again gave the Emperor battle; which, through the valour and courage of the Captains and Soldiers of either side, was very doubtful and terrible, but the Emperor HENRY with much difficulty obtained the victory; and followed the same in such manner as BODISLAUS was constrained humbly to crave pardon, and sue for peace: which was granted upon very hard and heavy conditions; and so he was subdued, and made subject to the Empire, together with his Confederates. This enterprise being ended, and he free from war, in the mean time that he made preparation for his going into Italy, (which he greatly desired) he applied himself to matters of peace and good government, doing justice to all men indifferently; and builded and enriched many Churches and Monasteries; and honoured and advanced Bishops, Monks, Priests, Friars, and other such like religious people. In those days (being importuned, and in a manner compelled by the great Princes of the Empire, wholly against his will) he married the daughter of the Count Palatine of Rhine, called AMIGUNDA, a religious Lady: with whom (undiscovered and unknown to any, until his death) he lived most chastely, both of them observing voluntary virginity, without having any carnal knowledge the one of the other; which is one of the most rare things that I ever read, of any King or Emperor. Uoluntary chastity observed by the Emperor & the Empress. This Emperor had also a sister called GISELA, which (as they writ) was the fairest woman of her time, whom STEPHEN, Duke and Lord of Hungary, desiring to have to wife, he could not obtain his suit, except he would first become a Christian, and be baptised (for although that in that Kingdom were many Christians, yet the Princes were Infidels) whereto STEPHEN yielded, and become so devout, that he is accounted amongst the Saints: and the The King of Hungary become a Christian, and was baptised. Emperor gave him his Sister, and with her the title of King, and so he was the first that was called King of Hungary. Some writ that this GISELA was Niece and not Sister to the Emperor. In these accidents before related, HENRY spent ten years of his reign, and then resolved to levy a great Army to go into Italy, wherein had passed some great matters: among which, MOLOCHUS, Governer of Pulia and Calabria for the Emperor of Constantinople, and with him WILLIAM, and his other brothers, sons to the Duke of Normandy (a Prince and great Lord in France, who at that time was in Italy with great forces, whither they came about some certain enterprises) joined their forces together, and agreed with the Duke of Salerno and other Princes, to expel the Infidels of Africa out of the I'll of Sicilia where they inhabited; which they did with such force and courage, that within less than two years they recovered ●…he whole Island: whereof (according to the agreement) certain Cities and Towns were to have been given to the said WILLIAM, and to the other Dukes; but MOLOCHUS satisfying the debt with part of the prey and booty which they had taken, of all the rest would part with nothing, but put garrisons into all the Towns, to hold the same for his Lord the Emperor. WILLIAM and the rest, being discontent heerwith, came into Italy, where they took by force such Cities as were under MOLOCHUS government: and MOLOCHUS coming out of Sicilia to make head against him, they joined battle; and WILLIAM, obtaining the victory, become Lord of the most part of Pulia and Calabria: where dying, his brother DROGUS succeeded; and afterward, through sundry accidents, his offspring became Lords of those Provinces, and in process of time of Sicilia also for a long time after (first with the title of Dukes, and afterwards of Kings of Sicilia) and in the end of both the Sicily's, which are Siciliae and Naples, as in time shall be remembered in our History. Of the time when this WILLIAM and the Normans came into Italy, Authors differ: but so fare as I can conjecture by the true computation of times, it happened at such time as I have set down. This being past, Pope SERGIUS died in Rome, and BENEDICT the Eightth succeeded him: yet BLONDUS calls him STEPHEN, which is contrary to the opinion of all other Historiographers; so as I imagine it was through the error of the Writer: for, in that time there was not any Pope that was called after that name. In the time of this BENEDICT, the Emperor HENRY prepared for his coming into The Emperor Henry's coming into Italy. Italy, and came very mighty: and by the way visiting Milan, and the other Imperial Cities, he came to Rome, where by Pope BENEDICT he was most solemnly received, and afterward crowned with exceeding feasting and magnificence; where making his abode some few day's space, he marched thence with his Army against the Infidels, which through the aid and permission of the Greeks (to use their service against the Normans) came into Italy, and had besieged the City of Capua: with whom the Emperor fought, and, overthrowing them, forçed them to abandon the Country. After this, he went against SUBAGENUS, General for the Emperor BASILIUS, for that he had supported the Infidels in Pulia; and, making cruel war against him, dispossessed him of many Towns: and in the end laying siege (which lasted four months) to the City of Treya which was but newly erected and ennobled, he took it by force; so as, expelling the Infidels, and taming the Greeks, leaving them some part of Calabria to inhabit, and in part favouring the Normans, as those which had showed themselves his obedient and dutiful servants, he left to them Pulia, whereof they were already possessed; and, returning to Rome, stayed there certain days, and thence went into Germany with great honour; and by the way visiting Milan and other Towns, was received in Germany with great joy and solemnity: and so, his dominions being in peace, he spent his time in ministering justice, and in well governing his Empire. As the Emperor HENRY busied himself in those actions before specified, and had reigned two and twenty years (some say, two years less; yet PLATINA and BLONDUS writ, that he reigned but eight years, wherein they are much deceived: but I think for certain, that, as they were Italians, so they reckon his Reign but from the time that he was crowned in Rome, which was in the twelfth year thereof; and so cometh their account to agreed with the rest of the Authors: whereof let the Reader be well advised, as well in this, as in what shall be said hereafter) at the end of this time he was taken with a grievous sickness; wherewith seeing himself oppressed, he commanded such of the Prince's Electors as might come in so short space, to be sent for: who being comn, he counselled them, that after his decease they should choose the valiant Prince CONRADE, Emperor; who was one of the Dukes of Suevia, others say of Franconia: the cause whereof may be, that he came of both houses; and so, after the Germane manner, was called by both names, as at this day the Dukes of Baviere are called Count Palatines of Rhine. He nominated this man unto them, for that he thought he was desirous of the Empire; and within The death of the Emperor Henry the Second. few days after died, viz. in the year of our Lord one thousand four and twenty, leaving his wife as good a virgin as she came to him. It is written that she being accused of adultery, shown her innocence, by going barefooted upon certain places of fiery hot iron; and that the Emperor become very penitent for permitting her to expose herself to such danger, being so chaste and virtuous a woman. In a manner about this time died BASILIUS Emperor of Constantinople: I say in a manner, for that in this place, it is a hard matter to reconcile the times, by reason of the incertainty and variety among writers. BASILIUS when he died was seventy and two years old, and had The death of Basilius Emperor of Constantinople. reigned two and fifty; in most matters, in great prosperity, at lest in Arms, as well against the Bulgarians, whom he compelled to pay him tribute, as against the Infidels; and dying left his Empire to his brother CONSTANTINE, who reigned three years, and governed the same negligently and viciously: and he before his decease, ordained and left a great and valiant personage, called ROMANUS ARGIROPHILUS, for Emperor; whom he first married to his daughter. This ROMANUS in the beginning, shown himself to be an excellent and valiant Prince: but being afterwards overthrown by the Infidels in Asia, he altering his condition, become coverous, and gave himself over to many other vices; for which cause he grew to be somuch hated, that having reigned but five years, his own wife ZOE practised his death, by the hands of one MICHAEL PAPHLAGONUS, with whom she lived in adultery; and afterwards married him, being a man very well conditioned; who by her means had the Empire, which he valiantly and manfully defended the space of seven years, in the wars which he held with the Infidels in Asia, in Soria defending the frontiers of Phenicia. THE LIFE OF CONRADE, THE SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND FOURSCORE AND ELEVENTH ROMAN EMPEROR; AND OF MICHAEL, Emperor of Constantinople. THE ARGUMENT. COnrade the second was chosen Emperor accordingly as the Emperor Henry before his death had ordained, and thereto had persuaded the Prince's Electours; yet notwithstanding, his election was not without some contradiction and difficulty. Being in possession of the Empire, he was to provide for many matters, and to subdue many Rebels, which rebelled through the long vacation of the Imperial seat, which was two years without any Sovereign. But all these rebellions and tumults of war were pacified without shedding any drop of blood, or drawing of sword; for he subdued them all through his humanity and courtesy: these wars hindered him three years. This being done, he came into Italy with a very great Army, and took Milan: which was a more rebellious City, than any of the rest; and coming to Rome was crowned by Pope john the one and twentith. Afterwards understanding of certain tumults in Germany, he speedily returned: and that enterprise being ended, he came again into Italy, where many Cities had revolted: but inflicting terrible punishments upon the malefactors, he came at length to Rome, to relieve the Pope against such as molested him; and having reform all matters in Italy, he returned into Germany: where being assailed by an infirmity, he died, having reigned Emperor ten years. THE Prince's Electors of the Empire being assembled, to choose a successor to the Emperor HENRY (whose History we have now written) notwithstanding that he advised them to make choice of CONRADE, yet they could not so easily agreed, but that the difference continued between them the space of two years, not being able to resolve, who should, or aught to be Emperor, whereof many inconveniences and disorders ensued, and many Cities and Towns in Italy, and some Princes in Germany, attempted to set themselves at liberty, and to shake off the Imperial yoke: wherewith the new Emperor Elect was afterwards greatly troubled. At the end of this time, the aforesaid CONRADE was chosen & crowned Emperor, as HENRY had willed; yet he was in some sort contradicted, particularly by CONON one of the Dukes of Baviere, and Uncle to the late Emperor HENRY; who would have been Emperor. This Emperor CONRADE was a singular good man at arms, and had been General in the wars for the Emperor HENRY. Here authors do vary, and contend about the matter, viz. Whether, that he were of the Dukes of Suevia, or of Franconia, and spend many speeches about proving their opinions; but I will avoid this travel, notwithstanding that it seemeth to be most certain, that he was of the house of Suevia, or (as I said above) was peradventure descended from both the houses, and after the German manner, enjoyed both titles, as at this day is used. But let it be, as it shall please the reader. He was chosen as a man which best deserved the same; which he afterwards very well verified and made manifest. As soon as he was invested, he wrote his letters to all parts, procuring peace and friendship with all the Kings and princes which desired it, and commanded his subjects duly to observe the same: but the two years vacation had bred such a custom of liberty, as they rebelled against him. The first was BODISLAUS Duke of Austria, whom HENRY had subdued, and made tributary to the Empire, who (taking upon him the title of King) denied both his vassalage and tribute: against whom CONRADE levied an Army, purposing to have go against him in person; but at the same time BODISLAUS died and left two sons, the one called OTHO, and the other MISICUS. MISICUS was the elder brother, and remained absolute Lord, and imitating his father, persisted in his rebellion against the Emperor, and expelled his brother OTHO, because he would not join with him in the action; and this OTHO departed presently to the Emperor, who entertained him well, but was so much displeased with his brother MISICUS his presumption, as he sent the same OTHO with part of his Army to begin the war: and within few days, he himself followed with the rest, and entered the country with such power, that MISICUS durst not abide his coming, but went into Bohemia, to crave aid of WALDERICUS Duke and Lord thereof, who was also one of those which rebelled against the new Emperor. WALDERICUS having entertained and assured him; in lieu of aiding him, sent to treat secretly with the Emperor, with an intent to have delivered him into his hands, thinking by this mean to have comn to the better composition. But the Emperor disdaining to circumvent his enemy by Treason, was so much displeased with WALDERICUS for his treachery, as The loyalty of the Emperor Conrade. besides that he would not accept his offer, he shown the greatness of his generous and noble disposition, by sending to MISICUS, secretly advising him to come to his obedience, or to seek relief some where else, for in Bohemia he had no security. MISICUS understanding what passed, and well considering the Emperor's bounty, went out of Bohemia; and coming into his country, left the Ensigns and title of King, which his father and he had usurped, and with a small train, came and yielded himself into the Emperor's power, humbly submitting himself, more in regard of his kind and gentle admonition and advice, then for fear of his force: and the Emperor pardoned him, and granted him peace upon the same conditions as before. Following the example of MISICUS, the Duke of Poland and all the rest which had taken Arms, and rebelled, came to the Emperor's service and obedience; amongst which were STEPHEN King of Hungary, and WALDERICUS Duke of Bohemia, notwithstanding that they first failed not to try the utmost of what they were able to do by Arms. In all which, CONRADE spent the first three years of his reign, and could not (accordingly as he desired) go into Italy to be crowned; where he had much to do, by reason of the great leagues and confederacies made against him, that they might free themselves from the imperial yoke and subjection. This time being expired, and having taken order for the estate of Germany, he levied the greatest Army he could, and came into Italy; but he first nominated his son HENRY, King of the Romans: and forasmuch as Milan, and all the Towns in that quarter, which in former Conrade came into Italy. time were wont to be most serviceable and in greatest subjection, were now in Arms, and rebelled, he therefore marched directly thither, and so it behoved him to do: for Pope GREGORY the fift (in the rule and Canon which he made in the time of OTHO the Third, concerning the Prince's Electors, and the choosing of the Emperor) instituted and ordained, that he which was chosen, besides the golden Crown which he should receive of the Pope, should be crowned with two other Crowns; the one of straw in Monzi a City in Lombardie, and the other of Iron, in the City of Milan; which (of set purpose) I have reserved to be written in this place, and do here find it written by those Authors which I follow Wherhfore, for the full accomplishment hereof (although I have not read that any his predecessors had done the like) the Emperor, battering and forcing such towns as would not receive him, came to Milan, which then was more obstinate and rebellious than any other: and doing much harm in the territory thereof, he narrowly begirt the city with a siege, with a resolution to have ●…uinated and burnt the same, for the great displeasure which he had conceived against it; and for an example to the rest. Which he might and had easily performed, and that in short space (as many writers affirm) but that (I know not upon what occasion) he raised his siege and went towards Rome (no man daring to make head against him) where Pope JOHN the one and twentith most solemnly received him, and with the like solemnity crowned him with the Crown of gold: at which coronation (as affirm some authors which I follow) was KANUTUS' King of England in pilgrimage, with whose daughter, they say, that HENRY, son to this Emperor CONRADE, was before this time married. And there was also RODULPH, King of Burgundy, and Uncle to GISELA the Empress, who was descended from CHARLES the Great; and being deprived of his estate of Burgundy, by ROBERT brother to the French king, came to implore the Emperor's aid and succours. CONRADE being in Rome, there arose a great tumult between his train, and the citizens; in so much that they all took Arms and fought a whole day together, and many were slain of either side, but the Imperialists had the better; and the Emperor in the best manner he could, pacified this riot: and staying but a short space after this in Rome, he departed thence and out of Italy also towards Germany; for his sonne-in law ERNESTUS Duke of Suevia, son to the Empress GESILA, by her first husband Duke of Suevia, rebelled, and made war, seeing him pestered in Italy. But he being come into Germany ERNESTUS, being of no sufficient power long to defend himself, was soon overthrown, and fled to the Mountains: where he was afterwards taken and slain by the Emperor's soldiers, and his estate was given to his brother, whose name was HARMAN. At this his coming (so fare as I can gather, comparing the times with the accidents) CONRADE got by his Captains the country of Burgundy, and made it subject to the Empire, which one hundred and odd years had been subject to the house of France (but yet there had been very mighty Kings and Dukes therein) which was effected by the will and testament of RODULPH, who was present at the Emperor's coronation in Rome: and he bequeathed it to the Emperor's son HENRY, which could not be done without war and bloodshed; for the King of France of the one part, and a certain mighty Earl of another, pretended right thereto, and were possessed of great part of the country; but to be short (for herein much might be said) at this time the supreme dignity of Burgundy was transported to the Empire: yet ROBERT GAGVIN in the end of his fift book, saith, that Burgundy was then divided The division of Burgundy into the Duchy and the County. into two pars, the one remaining subject to the French, and the other to the Empire. The Emperor CONRADE having ended these things so happily for his profit, after that he had lived quietly some years in Germany, without any accident worthy writing (by reason of which, the History of his time is more brief than of other Emperors) he resolved to come the second time into Italy: for at the first, by reason of the small time that he made his abode there, Conrade's second coming into Italy. he could not settle things in such order as he desired; and also for that he understood that the Italians sought aid and relief from the Slavons and the Hungars, against him, with a determination not to yield him any obedience. So as, having all things in a readiness for his journey, as speedily as he could he departed, and came with greater expedition and power than any man thought of: and in his journey ruinating some Towns, and punishing some offenders which thought to have made head against him, he came to Milan, which presently yielded; where he punished the guilty for former offences, and remained some days therein. Departing from thence, he took all the Cities in that Territory; and then went to Rome to see the Pope, and to relieve him against such as disobeyed him (which now, as I conjecture, was BENEDICT the Ninth, JOHN the one and twentith being dead, who was Pope eleven years). And from thence with great power he traveled over all Italy, visiting all the lands belonging to the Church of Rome and to the Empire, not finding any resistance whatsoever: yet in Pulia and in Calabria the wars were still on foot between the Grecians and the Normans. In this manner returned CONRADE into Germany triumphing and mighty, whose History I have written very briefly; for, so do Authors handle the same: and thinking now to repose himself after his former toils (which for the space of fifteen years that he was Emperor he had endured) he was taken with an infirmity, whereof within few days he died, in the year of The death of the Emperor Conrade. our Lord one thousand and forty; some add thereto three years. He left behind him one son whose name was HENRY; who, as I will presently tell you, succeeded him in the Empire. In the time of the Emperor CONRADE, MICHAEL PAPHLAGONUS (as is already said) reigned Emperor of Constantinople, for that ZOE took him for her husband; with whom she had lived ever since the decease of A●…GIROPHILUS her first husband; and he ruled the Empire seven years. After his decease she took another husband of the same name, called MICHAEL CALAFATES; and, being accustomed to that trade, she made him Emperor: but, for that he lived with her but four months, she remained a widow. By reason whereof, the same ZOE, together with her sister THEODORA (which were the Emperor CONSTANTINE'S daughters) governed the Empire three months: and as she was both inconstant and incontinent, so she resolved once again to have a husband; and upon this occasion banished her sister, and married a man whose name was CONSTANTINUS MONACUS, for that he came of the line of the Emperors; who nevertheless was a wicked and evil Emperor: which was the occasion that the Empire began to decline, and to be of small account. At this time died the Emperor CONRADE. What end this Emperor CONSTANTINUS MONACUS made, more shall be said hereafter. THE LIFE OF HENRY, THE THIRD OF THAT NAME, AND THE FOURSCORE AND TWELFTH ROMAN Emperor; And of those which in his time reigned in CONSTANTINOPLE. THE ARGUMENT. IN the beginning of this Emperor's Reign there were some troubles, for that he was not chosen according to order: nevertheless, being held for such, he warred upon the Duke of Bohemia, which denied him tribute; and, taking him prisoner, constrained him to become a good and obedient subject. He afterwards took Arms against the Hungars, aswell for that they had given aid to the Bohemians, as for contriving some unlawful innovations; and gave them a very great overthrow: and their King being dead (whoknew not how to make benefit of the Emperor's clemency) he restored Peter to the Crown; and afterwards subdued the Duke of Lorraine which denied him obedience. He came into Italy; where he reform the estate of the Church which was far out of order, and was crowned in Rome; and afterwards, bending his forces against the Infidels, he drove them out of Italy. And being comn into Germany, he sent a Pope to Rome (having accepted the offers made unto him by the Cardinals concerning the Pope's election) who being received by the Cardinals, lived like a Pope: this Pope, going against the Duke of Normandy, being in a battle taken prisoner, was the very same day set at liberty, and obeyed by the victor. This Emperor once again made war against the Hungars, for putting Peter their King to death; and after many accidents 〈◊〉 to an agreement with them: in which time there were so many calamities and scourges sent from God into the world, that the Emperor falling sick, died of sorrow when he had held the Empire 17 years. IT cannot be denied, after that the Empire was wholly transported to the Germans in the person of OTHO, but that the Emperors thereof defended and governed the same very valiantly, as by the History appeareth; principally, the OTHONES and the HENRY'S, as will appear by the two of whom we are to treat. This HENRY, being the son of CONRADE, was a good Emperor, and in condition no less virtuous than his father, or any of the HENRY'S, or other his Predecessors; neither in Arms of less valour and courage. We have told you before, how that his father in his life time had made him King of the Romans, which was a policy that the Emperors have ever since used, to procure the Empire for their sons; and by that means to leave the same to them by election, seeing they could not do it by inheritance: which in truth seems to be but a device to frustrate and prevent the law and decree made and established by the Emperor OTHO the Third, and Pope GREGORY the Fift, concerning the place where, in what manner, and by whom, the Emperors (the Empire being voided) should be chosen; and that it should not be inherited by succession, but by election: whereupon there grew some question & doubt about the matter; viz. Whether this HENRY should be held for Emperor or no: for, the Princes of Germany held it for very inconvenient and unfit, that his father should nominate him, and that it was a dangerous matter to introduce fuch a custom; for, this was a thing that aught to be done by the Prince's Electors only: but in the end (they acknowledging his good parts and deserts) he was confirmed and crowned Emperor, and generally obeyed for such, according Henry the Third chosen & crowned Emperor. to the accustomed manner: only GRATISLAUS Duke of Bohemia, whom the Abbot WESPERGENSIS, BLONDUS, PLATINA, and OLDERICUS, call FRATISLAUS (a man of great power) rebelled against him, denying any superiority, or to pay him any tribute, which (as JOHN CUSPINIAN saith) was one hundred cows, and five hundred Marks of silver yearly. Against whom, HENRY (as a new Emperor, of a great courage, and desirous to win honour and reputation) raised a great Army, and that sooner than he should have done: for, they writ, that he began his war in the winter, and therefore failed of his expectation, and that through the unseasonableness of the time, and the distemperature of the Country, in skirmishes and encounters he lost many of his men, which were taken and slain by the enemy; so as for that time he had the worst, and was driven to retire, without accomplishing what he had projected, and with loss of reputation: wherewith he was so much grieved and ashamed, that presently in the beginning of the next spring he returned to the wars of Bohemia with all the force he was able to make: and GRATISLAUS, grown proud of his late The Emper●… Henry's victory against the king of Hungary. good success, and through the new supplies which came to him out of Hungary, offered him battle; wherein (notwithstanding that both Armies fought courageously) in the end the Duke was overthrown, and afterward taken flying: and the Emperor (showing what compassion the other craved) granted him life, and pardoned the offence upon security, that from thenceforth he should be a loyal subject; first gathering-in the arrearages of three year's tribute which was behind unpaid, as COSMUS de Andrepragana recounteth in his Annals; whereby the Emperor won much honour. And presently after this, followed another war against the Hungarians for the same occasion. By the death of King STEPHEN, who was K. of Hungary, PETER came to the Crown: against whom, for some ill usage, his subjects rebelled, and made a kinsman of his, King; whom the Abbot WESPERGENSIS calls VBO, and others call him ABA: and the Tyrant ABA being of greater power than the King, PETER was expelled his Country, and driven to seek justice and relief from the Emperor HENRY; who notwithstanding that he was not well pleased with him for assisting the Duke of Bohemia against him, yet for that he had subdued them both, he as his sovereign Lord entertained him, seeing that to him it appertained to do justice, and not to permit any tyranny in his time: and ABA or VBO being advertised hereof, and having sent his Ambassadors to the Emperor to show him the equity of his cause, and to desire his confirmation in the Kingdom, not contenting himself in that he had tyrannised Hungary, entered Austria and Bavaria; and robbing and spoiling those Countries, carried great booty and prey out of those Quarters. This he did at such time as the Emperor held a Diet or Parliament in Colein; where the Princes of Germany were assembled: whereupon, by the general consent of them all, the Emperor (accompanied with some of the Princes) with a great Army departed from Colein towards Hungary, sending GRATISLAUS Duke of Bohemia before to begin the war: which, ABA the Tyrant-king of Hungary fearing, he sent Ambassadors to meet the Emperor upon the way, with all the booty and prey that they had gotten in Austria and Bavaria; entreating him for peace, promising to do what he should enjoin him unto, conditionally that he might not be deposed from that Kingdom: whereto the Emperor for that time yielded and consented; moved thereto by a rumour spread abroad, that the Duke Lorraine, with the aid of France, was in Arms and rebelled; which was the occasion of the peace granted to the King of Hungary, to the end that the Emperor thereby might have the better leisure and opportunity to follow the wars of Lorraine, which were so much doubted. But ABA made not the benefit of that peace, which a wise and a peaceful Prince would have done: but he entreated his subjects rather with greater pride and rigour than before, putting many of the chief of them to death: upon which occasion the Emperor the next year following (with no less an Army than the former, but with greater resolution) entered Hungary, where ABA already attended his coming with his whole power; and with such other aid and assistance as he could get; which was such and so great, that assuring himself to prevail against the Emperor's forces, he offered him battle; which was exceeding resolutely fought of either side, and was very bloody and cruel: but the King in the end was overthrown, and (as writeth HENRICUS MUCIUS) twenty and six thousand of his men were slain: and of the Emperor's side who had the victory, three thousand: ABA escaping by flight, he was afterwards in a village (where Aba king of Hungary overthrown in a battle by Henry the Emperor, and slain by his own people. he had hidden himself) found and slain by his own people: yet some say that he was taken and slain by his competitor PETER. After this overthrow, all the whole Kingdom of Hungary sued to the Emperor for pardon, imputing all their former faults to their King; and he gave them a general Pardon, and restored King PETER to his throne, first reconciling him to his subjects, and placed a Nobleman to be in some sort assistant to him in the government: But this King (as he was naturally cruel) agreed so ill with his subjects, as in the end he lost both his Kingdom and his life, as hereafter shall be specified. This war being ended, as I have related, the Emperor longed to come into Italy, aswel to be crowned, as to take away the schism out of the Church: but first he resolved (for so was it requisite) to tame the pride of GODFREY Duke of Lorraine, who would neither obey nor acknowledge him, but rather usurped some towns of his; which he had long dissembled, attending some fit opportunity, thinking that at length he would have submitted himself to his service: but now holding it unfit any longer to dissemble, calling a Diet or Counsel in the city of Spire, without declaring his intention until that all the Princes were assembled, he then manifested the wrongs and contempts committed by the Duke of Lorraine, and by common consent it was concluded to make war against him: whereupon the Emperor without any further delay, departed with such forces as he had already levied for that purpose, towards Lorraine; and made such haste, that the Duke (notwithstanding that he was promised great aid and favour both out of France and Germany) before that he could unite those forces together, the Emperor had entered his country, and besieging him in a town took him prisoner, and so ended that exploit: yet they writ not in what form the state remained. And so I advertise the Reader, The Duke of Lorraine taken prisoner by the Emperor. that in the order and time wherein these wars were, those which wrote the same do much vary: I therefore have chosen this which I have set down. The Emperor having now ended and performed (so much to his honour) three such enter prizes and wars, as these before mentioned, of Hungary, Bohemia, and Lorraine, about which he had spent six years, reinforcing his Armies (wherein he stayed some days) he took his way directly towards Italy to be crowned, and to procure a reformation of abuses in the Church wherein was a schism, such as before that time had never been, which was thus. The Emperor CONRADE being dead, and BENEDICT the ninth being Pope (as I said) the Emperor HENRY having then reigned more than four years; the Romans which knew not how to live without factions and tumults, rebelled against the Pope: the cause whereof, and in what manner it passed, I find not written; but their boldness was such, that they deposed him from the Papacy, alleging that he neither was, neither aught to be Pope, and so they placed in his seat a Bishop, whose name was JOHN, who took part with them, and was called SYLVESTER the Third: And as PLATINA and BLONDUS report, was Pope but ninie and forty days, at the end whereof BENEDICT was restored by those of his faction: and he within six weeks after, as a coward (being a wicked man and of ill behaviour and condition) for fear to Pope Benedict sold his papacy, and having received the money would continued Pope. be again deposed, for a certain sum of money before hand paid, compounded with the Archdeacon of Saint john de Lateran, who was a mighty rich man in Rome, to renounce to him the Papacy; and did so, but afterwards recanting his bargain, he ehallenged to be still Pope: and the Archdeacon with the title of BENEDICTS renunciation, assisted by his friends, was made Pope, and was called GREGORY the sixt, his own name being JOHN, alleging that he held the Papacy by grant, by renunciation, and also by election; and he enjoyed the name and authority of Pope (as PLATINA saith) above two years: BLONDUS and others say, but one year, seven months and half: and some authors, as GILBERTUS, and JOHANNESDE COLUMNA, and ANTONINUS are of the same opinion, and writ in their histories that he performed the office of a good Pope, and was valiant, administered justice, maintained the Papal dignity, and recovered much of the Church patrimony, which others had usurped: so as in time of this confusion, and of setting up, and putting down Popes (for there were at one time three which were so called, and had been so) and (as writeth GOTHIFREDUS Three Popes in Rome at one time. VITERBIENSIS, an author of four hundred years antiquity) they all three came to a composition, and divided the Church rends amongst them: whereof one of them dwelled hard by S. PETER'S Church, another at S. MARY'S, and this BENEDICT in the palace at LATERAN. Things standing in this estate, the Emperor HENRY with many good men of war entered Italy, and came to Rome; whither he called a Synod and Council to beheld of all the Bishops The Emperor came into Italy. in Holy, and of lost parts of Christendom; which being assembled, together with the three Popes, they treated of them ●…ree and (after many censu●…eses and opinions) the Emperor and all the rest concluded, that these three should be held for no Popes, but be deposed, and that another should he chosen, considering the voluntary renunciation made by BENEDICT, and other ●…llitiess and insufficiencies in the three elections. And this resolution was put in effect; and they were condemned, deprived, and banished the country: And by the same Council, with the favour of the Emperor, a German prelate and Bishop of Bambergh was chosen, and was called CLEMENT the Second, who as soon as he was Pope, anointed and crowned Pope Clement the Second crowned Henry the Third Emperor. the Emperor, after the accustomed manner, with great feasting and solemnity. After this coronation the Emperor departed from Rome towards Capua, which the African Infidels had taken, in time of the wars made by the normans in those parts, and obtaining notable victories against them, dr●…e them out of the country; and setting the best order he could in all the rest, returned to Rome; and thence visiting Haly and Lombardy, returned into Germany, & was scarcely come thither when P. CLEMENT the Second (whom he had chosen) died in Rome, when he had been Pope but 9 months; and that with suspicion of poison by the practice of one STEPHEN a B. of Bavaria, who more by his force and through friendship, than any right of election, got the Papacle, and was called DAMASUS the second. Only BLONDUS putteth another Pope between CLEMENT the Second and DAMASUS, whom he calleth STEPHEN, of whom no other author (that I have seen) maketh any mentio●… but Ighesse that he is deceived in the name, for this DAMASUS, was first called STEPHEN. In those times the Popes were of so little worth, and the Church lands were so usurped by tyrants, that they durst not attempt any thing, and therefore were accordingly disobeyed and lightly regarded. Returning to Pope DAMASUS, I say, that the Papacy which he obtained by force, he held and enjoyed the same but three and twenty days; and being dead, the Romans neither would, nor durst make choice of a Pope, without the Emperor's consent: for (as some writ) Pope CLEMENT the Second had so ordained when he was (at his suit) chosen; and they did so, imagining that the Emperor would hau sent them word, that they should have chosen him whom they should hold most worthy thereof. The news of Pope CLEMENT'S death, and of his successor DAMASUS, and the Ambassadors, came to the Emperor in a manner all at one instant: to the Ambassadors he gave no such answer as they expected, but accepting their offer, chose the Bishop of Tulon a Germane whose name was BRUNUS, whom he nominated to be chosen Pope, and made him presently to departed towards Rome; which the said Bishop was constrained to accept, much against his will, and in a manner perforce. PLATINA and BLONDUS say, that from the time of his departure out of Germany, he made him to wear the papal habit: but a Monk whose name was ILDEBRAND meeting him upon the way, persuaded him to put off that weed, seeing that yet he was not chosen; alleging further, that the Emperor had no authority thereto: which persuasion so much prevailed with BRUNUS, that he went to Rome as a private man, repenting that he had entered so fare into the action. This was in the year of our Lord 1049. Being come to Rome, the Cardinals, clergy, and people consulted about choosing a new Pope, but would not accept of BRUNUS, because the Emperors should not challenge to themselves any right of election: but this ILDEBRAND used such means, and gave such counsel to the Cardinals, that by a general consent BRUNUS was chosen, and called LEO the Ninth; when the Chair had been void six months. LEO being made Pope, GISULPHUS Duke of the normans, being then Lord of Pulia and Calabria, made war against him, and besieged the city of Beneuent, which the Emperor HENRY the Second gave to the Church of Rome: whereof when the Emperor was advertised besides the forces which the Pope had Pope Leo the Ninth was in a battle overthrown and taken prisoner by Gisulphus Duke of Normandy. already levied, he sent him other; w●…h which the Pope departed from Rome against GISULPHUS: but GISULPHUS being the better man of war, and having already taken the city of Beneuent, gathered his forces together and stayed for him in the plain fields; and the Pope more like a valiant Almain, then an expert man at Arms, gave him battle, and was overthrown and taken prisoner. So, as saith JOANNES DE COLUMNA, it might be said to him as CHRIST said to S. PETER: Put up thy sword into the sheath: But being prisoner, GISUL●…HUS entertained him with great honour, and presently the same day set him at liberty, and gave him company and servants fit to attend on him, wherewith he went to Rome: and they afterwards came to a composition between themselves. Herein is a great confusion among the Historiographers: for the Germans writ that this Pope went into Germany to see the Emperor, and that he called a Synod or Council in the City of Mentz, and that the Emperor came the second time into Italy: Others writ nothing, either of the Pope's going, or of the Emperors second coming; in the rest they all agreed. LEO held the chair five years and a half; and when he was dead, one G●…EARDUS a German Bishop born in Baviere, was chosen, and called VICTOR the Second; which they did to gratify the Emperor: and presently without any delay, to the end he should not be discontented, for that they had made choice of a Pope without his consent; the new Pope and Clergy sent ILDEBRAND to him, who performed his legacy in such sort, as the Emperor approved and confirmed what they had done. Whilst these things passed in Italy, the subjects of PETER King of Hungary (whom the Emperor had placed in that Kingdom) rebelled against him; and sent into Poland for certain great men of Hungary which lived there in exile, one of which was called ANDREW, and another L●…VENTA, who were their Captains; and after other great matters (which I omit) Peter king of Hungary was taken by his subjects, and had his eyes put out. they seized on their King, and putting out his eyes, caused him die in prison; and with the help of certain Barbarians and Infidels which came to their aid, slew some Bishops: which when the Emperor understood, he made great preparation for war against them, especially against ANDREW, who took upon him the name of King; and having built and rigged up a great number of Barks and Ships, the Emperor came down the river Danubius, from Austria to B●…da, and to other places, where this ANDREW and the rest were; which voyage had ill success, for his adversaries got certain excellent swimmers and diverse which would lie a long time under the water, and these in a night bouged the Emperor's barks, in such sort, as the greatest part of his munition and victual was lost; so as he was constrained to return with his people in Expert swimmer●…. the best manner he could, without effecting any thing of worth. Afterwards he twice entered Hungary; in the first, notwithstanding that he went with great preparation of horse and foot, yet he obtained no notable victory; and the third year he made peace with the Hungarians, ANDREW remaining still their King, who acknowledged a certain kind of superiority. This being ended, and it seeming a small time since that the Emperor began to repose himself; through the secret judgement of God, great calamities ensued in many countries, as famine, Calamities by God's providence cruel plagues, horrible earthquakes, and other lamentable disasters: after which ensued the death of the Emperor; the end of whose reign was, for the causes afore said, pitiful and sorrowful. It is written, that for sorrow and grief, to see so great afflictions and miseries happen in his time, he fell sick and died; leaving behind him one son about about ten years old, The death of the Emperor Henry the Second. called HENRY, whom before his death he made to be crowned king of the Romans, the Electors consenting thereto; and three daughters, which afterward were married to several princes: he reigned seventeen years, and died in the year of our Lord, one thousand fifty seven. In Constantinople during the time of this Emperor HENRY (of whom we now treated) reigned CONSTANTINUS MONACHUS, by his marriage with the Empress ZOE, as I said in the end of the Emperor CONRADE: This CONSTANTINE was a negligent and vicious Emperor, and a public ill liver. In his time began the Turks to be of great power in Asia, When the Turks began to grow mighty in Asia. and did much harm in the tertitories of the Empire. This Emperor was also much troubled by some which rebelled against him; yet he at length subdued them all: and so between prosperity and adversity, he reigned thirteen years. In his time also the Empire did greatly decay, both in power and authority. One only good quality he had, which was, that he was an Alms giver, and a great reliever of the poor; and made a great Hospital for old men only, such as through their great age being decrepit, could not get their living. Both he and the Empress died (in a manner) at one time; and both of the plague. The husband and wife being dead, THEODORA, sister to ZOE, had the Empire, by the authority and sentence of the Senate, and people of Constantinople; and governed the same with such equity, justice and quietness, for the space of two years, that they sorrowed she had not lived much longer. Before her death, by the counsel of certain Eunuches (by whom she was much ruled) she made YSACIUS CONNENUS' General of her forces, who was a valiant and wise Captain. THEODORA being dead, a man of great age, called MICHAEL, was made Emperor: but proving to be incapable and insufficient for the government, which he had not ruled one whole year; by a general consent he was deposed from the Empire, and YSACIUS CONNENUS (whom THEODORA had made her Captain General) was chosen in his place; who reigned two years; and although he made a good show of himself, yet (considering his short time) he could not do any notable exploit, and him succeeded CONSTANTINUS DUCA. THE LIFE OF HENRY, THE FOURTH OF THAT NAME, AND FOURSCORE AND THIRTEENTH ROMAN Emperor; And of those which in his time reigned in CONSTANTINOPLE. THE ARGUMENT. HEnry being yet a child when his father died, and chosen and proclaimed Emperor; it behoved him for many years space to live under the government of his mother, who by the consent of all men took the charge of him, and the protection of the Empire: but afterwards being comn to riper years, he would no longer live under her command, but took the government into his own hands. His first warlike enterprise, was against the Saxons; wherein he bebaved himself so gallantly (notwithstanding that he was but young) that he brought them to his obedience: yet they afterwards rebelled, for that he would not endure the insolency of the Pope and Court of Rome, which he little regarded. This second war was fare more dangerous than the first (although he had the victory) and made him more disobedient to the Pope than before: whereupon he was solemnly excommunicated, and deprived of the title and dignity of the Empire, for that he called a Council in Germany against Pope Gregory. Of which excommunication he could never be absolved, until that he had three days together comn barefooted to entreat the Pope for pardon, who met him at Uercelli. Whilst the Emperor was in this parley with the Pope, many Princes of Germany rebelling against him, made another Emperor, which was Rodulph Duke of Saxony: with whom Henry coming to a battle, had no such victory as he expected; but was again excommunicate, and deprived of the title of Emperor, which was given to Rodulph newly chosen: upon this occasion, Henry being much incensed, chose another Pope called Clement. and made a schism in the Papacy, which was the occasion of very great war: but Henry, after the death of his competitor Rodulph, came into Italy, and besieged Rome; and entering it, was crowned by the hands of Pope Clement, the other Pope being retired into the Castle Saint Angelo: to whom great succours coming, Henry abandoned Rome, and with Pope Clement went into Germany; and Pope Gregory, accompanied with his crew of Cardinals, went to the City of Salerno, where he ended his days. At this time followed the enterprise of jerusalem, and the rebellion of Henry's eldest son Conrade, because the Emperor sought to make his second son called also Henry, his successor: which being done, he also rebelled against his father: so as there were more than civil wars between them, neither could there any means be found to apppease them, neither could this war be brought to an end but through the death of the old Emperor Henry; who having publicly (but by constraint) renounced all his jurisdiction of the Empire unto his son, and afterwards repenting, and seeking to recover the same, could obtain no composition with him; and so for sorrow and grief falling sick, died, God suffering him to make a miserable end. TRuly, the three Emperors called HENRY'S, of whom we have treated, were very valiant and worthy Princes in Arms; as, the father of him of whom we now begin to writ, and the other two before mentioned: but none of them can be compared to this Fourth, of whom we are now to discourse. It is certain, that he was valiant and addicted to Arms, as being trained up therein, and was one of the most excellent Princes that ever was; for, unto this day it is not found written, that any Emperor came so often to blows with his enemies, as he did: for, all Authors affirm, that he fought in ranged battles with ensigns displayed, threescore and two several times, and for the most part had ever the victory: to which number JULIUS CAESAR or MARCUS MARCELLUS never attained (which too in their time excelled all others). This Emperor reigned fifty years. He was a man liberal, well spoken, very wise; and had many other natural gifts and virtues: but (as saith this Author) he stained and blemished them all The qualities of the Emperor Henry the Fourth. with his ambition, for he would be Lord over all both spiritual and temporal, contemning the Canons and Decretals of the Church of Rome: which was the occasion, that in his later days, he was disobeyed by those which aught him greatest obedience, which were his own children. The History of his life cannot but be longer than ordinary, for that it treateth of many great accidents which happened in the space of more than fifty years that he reigned. I say then, that when his father died, he was not fully ten years old; but yet for his father's worthiness, and his mother's virtues, called YNES (an excellent & discreet woman) he was crowned and obeyed for Emperor and King of the Germans, as his father in his life time had entitled him; and, by the consent of the greatest part of the Princes, his mother governed both his person and the Empire: And all that time she ruled very wisely and valiantly, as well in peace as in war, against some Princes, which, for that she was a woman, and her son the Emperor so very a child, rebelled against him. Into Italy she sent one GILBERT for Governer, who afterwards was the cause and motive of great schisms and dissensions in the Church of Rome. Of those which rebelled, the first was a great Lord called FREDERICK of Gilbergh, and his brethren and kinsfolks, who were men of great power: but she took so good order with them, that she compelled them to sue for pardon, and to yield their obedience. The greatest trouble and difficulty that she had, was against RODULPH Earl of Reinsfelt; with whom in process of time, HENRY had most cruel war: who, by the aid of ROMOLDUS Archbishop of Constance, took the Emperor's sister MAUD, and married her; thinking by this title to become Emperor: and the Empress (to gratify him, and to reduce him to her son's service) made him Duke of Suevia, which then was voided through the death of OTHO who died without issue; which Dukedom was promised to a great Earl called BERTOLD: in recompense whereof, the Empress gave him Carinthia. And so she pacified the great troubles which then arose; and some other by force, with the aid and assistance of such as remained loyal Subjects. But in the end the young Emperor growing to riper years, by the advice of some which were of his Council, disobeying his mother, sought to be free from her authority, being thereto persuaded chief by ANO (and, as others say, OTHO) Archbishop of Colein; who dealt so cunningly, that he got him into his protection: and by the assistance of some others, he assembling the Princes, alleged that it was very undecent and unfit to be ruled by a woman, seeing the Emperor was of sufficient discretion and understanding to do what was convenient. The Emperor being gotten out of the power and controlment of his mother, the Archbishop commanded in such sort, that all went to wrack: for, being bred up in such liberty, he did what he listed, which in the end was the cause of his ruin; for, he become both licentious and presumptuous, favouring some, and grieving others: by reason whereof he was ill beloved of many; and gave himself to hunting, and to such other sports as that age is chief delighted withal. His mother, seeing herself so little regarded, and that she could bear no more sway with him, went to Rome, where she lived and died in a Cloister of Nuns. Germany standing in these terms, in Italy a little before this time died Pope NICHOLAS the Second, when he had held that Chair four years. This Pope recovered much of the The death of pope Nicholas. Church-lands which were usurped by sundry Captains and governors, which did make themselves tyrants. And he also gave the title of Duke of Pulia and Calabria, to GVISCARD a Normane being already Lord of those provinces, who made himself and his country's subject and feudatorie to the Church of Rome. This Pope held a Council, wherein he ordained that from thenceforth, the Cardinals only should choose the Popes, thereby to avoid the factions and dissension which arose concerning the same; as it appeareth in the chapter In nomine Domini The dignity of cardinals. in the three and twentith distinction; which is observed unto this day. By this mean, the Deacons and Cardinals Priests attained to great authority and credit: for until then, they were not of any such account (although already very much esteemed.) This name and dignity of Cardinals, was in Rome at the beginning but a troublesome and painful office; for they were as the Curates of parishes, and had the charge of ministering the Sacraments and of burying the dead, and were called Priests Cardinals, as the more worthy and of greater reputation: and as Rome was then held for the head of all other Churches, so these Priests Cardinals were regarded and more respected than any other; and they afterwards attained to greater pre-eminence, for that they were ever near unto the Pope; and being in the time of this Pope NICHOLAS the second established Electors, they grew to be of greater reputation; but not in so high a degree, as we now see them, until the time of Pope INNOCENT the fourth, about the year of our Lord, one thousand two hundred four and forty; for he gave them liberty to ride on their footeclothes, and to wear such robes as they now use to wear, to the end, that as they did excel other men in their degree and ornaments, so should they in their behaviour and virtuous conditions: wherefore to paint Saint AMBROSE with a Cardinal's crimson hat is a mere mockery; for in his ●…me there were not any: and so at length the dignity of Cardinal came to be the greatest and the highest degree next to the Pope, and they accompany and counsel him in all matters of importance: but many of them have carried themselves so profanely, as they have given just occasion to the world, to note and murmur at their Consistory. Pope NICHOLAS being dead, ANSELME Bishop of Luca was chosen, and called ALEXANDER the Second; against whom, GILBERT Governor of Lombardy for the Emperor, by the consent of certain Bishops of that Province, made a Schism in the Papacy, and chose another Pope: But GOTHIFREDUS and his wife MAUD, (which were the greatest Princes in Italy at that time) protected the first Pope: And in Rome and abroad elsewhere, followed many slaughters and murders of the one and the other party, until that in the end Pope ALEXANDER prevailed, and the other Pope fled to Milan. Whilst these matters passed in Italy (the Emperor, as it was said, permitting and allowing the same) the like or greater were tolerated in Germany; for he suffered Priests to marry, and gave Benefices and Bishoprics without the Pope's licence or authority: wherewith the Pope was much displeased, and twice or thrice sent his Ambassadors to the Emperor about that business. And in other matters were great troubles and factions, and many rose against the Emperor: the first were the Saxons: for from OTHO Duke of Saxony and Baviere, who was accused of treason, the Emperor took the Duchy of Baviere, which his mother had given him, and gave the same to a Noble man, named GVELPHO; against these Saxons the Emperor attempted his first wars, when he was not full 18 years old; wherein showing himself to be of an high mind, and free from fear or cowardice, he personally fought in many battles and skirmishes against that people, which is, and ever hath been accounted for one of the most valiant Nations of the world: but he finally overthrew them, and compelled them (for this time) to yield him service. Having obtained these victories, the Emperor sent into Italy for his Ambassador to the Pope, the Archbishop of Coleyn, with sufficient authority to conclude what to him seemed best to be done, and to excuse him of such things as were laid to his charge: who being come into Italy, he put GILBERT out of the Chancelorship and government of Lombardy, which the Empress INES had given him, and placed therein the Bishop of Bercelli: and from thence, with great authority and majesty, he went to Rome, where (Pope ALEXANDER giving him public audience) he made a solemn Oration; wherein in effect, in the behalf of his Lord the Emperor, he reproved the Pope, for having accepted the Papacy without his confirmation, with other matters in the behalf of the Emperor: whereto HILDEBRAND, by the Pope's order, answered peremptorily; alleging that the Pope aught not to attend any such confirmation; and he so sharply reprehended the Emperor, as the Archb. was constrained to rest satisfied and to crave pardon for his speech. After this, many matters followed in Italy, which (unwillingly) I omit, to the end to treat of what passed in the time of the Emperor HENRY, of whom only I writ this History. About this time, which was in the year of our Lord, one thousand sixty and six, EDWARD King of England dying without issue, he made WILLIAM Duke of Normandy his heir, who with the aid of BALDWIN Earl of Flanders, obtained the Kingdom; and so the houses of England and Normandy were united, and so have continued a long time in the kings thereof, and in their successors. The Archbishop of Coleyn having dispatched his business in Italy, returned (discontent with his answer) into Germany, and within few days after died Pope ALEXANDER, having held that seat eleven years and a half: Afterwards the Archbishop of Ravenna revolted from the Church of Rome. ALEXANDER being dead, by the general consent of all the Cardinals and Clergy, HILDEBRAND the Archdeacon (often before named) was made Pope, and was called GREGORY the seventh; who sent his Ambassadors to the Emperor, praying and requiring him to become an obedient son to the Church, and to altar the manner of his government in Germany; and thereby gave him further to understand, that he was resolved not to allow thereof, but to use his authority to reform the same. Pope GREGORY at this time (as some approved Authors writ) enjoined the Bishops of Germany (contrary to the ancient Laws) not to suffer the Emperor to confer any Bishoprics, who he said would give them to unworthy men or not fit, neither should they from that time require any confirmation from the Emperor; which care and ordination did not belong to any secular Princes, but to the holy order, and chief to the Bishop of Rome, the Precedent thereof. The Emperor hereto gave a doubtful answer, but performed in effect nothing of what was required; maintaining, that the Pope aught not to accept the Papacy without his confirmation, according to the agreement made between his father the Emperor, HENRY the third, and Pope CLEMENT the second, and so these Ambassadors returned without any conclusion: this was in the seventeenth year of his reign, in the year of our Lord, one thousand seventy four. At this time, (and also before and after it) the Emperor had cruel wars with the Dukes of Saxony, which again rebelled against him, they alleging the Emperor's disobedience to the Church of Rome to be the occasion thereof. This was the most dangerous war that ever he undertook, wherein passed many perilous Encounters, the Emperor hazarding his person (so valiant and warlike he was) and he principally fought one very bloody battle, wherein he prevailed; but (as saith BLONDUS) with the loss of five thousand men: and the Emperor and his brother in law RODULPH, who afterward was his great enemy, fought therein with their own hands most valiantly. During these Combustions in Germany, Italy was not free from factions and controversies, between the Imperialists and the Pope's adherents. GILBERT, the abovenamed Archbishop of Ravenna (who had been Governor for the Emperor in Italy) finding that the Pope had resolved to excommunicate the Emperor, he secretly agreed with one CINCIUS ayong Roman Knight, a man of a bold spirit (whose father was Perfect of the City) that he should seize upon the Pope; assuring him that the Emperor would accept thereof, for a special piece of service; and he accordingly put the matter in execution: the Pope being upon Christmas Eeve saying Mass in the Church of Saint MARY the greater in Rome; this CINCIUS with a good guard, entered the Church, and laying hands upon him, carried him away, and in a Tower detained him prisoner. But the people as soon as it was day (being advertised thereof) went to CINCIUS house, and setting the Pope at liberty, razed the Tower, from the top to the foundation: And of all such of CINCIUS his servants as they found, they cut off the Noses, and banished them from Rome; and CINCIUS escaping the death (which they desired to have given him) by flight, durst not stay in Italy, but went into Germany to the Emperor: This Archbishop GILBERT, whose practice was not yet discovered, setting a good countenance upon the matter, departed the City; but being come to Ravenna, he was by the Pope excommunicate and deprived of all his ecclesiastical dignities and Benefices. In Germany were no less contempts, against his Holiness then in Italy: for (as the Abbot WESPERGENSIS and other German Author's report, besides the Italians which verify the same) by the procurement of SIG●…FRIDUS Archbishop of Mentz, with some other A Council held in Germany against the Pope. Bishops and Abbats which joined with him, a Council was held against the Pope, (the Bishops of Saxony disallowing and contradicting the same) in which Council it was resolved, that GREGORY should not be held for Pope; and that they all should renounce their obedience unto him 〈◊〉 Whereupon the Emperor and his Council, sent for Ambassador to Pope GREGORY, a Priest, whose name was ROWLAND. The Pope in like manner called a Council against the Emperor, at Saint JOHN DE LATERAN in Rome; where ROWLAND being arrived, and the Pope and his Council giving him audience, he in the behalf of the Emperor, required GREGORY to desist from any longer exercising the papal function, and to resign the authority of Pope: and he likewise signified the same to the Cardinals, willing them to repair into Germany to the Emperor, who would nominate a Pope. GREGORY was heerwith much troubled; and for as much as ROWLAND was an Ambassador, he commanded him presently to departed without any answer, and without any other disgrace. But it is also written, that the Emperor's mother at the Pope's request went into Germany, accompanied with many great Prelates, to persuade her son to desist from intermeddling with the donation of Bishoprics or other ecclesiastical Benefices; to forbidden the marriage of Priests, and to yield obedience to the Church of Rome: but for that it took no effect, the Pope very solemnly excommunicated the Emperor, and deprived him of all imperial dignity; and he also excommunicated all such as took his part, and freed all the Princes and Lords of Germany and elsewhere, which aught him any duty or allegiance, from their oaths, homage, and bands of obedience or subjection, giving free liberty to all men; and authority The Emperor Henry the Fourth excommunicated by the pope. to the Prince's Electors to choose another Emperor, such as should best please them. The Archbishop of Mentz was likewise excommunicate, and deprived of all ecclesiastical dignity, and with him all such as had been in the Council aforesaid: but before the Pope had proceeded so far, he advertised all the Princes in Christendom, of all, both past and present; and the Emperor wrote to them, in like manner defending his cause, and excusing himself against the Pope's accusations. The Pope's terrible Sentence being published in Germany (as there were many that took his part, principally the Prelates of Saxony and others) RODULPH Duke thereof, with many other Princes, called a Diet or Council; wherein they resolved to require the Emperor to ask the Pope forgiveness, and to submit himself to the Church of Rome: which if he refused to do, they concluded to renounce their obedience unto him. The Emperor, notwithstanding that he was a very brave man, and exceeding valiant (as some say, feignedly; and as others say, of his own accord) promised to do what they required, which he openly protested. Finally, it was agreed, To sand to the Pope to come into Germany, where full and entire obedience should be yielded to him; and in the name of the Princes and Lords assembled at that Diet or Council, the Archbishop of Trevier, and others of great account, went to the Pope, and entreated him with such instancy, that he was persuaded to take his way toward Germany to meet the Emperor, who stayed (as they said) for him, and would come to ask him forgiveness, and submit himself into his hands. The Pope came to the City of Bercelli in Lombardy; where being advertised, that the Emperor marched towards him with great troops of men at Arms, fearing that he would have either slain him or taken him prisoner, gave-over his journey, and turned into the Country of GOTHIREDUS and his wife MAUD, and was by them protected in an expugnable Town and Castle, called Canusio or Canisio; whither within few days the Emperor came: who, lodging his Army before the Town, in great humility sent to entreat the Pope to absolve him of his excommunication, offering to become his obedient son and subject; and three days together came barefooted to the gates of the City, to sue for this absolution: but The Emperor's submission, who came 〈◊〉 several days barefooted to the city gates wherein the pope was suing for absolution. the Pope would not yield thereto. In conclusion, there passed many treaties, oaths and promises; but at length (through the instant suit of the said MAUD, and of ADELAUS Earl of Savoy, and, as some say, of INES the Emperor's mother also) the Pope, admitting the Emperor into his presence, absolved him: but whereas he had deprived him of his Empire, and had laid other penalties upon him for former matters, he referred that to the judgement of the next general Council, which should presently be called; and the Emperor promised to stand to the Counsels arbitrement, and to banish from his company CINCIUS, who seized on the Pope in Rome, and some excommunicated Prelates. The Emperor continued some days in those parts (as some writ, expecting when the Pope would have come forth of that City; imagining that he, trusting to the peace, might have been apprehended) and departing from thence, he went to Pavia in Lombardy, where the beforenamed CINCIUS died; and the Emperor, by reason of the great abundance of rain which fell at that time, made his abode there for certain days: in which he was given to understand, that in Germany the Saxons and other his enemies (among which were BERTOLD Earl of Carinthia, the Duke of Baviere, RODULPH Duke of Suevia, and others) rebelled against him; and assembling themselves together (denying him their obedience) made the Duke of Saxony Emperor, Rodulph Duke of Saxony chosen Emperor. of whom we have heretofore made mention; who was a man of the greatest account, both for power and valour, of his time in Germany. This (after the Abbot WESPERGENSIS his computation) was in the year of our Lord 1079, and in the twentith year of the reign of the Emperor HENRY the Fourth. These news being brought to the Emperor HENRY (as he was a man of an high mind and great courage) with the greatest fury of the world he departed towards Germany, and by the way gathered together all such his friends as took his part, which were many: and RODUDPH, assisted by the Saxons and Suevians, accompanied with some Princes and great Prelates; the most cruel war began between them two, that had been ever seen in Germany, which lasted full four years. In the beginning whereof (besides sundry conflicts and accidents of war, whereto either of these Emperors did set their hands) they came to a pitched battle, Army against Army: which because that their forces were in a manner equal, and both A battle between the Emperor and the Duke of Saxony. the Generals very valiant, was very doubtful and bloody: HENRY to defend the Empire, and RODULPH to get the same, did both that day marueiles in Arms in their own persons. Finally, authors affirm, that either party fought with such resolution, that having spent the greatest part of the day, the battle was ended without any certain appearance of victory, both Camps remaining full of dead and wounded bodies; and each General was constrained of necessity to withdraw his Army from the other, to refresh and relieve his troops; but yet the war ceased not. In the mean time both these Princes sent their Ambassadors to the Pope, either of them entreating him to condemn the other: and the Pope returned Ambassadors to both these Princes, requiring them both to lay down their Arms; and HENRY (according to the agreement made with him in Lanusio) to permit a general Council to be held in Germany; and that either of them should stand to such arbitrement, as by that Council should be concluded. RODULPH accepted these conditions; but HENRY answered that he was not bound thereto, except the Pope would first excommunicate RODULPH; and so prosecuted the war with greater resolution than before. The Pope receiving this answer, sent a new excommunication against him, and ratified the election of RODULPHUS; to whom (as JOHANNES DE COLUMNA, ANTONINUS, VINCENCIUS, JOHN CUSPINIAN, JOHN CARION, and many others do writ) he sent a Crown, wherewith he should be crowned, with this inscription, Petra dedit petro: Petrus diadema Rodulpho. After this, both these Emperors resolved again to try their fortunes by battle; notwithstanding that it was in the midst of winter, which was no less cruel and doubtful than the former, but rather more, and therein (as saith PLATINA) was as little sign of victory, as in the last: some authors attribute the victory to RODULPH, and others to HENRY; the cause whereof was (as saith the Abbot WESPERGENSIS and some others) for that in the beginning RODVLPH'S vanguard of Saxons was put to flight, and HENRY prosecuted the victory: wherein the Duke of Bohemia, who bore RODVLPH'S imperial standard, made a great show of his valour, which standard his successors afterwards bore in the wars, in remembrance of this victory. And in the mean season, RODVLPH'S arierguarde spoiled the Emperor HENRIE'S camp, and so they might well retire without any defeat, and either party might pretend to have gotten the victory: this is the cause why it is so diversely reported. But howsoever it was, HENRY was wounded, although not dangerously, but yet the war ceased not; for A third battle between the Emperor Henry the fourth, and Rodulph Duke of Sa●…ony. shortly after either of these Emperors reinforcing his Army, desired to fight the third battle, with power against power, (notwithstanding that between them there were daily some encounters) and neither party refusing the fight, the two Armies joined, and they fought with greater fury then at any time before: for the harms which were done, and the slaughters of their people of either side were so great and so many, and their hatred and malice was grown to so high a degree, that they thought on nothing else but how to kill and destroy; with this desire and rage they maintained the fight: wherein after the death of an infinite number of men, and the effusion of much blood, HENRY obtained the victory, and RODULPH was overthrown, and lost many of his Saxons, which were very good men; but notwithstanding RODVLPHV'S overthrow, yet (as a valiant Prince) gathering his forces together, and reinforcing his Army, he retired into Saxony, which was his best refuge: where were some treaties of peace and of a composition to be made between the Emperor HENRY and him; which took no effect, for HENRY would not determine the wars, but by the sword: for as he was a man of a great and high mind, so he presumed to subdue all his adversaries by his power: and his haughty courage was such as could endure no rival or equal; which through his late victory greatly increased. The affairs of Germany standing upon these terms, HENRY still following the war, sought the Pope's destruction, and procured to be assembled in a city in Germany, such prelate's as took part with him, in the name of a Council; which chose the before named GILBERT Archbishop of Ravenna, Pope (who was Pope GREGORIE'S capital enemy; and a wicked man, and had laid the plot before mentioned for his apprehension in Rome by CINCIUS) he was called CLEMENT. Hereupon besides the miseries which afflicted Italy began a schism and division in the Church of Rome, for those which took part with the Emperor HENRY held him for Pope. The Emperor at that time sent his son HENRY into Italy, there to govern such estates as were subject unto him, and to make war against such as held with Pope GREGORY: of which that MAUD (before named) was the principal; who levied her forces and came to a battle with HENRY the son, wherein she was overthrown: for which the Pope was wonderfully grieved, comparing this ill fortune, with the schism made by Pope GILBERT. The Emperor was herewith so much encouraged, as levying the greatest power that he was able to make; he went to seek RODULPH; who (as I said) was in Saxony, making preparation for the wars, and was already in such order, that he doubted not to fight with the Emperor, in hope to have overthrown him. And so they fought a most cruel and bloody battle; wherein (as then there were no Cannons, Culuerines, Musket shot, or other artillery, as now is used) neither party wanting either force or courage, or standing in any fear or doubt to come to blows with the other; with dint of sword and lance, they slew and wounded their enemies; the two Emperors in person fight in the thickest of the press. This fight was maintained the greatest part of the day; the end whereof is related by Historiographers diversely. The most common opinion is, that the Emperor HENRIE'S Army was overthrown, A fourth battle between the Emperor and Duke Rodulph: and his end. and that RODULPH had the victory; but he was sore wounded and lost his right hand: some say that he received that hurt by mischance amongst his own people; which wound bled so much and pained him so sore, that he could not prosecute the victory, and therefore was constrained to retire himself to a strong castle to be cured; where within few days after he died. So as the Emperor HENRY of a man conquered become a conqueror: for RODULPH being missing, his people disbanded, and so HENRY become Master of the field. Yet BLONDUS writeth, that the Emperor HENRY fled out of the field the same day wherein the battle was fought, and lay close in a castle, until that he was certified of the death of RODULPHUS; and that he then came forth to enjoy the victory, through the death of his enemy, whom he had not overthrown. CARION writes that when RODULPH was ready to breathe out his last (his right hand which he had lost in the battle being brought unto him) detesting the wickedness and the treachery of Popes too late; speaking to a troop of Bishops which were about him: This is the right hand (said he) by the which I confirmed my plighted faith unto the Emperor. This is an argument of my perjury (you being the motives) and a testimony of your wicked treachery whereof you shall give an account unto God. RODULPHUS his servants going about to bury the body of their deceased Lord, with the ensigns and ornaments of Emperor; some asked of the Emperor HENRY, wherefore he suffered RODULPHUS to be buried with such honour, seeing that he was a tyrant and his enemy: whereto he made an excellent answer: I would to God (quoth he) that all mine enemies were (like RODULPH) A notable saying of the Emperor Henry the Fourth. buried with the ornaments and ensigns of Emperors. The Emperor HENRY having slain his competior RODULPHUS, making small account of the rest, seized Suevia into his hands, and dispossessed BERTOLDUS thereof, to whom RODULPH had given the same; and leaving garrisons in the frontiers of Saxony (which was not yet thoroughly pacified) and establishing the best order he could in all parts of Germany; with his victorious Army he took his way towards Italy; whither he came within few days, having with him Pope CLEMENT who was chosen in Germany, with a resolution to depose Pope GREGORY; to whose aid the forenamed MAUD had sent a great supply of men; and Pope GREGORY had already fortified and victualled Rome: for the Emperor came with so great force and fury, that there was no reason to attend his coming in the open fields; so as without encountering or resistance, he came to the very walls of the city, whereto he presently manded assault to be given: but he found such resistance, that being out of hope to enter it at that time, he burned and spoiled the suburbs and Country round about, continuing his siege before the City notwithstanding; which was one of the most famous that hath been seen before any City in the World, as well for continuance of time, as for the many accidents and adventures in Arms, for it continued above three years, in which time there were many cruel assaults and sallies; and the besieged endured great famine, and want of all things necessary: in the mean time the Emperor made some incursions into Lombardy, and into other parts of Italy: Rome besieged by the Emperor Henry. the German Pope CLEMENT commanding his Army in the time of his absence In this siege the Vatican was taken, wherein are the Pope's Palace, and Saint PETER'S Church, which were ruined and burnt by the Emperor, together with the best and fairest houses and buildings. Whilst now the Emperor was busied in Italy, they were not quiet in Germany: for besides the ordinary wars, the Saxons advanced a great man, called HARMAN, to the dignity of Emperor: but this was a matter of small moment which did little disturb HENRY, for they themselves expelled him. In the end, after so long a time as the Pope was thus besieged in Rome, ROBERT GVISCARD a potent Normane, Prince and Lord of Pulia and of Calabria, grieving to see the Pope thus distressed, resolved to give over his wars with the Grecians in Dalmatia and in other parts, and (as the Pope's liege man) to come to the relief of Rome: and to that effect left his son BOHEMUND in his place, and levied forces and other necessaries, fit for so high an enterprise. The news hereof, being every where published, the Emperor with greater care and circumspection more strictly continued his siege; and using as well policy as force, he caused to be published amongst the Romans, that his desire was, but to be absolved and crowned by the Pope, and that confirming him in the Empire, he would presently departed from Rome: Whereto the Pope would not give ear, except the Emperor would give security for the performance of his promise: For, knowing that all was but dissembling and deceit, he would rather continued constant in his resolution, then yield shamefully to such baseness, and thereby loose himself: But the Emperor used such means, that the greatest part of the Romans (being tired with so long and so cruel a siege) went over to the Emperor's Camp; and others presumed to tell the Pope to his face, that he did ill in not receiving him into Rome, seeing he promised to departed again speedily: Besides this, the Pope was certified, that some had resolved whether he would or not, to let the Emperor into the City: Whereupon he withdrew himself into the Castle S. Angelo, and with him all the Cardinals; and made a Nephew of his, whose name was RUSTICUS, to possess himself of another Castle called Septem Solia; wherein he was well advised, for the Emperor was presently received into the City, and with him the German Pope CLEMENT, and the said Castles by his commandment were presently besieged, which was in the year of our Lord, one thousand fourscore and four: And the Emperor with great solemnity was anointed and crowned by Pope CLEMENT, more accompanied with men of war then with Bishops and Prelates. Yet not omitting to batter The Emperor anointed and crowned in Rome. the Castles, wherein Pope GREGORY and his Nephew were; the assaults given were so furious, that RUSTICUS was driven to yield himself prisoner: But the Castle S. Angelo was so strong, that the Emperor could not prevail against it. The affairs standing in this estate, the said ROBERT GVISCARD so much hastened his coming with so great force, that (as the Italian Authors writ) the Emperor durst not stay for him; but giving it out, that by reason of some urgent affairs in Germany, it behoved him presently to departed; he left part of his forces for the defence of the City, and to continued the siege of the Castle, wherein the Pope was; and fortified the Capitol, which then was strong, and repaired other towers and fortresses decayed. The Abbot WESPERGENSIS, and other German Authors writ nothing of any such fear the Emperor was in, but make mention of all the rest. But howsoever it was, he went out of Italy, and with him his Pope, whom RICHARD Duke of Beneuent did support for a season. Within few days following, ROBERT GVISOARD came to Rome with all his troops of Normans and Calabrians (it had been better that he had never come, as it afterwards happened) and others which came to his aid, to set Pope GREGORY at liberty: for from else where it was not to be expected, for in Gracia the Emperors were at wars: and from France could come no relief, for that Lombardy held for the Emperor: and in Spain, the Princes were troubled and turmoiled with wars against the Moors; so as only ROBERT GVISCARD, had means to do it and none other: Being comn, the Citizens of Rome which had received the Emperor, with the assistance of those which he had left in garrison, offered themselves to defend the City, so as he entered it by force, with the aid and favour of some which were within it. He found so great resistance in his adversaries that the two factions oftentimes fought within the city; the greatest part of the citizens taking part with the Imperialists: and there was so great disorder and confusion, that the greatest part of miserable Rome was burnt and ruined; for whatsoever either party got, they overthrew or set on fire: so great was the rage and fury wherewith they made this war. But in the end ROBERT GVISCARD, and the Pope's party prevailing against their enemies, they took, burnt and destroyed the Capitol; and left Rome so ruinated, that neither ATTILA, or any other barbarous nation, did ever commit the like spoils: for at this day there are orchards, vineyards and gardens, where before that war, were streets, houses, Churches and other sumptuous buildings. ROBERT having obtained so pitiful a victory, went to the Castle S. Angelo, which until then was besieged: and freeing Pope GREGORY from thence, restored him to his seat and palace. But within few days after, the Pope considering into how miserable and pitiful estate the city was brought; by the counsel of the said ROBERT, he determined to absent himself; and being accompanied with the same ROBERT, and with his College of Cardinals he went to the city of Salerno, where he afterwards died, having been Pope twelve years, one month, and three days. It is written t●…at this Pope was a just, an upright, a wise, and a charitable man, and an alms giver: but it is certain that he was an obstinate, presumptuous, stout, and firm defender of the Roman prelacy, with the liberties and immunities thereof. BRUNUS, and SIGISBERTUS report him to have been both ambitious, a Necromancer, and an enchanter; and that he had poisoned Hildebrand, called Pope Gregory the seventh, a notable enchanter and Necromancer. seven other Popes before he could attain to the Papacy. Before we proceed any further, it shall be very requisite to make some relation of the Emperors of Constantinople (seeing that we are not to discourse of other kingdoms and commonwealths) to the end that having ended herewith, we may proceed with our HENRY and the successors of Pope GREGORY. I say then that in the space of seven and twenty years of HENRIE'S reign, little more or less, five or six Emperors had reigned in Constantinople, before which time, the Turks, Persians' and other nations made themselves Lords of what the Greeks' held in Asia: whose event was this, as we said in the end of the life of HENRY the Third, father to this HENRY of whom we now writ. The better to understand the matter, it shall not be amiss to return to YSACIUS CONNENUS, who reigned two year's Emperor in Constantinople: to whom succeeded CONSTANTINUS DUCA, who in the beginning behaved himself very valiantly, subduing and punishing such as rebelled against him, and in the rest was a very devout Christian: but, being infected with the disease of covetousness, he was therefore contemned both by his own subjects, and by the Barbarians; and in his time were lost many Towns in Asia: and in Constantinople was so great an earthquake, that the Churches and other A great earthquake in Constantinople. Buildings fell down. And so his Empire being infortunate, he died in the seventh year of his Reign; and his sons remaining his successors, his wife EUDOXIA took upon her the government, who held the same the space of seven months only: for, by reason of the wars with the Turks and Barbarians, the Greeks made her to take to husband a great man amongst them, called ROMANUS DIOGENES, to help to defend the Empire; who, not content to govern in the behalf of her sons, but proclaiming himself Emperor, usurped the Empire, and going into Asia with an Army against the Turks, had variable success, and was sometimes victorious, and sometime vanquished; and in the end was in a battle overthrown by them, and many of his people slain; and being afterwards by the General of the Infidels well entreated and set at liberty, coming to Constantinople, he found already placed in his throne the eldest of his wife's sons, called MICHAEL PARAPINASSUS: And notwithstanding that he attempted by force to have recovered the Empire, yet he could not bring it to pass, but was taken prisoner, and had his eyes put out (a cruelty much used in Graecia in those days) and banished in the habit of a religious man to a certain Island, where he died, when he had been Emperor about the space of four years. MICHAEL PARAPINASSUS remaining in the Imperial throne, grew to be so careless and negligent, and therewith of so little worth, that he applied himself to nothing but to making of verses, and to dress the gout wherewith he was grieved: he held the Empire six years and half, with great loss in Asia, the Infidel's conquering many cities thereof: for which cause his subjects rebelled against him, and chose for their Emperor a man of great fame and parentage, whose name was NICEPHORUS BOTANIATES, who was descended from the Emperor PHOCAS above mentioned: this man much honoured the brothers of his predecessor MICHA●… PARAP●…NASSUS, who were the sons of CONSTANTINU●… DU●…A and of EUDOX●…A before named; and giving them offi●…eses and commands, ●…overthrew by their means, 〈◊〉 and BASILI●…S', which rebelled against him: for which and other favours which he did, he was very ill req●…ited; for they being sons and brothers to Emperors, sought to be so themselves▪ and so the youngest and most valiant of them, called ALEXIUS CONN●…NUS (procuring friends) deposed him from the Empire and got the same for himself; when he had reigned three years, causing him to take●… eligious habit▪ And this ALEXIUS held the Empire seven and thirty years, and fought many battles, both with Infidels and with Christians, but chief with ROBERT GVISCARD▪ Lord of Pulia and Calabria, who released Pope GREGORY, as we have related, who also thought to have been Emperor of Graecia; which wars he continued with the aid of the Venetians. In this estate stood the affairs of Graecia, at such time as the Emperor HENRY the Fourth departed out of Italy▪ and Pope GREGORY the seventh died: wherefore let us now return to speak of them. The Emperor HENRY being departed out of Italy in such manner as we have declared, and leaving Rome in such combustions as a foresaid, he came into Germany, where lie called a Diet or Council in the City of Mentz, as well to justify himself concerning such matters as were done in Italy; as to prosecute the war against the Saxons and their adherents. In this Council (being persuaded and in a manner compelled by sundry prelate's) he yielded to the altering of some things in the Church; as to decree that Priests should have no wives, and some other matters; yet he persevered in supporting Pope CLEMENT, who was chosen against Pope GREGORY, and in such other things as before he did. This Council of Mentz being dissolved, the Emperor again prosecuted the war against the Saxons; in which, between both parties ensued great spoils, many slaughters and great battles and encounters; wherein the Emperor did often hazard his person; and in the most of them fighting most valiantly, obtained the victory, there being of either side great Princes, Captains, and very vali●…t men, with many of which he came to an accord in the end, and so grew daily more potent, yet never without enemies: Wherein succeeded many and sundry accidents, which the brevity of the History, permitteth me not to relate in particular. In the mean season whilst he was thus busied, Pope GREGORY the seventh died in Salerno: in whose place was chosen (notwithstanding that CLEMENT was still called Pope) an Abbot, called DESIDERIUS, who being installed, was called VICTOR the Third; This Pope also withstood the Emperors proceed. At this time also died ROBERT GVISCARD, Lord of Pulia, of Calabria, and of great part of Sicilia, to whom succeeded his sons, ROGER and BOHEMUND. VICTOR continued Pope one year and four months only: and being dead, they chose to succeed him, the Cardinal of Hostia, whose name was OTHO, and called him urban the Second; who in the beginning of his Papacy was somewhat troubled in Rome, by some which were the Emperor's adherents, and took part with Pope CLEMENT, who yet lived, whom a certain Duke of Italy maintained in his Country: Whereupon this Pope (for his better safety) went from Rome to the City of Melfi: but he afterwards removed to the City of Placencia, (there to A C●…ncell at Placencia. be of the greater power, by reason of MAUD, the great Lady so often before named) where he called a Council, wherein some new orders were made; but he still upheld and maintained the quarrel of his predecessors Pope GREGORY, and Pope VICTOR, against the Emperor and his followers: And there also he held not himself to be safe, for that the Emperor H●…NRY was of very great power: wherefore he resolved to go into France, where what befell him you shall understand. In this place Authors do greatly vary, in relating the acts of this Emperor: for some make not any mention of his second coming into Italy: others hold it to have been at this time; and those which writ it, agreed not well together in the times, neither do they distinctly set down what he did there; which hath been a great trouble to me, and hath bred a great confusion: wherefore let the reader pass it over as he may, for I cannot certainly aver, which accidents preceded the other. The Abbot WESPERGENSIS and BLONDUS say, that the Emperor HENRY after that he had buried his first wife, whose name was VBERTA, and had married again the second time, came into Italy, and made his abode there about seven years, making war against the Pope's dominions in his own person, and that he took many cities by force; among which were Mantoa and Ferrara, which were held by MAUD. And BLONDUS likewise affirmeth, that others writ that these cities were in the same war recovered by MAUD, by the sufferance and aid of CONRADE the Emperor's eldest son, who openly favoured her and the Pope against his father: whereupon (they say) MAUD grew to be so hardy as to join all her own forces, with the power of his friends and allies, to stop the Emperor's passage to Rome; and that she fought with him and overthrew him; so as he was constrained to departed out of Italy. Howsoever it was, among such diversity of opinions, the truth is, and is approved by all without any difference, that in this time the Pope being come into France, he called a general Council Council of Cleremont●… in the city of Cleremount, in the year of our Lord 1094: where having treated of many things concerning the faith, he attempted the greatest matter that ever any other Pope had done; which was, the conquest of jerusalem, and other cities in the East, which of long time had been subject to MAHOMET'S successors; and he solicited the same in that Council, with such instance and efficacy, and his speeches so incensed the hearts of the people, that many great Princes resolved to undertake the action: for out of France, Spain, England, Italy, and Germany, there The conquest of the holy Landlord went so many, that all writers affirm, they did exceed the number of three hundred thousand fight men, which took for their device the sign of the Cross: the chief Commanders of the one side, were PETER the Hermit, and another great Lord Duke of Lorraine, called GODFR●…Y of Buillon, and his two brethren, the one called EUSTACE, the other BALDWIN, and with them other great Princes: And on the other side went HUGH, brother to the French King, ROBERT Earl of Flanders, ROBERT Duke of Normandy, STEPHEN Earl of Chartres, RAIMOND Earl of S. Giles, and BOHEMUND Prince of Otranto in Italy, and others of equal and inferior degree. Many Authors writ of this war, as Abbess Wespergensis, in the life of Henry the 4th. Paulus Emilius in his fourth book of the history of France. Merula in his third book of the history of Milan. Blondus in his fourth of his second Decade, Antoninus▪ Platina▪ Sabellicus▪ Nauclerus. Some taking their way through Germany, Hungary, and Gr●…cia, passed over into Asia; and others through Italy, (taking, for their good speed, the Pope's blessing with them, who then was VRBAN the Second) and passing the seas, they divided themselves into two Armies, although not without great trouble and difficulty; the cause whereof was ALEXIUS Emperor of Constantinople. In the end, these troops passed over into Asia, and made cruel wars in sundry parts, principally in Soria, and in judea: This was one of the greatest actions that ever was: which I forbear to writ at large, aswell for that it maketh nothing to my purpose; as also, for that so great an enterprise deserveth a particular history; but the success than was, that after many battles, having taken many cities, and continued the war the space of three years; the city of jerusalem was taken by GODFREY of Buillon, the Duke of Normandy, and the Earl of Flanders, and others, in the year of our Lord, one thousand ninety and nine, upon the 15. day of july: four hundred and ninety years after that it was first taken by the Saracens, in the time of the Emperor HERACLIUS. The city being taken, the said GODFREY was made King thereof, and of all the country round about it. Other of the Princes and Captains before named, remained Lords and governors of other great cities and towns in Syria, yet many of them returned to their countries, after the performance of so honourable an action; among which were the Earls of Flanders, of S. GILES and others: And the war continuing, this kingdom remained in him, and his successors, the space of fourscore and eight years: which being expired, through the weakness, and dissension among the Princes, it was again lost, in the time of the Emperor BARBAROSSA, as hereafter you shall understand. Let us now return to our discourse of the Emperor HENRY: who at such time as these matters passed in jerusalem, being returned out of Italy, the last time that ever he was there; wherein he then left his eldest son CORADE for his Lieutenant; assembling then some of the Prince Electors in the city of Colen, he laboured to have his son HENRY to be chosen King of Romans, whom he had already made Duke of Franconia (which was his house and patrimony) which HENRY was his second son, and whom he loved best. When this was made known to his eldest son CONRADE, he was much distempered and grieved at his father's proceed; and therefore resolved openly to deny him his obedience (as to an Emperor, which was a Schismatic, and excommunicated) and so he seized into his Conrade rebelled against his father the Emperor. hands all the Lands of the Empire in ITALY, finding all men well affected thereunto, for the hatred which they bore to his father; and he held the same nine years with the title of King of Italy; his father either dissembling, or not daring to come against him. And they say that he governed as a wise and virtuous Prince: at the end of which time, he fell sick and died, Conrade deceased. about the year of our Lord, one thousand and twenty: and at the same time died GODFREY the new King of jerusalem, whom his brother BALDWIN succeeded, and Pope VRBANE the The death of Godfrey of Buillon. Second likewise died in Rome, and there succeeded PASCAL the Second: and within few days after died CLEMENT, who was made Pope by the Emperor: and after his decease, the Earl of Capua, and others attempted to make one ALBERT Pope; and afterwards one THEODORICUS: and in Ravenna one MAGINULPHUS, a man of great courage and power attempted to have made himself Pope; but none of all these continued long: and so PASCAL remained Pope in esse, who performed great matters both touching the spiritualty and temporalty, in reforming the corruption of manners, and recovering and defending the patrimony of the Church: which the Emperor could not hinder, as he would have done; for at that instant, his son HENRY (being desirous to rule) rebelled against him, and wars began between them two, which were more than civil, which I will briefly set down. The Emperor HENRY Henry rebelled against his father the Emperor. (the better to assure himself in his estate) procured his son HENRY to be chosen King of the Romans (publishing that he meant to go into Italy) and summoned a general Council to be held in Rome, with intent (as some writ) to have deposed Pope PASCAL. The Pope being advertised hereof, he presently excommunicated him: for which cause, after many accidents which happened (which for brevity I overpass) by the advice and counsel of some of the Princes and prelate's of Germany, his son HENRY began to take Arms against him, pretending that he did it, for that his father was disobedient to the Church, and that he abhorred his Simony, and other crimes which he laid to his charge: and in short space under this pretext (which as is most likely, was rather to depose his father, then for any love he bore to the Pope) he grew to be so mighty, that his father offered him large compositions, to reduce him to his obedience; which taking no effect (for the son was resolved to be absolute) they took Arms, and each of them assembled their forces and levied Armies, and began to make cruel war one against the other. The son was aided and assisted by the Dukes of Baviere and Saxony, and by other Princes and great cities: and the father by the Duke of Bohemia, and the marquis of Austria, A battle fought between the father and the son. with other mighty Dukes and Earls. In the beginning, near the city of of Ratisbone, with the aid of those of that city, the father obtained the upper hand against the son, so as he was driven to retire to reinforce his troops: afterwards much desiring a battle, the son came against the father, in whom his men now for his old age had less confidence then in former times. And the Armies and Emperors drawing near together, they stood the space of three days continually in sight the one of the other, marshaled, and ready to fight; a little river being between the two Camps, where were many skirmishes, in which died many notable personages; and both father and son being resolved to fight, the night before they should have fought, LEOPOLDUS the marquis of Austria being weary of the father's quarrel, holding it unjust, counselled him to withdraw himself and not to fight; but seeing that his advice was not accepted, he retired with all his forces, and the Duke of Bohemia being advertised thereof, did the like, and presently after this there came a gentleman of his son's troops, to warn him to look to his person, and to take heed whom he trusted, for he was in danger: whereupon the old Emperor, with some small troops of horse, and those the best that he could choose, forsook the Camp, and went into sundry parts, emploring aid and succours. The son by reason of the father's flight, seized into his hands the best and most of the cities of Germany, and the most of the Princes came to his side: and then he went against the city of Spire (wherein his father's treasure and jewels lay) and took the same. After this were moved some treaties of peace between the father and the son; which was concluded upon condition, that they two should meet in the town of Binge, which lieth upon the Rhines side, before that the Council should be assembled, which the son had procured to be called, of all the Princes Secular and Regular, to be held in the city of Mentz▪ the next Christmas following; which was in the end of the year of our Lord one thousand, one hundred and five, and the beginning of the year one thousand one hundred and six. They two meeting there, the son protested that he pretended nothing but the peace of the Church of Rome, with a reformation of abuses in Germany, that his father should be absolved and reduced to the Pope's obedience; and that he never meant to bereave him either of title or dignity of Emperor, but that he should set matters in such order as was convenient. The father promised to do all that he aught to do, and offered more than he either would or could perform: but the one distrusting the other, the father said that he would stand to that which the estates should conclude in Mentz, and in the best manner he could, departed thence to a strong Castle, where he made account to live in safety in the m eane time. But the son being there with his troops, he shut up all the ways and passages towards that Castle, in such sort that the Emperor could have no conference with any, without the knowledge of his son. Some authors writ, that he was taken and committed thither prisoner by his son; and that his son made him to renounce the Empire, and that he afterwards died in his power. But the Abbot WESPERGENSIS (an author of those times) and OTHO FRISINGENSIS, and the most and best Historiographers writ, as I have related it. Christmas day being come, all the great Princes of Germany met in Mentz, excepting the Duke of Saxony, who could not come, by reason of his great age; and with him Pope PASCAL'S Legates; where the said Legates (as it was thought) not without the son's consent and procurement, again pronounced the Pope's censure against the father, and all such as took his part: and as they debated hereof, and of the Emperor which was in the Castle (who offered to perform what they required; humbly suing for absolution, for which purpose he desired to come to Mentz) the son protested that he neither desired, neither pretended any other thing, but that his father should reform himself, and become obedient to the Church of Rome, but in truth the issue did manifest, that his principal intent was to make himself Emperor. The Pope's Legates answered to the Emperor's offers and promises, that they neither could, neither had authority to appoint any penance for the Emperor, neither could they give him any absolution, but that it must be done in a general Council, and that by the Pope's direction, as it had been decreed by GREGORY the Seventh concerning his deprivation, and all the rest. Matters standing in this estate, all men were now most affected to the son, and desiring to win his grace and favour; for they saw that he was mighty and victorious, and the father as he was a man of great courage, coming to have put himself into Mentz, many Princes and prelate's went forth to meet him, and persuaded him, that unless he would wholly bring himself to ruin, there was The Emperor. Henry the Fourth renonnced the Empire to his son. no remedy but to renounce the Empire to his son, and to repose his trust in him. HENRY seeing himself thus distressed, and finding no redress or counsel in any body, accepted hereof, as some say voluntarily, as being tired and worn out with wars and troubles. Finally, reposing his trust in his son, or in despair by reason of the solemn decree, he resigned his title to the Empire to his son HENRY; and sent to him from the Castle wherein he was, the Cross, the Lance, the Sceptre, the Globe; the Crown, and his other Imperial ensigns Henry the Fift chosen Emperor. and ornaments: which renunciation being received in the Council, by a general consent HENRY the son was chosen and created Emperor, and called HENRY the Fift, after the German, and Fourth after the Italian writers; for they allow not of HENRY the First, as is before said: and the election was confirmed and ratified by the Pope's Legates; and like an Emperor, in that Council, he treated with the Pope's Legates, and with the Princes of Germany, of all matters spiritual and temporal, concerning the Empire: and for his Ambassadors he sent certain men of great account and authority to Pope PASCAL, and so continued and was held for Emperor. But before many days were passed, the father seeing himself deprived, and his son exalted, repenting, secretly sought and procured friends, to the end to have been restored; and wrote to the French King, and to other Kings and Princes, complaining of his son, alleging that he was forced to what he did, and standing in some good hope, he openly shown his intent, and levied men of war, the Duke of Lorraine taking his part, and some others, with the cities of Colen and Gulike, and other imperial towns. The son having intelligence hereof, again raised great forces, and desiring to have go to a Council in the city of Liege, he sent three hundred men at Arms to take a bridge upon the river of Maze, all which were either taken or slain by the Duke of Lorraine, who took the father's part, and came upon them at unawares: whereupon HENRY the son proclaimed him traitor, and deprived him (being absent) of his Duchy of Lorraine: in the mean time, the father entered the citi●… of Colen, fortifying and furnishing the same with men and munition, and thence went to have put himself into the city of Liege, whither the Council was called, which is a most strong city: in hope (as he was a man of great spirit) to have been restored, having some other assistance, besides those already named; principally amongst the common people, by whom he was well beloved, they being moved thereto with compassion to see him deposed. The son with his forces went against the city of Colen: and they within it fearing the siege sent Letters and messengers, in general both to him and to all the estates, in the name of his father, complaining in that he was thus deposed and deceived; and laying great matters to his son's charge, he excused and justified his own cause, so much as he might, desiring to be relieved: whereto the son made answer, reciting his father's excess, his simony, his schism, and rebellion committed against the Pope and Church of Rome, to the general prejudice of the states of the whole Empire; ptotesting further that what he did, was to do God service, by obeying his Vicar, procuring the union of the holy mother Church of Rome, with many other matters which the Abbot WESPERGENSIS, BLONDUS, and other authors do set down at large. Finally, he sent him word, that he should not dote by reason of his old age, but that he should come private, and ask forgiveness of the Church; and that then the equity of his cause should be heard, both for himself, and for all the princes which were with him. The father not only refused to follow his son's direction, but ill entreated his Ambassadors; so as they could hardly return to their Camp before Colen in safety. Whereupon the Son (seeing that he could not take that City in any short space) he marched with his army towards Lorraine; and before his departure, sent a second ambassage to his father, the effect whereof was, that if he desired justice, he should peaceably come to the Council, which he summoned to be held at Aken: if otherwise, he gave him to understand, that by the consent and will of all the Princes, he was resolved to make war upon him, as against a common enemy. These Ambassadors came to the city of Liege, where HENRY the father than lay; who was so enraged with his son's answer and resolution, that he did and said many things in fury. Matters standing in this estate (whereof it was both thought and feared, that great wars, troubles, and other evils would have ensued) it pleased God to take compassion of his people, which by reason of the cruel wars between the father and the son, endured daily grievous and intolerable oppressions, robberies, and irreparable calamities; which was, by taking the old Emperor HENRY out of this world; which happened on the seventh day of August, about the fiftieth year of his reign, and in the year of our Lord, one, thousand, one hundred and six. It is written, that he The death of the Emperor Henry the 4. died of passion and grief to see himself (as it were) a prisoner, and besieged in that castle, and deposed and forsaken by his own son and blood. By the discourse of this History, it may seem to the Reader that the Emperor HENRY was an unworthy and ill deserving Prince, considering that he was excommunicated by the Pope, and his Empire given to an other, his only Son took Arms against him, his Nobles rebelled, his subjects forsook him, and in a manner all the world abandoned him, being in the end forced to resign the Empire to his Son, and the Imperial ensigns and ornaments violently wrested from him: yet for the Readers better satisfaction, I will set down what CARION (whom MEXIA voucheth among his other Authors) writeth of him in thsetearmes. Thus died HENRY the Fourth, a valiant and warlike Emperor, most loving to his Country, the last revenger of the Imperial Majesty; who when he had fought 62 battles, having felt the sharpest storms of adverse fortune, yet he was never daunted nor dejected, neither did he ever abandon or betray himself, or those things which concerned the Majesty of the Empire by the constitutions of his Predecessors. The dead body of the Emperor HENRY, was buried by the Bishop of the place where he died, in a Monastery; from whence (by the decree of the Prelates, and consent of his own son) it was afterwards removed, to the end, that (as a man excommunicate) he should not be buried in Christian burial, and was carried to Spire, where, in a profane place, was made for him a marble sepulchre, wherein he lay five years; at the end of which time it pleased the Pope to permit him to be buried in Christian burial. This Emperor had two sons, and three daughters by his first wife VBERTA, who was the daughter of a great marquis in Italy, allied to the Lady MAUD: his sons were CONRADE, who died before him, and HENRY the Fift which succeeded him; his daughter's names were INES, which married with FREDERICK Duke of Suevia, and was mother to the Emperor CONRADE the Second; and LIMPERGA which married with the Duke of Carinthia; and SOPHIA, which was wife to the King of Hungary. In Constantinople at this time reigned ALEXIUS, whose Empire continued seven and thirty years, and he died afterwards in the time of HENRY the Fift: and to him succeeded his son CALOIOANNES, as hereafter you shall understand. THE LIFE OF HENRY, THE FIFT OF THAT NAME, AND FOURSCORE & FOURTEENTH ROMAN Emperor; And of ALEXIUS and CALOIOANNES in Constantinople. THE ARGUMENT. HEnry having taken upon him the government of the Empire, after that the death of his father was known, all the Cities and Princes, which had been his adversaries made their peace with him; and become his subjects. He sent ambassadors to the Pope, promising to become his good son; to whom he granted to call a Council, wherein all matters concerning the Church should be reform, chief those which were introduced by his father. He committed the Count Palatine to prison, by reason of some alterations, and made wars against the king of Polonia, who entitled himself King, and subdued him; but not without great difficulty. He came afterwards into Italy to be crowned by Pope Pascal: and being come to Rome in S. Perers Church, he seized upon the Pope, and committed him to prison, sacking Rome and the territory thereof; neither would he release the Pope until that he had confirmed his privileges of investing Prelates in the Benefices of Germany: the Pope being out of prison, and the Emperor returning crowned in Germany, the Council disannulled the authority given him of investiture, as a matter granted by force: which when he understood, he was incensed and committed the Bishop of Mentz to prison, who favoured the Pope's party. But the Emperor coming into that City, the people matined and apprehended him, and would not release him, until that he had promised to set their Bishop at liberty. He was afterward excommunicated and in danger to have been deposed from the Empire; but leaving Germany, he went to Rome, where he found not the Pope, neither would be come thither so long as the Emperor was therein, neither would he give credit to his promises, or believe any thing that he said. He again returned the third time into Italy, and set a schism in the Church: and understanding of the Pope's coming against him, he returned into Germany, and then made his peace with the Pope basely, humbly submitting himself to him. There ensued in those parts a very grievous famine, and pestilence, and the Emperor falling extremely sick died, without leaving any son to succeed him; when he had reigned Emperor, little less than twenty years. IN that I was longer than ordinary in writing the life of the Emperor HENRY the Fourth, whom the Italian writers call the Third, I have already made my excuse; which was, for that he reigned a long time, in which many great accidents happened: and as he was a most warlike Prince, valiant, and high minded, so his reign was troublesome and unquiet: by reason whereof, all men (excepting some few which took his part) were well pleased with his death, which (as it then seemed) brought to the estates of Italy and Germany, a clear sky and desired, after the cloudy storms of cruel combustions: and to his son HENRY, who was Emperor in his life time, all lay smooth before him: Colein, and all the other cities which had held against him, submitted themselves, yielding their obedience; and the Duke of Lorraine submitting himself, sought his grace and favour, and so he become absolute Lord over all: and then sent Ambassadors to Pope PASCAL, who with the assent of his Cardinals and of the Emperor's Ambassadors, summoned a Council to be held in October, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, one hundred and six, in a city of Lombardie called Gardacastello, upon the river of Po; where many things touching the state of the Church both in Lombardy and in Germany were reform: and the Pope deposed such as were not confirmed by his authority. In the second year of this Emperor HENRY (the better to corroborated the peace between the Pope and him) it was agreed that the Pope should come into Germany to the city of Augsburg, where the Emperor (for certain days space) expected him: but the Pope upon some jealousy & reposing small trust in the people of that city, by reason of their ancient hatred, came not, but went into France, where he assembled a Synod in a city called Trecas; whither came a great number of prelate's: and in that Council amongst other matters which therein The Council of Trecas. were handled, it was ordained, that the Emperor's authority concerning the prelacies and Church dignities in Germany, should be abolished, and that he should not therein invest prelate's, contrary to the Pope's Canons and Decretals: which when he understood, he sent to the Pope, entreating him not to determine so of the matter, but to allow him such right of donation, as his predecessors had done to the Emperor CHARLES the Great. This matter was greatly argued, but in the end it was deferred till the next general Council; and so the Pope returned to Rome, and the Emperor in his progress visited sundry cities of Germany; and upon some occasion apprehended the Count Palatine of Rhine, whose name was SIGIFRED, and for a time held him prisoner: I call him of Rhine, for the difference between him and other Counties Palatine. At this time ALNIUS King of Hungary, came unto him to complain and to desire justice against his brother COLOMAN, who had deposed him, and made himself king: whereupon the Emperor entered Hungary with an Army, purposing to have restored him: but through want of victuals, and by means of other disasters and disgraces which befell him, he was driven to retire without effecting aught; and so COLOMAN enjoyed the kingdom, the Emperor permitting The wars of Hungary. the same. There likewise grew war between him and the Duke of Poland; who without his leave, entitling himself King, denied to pay him any tribute, or to be subject: to which The wars of Poland. war he went with a mighty Army (it behoved him to do so, for he was to encounter a mighty enemy) and some writ that they came to blows, and that the Emperor had the victory: but not without much bloodshed and great difficulty; and so Poland returned to the Emperor's devotion, and paid the tribute accustomed. In these actions and others of less moment, the Emperor spent little less than five years, which were in the beginning of his reign: in the end of which, moved with a desire (common to all Emperors) to be crowned by the Pope, he resolved to come into Italy; and to that effect ordained a Diet or Council to be held in Ratisbone; wherein showing his intent, his departure by common consent was generally applauded: and levying thirty thousand choice men (besides the Princes and other voluntaries, which had a desire to serve and follow him in that journey) he came into Italy, where other troops of the states of Lombardy joined with him, and by the way befell many accidents, which I omit, to relate such as were of most importance. Afterwards taking his way towards Rome, many ambassages passed between him and Pope PASCAL; he requiring to be crowned, and the other promising the same; but upon condition, which was, that he should relinquish his demand concerning the investing of prelate's: about this matter some things so fell out, that the Pope grew iealousand mistrusted the Emperor. But in the end the Emperor promising to maintain and observe the privileges and immunities of the church of Rome, and to desist from investing of prelate's, as is aforesaid; the Pope sent a solemn ambassage to meet him, offering him amiable and friendly entertainment. Whereupon The Emperor Henry the Fift came to Rome. he came to the city, upon the twelfth day of February, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, one hundred and eleven, being the first Sunday in Lent, where he was solemnly received by all the Clergy and Roman people, with the greatest provision, and show of joy, that the Pope and citizens could possibly make; and the Pope accompanied with all his Cardinals, attended his coming in S. PETER'S Church porch. The Emperor with his Princes and men of war being entered the gate of the Castle S. Angelo, alighting, mounted up the steps to meet him, and kissed his foot: and the Pope blest him, and raising him up, three several times embraced him: and then they went together into the Church, and coming to the high Altar, where the Pope that day was to say Mass, they sat down upon seats provided for them; where the Emperor again desired the Pope to confirm the privileges which he and his predecessors had held, concerning the nomination of prelate's, and the donation of Benefices; which the Pope absolutely denied. Some authors say, that the Pope requested the Emperor (in performance of his promise) to renounce the right which he challenged to have in ecclesiastical causes; and that the Emperor therewith displeased, arose, and with his German Bishops and Princes went into a chapel (from whence he sent him his answer; and denying what was required, persisted in his demand concerning the confirmation of his privilege: so as there was much strife and contention about the matter. Some report this after another manner; which is no great marvel though it so happen amongst Historians; seeing that we daily read, that when sundry men have seen a matter which hath happened in their sight, yet the same men which then were present, have afterwards related it after diverse manners, each one pretending to tell the truth. I say this, for that some men are so hard of belief, that if they find any contrariety amongst writers, they accounted the whole History to be a lie: which is too great a severity. But returning to my story, I say, that Pope Pascal apprehended by the Emperor Henry the fift. although they differ herein, yet all Authors agreed, that upon this occasion the Emperor's Captains and Companies entered the Church; and the Mass being ended, by the Emperor's order, the Pope was apprehended, together with the most part of the Cardinals, and that the Germane made boot or prize of the Bishops, Priests, and other the Pope's friends. The Citizens and people of Rome, took this in such disgrace, that betaking them to their weapons, they went against the Imperialists, which held the Vatican; where, fight with incredible fury, they forced the Emperor to abandon that part of the City, and to withdraw himself to his Camp; between whom and the Citizens for three or four day's space, were great skirmishes, and much blood was spilt, and many men were slain of either side. Yet BLONDUS and some others report, that during the three days that the fight lasted, the Emperor held the Vatican, and that he being unable to defend it, abandoned the same and went unto his Camp, leading the Pope and his Cardinals with him prisoners. Finally, these three days being past, he removed his Army, and pitched his tents at the foot of Mount S. Sylvester: and so marching forwards, left the Pope with some of his Cardinals in a place of strength, and the rest he left in another place, guarded with great troops of soldiers, and then marched up and down the Country, burning and spoiling the Castles, Towns, and Villages, near thereabouts; and so within some few days after, with great fury returned to Rome, and sat down before it; but the inhabitants were resolved not to receive him, except he would first set the Pope and his Cardinals at liberty: But he persevering earnest in his demand, would have his request first performed; imitating (in the action, although not in the intent) the Patriarch JACOB, who wrestling with the Angel, said, I will not let thee go, except thou first bless me. Wherhfore the Pope to avoid further inconveniences, and to get out of the Prison wherein Pope Pascal●…ing ●…ing released from the Emperor's prison, crowned him Roman Emperor. he was detained, came to a composition with the Emperor, and confirmed to him the privilege of investiture which he required, and admitted and allowed those prelate's which the Emperor had preferred and invested. And so all being concluded, the Pope was conducted to Rome: and at the day appointed, the Emperor entered the City, and came into Saint PETER'S Church, first setting a good guard in the Ports and Turrets of the Vatican; and with the accustomed solemnity was therein by the Pope crowned, with appearance of very great joy and gladness generally, by reason of the wished peace, after so long and tedious war. The coronation being ended, the Emperor (taking his leave, and the Pope's blessing with him for his good speed) departed from Rome very peaceably; and so passing through Italy, and the estate of Lombardy, he returned into Germany; where having made sufficient proof that his father dying, and acknowledging his fault, desired to be forgiven, he obtained leave to bury him in the Church; which was performed with accustomed solemnity; and in Italy and in Germany generally was peace. A little while after this, died that great and mighty Princess MAUD, who was Lady of many Towns in Italy: This Lady after her death, left a great part of her estate to the Church, among which, is reckoned the City of Ferrara: but the Emperor FREDERICK nevertheless Maud the Empress' daughter of Henry the First, King of England, and wife of the Emperor Henry the fist. afterwards challenged to be her heir, by reason of the alliance between her and his mother. The Emperor being in England solemnising his marriage with another MAUD, daughter to the King of that Country; Pope PASCAL at the request and persuasion of his Cardinals and Clergy, summoned a Council of Bishops and Prelates of many Nations; in which Council (amongst other matters) it was concluded; that the privilege granted by the Pope to the Emperor, for the investing of Bishops and other Clergiemen, should be revoked, and held for none; sith it was exacted by force, the Pope being then his Prisoner; and for such they declared and published the same, excommunicating the Emperor, if he persisted in the execution thereof: in this Council were one hundred Bishops, some Archbishops and Patriarches, and all the Cardinals. This being made known to the Emperor, he was much discontented for the same: and much more, after that he understood that many of the principal prelate's in Germany took part with the Pope against him, and had left his service; amongst which was ALDELBERT Archbishop of Mentz, a very mighty Prince, whom the Emperor commanded to be apprehended, and held him above two years Prisoner; whereof ensued many great tumults: And some Bishops were so hardy (being authorised by a Cardinal Legate in Hungary) as to excommunicate the Emperor: The number of those which conspired against him, daily increasing, he fearing the like fortune as befell his father, appointed a Council to be called in the City of Mentz, there to treat of those affairs; offering to stand to that which should be determined; and to right any wrong that he had done. The day appointed for this Council being come, and the Emperor therein appearing, so few made their repair thither, that he was therewith much troubled, and highly discontented, and therefore with greater instance procured the assembly, but it little availed him: for before they could come, the inhabitants of Mentz mutined against him; as well for that he held their Bishop Prisoner, as for that in former time in the wars between him and his father, that City had endured much loss by his means: whereupon they putting themselves in Arms, went to the palace where he was, whereof they become masters, and of his person also; and threatening to kill him, they made him to promise' satisfaction for the losses and injuries they had received, and that he should presently set their Bishop ALDELBERT at liberty: all which he promised and confirmed with an oath, in such manner that they holding themselves satisfied, left the Palace; and the Emperor departed, and in performance of his promise, presently released the Archbishop: but yet notwithstanding he continued much displeased, for the affront done him in that City, and no less with them which failed to come to the Council. The next year, which was in the year of our Lord, one thousand, one hundred and sixteenth; he holding his Christmas in Spire, many prelate's assembled themselves in the City of Coleyn, and with them some Princes, with a resolution to seek to deprive him, for that he was excommunicated, and disobedient to the Church of Rome: which he (to his great disliking) having understood, and desiring to redress the same, sent his Ambassadors to that assembly, promising to bear what should be imposed, and protesting that he was in all points ready to satisfy the Pope: but his Ambassage was ill received, and as ill answered; for they sent him word, that he should make his peace with the Pope, and conform himself to his will; otherwise, they would neither serve, nor obey him, but generally would all forsake him. Whereupon he tried his friends, seeking aid by all means possibly; and as Princes never fail to find some to help and assist them (some of duty, and others in hope of gain) he gathered many men together, thinking to effect his business by force: and depriving some of his adversaries, which held with the Pope against him, of their estates, be bestowed many graces and favours upon his followers; and levying a great Army, resolved to go into Italy, as well to be fare absent from the fury of Germany, as for that he purposed (as he gave it out) to come to some agreement with the Pope: for he had news (which were certain) that through factions and partialities in Rome, which arose for that the Pope would not bestow the Prefecture, or office of Lord Precedent, upon the son of him which last presided, the most part of the people rebelled against him, and fought with such as took his part; and the matter came to this issue, that it behoved him to leave Rome, and to go into Pulia, where he was harboured by WILLIAM the Feudatorie Duke thereof, and by some other Princes. The Emperor coming with his Army into Italy, he took his way directly for Rome: yet some writ that he first sent his Ambassadors to the Pope, and requiring absolution used some compliments; but for as much as he would not make such satisfaction as was required at his hands, the Pope would not absolve him. Others writ, that the Emperor's Ambassadors found the Pope in Rome, and that he, understanding of his coming, would not stay for him. But howsoever it was, he came to Rome with his wife without any resistance (but yet he found not the Pope there) having first made Maud the Empress at Rome. cruel wars in the territories of the Church as he came: And pretending that his coronation was violent, and done by force, although by the Pope, he therefore made himself to be crowned again by an Archbishop, whose name was MAURICE DE BRACHIA, whom he brought with him; the whole Clergy, together with the people of Rome murmuring thereat. This being done, he departed thence, and made very cruel wars against all such towns as held for Pope PASCAL: But knowing that through his absence Germany was like to be lost, for (as all writers affirm) at that time justice and equity took no place, and there were such wars, factions, robberies, insolences and other disorders, as cannot be recited: Wherhfore he marched with his Army thitherwards, taking his way through Lombardy. Coming into Germany, with the aid of FREDERICK Duke of Suevia, and of CONRADE Duke of Franconia, which were his Nephews (being his sister's sons) and of some other Princes which followed him, without any stay he went to make war against the Duke of Saxony, who renouncing his obedience held for the Pope; with whom he fought a terrible battle, and had the A battle between the Emperor and the Duke of Saxony victory; whereby his power and authority greatly increased with those which had rebelled against him. While these things passed in Germany, Pope PASCAL came to Rome, and after some troubles which there arose, he departed out of this life, having been Pope thirteen years and a half, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, one hundred and eighteen: and in his place was chosen a Cardinal, whose name was JOHN, and was called GELASIUS the Second. About this time also died ALEXIUS the Emperor of Constantinople, and to him succeeded his son CALOIOANNES, as I have said. The Emperor having received news of the death of Pope PASCAL, and of the Election of GELASIUS (seeing himself excommunicate, and shunned by many prelate's and Prince's, which neither served him, nor saw him, although they warred not against him) setting the The Emperor's third going to Rome. affairs of Germany in the best order he could, with a great Army, he came the third time into Italy, addressing his way to Rome, where Pope GELASIUS durst not stay his coming; for in Rome were partialities and factions against him. Whereof the Frangepanes (who were many in number, and of great power) were the chief; yet some others took his part, as the Cossi, the normans, the families of the Leoni, and the Colunnesi, which then began to grow great. The Pope being fled from Rome in his Galleys down the river of Tiber; the Emperor coming thither, he pretended that the Election of GELASIUS was insufficient, for that he was chosen without his consent, and therefore procured such Bishops and prelate's as were of his faction, to make that MAURICE, who (as I said) crowned him, Pope: and they did so, and called him GREGORY; who being installed and lodged in the papal Palace, absolved the Emperor, and confirmed and ratified his donations and investitures: And having set up this new Idol, whom the Romans in disgrace called Burdino, the Emperor recommended him to the protection of the Frangepanes: who were so much discontented with the Election of GELASIUS, that they would have killed him; and then took the field and spoiled the Lands of the Church, to make his Pope GREGORY Lord thereof. Which Pope GELASIUS understanding, with the aid of WILLIAM Duke of Pulia, ROBERT Duke of Capua, RICHARD, and other great Lords of Italy, he levied such an Army, that the Emperor doubting what would follow, published, that sith he was absolved of his excommunication, he meant to return into Germany. And being departed, Pope GELASIUS (leaving the Army which he had raised) came to Rome; where, between such as took part with him, and the Frangepanes, which held with Pope GREGORY, were so many encounters, and so many men slain, that he was driven to forsake Rome, and (in a manner) to fly into France, where he died in the Monastery of Clunia, having been Pope almost one whole year and a half. He being dead, CALIXTUS the Second was chosen, who before was called GVIDO; and before his coming to Rome, the Antipope GREGORY BURDINO, departed thence, and went to a Town that was called Sutrio, where what happened to him, you shall hereafter understand. The Emperor to avoid loss of time, presently when he came into Germany besieged the City of Mentz, against which he bore an old grudge, for the injury which he had received: and holding it straightly besieged, sundry insurrections were raised against him; for such as before had showed themselves his enemies, feared that he would now be revenged on them all: Wherhfore with him, and against him, were every where making of parties. ALDELEERT Archbishop of Mentz, with the aid of the Duke of Saxony, and of other Princes and Prelates, had a great Army in a readiness: and of the contrary side, the Duke of Suevia, and others, had no less on his behalf; in such manner as it was feared that great wars would have ensued. But the Emperor (being persuaded by some, his loyal servants, and certain other Ecclesiastical persons, which interposed themselves) inclined to peace, which was treated of; and all the differences and controversies were referred to the arbitrement of certain Princes of the Empire; and a Diet or Council was appointed to be holden in the City of Wittenbergh, where all controversies should be decided and ended: and it was so. And those which were appointed to be Arbitrators and judges of this controversy, and of the rest, being there assembled (and certain Legates, as some say, being also there from Pope CALIXTUS) it was by common consent determined, that through all Germany a general and universal peace should be proclaimed and kept between the Emperor, and all the Princes both Ecclesiastical and Secular▪ and that the Princes in like manner should maintain the same peace amongst themselves, upon pain of death: And that whatsoever was taken from any Church, should presently be restored: and that the like should be done by any thing withheld from the Emperor's chamber of accounts or Exchequer: And that the like should also be done between all estates, which had taken aught (from other) by violence: And that all matters in controversy should be speedily decided: And that justice should be equally administered in all parts: And that all offences and wrongs past should be forgiven and forgotten: And that thiefs and robbers by the highways, should be sought out and punished: And that such order should be taken, that the country should be maintained in peace: For the due execution whereof, the most sufficient personages that could be found, were appointed; and every where was done all that was possible to further the same. As touching the excommunication and the Pope's fulminations and censures; and the differences between the Emperor and him, all was referred to be at Pope CALIXTUS his order and discretion; to whom the Emperor sent Ambassadors about the same in great humility. This being ended, Pope CALIXTUS sent his Legate Alatere, and Ambassadors Cardinals, to another meeting or general Diet held at Worms; the Emperor being there present, where peace and concord was concluded between them: And the Emperor acknowledging the Pope for Christ's Vicar here on earth, and universal Pope of the Church, desired absolution; The Emperor reconciled to the Pope. and resigned into the Legates hands, all the right and title that he could pretend to the investing of Prelates, and donation of any spiritual dignities; and then gave up the possession of all Towns and goods belonging to any Church; and bound himself to use his best means, that if any other Princes usurped any, they should be restored; and himself to be obedient to the commandments and Injunctions of the Church, and to aid, protect, and defend the same. The Deeds and Letters-patents made hereof at large, were carried to the Pope, who allowed thereof, and gave his Bull; whereby he granted that all the Prelacies and Abbeys which in Germany should be void, should be provided by the Election of the Chapters of the same Churches, and that the Emperor might be present at the Election: provided always that it should not be made by force, or for bribes, or through any other kind of Simony; and that he which was chosen might receive from the Emperor, all that was merely Laical or Temporal; but must have recourse to the Sea of Rome for the rest, according to the Pope's Canons. This being ended, the Emperor and all those which stood excommunicate, were publicly absolved, and then the Letters-patents and instruments were solemnly read; which befell in the Month of September, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, one hundred, twenty two: But thus (saith CARION) the Constitutions and Imperial Laws made by CHARLES the Great, and maintained for the space of three hundred years, by the seditious conspiracy of his own subjects, and a fatal success, in favour of the Popes, almost in an instant, were made voided and overthrown: What miseries fell both upon Church and Commonwealth by this grant; What mischiefs Popes have done, being armed with this tyranny; what did they not attempt to overthrew the authority of Emperors, being much shaken? Finally, how often by their cruel practices, Germany being in combustion, hath taken Arms against itself, and imbrued herself, with her own blood, our forefathers have felt and lamented: By pretext of this Session, the Popes have violently taken the lawful power of the Keys of the universal Church, and have feigned themselves to be divinely constituted Lords and judges of all Churches, Bishops, Pastors and Kings: Finally, of the whole Christian World, in all causes whatsoever: they forced Bishops to take the power of their administration from them, and to the Keys they added new divine worship, and the making of new Laws, which whosoever should infringe, it was lawful for them to declare them members cut off from the body of Christ, seditious Heretics, Schismatics, and to damn them perpetually: Finally, by the weapon of excommunication, they have usurped earthly possessions, and have settled and dispossessed Kings. The Emperor from thence went to Norenbergh, from whence he dispatched the Pope's The Emperor absolved from the Pope's excommunication. Legates very well contented, with great gifts and presents both for the Pope and themselves, and they returned to Rome: By reason whereof Pope CALIXTUS and all the Romish Court made show of great joy, for the recovery of their lost fat Sheep: and truly they had great reason, for it much imported them; and they recovered him but by great good hap. In this time ROGER Earl of Sicilia, who afterwards was King, and very mighty, being Uncle to WILLIAM Duke of Pulia and Galabria▪ knowing that WILLIAM was go to marry with the Emperor's sister of Constantinople, came into Italy, and by force took all that his Nephew held there; and having made himself Lord thereof, he was called King of Italy; and afterwards leaving the title of Italy, he was called King of Sicilia: I have reduced this to memory, to the end that the Reader may have the better light of what shall be said hereafter; and may also understand, that his successors have been ever since called Kings of both Sicily's, which are Naples and Sicilia. The Emperor HENRY being reduced to the Pope's obedience; in little more than two years which he lived afterwards, he had two wars, the one against the Hollanders, and the other against LEWES the French King: Against the Hollanders he went with an Army, and subdued them; against the King of France he levied a great Army, in the behalf of his father in law, HENRY King of England; and marching towards France the war ceased, and he returned; for the City of Worms rebelled, and he went thither, and besieging it, took it by composition, and punished the offenders. At this time in Rome died Pope CALIXTUS when he had been Pope six years, within two months; and in his place was chosen LAMBERT Bishop of Hostia, and wa●… called HONORIUS the Second. CALIXTUS before his death sent a great Army, under the command of a Cardinal, against Pope GREGORY who lived in Sutrio; which besieging the pl●…, took him prisoner, and brought him to Rome, where he was shamefully (to disgrace him) made to ride upon a Camel, and the Pope granted him his life upon condition that he should spend the rest of his time in a Monastery. In Germany the Emperor applied himself to purchase the good will of his subjects, and to make himself well beloved; taking warning by his father's success. But there befell in all that Country so great a pestilence and famine, that it was thought (as all writers affirm) that the third part of the people perished: for which calamity and affliction, the Emperor being very sorrowful, fell sick, and within few days died, penitent for his sins, desiring God to forgive The death of the Emperor Henry the fist. the same. And although it pleased God to give him a good death, yet he left neither son nor daughter that might succeed him, but two Nephews which were his ●…isters' sons; the mighty Dukes of Suevia, and of Franconia, the one called FREDERICK, and the other CONRADE: some Authors call CONRADE Duke of Suevia, and others of Franconia; he died the first day of june, in the year of our Lord one thousand one hundred twenty and five, when he had reigned about twenty years: and those which accounted but fourteen, ●…kon but from the time of his coronation in Rome; but I ever make my account from the day of his Election; His body was embalmed and borne to Spire, and there buried amogst his Ancestors. When the Emperor HENRY died, in Constantinople reigned CALOIOANNES; who was an excellent Prince and very necessary for that Empire. He was very liberal, loved justice and equity, and obtained many great victories in Asia against the Turks and Persians', and recovered from them many Cities which his father and predecessors had lost; His brother ISACIUS being General of his Armies, whom he dearly loved; and levied Italian soldiers in steed of Greeks'. But with these virtues, envying the Wars and Conquest which were made in Asia, he did greatly hinder the French and others which went thither; and for the same occasion f●…ll at variance with the Venetians, which took from him by force certain Lands in the Archipelague: of his end shall be spoken hereafter. At this time in jerusalem began the order of the Knight's Templars, and also the order of the Knights of Saint JOHN, called afterwards of Rhodes, and now of Malta, where they The beginning of the order of the Knight's Templars, and of S. john's, or of the Rhodes. inhabit. THE LIFE OF LOTHARIUS, THE SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND FOURSCORE AND FIFTEENTH ROMAN Emperor; And of CALOIOANNES, Emperor of Constantinople. THE ARGUMENT. HEnry the fift being dead, Lothary Duke of Saxony was chosen Emperor: against whom Henry's Nephews (aspiring to the Empire) in the beginning of his reign rebelled, who after many fortunes of war, in the end become his subjects. He came into Italy, to the aid of Pope Innocent, against a Pseudo-pope which had driven him out of Rome. The Emperor was no sooner returned into Germany, but the other Antipope, whose name was Anacletus (through the favour and assistance of the King of Sicilia) made Pope Innocent to fly: Whereof the Emperor being advertised, he returned into Italy, and restored Innocent to his seat, and tamed Roger King of both the Sicily's. But returning victorious towards Germany, he died in the Mountains of Trent; when he had ruled the Empire fourteen years, leaving never a son, that might succeed him in the Empire. THE two HENRY'S, father and son, which held the Empire seventy years, being dead; LOTHARY Duke of Saxony, a mighty Prince (like as his predecessors had been before him) was chosen Emperor. His house ever (or for the most part) was enemy to the Emperor HENRY, and to his house and family, and rebelled against him: wherefore for his virtues, and for the worthiness of his person, many of the Princes and people of Germany, as soon as the Emperor HENRY was dead, fixed their eyes upon him, to the end to have him for their Emperor and Sovereign Lord: for they having been likewise enemies to HENRY, stood in fear of his Nephews, CONRADE and FREDERICK, Dukes of Suevia, and Franconia, who had ever held with him; and for the same reason, the two brothers sought by all means that the one of them might have been Emperor, and with all their might withstood LOTHARY. These two brothers (as I said) were Nephews to the Emperor HENRY the Fift, and his sister's sons, who was the daughter of the Emperor HENRY the Fourth. LEOPOLD marquis of Austria, and CNARLES Earl of Flanders, by reason of their estates and power, sought also to have gotten the Empire. These four great Princes being competitors, by the procurement and industry of ALBERT, Archbishop of Mentz, who remembering that he had been imprisoned, and ill entreated by HENRY, for contradicting his friends; found means to draw the Prince's Electors to meet at Mentz, where they chose LOTHARY Duke of Saxony, Emperor. Wherewith CONRADE and FREDERKCK were so much discontented, that in lieu of doing him Lothary the second chosen Emperor. homage as to their Emperor, they rebelled against him as their enemy: and in him wanted neither will nor industry to persecute them. First, he sent to Pope HONORIUS the Second, to complain of them; who approved and was well pleased with the election of the Duke of Saxony; for as much as by that house the Popes had ever been relieved and supported; wherefore he might easily obtain of the Pope, to command them (by his censures) to yield their obedience. But these two brothers (taking Arms) found so many friends, and their Lands and Countries were such and so great, that a cruel war began between them; which I omit, for that I find it briefly written: yet it continued many days, and came to that issue, that CONRADE the elder of these two brethren, with the help of his brother FREDERICK, and of GODFREY Count Palatine of the Rhine, was called Emperor: and raising the greatest power that he was able (leaving his brother in Germany to make head against LOTHARY) he went into Italy, and took many Imperial cities in the state of Lombardy; where the Archbishop of Milan crowned him with the Crown of iron: by reason whereof, Pope HONORIUS afterwards deprived him of his Archbishopric, and set another in his place: and the Emperor LOTHARY being thus distressed, knowing that HENRY of Baviere (who was called the Proud, and was descended from the lineage of the famous GVELPHONS; of which, the Abbot WESPERGENSIS and other Authors make so great account) was a mighty Prince and very valiant, he practised with him to marry his only daughter, whose name was GERTRUDE; and to the end that he should be a faithful and loyal servant unto him, he gave him with her for her dowry, the title and succession of the Duchy of Saxony, which after his death he enjoyed, and was Lord of both estates: yet afterwards in process of time there were alterations in them, and in others; whereof I will make no special relation, for that it requireth too long a time: yet I will sometimes speak thereof as occasion shall be offered. The Duke of Baviere, and other Princes now helping the Emperor with all their powers, made cruel war in CONRADE'S Countries, whilst that he was busy about his Coronation in Lombardy, with intent to have go to Rome. But as he had levied more men than he was able to pay, and wanted means to give them satisfaction, he was driven to return into his Country, and to join with his brother; and being returned, was not of power able to make head against the Emperor, or at the lest to go through with what he had begun: whereupon he sought to make some agreement with him, and to obtain his favour; which was effected (as saith the Abbot WESPERGENSIS) at the intercession of Saint BERNARD, he renouncing the name and title of Emperor, and giving other security to serve him as a Subject: the like did his brother FREDERICK. And so ended the Emperor LOTHARY this war, which (as he writeth) was very bloody: during the which, in Rome died HONORIUS the Second, having been Pope five years; and to him succeeded INNOCENTIUS the Second, a Roman born, who as soon as he was Pope, resolved to have driven ROGER Earl of Sicilia out of Pulia; where ROGER was called King of Italy (as I said in the end of the life of the Emperor HENRY) having taken the same from WILLIAM, who was his Nephew, or (as some say) his cousin german: and levying a great Army for those wars, he went thither in person. But for as much as Authors differ in the recital thereof (the Italians accounting it to be at this time, that the Pope was taken prisoner there: and the Germans affirm it to have happened in the time of CONRADE the Third, who succeeded LOTHARY) we will therefore leave it until that time; in which it seemed most likely to have passed. But here we will speak of another disaster, which befell Pope INNOCENTIUS; which was, that with the fame of his imprisonment, or (as I rather believe) of his death; a mighty Roman, of great power, whose name was PETER LEO, came to Rome, publishing the news thereof: and procuring favour and assistance, was chosen Pope, and called ANACLETUS; who taking all the Gold and Silver out of the Temples and Churches, and giving the same to his followers, grew to be of such power, that Pope INNOCENTIUS being returned to Rome, could not make his party good against him, but was constrained in a manner by flight, to get him into France, and from thence into Germany, to the Emperor LOTHARY; who by reason of the peace and agreement between him and Duke CONRADE, was grown very rich and of great power; who giving him very good entertainment, offered to go in person to restore him to his estate: and although that the affairs of Germany were not yet throughly settled, yet he in short space made ready a fair Army, and they both together departed towards Italy, but by several ways, dividing their Army, to the end to march the more commodiously: and again meeting near to Rome, were there received, where Pope ANACLETUS durst make no The Emperor Lothary in Italy. resistance; whom his friends had hid so secretly, as at that time, he could not be found; which was in the sixt year of the Emperor's reign: And so with great solemnity Pope INNOCENT was restored to his chair; and with the like or greater, the Emperor LOTHARY was by him crowned; and within few days after, returned with his Army into Germany, not finding any contradiction or resistance. The Emperor LOTHARY being arrived in Germany, and having by the consent of the Princes thereof summoned a Council to be held there: By the Authority of the Empire, he resolved to go himself in person against the Duke of Polonia, because he refused to pay the Tribute, in acknowledgement of superiority, which he aught for the space of twelve years behinde-hand, unpaid: But the Polacres not daring to stand to the hazard of War; the Duke accompanied with men of peace, came forth of his Country to receive the Emperor; whom the Emperor would not see, neither admit into his presence, before such time as he had paid him all the ariereages due for so many years past; and the Duke accomplishing the same, came to see the Emperor in the Duchy of Saxony; whither being comn, and having promised to perform the premises, he returned home in peace. At the same time the King of Hungary sent his Ambassadors and presents, in acknowledgement of superiority. Pope INNOCENT in the mean time had ill success; for within few days after the Emperor's departure out of Italy, and that he had called a Council to be held in the City of Spire; Pope ANACLETUS aforesaid (through the favour and assistance of his friends and kinsfolks, and of ROGER which was called King of the two Sicily's) returned again to Rome, and took upon him as Pope, being already Lord of the City, and of some other fortresses: whereupon Pope INNOCENT sent to the Emperor, imploring his aid and succour, to restore him to his dignity. The Emperor setting the affairs of Germany apart, and raising a greater Army than at the first; within short space came into Italy; with whom (besides those which the Abbot WESPERGENSIS setteth down) came his son in law HENRY Duke of Baviere, with great and very good troops of men of war: OTHO FRISINGENSIS saith, that CONRADE Duke of Suevia, which in former time had been his enemy, came with him also: and beingarrived in Italy, entering Lombardy, he found great war and dissension between the Cities of Cremona, and of Milan, and he as sovereign Lord, took upon him to decide the cause of their difference; and finding those of Cremona to be faulty, he proceeded against them; and they rebelling were by him subdued by force. From thence he went to the City of Pavia, and so to Bolonia, visiting and pacifying the other Cities of Lombardy; which through civil contention, and the long absence of the Emperors, were in a manner at liberty, and tyrannised; all which he subdued and brought to subjection: and from thence (sending his son in law with the one half of his Army into Tuscan, to receive the Pope, which lay in Pisa) he himself by another way went with the rest into the Marcadi Ancona, wherein he assaulted and took many towns which rebelled; as well against him as against the Church of Rome; which he recovered and restored. Afterwards joining with the Pope and with his son in law HENRY, he took his way towards Rome, where he restored the Pope to his seat and Palace; and thence marched forwards, to war against ROGER, who with the help of his friends and subjects, had raised a great Army, vaunting in brave terms, that he would fight with the Emperor. But ROGER shamefully retiring without daring to meet him, put his men into garrisons, to defend his countries; but the Emperor followed the wars with such expedition and courage, that within short space he become Lord of Pulia, and Calabria, and of all the rest that ROGER held; and constrained him to fly out of Italy, and to get him into Sioily. And to the Emperor at Roger king of Sicilia driven out of Italy. his being there came Ambassadors from CALOIOANNES Emperor of Constantinople, to congratulate his victories obtained against ROGER, whom he much hated, and against whom he had afterwards great wars. At this time died the Antipope ANACLETUS. And so the Emperor finding no resistance in Italy (having subdued the rebellious, and rewarded and honoured those which had faithfully and valiantly served him, in such manner that they writ of him, that since the time of CHARLES the Great, not any Emperor had ever lived there in so great power and authority) he returned into Germany: but before his departure, he bestowed upon a great Germane Prince, who was his near kinsman and favourite, whose name was RAYNOLD, the State of Pulia, with the title of Duke thereof, which he took from ROGER. About which gift, notwithstanding that the Pope was well content therewith, OTHO FRISINGENSIS (who was an eye witness and an Author of those times) writeth, that there was some difference between the Emperor and the Pope; The Pope alleging the Countries of Pulia and Calabria to be subject and feudatory to the Church of Rome; and that the favour and title which was given to RAYNOLD, should have been given by him, and not by the Emperor: but in the end, a mean was found, that it was done in both their names; and the Arms and Ensigns of Duke, were given to RAYNOLD by them both; and so RAYNOLD remained a Duke; and the Emperor departing, left many good men of war with him, whereof he afterwards stood in need, as you shall hear: And so leaving the Pope in Rome, he returned towards his country, triumphing of his victories. Upon the way coming to the Mountains of Trent, he fell so grievously The death of the Emperor Lothary. sick, that unable to travel any further, he died in a little village, in the thirteenth year after that he was chosen Emperor, and in the seventh after his coronation in Rome, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, one hundred thirty and eight: his body was carried into Saxony, and there most sumptuously entombed, and by his death grew great alterations, both in Italy and Germany, as shall be related. He left no more children behind him when he died, but his only daughter GERTRUDE, who (I said) was married to HENRY Duke of Baviere; for his only son called LOTHARY died a child before him. In the time of this Emperor (as he was a great justicer) the laws and institutions collected by the Emperor JUSTINIAN, were again revived and took effect; which through the division and declining of the Empire, were grown out of use, and in a manner quite forgotten; A reformation in the Civil law. and VERNERIUS whom ACURSIUS (a glosser upon the civil law) calleth YRNERYUS, sought, and took out of the ancient Libraries, the books of the laws which JUSTINIAN had compiled, and abbreviated out of the institutions of the Praetors and Aediles, and ancient Emperors; which lay forgotten, and even lost: and he corrected and reduced the same into the best form he was able; which the Emperor LOTHARY commanded to be read in Schools, and that all Pleas should be determined by them; and so it is observed unto this day. Within a while after this, these laws began to be glossed upon by AZO a famous Doctor; and afterwards succeeded ACURSIUS: and they have still so increased, that since that The beginning of the Civil Lawyers. time there have been many great and famous men in that faculty; which hold the greatest authority and degree in the estate and government of all Commonwealths. In Constantinople yet reigned CALOIOANNES, warring against the Infidels, and against ROGER King of Sicily. THE LIFE OF CONRADE, THE THIRD OF THAT NAME, AND FOURSCORE AND SIXTEENTH ROMAN Emperor. And therein is treated of CALOIOANNES, and of his son EMANVEL, Emperors of Constantinople. THE ARGUMENT. AFter Lothary, succeeded Conrade, Nephew to the Emperor Henry the Fift; who was chosen by the Electors, and confirmed by the Pope's Legate. He was in the beginning of his reign disturbed by the son in law of Lotharius, who withheld from him the Imperial ensigns; and not only refused to deliver them, but also to yield him any obedience; whereupon the Emperor proclaimed him Rebel, and took from him by force many estates: but this war had so many variable accidents, that the Emperor therein spent seven years, during which time, he took no great care how matters went in Italy. He went to the wars of the Holy-land, and being comn iato his enemies Countries, received so great an overthrow, as there scarcely remained the tenth man of those which went with him. After this rout, he prosecuted his attempt, in company of the French King, from whom he afterwards departed; holding his being with him for dishonourable. He returned thither the third time, and together with the Kings of France and of jerusalem, did nothing of any account. Afterwards, sith it pleased not God to favour the proceed of the Christians in this enterprise, either of the Princes returned into his Country: And the Emperor being comn into Germany; whilst he was making preparation for his going into Italy, to be crowned, died (as many men thought) of poison, in the fifteenth year of his reign. I Have already related how that the Emperor LOTHARY married his only daughter to HENRY Duke of Baviere (called the Proud) who was a valiant and mighty Prince; and that he gave him the title of Duke of Saxony, which was his house and patrimony: and that this HENRY did him great service in his journey into Italy, and also against the two mighty brethren, CONRADE and FREDERICK, Dukes of Suevia and Franconia, who were his enemies a long time: for when LOTHARY was chosen Emperor, they thought to have had it for one of themselves, being Nephews to the deceased Emperor HENRY the Fift, and Grandchilds of the Emperor HENRY the Fourth. When-as the Emperor LOTHARY was dead, his son in law HENRY Duke of Baviere, who came with him, and was already called Duke of Saxony, got into his custody the Imperial Ensigns; as the Sceptre, the Cross, the Crown, and the Globe, imagining that he should have had use for them, for that he thought to have been Emperor, but they were of little use to him: For the two brethren, CONRADE and FREDERICK Dukes of Suevia and Franconia (afore named) were of so great power and authority, as assembling the Prince's Electors in Confluence (where the River of Mosella joineth with the Rhine, THEODORICUS a Cardinal and the Pope's Legate being there present) CONRADE was chosen Emperor, and all the Princes swore to him homage and obedience; which the Saxons and Bavarians Conrade chosen Emperor. only opposed with HENRY their Lord, and his brother GVELPHO, who was a great and valiant Prince. Whereupon the new Emperor called a general Diet or Council to be held in the city of Bambergh, whither came the widow Empress, late wife to LOTHARIUS, and the Deputies of Saxony, to acknowledge and yield obedience unto him: But Duke HENRY would not appear, neither would he sand the Imperial Ensigns which he had in his power: and so by all the Princes there assembled, with the Emperor's authority, he was enjoined to appear and to sand the Ensigns aforesaid, by the feast day of Saint PETER and PAUL than next following; which he did (for he durst do no other) but would not come himself in person: Whereupon the Emperor (desiring to be at peace) after two or three summons, enjoined him, within a certain prefixed time, to make his appearance in the City of Augsburg; for which purpose he presently caused a Council to be summoned, and made great preparation, meaning to have proceeded against him with all rigour and severity. The Council being assembled, HENRY accompanied with many men of war, of Saxony and of Baviere, came near to that place where it was held, and lodged his Camp, and began to treat of means to come to the Emperor's obedience; which treaty continued three days without any conclusion: for the Emperor required him to resign certain lands which his father in law the Emperor LOTHARY had given him: but the Emperor holding himself not in safety in that City, departed without any speech of his removing, until he was go, and went to the City of Herbipoli: where many Prince's meeting, by the general consent of them all, he pronounced sentence against HENRY of Baviere; whereby he condemned him in the loss of all his estates: and many great matters happened, which we will declare, when we have told you what befell in Italy to the Pope and to Duke RAINOLD, whom the Empeperour LOTHARY made Duke of Pulia and Calabria, with ROGER King of Sicily; which passed in this manner: As soon as the Emperor LOTHARY was dead, there grew so great alterations and troubles in Italy, that ROGER in great haste raised his forces, and went into Pulia, with a resolution to have reconquered those Countries, whereof he was dispossessed: But RAINOLD had so good men with him, that he fought with him in battle, and overthrew him; so as he was driven to return with loss of part of his Army: And being busied about making new preparation for the same enterprise, RAINOLD died in the time of his good fortune; so as without any great difficulty, ROGER recovered all the Countries of Pulia and Calabria, which he first took from his Nephew, and which had been his grandfathers. Pope INNOCENT seeing what passed, he sent to the Emperor to desire him to come into Italy, or to sand an Army to drive ROGER out of that Country: but for as much as the succours came slowly (as writeth GOTHIFREDUS VITERBIENSIS) the Pope levied a great Army, and went against ROGER: but as he was no very expert man of war, so by a device his Army was overthrown, and himself together with his Cardinals taken prisoner. But ROGER making a Wars between the Pope and Roger King of Sicilia: wherein the Pope was overthrown, and taken prisoner with all his Cardinals. conscience of the matter, set both him and all his Cardinals at liberty: for which his liberality and courtesy the Pope confirmed him King of Sicilia; and ROGER as his liege man did homage to the Pope, calling his Countries the Church Patrimony; and so remained ROGER and his successors kings of Sicilia, and Lords of Pulia and Calabria, and was a very mighty Prince. This being passed, ROGER fearing the Emperors coming into Italy, he sent to solicit HENRY the proud, and his brother GVELPHO, with Letters and money to bear Arms against the Emperor CONRADE, with whom they already had great wars; for HENRY the Proud being condemned by the Emperor, in the loss of all his estates of Baviere and Saxony; Wars between the Emperor & the duke of Baviere and Saxony. and the Emperor having given the Duchy of Saxony to ALBERT cousin-german to the Duke; and Baviere to LEOPOLD son to the marquis of Austria (who was the Emperor's mother's brother) so as all was in combustion, and the war was prosecuted with great cruelty, the one party seeking to hold and to defend their estates, and the other to get the same: and he which chief followed this war was GVELPHO, brother to HENRY the Proud; for HENRY now by reason of his old age could not well bear Arms; and having provided a very good Army, the Emperor went against GVELPHO, and fought a battle with him, which was very doubtful, for GVELPHO was an excellent Captain and very valiant: but he being over-matched, was overthrown, and lost many of his men, both Bavarians and Italians, which ROGER King of Sicily had sent to his aid, and he himself escaped by flight. But he was a man of so haughty a mind, and therewith used such industry and expedition, that within few days he reinforced his Army; and sought aid of the King of Hungary, who repined at the prosperity of the Empire, for that he would not acknowledge any superior: and so to his aid came many Calabrians and Sicilians, sent by ROGER King of Sicily; and the Emperor of necessity was driven to do the like, and made his eldest son called HENRY General of his Army, who afterwards died before his father: and he besieged a Town called Winsperg And lying before it, his son HENRY, near to a place called Elnofen, fought a battle with GVELPHO, in which, some of GVELPHO his party (which were Italians) cried, GVELPHO, GVELPHO, after the name of their General; and the Imperialists cried, The original of the Gue●…s and Gibelins. GIBELLIN, GIBELLIN, for that HENRY their General was bred up in a place so called. Some Authors affirm, that upon this occasion it afterwards followed, that in the controversies between the Emperors and Popes, the Imperialists took their name of Gibellins; and the Pope's party, Guelphs. And from hence sprang the cruel factions of the Guelphs and Gibelins in Italy: Hereof are other opinions, which import not much to be treated of in this place. The battle was very cruel, but GVELPHO his troops (being of diverse Nations and conditions) did not so well second and relieve one another, as HENRIE'S did, so as GVELPHO was likely to have been overthrown. And finding no other remedy, to avoid a further danger, he abandoned the field, and HENRY apparently had the victory: who after that he left the pursuit, joined with his father the Emperor at the siege of Winsperg; which being greatly distressed, yielded to mercy. But all the grace the Emperor would grant to the inhabitants, was to permit all the women which were in the Town, freely to departed, and to have to their own use whatsoever they could bear on their backs: Whereupon they used a commendable and memorable deceit, which was, that as they went forth of the Town, each of A commendable deceit used 〈◊〉 women in Germany. them took her husband upon her back, and those which had none, took their children or brothers, and so coming into the fields, set them at liberty: and notwithstanding that FREDERICK the Emperor's brother alleged that it was deceit and cozenage, and therefore not to be permitted; nevertheless the Emperor held it for well done, and commended them for the same. And truly I hold it for one of the most memorable acts done by women that ever I read of. Through these two overthrows, the party of GVELPHO, and of his brother HENRY the Proud, was so broken and weakened, as ALBERT, to whom the Emperor had given the title of Duke of Saxony, had time and opportunity to make himself Lord thereof: And LEOPOLD, to whom he had given the Duchy of Baviere, made daily Conquest of more and more of that Country. Duke HENRY seeing this, came disguised to such places as held for him in Saxony, where he used such effectual speeches, and wrote so pitiful Letters to his friends and subjects, that they being moved therewith, repaired unto him in such order, that ALBERT was driven to fly to the Emperor for help; and HENRY the Proud having this good success, and being in hope to have prevailed, died; after whose decease, the Saxons in despite of the Emperor, took a son of his called also HENRY, for their Lord; and they recovered great part of that estate: But LEOPOLD was seized of the greatest part of the Duchy of Baviere, who (as I said) was the Emperor's mother's brother: GVELPHO as soon as his brother HENRY the Proud was dead, was called Duke of Baviere, pretending that it did belong unto him by inheritance: and many friends repairing unto him, cruel wars began between him and LEOPOID, and GVELPHO overthrew LEOPOLD in a battle: The Emperor seeking redress (to the end he would not at one time have so many Irons in the fire together) compounded and made peace with the Saxons, marrying the widow Duchess of Saxony, daughter to the Emperor LOTHARY, with whom HENRY the Proud had that Dukedom, of the greatest part whereof his son HENRY was then in possession: and this being effected, he resolved to aid LEOPOLD against GVELPHO: but in the mean time LEOPOLD died, and with the same trouble his son called HENRY had the Duchy of Baviere, against whom (with no less courage and diligence) GVELPHO prosecuted the war: But CONRADE assisting his cousin-Germane the new Duke, neither GVELPHO nor his Nephew HENRY Duke of Saxony, could prevail against him; notwithstanding that GVELPHO was a warlike and valiant Captain. CONRADE having spent six or seven years of his reign in these civil wars, a voyage was pretended to jerusalem; which although it had no great good success, yet it was good and commendable. The Emperor Conrade his attempt for the conquest of jerusalem. And to the end that you may the better understand the same, it shall be requisite briefly to set down the most important causes thereof, and the estate wherein the affairs of Graecia then stood, and of Italy also; which was in this manner: The Christians having possessed jerusalem, and many other Cities in Syria and Mesopotamia, now above five and forty years, and having performed wonderful matters in their continual wars against the Infidels, which they waged at what time as CONRADE was busy about this quarrel; FULCO son-in-law to BALDWIN, being then the fourth King of jerusalem, and having done great exploits against the Saracens, there arose some controversies between some Princes, Dukes of certain places in the East; and so between them, and CALOIOANNES Emperor of Constantinople; which gave occasion to the King of Persia his Captains, to do much harm in the countries which the Christians possessed: against whom, FULCO King of jerusalem made the greatest resistance he was able, and did many worthy exploits. Than ensued the death of the Greek Emperor, who had reigned six and twenty years: And although that he had troubled the state of the East, yet nevertheless by reason of his great power he was much feared of the Infidels; and died of a small wound given him in the left hand with a poisoned arrow: by his last will and testament, he ordained his youngest son for his successor, for that his eldest son was incapable of the government. The state of Syria being thus troubled, FULCO King of jerusalem went to encounter a great Army of Turks and Persians', which came against the city of Antioch; and joining in battle, overthrew and slew three thousand of them: whereupon the Soldan King of Persia, whose name was ALAPH, drew together all his whole power, and came before Edissa, a very mighty city in Mesopotania, which the Christians had held five and forty years; which city by the jews is called Aracha, and is very famous, through the fertility and greatness thereof; and for that it was the place, whither TOBIAS sent his son TOBIAS to GA●…ELUS for his money, and the same was converted to the Christian faith by THADEUS; and adorned with the bones of S. THOMAS the Apostle, and at this time was inhabited and frequented by excellent Christians: But ALAPH coming in person against it, King FULCO not being able to relieve the city, it was taken and sacked; wherein the Infidels used such cruelties and villainies, as have not been heard of: some writers reckon the loss of this city to have happened after the decease of King FULCO: but PLATINA and BLONDUS relate it as I have done. After the loss of this city, another great misfortune ensued, which was the unhappy death The death of Fulco King of jerusalem. of FULCO King of jerusalem in this manner: As he was busy, applying himself to recover this lost city, and to levy new troops of soldiers, being one day in the fields hunting the Hare, his horse fell with him, and his head fell under the back part of the saddle, wherewith he was bruised, and so sore hurt, that losing both his speech and senses, he died within three days, leaving behind him two young sons, the eldest of which called BALDWIN, had the title and kingdom of jerusalem: but through the want of FULCO, and other occasions, the Infidels daily took towns, and did much hurt to the Christians. Pope INNOCENT and the Christian Princes understanding how matters went in the East, and being sorry to hear thereof (as indeed they had reason, especially for the loss of the great city of Edissa) they began to consult of some redress and relief for the same; and as S. BERNARD was then in great credit and very famous, he took upon him to persuade the Christians Princes, to go in person to this war, Pope INNOCENT giving him in charge to perform that action; which Pope having held that seat the space of fourteen years, died (as saith PLATINA) in the year of our Lord 1144. and to him succeeded CELESTIN the Second, who was Pope but five months; and he being dead, LUCIUS the Second was made Pope, in whose time (as saith PLATINA and BLONDUS) S. BERNARD undertaken this enterprise; and as others say, in the time of INNOCENTIUS. This difference doth not discredit the authors: for the loss of the city of Edissa, and the death of King FULCO, and other matters which happened in the East, passed at several times, and might happen in the time of all these Popes, for the small time they lived: for LUCIUS the Second was not Pope fully one year, and this was in the time of his successor EUGENIUS. I say then that by means of the Pope's Letters, together with the persuasion of S. BERNARD, LEWES who then was king of France, taking for his device the sign of the Cross determined with many great Lords and Knights of his countries, to go to this war in the East, in the behalf of the King of jerusalem; and levying an Army, BERNARD went into Germany to the Emperor CONRADE (whose The Emperor Conrade and jews King of France went to jerusalem. life we writ) and obtained of him to do the like, as the French King pretended to do: whereto he willingly and speedily prepared himself; and it pleased God that this journey was so well liked of by all men, that notwithstanding that there were very sharp and hot wars between the Emperor, and GVELPHO with his adherents, yet GVELPHO notwithstanding offered to go this journey with him, and to do him service therein. And so the Emperor and the French King (by their Letters) agreed to go to that enterprise personally. But forasmuch as they both could not conveniently march together in company, by reason of the great multitudes of their people; it was concluded that the Emperor should first set forwards (and so he did) in the year of our Lord 1147, according to most authors, yet some writ one year less: and he departed, accompanied by these Princes, FREDERICK Duke of Suevia, son to his brother FREDERICK deceased, the Duke of Lorraine, the Earl of Flanders and Friesland, the marquis of Austria, and GVELPHO his former cruel enemy, but then his servant and companion, whom the Emperor in all that journey called fellow soldier, and made great account of his person, with many other Princes and Lords of great account. In this all authors agreed, that of the Emperors own forces, with the forces of these Princes, together with the adventurers, which came from all parts, upon the report of so zealous an enterprise, his Army amounted to the number of threescore and ten thousand horse, and (in a manner) as many foot: with which, marching through Austria and Hungary, he directed his journey towards Constantinople; where he was very joyfully and honourably received by the Emperor EMANVEL, son to CALOIOANNES; and his troops were lodged in towns and places near at hand; and staying there some few days, he crossed over the strait of Constantinople with his whole Army, with less store of victuals than was needful in such an action, through the Emperor of Constantinople his counsel and default, who promised to furnish him with all things necessary; and so he marched through the Emperor's Countries, in Asia the less, and had Greeks for his guides, such as well knew the Country. Passing through the Province of Licaonia, which bordereth upon Galacia, in the midst of Asia the less, being in his enemy's Country in great want of victuals, all his guides in one Treachery of the Emperor's guides. night forsook him: which, as some writ, was thought to have been done by the direction of the Emperor of Constantinople, who of malice or envy repined at this war. Others imagine that they stood in fear, and fled, for that they saw the Army so unprovided of victuals, or for that they had miss of their way: but howsoever it was, the Emperor stayed near to the City of Iconium, which is in Silicia, and (as some say) besieged the same, for that it was rich, well furnished, and of great importance, thinking in short time to have taken it. But forasmuch as victuals came not according to the trust he reposed in the Greeks'; his people within few day's space endured extreme hunger and sickness; and falling sick of the chaulk which (as some writ) the Greeks did put into their meal, they died. The Emperor seeing himself thus distressed in his enemy's country, and his friends being doubtful and variable in their opinions, whether they should go forwards, or retire (either of which was perilous) in the mean time, so great a multitude of Turks, Persians', and other heathen nations (knowing the distress wherein the Christians were) assaulted his Camp, in such manner, that his person and Army were in danger to have been wholly lost (God in his secret judgement, permitting it): and the Emperor knowing no better course to be taken, came to a battle with them; some say two, and that the fight continued two days together, one after another: and as the greatest part of his Army was sickly, and almost hunger-starved; so after that they had done what they possibly were able, they were broken and overthrown; and so many The Emperor Conrade overthrown by the Sara●…s. of them were slain and taken prisoners, that there remained little more than the tenth man of his Army; with which he escaped by flight, and therein endured extreme hunger and many dangers; and stayed not any where until he came to the city of Nicaea, in the province of Bythinia, in Asia the less, which was subject to the Greek Empire; where gathering together the remainder of his Army (which from many parts, held by Christians, came thither to him) he determined to attend the coming of LEWES the French King, who was already upon the way. This overthrow happened in the month of November, in the year of our Lord one thousand, one hundred forty and seven. At what time as the Emperor CONRADE was thus overthrown by the Infidels, the French King was come from Constantinople into Bythinia; where he had been well received and lodged by the Emperor EMANVEL: and within few days after that the Emperor CONRADE was departed from Germany, Pope EUGENIUS the Third, which succeeded LUCIUS, flying from Rome, came to him in France, by reason of certain mutinies raised against him in Rome, for the people would have placed certain citizens in the government of the city; and the Pope finding the King ready to departed, encouraged him to proceed in his journey, and gave him his holy benediction; and the King in requital gave him men and money, wherewith he returned to Rome, and was with much obedience there received. King LEWES of France being arrived in Asia, and understanding nothing of the Emperor's misfortune; FREDERICK Duke of Suevia, Nephew to the Emperor, came to him, and certified him of their overthrow: wherefore the King hastened his journey, and finding the Emperor in Nicaea, he recomforted and persuaded him to proceed in his company; which he then willingly did, and so they marched together to the famous city of Ephesus, which is the chief of all Asia the less, in the province of I●…nia: where the Emperor considering that he went not according to his estate and honour, going with so small forces, but rather as a subject to the King of France, and for some other respects, giving good words he took his leave of the King, and departed; and drawing near to the Sea, sent his people by land, and he by Ship went to stay for them at Constantinople: where dissembling the injury he had received (or peradventure not suspecting any such matter) he remained the rest of the winter; to the end that reinforcing his Army, he might from thence the next Spring return to his enterprise. In the mean time the French King prosecuted his journey, not without great trouble and loss of many of his men, in a battle which he won; and in another, wherein part of his Army was overthrown: how it passed I do not set down, for that it appertaineth not to my History. After this, enduring great toil and dangers, by long journeys he came to the city of Antioch, in company of RAIMOND or REMON, Lord thereof, who came to meet him upon the way, and to do him honour, from whence he afterwards (as I will show you) came to jerusalem. The Spring being come, and the Emperor CONRADE having levied new forces, which he joined with the remainder of his last Army; in a great fleet which he had prepared, with the help of the Emperor of Constantinople, he embarked, and came therein into Soria; and there disembarking in a certain harbour, came with his Army by land to jerusalem, where, by BALDWIN the King thereof, he was very joyfully received; and within few days they had intelligence, that the French King was coming thither also: whom the Emperor, and King BALDWIN received with great joy; and then to avoid loss of much time, they presently took counsel about prosecuting the war against the Infidels; concluding to besiege the city of Damascus, from whence (for that it was very puissant and populous) they daily received loss, prejudice, and ill neighbourhood: and so taking that obstacle, they resolved to have proceeded further, which plot was presently put in execution; and the Emperor, and the two Kings departed, with a great and very well ordered Army, with a resolution, and in hope to have effected some great matters: but it pleased God otherwise to dispose of their purpose: for being come to Damascus, and having encamped themselves on that side of the city, towards Mount Libanus, Damascus besieged by the Christians. they had many dangerous skirmishes: wherefore (through the advice and counsel of certain men of that country, which, being corrupted with money by the besieged, desired to deceive these Princes) they removed their Camp to the other side, and abandoned the most fit place for their siege: whereof it ensued, that the Infidels taking the advantage of an Hill (which they fortified) did greatly annoyed them; and this Hill was so situate, that it stopped the coming of victuals to the Camp: and the besieged defended themselves so valiantly, and famine so much increased in these Prince's armies, that it ●…as imposs●… for them to live, if they remained there any longer, so as they were perforce constrained to raise their siege, and returned to jerusalem, sorrowful and in ill plight, there to consult of what course was best to be taken. In this siege (as saith the Abbot WESPERGENSIS) GVELPHO, the Emperor's ancient enemy (yet than his good friend) fell sick: and fearing to die if he had stayed there any longer, he with his followers took shipping and sailed into Sicilia, where recovering his health; through the counsel and instigation of ROGER King thereof, he went into Germany, and there again rebelling, made wars upon the Emperor's countries. The Emperor and French King then resolved to return into their dominions, seeing it The return of the Emperor and the French King from the pleased not God to prospero their proceed; and the rather to the end to avoid innovations and troubles that might grow in the countries, by reason of their absence; and they did so, leaving wars of the Holyland. the affairs of the East in as ill estate as they found the same. The Emperor rigging up his navy, embarked himself with his people, and again took land in Graecia (as saith OTHO FRISINGENSIS, who accompanied him in all this journey) and in the province of Achaia, met the Emperor of Constantinople: where refreshing himself awhile after his coming from Sea, he departed from the said Emperor, and took his way into Germany, and so ended this religious enterprise, in the fourth year after the same began. The French King, within few days after the Emperor's departure from the Holy land, took shipping also; and after some adventures which befell him in the way, arrived in his country, in health and peace; and the Emperor again warred against GVELPHO, to punish him for his rebellion in his absence: but at the entreaty of his Nephew FREDERICK, Duke of Suevia, who was likewise Nephew to GVELPHO by his mother's side, he pardoned him, and granted him peace, and allowed him certain lands and revenues for his maintenance. At this time came Ambassadors to the Emperor from the Christian Kings, and from the Pope, to congratulate his return; and he commanded a Diet or Council to be assembled in the city of Confluence; where, after many matters appertaining to the government of the Commonwealth, he concluded to come into Italy, to be crowned (being thereto invited by Pope VRBANE before named) and making preparation for his journey, he was entercepted by death; not without suspicion of poison, given him by an Italian Physician, through the procurement of ROGER King of Sicilia; he died in the year of our Lord, one thousand, one hunddred fifty two, in the fifteenth year of his reign (some reckon one thousand, one hundred fifty The death of the Emperor Conrade. and four) and left one only son called FREDERICK, who afterwards being Duke of Suevia, died in Italy: which son he had by his wife the Empress, whose name was GERTRUDE, an Earl's daughter which was a great Lord in Germany, by whom he also had had another son, called HENRY; of whom mention hath been already made, who died before his father the Emperor. In Constantinople reigned EMANVEL, and held the Empire after this almost thirty years; this Emperor is reckoned amongst the wicked and vicious Emperors, and is greatly condemned, to have been the occasion of the loss of the two Armies, viz. the Emperors, and the French Kings, as we have already related. For which cause, it is written that ROGER King of Sicily warred against him: and having taken certain Lands from him; he came so near to the city of Constantinople, that the arrows which he shot, fell within his palace; and they affirm, that he gathered apples from the trees, growing in the Orchards and Gardens belonging thereto. This ROGER died within a year or two after the Emperor CONRADE; and his son WILLIAM the First succeeded him. In the time of this Emperor, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, one hundred thirty nine, died in France, a man called JOHN du Temps, who (as many authors affirm) had lived three hundred sixty and one years, and had been an Halberder of the Emperor CHARLES johan de temps is reported to have lived three hundred sixty and one years. the Great his guard; it is a matter hardly to be believed, yet possible; and many authors writ the same. THE LIFE OF FREDERICK, THE FIRST OF THAT NAME, SURNAMED BARBAROSSA; Fourscore and seventeenth Roman Emperor. And of EMANVEL, Emperor of Constantinople. THE ARGUMENT. AFter the decease of Conrade, his Nephew Frederick, Duke of Suevia, was chosen Emperor; a man endued with all excellencies, as well of body as mind, saving that he was held to be more desirous of glory than was convenient. In the beginning of his reign he shown himself very desirous of peace: but afterwards, in process of time, he undertaken great wars; and having caused many combustions in Germany, he purposed to make a journey into Italy, there to be crowned. Having levied a great army, and being past the Alps, he much annoyed the Milanois, who made an insurrection against him; but spending no long time about those factions, he went to Rome, where he was crowned by the Pope. In the time of his coronation many troubles arose in Rome, wherewith he was much displeased; which leaving imperfect, he returned into Germany, where he afterwards fell at variance with the Pope, by means of the King of Sicilia, who was his enemy: this controversy was pacified by Christian Princes, which paswaded him rather to seek to be revenged on the Milanois then to war against the Pope. Whereupon he resolved again to come into Italy, by reason of Milan, and came thither and ruined it, and ma de it to be razed by the Milanois themselves, who were the Citizens and Inhabitants thereof; and besides this, he did much more harm. He maintained aschisme in the Church of Rome, and gave great aid to the Antipope, whose name was Victor: but all Italy was discontent, by reason of the cruel punishment inflicted upon Milan; so when as he was go out of Italy, all the Cities of Lombardie uniting themselves together made a league against him; wherein was included the City of Venice, which took the protection of Pope Alexander. Which the Emperor hearing, he sent the Antipope into Italy, who died in Luca; where, by the Emperor's consent, asuccessor was chosen, to maintain the schism, and he in person came against the league; wherein all Italy in a manner, being combined, bend against him; and coming to Rome, he constrained the Pope to fly to Gaeta, having first done much harm in Tuscan in the Marca, and particularly in the City of Ancona: and after many adventures, he went out of Italy, without effecting aught against the Pope as he desired. After some space, he again returned into Italy: but, being abandoned by the greatest part of his followers (instigated thereto by Henry Duke of Saxony) the Emperor was in such distress, as he was constrained to go sometime disguised, as another man's servant: but he very severely punished Henry, for his mutining. He again took his passage into Italy, and in a battle, with his enemies, was vanquished, and held for dead; but recanting his former proceed, he sued to be reconciled to the Pope; which was concluded in the City of Venice with a truce, with the cities of Lombardy. This done, all was in peace. Afterwards he went to war in the Holy land: and having done some matters worthy memory, in the most flourishing time of his victories, going to refresh himself in a river, he was carried down by the current, his people being unable to help him, and there was drowned, when he had reigned 28 years. NOtwithstanding that the Emperor CONRADE, when he died, left a son whose name was FREDERICK, who was called Duke of Suevia; nevertheless, so great was the reputation of his Nephew FREDERICK, who was his brother FREDERICKS son, and Duke of Suevia, that the Prince's Electors being assembled in Frankford, made him Emperor; and he presently Frederick Barbarossa chosen Emperor. went to be crowned, with the first crown, in the city of Aken, whither repaired all the Princes of Germany to see the new Emperor. For without doubt, FREDERICK (as all authors writ of him) was a Prince of great valour, and worthy of the Imperial dignity, aswell for the gifts of the body as of the mind. He was of more than a mean stature of great strength and agility, very well proportioned in body, and of a fair and pleasing countenance, accompanied with gravity and majesty. His hair and beard were read, wherefore he was called BARBAROSSA or ENEOBARBUS. With these corporal gifts, he was endued with a sharp and excellent wit, and spoke wisely and effectually; and was of so excellent a memory, especially concerning the gesture and countenance of a man, that whosoever had once negociated with him, although in long time after he had not seen him, yet he would know him at the first sight. He was also of a mild and pleasant conversation, very liberal and bountiful, and an enemy to covetousness; virtuous, without any noted vice: most valiant in Arms, and a contemner The Emperor frederic qualities. of dangers, very active both on foot and horseback; and very expert, and well advised in the wars and military discipline. These virtues were accompanied with a great desire of glory and renown; for he was very ambitious, coveting rule and command, which in my opinion was the cause of many mischiefs, of great wars, and of the effusion of much blood in his time: the wars he followed in his own person, with great courage and valour, for the space of thirty years, that he held the Empire: and imitating HENRY the Fourth, he supported and maintained a schism in the Church of Rome, for the space of twenty years; and revived the emulation, and competency between the Emperors and Popes, which LOTHARY, and CONRADE had pacified: as we will briefly recite. The first thing he did after he came to the Empire, was, to call a Parliament in the city of Mesburgh, whither (amongst other Princes) came the King of Denmark, newly come to his inheritance, who there was crowned by the Emperor FREDERICK, and did him homage, as a King subject to the Empire. And there he also received the Ambassades of other Christian Princes, which sent to congratulate his election, and he concluded peace with them all. So in his beginning, he made show of a very peaceable Prince, but he afterwards proved to be one of the greatest warriors in the world: and it appeared, that in the beginning he sought peace, thereby to be afterwards the better able to make war. At that time was great contention between the Dukes of Saxony, and of Baviere (both which were called HENRY) which extended itself over all Germany; some favouring the one party, and some the other. HENRY Duke of Saxony made claim to the Duchy of Baviere, which had been his fathers: whereof he was deprived by the Emperor CONRADE, and now HENRY marquis of Austria held the same, and was called Duke of Baviere, for that his brother LEOPOLD had left it him; for to him had the Emperor CONRADE given it. The Emperor FREDERICK, for that he was near of kin to both these competitors (for the one of them was his Uncle, and the other his cousin german) reconciled them after this manner; that to HENRY of Saxony should be restored the Duchy of Baviere (but yet he afterwards lost the same) and he made HENRY marquis of Austria (who was called the Duke of Baviere) Duke of Austria, and gave him some other places; and to GVELPHO, Uncle to the Duke of Saxony, he gave certain lands, and an estate in Italy, which he enherited from MAUD, often before mentioned. This peace and agreement being concluded, and all other actions and debates in Germany ended, he spent many days in establishing peace, and in doing justice. After which, HENRY Count Palatine of the Rhine (a prince of great possessions) died without issue or any of his house, that might succeed him; but the Emperor found a mean to make his brother CONRADE his heir; who had that country, and he afterwards dying, left it to his only daughter, which was married to HENRY Duke of Saxony, by which marriage he got that estate. These and such like accidents and alterations which I find in the Histories of Germany, written by the Germans themselves, make me to doubt of these genealogies, and antiquities of families, which they so much celebrated, to be of a thousand, and of two thousand years continuance; descended in line masculine from the father to the son without bastardy; and other matters whereof the Germans vaunt; which are, in a manner impossible, or at the lest improbable: for we know that all those great houses and estates began since the time of CHARLES the Great; and I see that in those principal houses there have been notable alterations, and changes, from one house to another; as heretofore hath been seen in some of them; and now in this Count Palatine, which in this place clearly passeth from the ancient lineage, to the house of Suevia, and to this Emperor's brother which happened in the second year of his reign. This being past, the Emperor married the daughter of DIOPOLD marquis of Bospergh, called Alda: but forasmuch as it was found that they were within prohibited degrees of consanguinity, a Synod was assembled in the city of Constance, in which he was divorced and separated from her; and then he married with the only daughter of RAINOLD Earl of Burgundy, by whom he afterwards had five sons; HENRY, FREDERICK, CONRADH, PHILIP, and OTHO. These matters being ended, the Emperor resolved to go to Rome, to be crowned by Pope ADRIAN the Third, who was an Englishman; levying a great Army, and setting order Pope Adrian the third an Englishman. for the affairs of Germany, he departed towards Italy: it behoved him to do so, for the cities of Lombardy and others subject to the Empire, through the long absence of the Emperor (for CONRADE had never visited them) were accustomed to such liberty, that any kind of subjection seemed to them intolerable, especially Milan, which of them all was the richest, and most potent. And so FREDERICK being arrived in Italy, Ambassadors came to him from Milan; which after their due reverence, entreated him to be pleased, to make Como and Lodi subject to their city, promising to give him a great sum of money: which request he held unjust, and therefore would not grant it: which was the original occasion of the rebellion of Milan, and of the evils which afterwards ensued: and the Milanois presently began to show their discontent; for the Emperor's Camp being lodged within a mile of the city, they not only refused to lodge or to entertain him therein, but denied to give him victuals for his people for money: whereupon, taking this their contempt in very ill part (as he afterwards manifested) he presently battered certain Castles within their jurisdiction: but holding it no fit time presently to besiege the city, his soldier's overrun their fields, even to their city gates; and he passing forwards, went to Bercelli, and to Turin, and passed over the river Po; and by the way burned Aste, for that it stood at defence; and afterwards besieged the city of Tortona, for as much as it refused The Emperor Frederick in Italy. to receive him, which was a very strong hold. The siege continuing certain days with great loss of both parts; in the end he took it, and made so great a spoil in it, that he left it (in a manner) desolate and wholly ruined: whereupon those of Pavia (for fear) received him, making show of great joy; and there he received the second Crown, and thence marched towards Rome, whither he went to be crowned. Pope ADRIAN at that time was not well pleased with the Roman people, about certain Consuls which they had chosen, a kind of government (which for a long time they had sought to introduce) greatly abbridging the Pope's power and authority: about which, great matters had passed between the citizens and some of his predecessors, as before hath been mentioned. Wherhfore to avoid this trouble, and to prevent certain practices, which WILLIAM the new king of Sicilia attempted against the patrimony of the Church of Rome, the Pope absented himself, and with his Cardinals attended the Emperor's coming in Sutrio; from whence, with a show of great love, they came together to Rome: and the Emperor lodging his Army in the fields near unto it, he, together with the Pope (having a competent guard) entered the Vatican, and the next day was crowned in S. PETER'S Church with great solemnity. But the coronation was scarcely ended, when upon the same day all the Roman people The people of Rome rose against the Pope. rising in an uproar, without knowing any occasion thereof, together with their Consuls, put themselves in Arms, as men discontented with the friendship between the Emperor and the Pope; and coming into the Vatican, they set upon the Germans which came with the Emperor: who hearing what passed, he caused certain companies of soldiers, of those which were encamped near to the city, speedily to enter, which fought with the Romanists, and many were slain of either side: but in the end the Romans were constrained to retire by their bridges into the city (seven hundred of them being first slain and taken prisoners). The Emperor remaining commander of the Vatican, was so incensed, that but for the Pope's entreaty, he would have caused the city to have been assaulted, and would have given the inhabitants a terrible remembrance for their mutinying: but the Pope mitigated his displeasure, and the Romans stood all that night and the next day in Arms; wherewith the Pope being grieved, was little obeyed. The Emperor departed thence, and within few days after his abode in that quarter, went into Germany (whereof the Pope complained, for that he left him at variance with the citizens) and by the way took some towns by assault; amongst which, Spoleto was sacked and burnt for resisting him: and so he afterwards passed through Lombardy, without any stay, with a determination to return with greater power; where befell him some notable adventures, which (the better to express such as are of greater importance) I omit. Being now returned into Germany, with great power and greater authority, for that he was crowned by the Pope; the Duke of Bohemia whose name was VLADISLAUS, or LAVESLAUS, who came with him all this journey, was (by reason of his great estate and the worthiness of his person) made King: yet I find it written, that the Emperor HENRY the Fourth, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, eighty and six, gave the title of King to BRATISLAUS Duke of Bohemia: but that title was then given to his person, and not to the country; and so his successors enjoyed not the same, until the time of this VLADISLAUS, which FIVE adislaus Duke of Bohemia made king. continueth until this day. And the Emperor passing forwards, without discharging his Army, marched against the Duke of Poland; who for certain years space had refused to pay the tribute, which he aught to the Empire: but he compelled him to pay the same. The Emperor being go out of Italy, great controversy arose between the Pope and WILLIAM king of Sicilia; wherein the Pope recovered certain places which WILLIAM had taken from him; EMANVEL Emperor of Constantinople (and WILLIAM'S enemy) furthering those discords, who sent to the Pope, and made great offers and promises to aid and secure him: whereupon, after foam conflicts which passed between them, WILLIAM by all means possible sought the Pope's grace and favour, submitting himself to his obedience; and the Pope confirmed to him the title of King of both the Sicily's: wherewith the Emperor FREDERICK William confirmed by ●…he Pope king of both Sicil●…es. was much displeased, and greatly complained, for he hated WILLIAM; and at his coming into Italy, went of purpose to war against him, although afterwards he could not effect the same as he thought to have done. For this cause and other which are not mentioned, in those days great strife and contentions grew between the Emperor and the Pope; which neither PLATINA nor BLONDUS specify, nor any other Italian Authors: but RUDEBICUS FRISINGENSIS, who prosecuted the History which OTHO FRISINGENSIS left a little before, and other Historiographers, describe the same at large: the sum whereof is, that the Emperor began to do as some of his predecessors had done, in giving Ecclesiastical dignities, and investing Prelates without the Pope's authority, or confirmation; and would not endure the Pope's Legates in his countries, but when, how, and in what manner it pleased him; taking occasion hereof, that the Pope without his consent had made peace with his enemy WILLIAM: whereto the Pope answered, that he could do no otherwise, for that the Emperor abandoned him in his distress, when Rome rebelled against him. And the matter came to this issue, that the Emperor would not permit any appeals to be made to the Court of Rome; and about that matter he apprehended certain Bishops, which NAUCLERUS, and HENRICUS MUCIUS, prove by certain Letters passing between the Emperor and the Pope: which Letters they affirm to have seen in a Monastery of Germany. They also speak of certain very sharp Ambassages from the one to the other; and that in the end the Pope standing in fear of the Emperor's power (being advised by certain Prelates) and also for that there was great discord between the Cities of Lombardy, whither the Emperor meant shortly to come; they came to an agreement of peace, which was concluded by Ambassadors in a Parliament, which the Emperor caused to be held in Augsburg: where after this was ended, he made relation to all the Princes, of the injury which the Milanois, and certain other Cities in Lombardy had done him: And there it was concluded, that he should the second time come into Italy, with fare greater power than at the first. And whilst he was busied about these matters, the Milanois (who at that time were of great power and very rich) being offended with what he had done in their fields and territory, thought not only to free themselves from subjection, and to have denied him their obedience, but also resolved to attend his coming in the open field with an Army, and to make themselves Lords of all that country with the marches thereof, and to shake off the Imperial yoke, presuming upon their great power, and the aid of their friends and confederates: and so they began to levy men, and to make leagues and confederacies with other Cities, as with Crema, Brescia Placencia, and other Towns: and they repaired and fortified Tortona, which the Emperor had ruinated. Presently after this, they made cruel war against Pavia, Cremona, and other places which held for the Emperor; and ruined the Cities of Lodi and Como, which of long time they had hated, and were under the Emperor's protection. The chief Author hereof, was a man of great authority in Milan, whose name was GVALPHAGO, who (as a Lord or tyrant) was of such power in the city, that all was done at his pleasure and by his direction; which made the Emperor the more to hasten his coming into Italy; two years being not fully expired since his first coming thither: and with him came the king of Bohemia, LEOPOLD marquis of Austria, his Nephew FREDERICK Duke of Suevia, and other princes, besides some which were sent before to guard the City of Cremona: The Emperor being in Italy, there came to do him service, HENRY the Duke of Saxony with a thousand and three hundred men at Arms, and GVELPHO with three hundred. The Emperor's coming into Italy did put the country in such fear, that Brescia (whither he sent the King of Bohemia, and his nephew the Duke of Suevia) yielded without assault, promising to be at his devotion. From thence he marched with his Army towards Milan, and by the way had some skirmishes, which I pass over: being come into the marches thereof, he stayed and took certain Castles, which he did of set purpose, supposing that the Milanois would have sued for peace, or have used some submission: but they were now grown so proud, that they applied themselves to nothing else, but to fortify their city: whereof when the Emperor was advertised, he commanded the cities which were under his obedience, to sand him soldiers; and so from Cremona (as saith the Abbot WESPERGENSIS) came to him thirty thousand fight men; so great was the envy they bore against Milan: and from Pavia and Noüarra, there came also great numbers; with which, and with his own Army he went to Milan: whither when he came, they salied out of the city into the field, in a very great number both of foot and horse; and a The Milanois took the field and sought 〈◊〉 with the Emperor. battle began between them, one wounding and kill another in most cruel manner: but the Milanois being unable to endure the fury of the Imperialists, they retired, flying to the walls of the city; and those of Cremona were so greedy in pursuing them, that they fare overwent the battallions of the Germans: which when the Milanois perceived, turning head, they charged them in such manner that they made them retire, and in their retreat slew many of their men: And FREDERICK who saw all this, charged with his squadron with so great force and fury, that he made them of Milan to turn their backs; and wounding and kill many of them, compelled the rest to fly to the gates of their city, and he firing the Suburbs, presently besieged the same; and so he held it besieged for certain days, in which were many great and notable skirmishes. But the Milanois seeing the Emperor's resolution, and great power, and the engines which he raised to batter their walls, were in so great fear, that they resolved to yield, upon the best conditions they could get, and to sand their Ambassadors to the Camp; which confessing their offences, and craving pardon, with a long set speech entreated the Emperor to admit them into his service; and afterwards in particular they treated thereof with the Princes in the Army, and (as some authors say) gave great gifts and Milan yielded to the Emperor. presents: finally, they obtained mercy, yielded the city, and were pardoned. Milan being now brought to subjection (as it was the head of all the rebels) the rest of the towns in Lombardy presently yielded obedience, and gave security, promising to serve the Emperor, and to do what they should be commanded; and the Emperor in person visited many of them, and appointed Roncalià to be the place whither they should sand their Proctors or Agents with their authority; where he determined to hold a Parliament, to treat of the common estate of these provinces. Having in so short space had this good success in Lombardy he disannulled some of their laws and customs, and prescribed other new, with greater rigour then (in truth) he aught to have done: whereof many inconveniences ensued. The time appointed for their meeting being come, and they making their appearance accordingly; after many matters which there were debated, by the advice of some of his Council, he caused an Instrument to be made, concerning an universal peace; which he enjoined all the cities, and principal men, Marquesses and Earls in all Lombardy, to observe. This was done after the German manner, with penalties therein accustomed; which being published and made known unto them, they all murmured, and held themselves wronged, principally the Milanois; and this discontentment increased in such manner, that it was the cause of greater miseries than the former, by reason of the tolls and taxes which the Emperor imposed upon all the country; reserving to himself the election and provision of all officers: and although he did it by the advice and counsel of learned men and Princes; which maintained that the Emperor might do it in all those countries; yet the people being unaccustomed thereto, took it very grievously: which was the occasion of the evils which ensued; although in the beginning they durst not rebel. After this, the Emperor (for a trophy of his victories) made the city of Lodi to be new builded, and with all speed and diligence to be walled and fortified; and the Castles, which had been adversaries to Milan, to be repaired and victualled; wherein he placed governors and garrisons, and did other things which my brevity permitteth me not to recite. And serting all things in the best order he could, notwithstanding that he kew that Milan had not obeyed his laws and ordinances, concerning the impositions which he had set (as saith the Abbot WESPERGENSIS, and JOHN CUSPINIAN and others) he took his way towards the country of Burgundy; which was an estate he held by his wife: other authors speak not of this departure, but recite what ensued, as though he had not go out of Italy: but in my judgement, Milan, Crema, and Brescia, and the other cities, would not have dared so peremptorily to have rebelled, if the Emperor with his Army had continued in Lombardy: wherefore (holding with WESPERGENSIS, and such others as are of his opinion) I say that as soon as the Emperor was go out of Lombardy, these things ensued, which we will presently relate. The Milanois (which never yielded to obey the Emperor's laws) seeing themselves of great power, took the field with their forces, and went to a castle which the Emperor had built near to Como, and assaulting it, took it by force; and so they began the war, and did as much harm as at the first, but with greater resolution: presently the cities of Crema, Brescia, and Placencia did the like, and all the rest of their faction. JOHANNES CREMONENSIS in his fourth book saith, that the Pope made a league with WILLIAM King of Sicilia against The Pope made a league with William king of Sicilia against the Emperor. the Emperor, which was the cause of great hatred between them. The Emperor being advertised of the bold attempts of the Milanois, and their adherents; with great celerity (before that his whole Army was in a readiness) returned into Lombardy, and went directly to Milan; and finding no resistance in the field, harried and spoiled the country, leaving nothing standing undestroyed; so great was the wrath and displeasure which he had conceived against it: and departing from thence he went to repose himself in Lodi (to be cured of a lame leg which he had) whither came Ambassadors from Cremona, to complain of those of Crema, for the great wrongs they did them, and to crave succour: the harms done were the greater, by reason of the strength of the place, together with the aid and relief which they had from Brescia, and from Milan. As the Emperor was a man of a very haughty spirit, so he seeking a redress for all disorders, sent his brother CONRADE, Count Palatine of the Rhine, and some other principal men, with part of his Army, to besiege Crema; and the men of war which were in Crema took the field, and gave them battle, which continued long, wherein many of both sides were slain: but in the end the Imperialists had the victory, and compelled their enemies to return running to their town; so as they durst salie forth no more: and so the siege continued. At the same time new supplies came to the Emperor out of Germany; wherewith came his wife the Empress, with many men at Arms out of Burgundy, and with her came HENRY Duke of Saxony and of Baviere, of whom we have spoken much: with which, and with the rest which he had before, he laid a plot for those of Milan; whereby he took prisoners above three hundred of them, and slew above six hundred. But, holding it his best course first to make an end with Crema (which by his commandment was already besieged) he removed his Camp thither: and the better to justify his quarrel, he sent to command them to receive him into their City, as their Emperor and liege Lord; which they not only refused, but gave him many peremptory proud speeches: whereupon he caused sundry great engines & instruments to be made, therewith to batter the town; and the besieged resolutely defended themselves, and all their prisoners daily taken of either side, were either hanged or slain: but at length they were constrained of necessity to yield, and held themselves for happy, and charitably Crema besieged and taken by the Emperor. dealt withal, that the Emperor would vouchsafe to give them their lives; and that leaving the city, they might departed with their wives and children, and such luggage as they could carry on their backs. Whilst the Emperor was at the siege of Crema, Pope ADRIAN, choked with a Fly, died; after whose decease, the Cardinals, being in number five and twenty, assembling together in Rome, chose ALEXANDER the Third (before called ROWLAND) in a manner by a general consent of them all, excepting only three which gainsaid it, which stood for the Cardinal A schism in the papacy. of S. Clement, whose name was OCTAVIANUS, whom the Emperor much favoured: and this OCTAVIANUS (notwithstanding his few voices in the election) was so bold, as to proclaim himself Pope, and was called VICTOR: and there wanted not some to take his part, and to support him. The other Pope, ALEXANDER, seeing himself thus opposed, sent his Ambassadors to the Emperor, lying then at the Camp before Crema, whereby he requested him, that (using the authority of an Emperor) he would favour the Church, by taking away the schism. The Emperor for answer willed the Pope to come to the city of Pavia, whither he also appointed VICTOR to come, to the end he might there hear both parties, and so determine of their controversy: herewi●…h ALEXANDER was much discontent, and resolved to seek other redress. The Emperor having raised his siege from before Crema, leaving to make war against Milan until the next Spring (which was after the Abbats computation, in the year of our Lord 1161) came to the city of Pavia, from whence he sent two Bishops in Ambassage to Pope ALEXANDER, advising him to come thither, where he said, many Bishops would meet in the name of a Council, to the end that the schism might be decided; which Ambassadors behaved themselves towards him, as to a Cardinal, but not as to a Pope: for the Emperor (as he disliked his election) desired to support Pope VICTOR. ALEXANDER taking this in ill part, dispatching the Ambassadors, commanded them to return, and they went to VICTOR with the same message, to whom they spoke, and did reverence as to a Pope; and he presently departed, and went to Pavia, and was by the Emperor very well entertained, and there was proclaimed for right Pope: and the Emperor kissing his foot, used other accustomed ceremonies, whereof when ALEXANDER was advertised, holding himself intolerablie injuried, he proceeded against the Emperor, and his Pope, whom he excommunicated, and anathematised: and the Emperor sending his Pope into Germany, returned to the wars of Milan, wherein what passed, you shall understand. Pope ALEXANDER after his going to Rome, holding himself not in safety; through the assistance of WILLIAM King of Sicilia, went by galleys into France, where he was very well entertained by PHILIP the French King (I say PHILIP, for that BLONDUS, and all those Italian authors call him so; but hereafter you shall understand that it could not be PHILIP, but his father LEWES, comparing the times) and there he called a Council in Cliermont, where he again proclaimed the Emperor and his Pope excommunicate; what after ensued you shall hear. The Spring of the year being come, the Emperor very resolutely returned against Milan, Brescia, Placencia, and such other rebellious cities as were in league with them: but first he overran and destroyed all the country round about Milan: before and after this time were many skirmishes and encounters, which for brevity I overpass, wherein for the most part the Emperor had the better, until that having withdrawn his Army to take-in a castle and fortress at the passage over a river near to Placencia, and the Milanois having a good Army, led by the tyrant GVALPHAGO, with the aid of those of Placencia and Brescia, went to assault a strong castle, called Carcano, or Coracio: whereof the Emperor being advertised, he speedily sent for men to Pavia, Noüarra, and Lodi, with which, and with his ordinary troops, he put himself between Milan, and the said castle (before which the Milanois than were) in such a place, and in such manner, that of force they must fight, or not return. The Milanois seeing themselves in this extremity, sent some of the chief men amongst them to the Emperor's Camp, to entreat him to suffer them to pass, for they would not fight with him for the honour and duty which they bore to his person. And the Emperor presuming that he already held the victory in his hands, or that they durst not fight, would not grant their request: by reason whereof, his adversaries drawing courage out of despair, seeing themselves lost if their passage were stopped, and that they were unable to relieve their houses and friends, or to be relieved by them, resolved either to make way, or to dye in the action, and so marched in good order against the Emperor, who likewise in very good order attended their coming, where there began a most A battle between the Emperor and the Milanois. cruel battle, as between very expert and valiant soldiers, and men in despair. In the beginning, the Emperor apparently had the better, and many of his enemies were slain, and their standard was taken: but the fight continuing until noon, there came certain companies from the united cities to the aid of the Milanois, which charged with such resolution and fury, that the Imperialists retired, and their enemies (as masters of the field) slew and took prisoners very many of them: and the Emperor showing the greatness of his mind, drew together great part of his Army in the best order he could, and ranging his troops into a round battalion, most valiantly defended himself against his enemies; but truly he had been either slain or taken if the fight had continued any longer: but it pleased God that he being in this danger, there fell so much rain, and therewith the air was so dark, that they neither saw, nor knew the one the other; and so the Emperor held it for his best course to retire towards Pavia, and his enemies as conquerors, with spoils and prisoners went joyfully to their houses, which afterward cost them very dear. This notable exploit, PLATINA, BLONDUS, and other Italian authors pass over in silence: but as they do not gainsay it, and the Abbot WESPERGENSIS and other German authors report the same, I have thought good to make mention thereo●… This adventure being past and known in Germany, some Princes and great Prelates, with many very good men of war, came to the Emperor's aid: with which, and with all the rest he left Pavia, and with a mighty Army besieged Milan, purposing not to rise from before it until he had taken it; and the besieged being well fortified and victualled, were no less resolute to dye in their defence: by reason whereof, this was one of the most cruel and terrible sieges that hath been seen before any city, aswell for the long continuance thereof, as for the skirmishes, sallies, assaults, loss of men, and effusion of blood, with the famine and other calamities which the besieged endured, and for the lamentable and pitiful end which it had. The siege continued two whole years and one day: some authors reckon five, and some more, accounting (as I think) from the time the Emperor first made war in the marches thereof. What skirmishes were Milan besieged and destroyed. betwixt the besieged and the besiegers, the Reader may conjecture, considering the power and spleen of the Emperor, and the obstinacy and despair joined with the great force and multitude of the Milanois. During the siege, there was so great want of victuals in the city, that after they had eaten all the beasts, and other food that might be eaten, they died of hunger: and being out of hope to have any succour, or means to live (the Emperor refusing all other compositions) they were constrained to yield to his mercy; yet some affirm, that certain jews gave him entrance; and some there are which say, that he took the citieby force: but howsoever it was, the city came into the Emperor's power; who conceiving, that enough of them were slain, he gave the rest their lives; but in that city, and in all the rest, he did the greatest spoil he could possibly: for first he commanded all the men & women to departed the city, & his soldiers to sack it; and then the buildings and walls thereof to be thrown down and laid waste; and this to be done by the inhabitants themselves, and by such as were borne therein: and whereas they sufficed not, he caused a great number of people to come thither from Pavia, and Cremona, which should wholly ruinated it, and leave it waste and desolate, like to miserable jerusalem: which truly should seem to be one of the most lamentable spectacles that ever was seen in this world. Some writers affirm, that he made the ground to be ploughed, and sown with salt. The inhabitants thereof (as GVALPHAGO the tyrant, the Bishop, and many of the most principal) he commanded to be sent prisoners into Germany: the rest of the People he permitted to devil in certain fields, which he appointed for them, fare from Milan, amongst bushes, in cabins and cottages. The relics and bodies of Saints which were in the city, and held in great account, he divided amongst the Bishops and prelate's which were there with him; of which, the three Kings, which came out of the East to adore CHRIST in Bethlehem, were given to the Archbishop and Cathedral Church of Colen, where (it is said) they are at this day. In this manner was the ●…tie of Milan laid waste, and left desolate; which a little before was so mighty, that it was of power able to fight with the Emperor in the plain field, and to overthrew him: it having three hundred, threescore and five years (as reckoneth RAPHAEL VOLATERRANUS, for so long was it after that the Lombard's were expelled that Signiory) enjoyed liberty, with good success, under the sovereignty and name of the Empire: which happened in the year of our Lord, one thousand, one hundred, sixty and two. Some say, somewhat more. After this victory and terrible revenge, the Emperor came to Pavia, where his wife the Empress than lay; from whence he sent to demolish and throw down the walls of Brescia, and Placencia; which (Milan being taken) yielded themselves. BLONDUS, PLATINA, PHILIP BERGOMAS, and other Italian authors say, that he also destroyed the city of Cremona, which in my opinion seemeth not likely; for Cremona had ever served him, and been obedient. I believe it is taken for Crema, the error being the writers, or printers; and not theirs. And the Emperor having tamed and subdued all the other cities which rebelled against him, and made them to field obedience to Pope VICTOR, he resolved to take his way towards Germany: for he understood that the same year many alterations and troubles began, and that there was great want of justice; which grew principally through discord and enmity between a certain Earl called GVIDO, Count Palatine of Turingin, and GVELPHO the famous Knight of the Dukes of Baviere before named, by reason of some injury done by the said Count Palatine, to the said GVELPHO: whereupon young GVELPHO coming out of Italy (as a valiant young man, desirous to revenge the injury done to his father) raised a power against him, and the other in Factions in Germany. his defence, and many great Princes taking part with either side, a cruel battle was fought between them, wherein GVELPHO was overthrown; whereof ensued great hurt, and the slaughter of many men, too long to be related: so as if the Emperor had any longer deferred his coming, the matter was come to that issue, that Germany was likely to have been lost and ruinated: but as soon as he came, he endeavoured by all means, to set peace between them: wherein he found great difficulty, by reason that so many men were slain and taken prisoners of either party. And notwithstanding that he had once concluded a peace between them, yet within one year it was broken, and wars were again renewed: but the great valour and respect of the Emperor, was a sufficient mean to make an entire and perfect peace, and to pacify all: wherein he was the more earnest, for that he knew what was daily practised in Italy against himself, whither he had a great desire to return. For as soon as he was go out of Italy, leaving Milan desolate; the people conceived a great fear and hatred against him: (as is usual against Princes which too severely, and with cruelty punish the offences of their subjects) and their fear and hatred increased in such manner, as they made new leagues and confederacies Excessive punish●…ent is often the cause of greater offences. A league made against the Emperor. against him; casting out the governors which he had placed, and taking his rents and customs into their hands. In which league, besides those which before were friends, which were Brescia, Placencia, Crema, and the Milanois, there now joined with them Verona, and the Venetians, which greatly strengthened the league, theirs being a mighty commonwealth; together with Milan and other cities: all which took part with Pope ALEXANDER, against Pope VICTOR: and all these cities fortified and furnished themselves with men and munition. The Emperor seeing how resolutely those cities were bend against him, and knowing the doubtful issue of the war, and that the name and authority of Pope ALEXANDER was great; he resolved with himself to take another course, and by letters and ambassades dealt with PHILIP King of France, who supported ALEXANDER (yet in my opinion it should be LEWES, for this was in the year of our Lord 1175, at which time, as it appeareth by all the French histories, LEWES reigned) for a meeting between them two, whither he would bring with him VICTOR, whom he held to be Pope: for which purpose, a place was appointed on the frontiers of France and Germany, and there a Council to be held, wherein it should be determined whether of these two should be Pope: which (as some say) the Emperor procured, by that means thinking to have deprived Pope ALEXANDER. The King of France, at the Emperor's request, consented that this Council should be assembled: but Pope ALEXANDER would not come, alleging that he held that for no Council, which was not held by his authority. Finally, the French King and the Emperor grew jealous and suspicious the one of the other, which authors report diversely: but the truth is that the Emperor came, and brought with him his Pope VICTOR; and with him came the Kings of Scots, and of Bohemia, and many other great Princes and prelate's, with a very great Army: and the French King brought no less, with whom came HENRY King of England with very choice men of war (from whom in my opinion he aught rather to have feared war, then expected or hoped peace) and these Princes encamped the one near to the other, a river being between them. The Emperor understanding that Pope ALEXANDER came not, but had summoned a Council to be held at Turreon in France, was greatly displeased therewith, and resolved to departed: and the French King (to hold his word) without advertising the Emperor thereof, came to the place appointed: and some say that he washed his hands in the river, and so returned to his Campe. To be short, howsoever it was, they both returned into their countries, without treating of any thing; and not well pleased the one with the other. The Emperor, with the greatest preparation he could make, resolved to return into Italy, whither he sent Pope VICTOR before him; who being come to the city of Luca (which held for the Emperor and him) there died. And by letters and commandment from the Emperor (persisting in his determination) the prelate's which accompanied VICTOR (he being dead) chose him a successor, whose name was GVIDO, borne in Crema, and was called PASCAL. Pope ALEXANDER in France assembled the Council which he had summoned; whither came many prelate's and Bishop's, out of England, Spain, France, Sicilia, Graecia, and many other parts: where they ordained what they thought good. The Emperor's preparation for his coming into Italy being published, the aforenamed cities, which were in a league and confederacy against him, sought new succours, and provided an Army to make head against him. It happened at this time, that in Rome died a Bishop called JULIUS, who was Vicar or governor thereof in the Pope's absence; who being dead, the Pope sent a Cardinal called JOHN: Who (notwithstanding a kind of government by Consuls, whereby the Pope's power and authority was much diminished) used such means, that Rome and many Cities of Italy sent to entreat the Pope to return; and he knowing with what affection he was called, resolved to departed thitherwards: and for that he would not go through Lombardy (which held for the Emperor) he took his passage by Sea into Sicilia, and from thence went to Rome; with great company and provision, which WILLIAM King of Sicily gave him. Some writ that he himself accompanied him, and that he was received into Rome with marvelous great joy of all the people. With his coming, the Cities which in Italy held for him, took such heart and were so much encouraged, that they (not contented to have rebelled against the Emperor) began to make war against the Imperialists, and took some towns; wherein none were so forward as the City of Verona: which gave the Emperor occasion to hasten his coming; which he had prolonged, to come with the greater power, seeing that his enemy's forces daily increased: and so he came into Italy with a greater Army than at any time before spoken of. What he did, and the effects which thereof ensued, I will recount as briefly as I may: for a reign so long, and wherein happened so many and so great accidents, cannot be expressed in few words; neither reduced to a more brevity. All this while reigned EMANVEL in Constantinople. The Emperor FREDERICK'S coming into Italy with so great power, did greatly terrify all the Country, considering what harm he had done there in former times: but the hatred of those which were his adversaries was so great, as they would rather hazard any danger, then yield to his obedience. And he knowing by experience, that his rigour and severity had little availed him, but had done him more harm then good, resolved now to make war after another manner; at the lest in Lombardy, wherein he pardoned those which submitted themselves unto him, and would not permit the Country to be spoiled or wasted; using all men honourably; dissembling and making show, that he understood nothing of any conspiracy, or league made against him; and so drew near to Brescia with his forces, where he gave good entertainment to all such as from Crema, Verona, and Brescia, came to visit him (notwithstanding that those Cities were his greatest enemies, and had most practised against him) and so passed on, without coming into any of them, or doing them any violence; and went to Ferrara, where he was received; and from thence passed peaceably through the territory of Bologna: so as (at this time) he passed through Lombardy without doing any harm; and there he divided his Army; part whereof he sent to make wars in Tuscan, and the marches thereof, for that it favoured Pope ALEXANDER, and rejected Pope PASCAL, which lay in Luca: and with the rest of his Army he marched towards the City of Ancona; for that it held for his enemy Ancona besieged by the Emperor. EMANVEL Emperor of Constantinople: Which he besieged and began to batter with great fury: But it was so well defended, that the siege continued longer than he expected. The Captains and men of war, which he sent into the marches of Florence, Luca, and Pisa, after they had taken certain Towns, marched through the territory of Rome, and made terrible war against all such places as held for Pope AEEXANDER; and in Rome wanted not some which favoured the Emperors proceed: yet the Pope left no means unsought, as well by gifts, as promises, to assure himself, and to have all at his devotion: wherein (it is written) he issued much treasure. Whilst the war was prosecuted in this manner, the Emperor lying before Ancona; the Milanois, which after the destruction of Milan, had for the space of five or six years lived as banished men, in cottages, cabins, and villages; gathering themselves together, being wonderfully aided and relieved with all manner of materials, instruments, workmen, and labourers, from the Cities of Verona, Placencia, Crema, and other their neighbours and friends, began to re-edify their old ruined City; repairing what might be repaired, and the rest they new builded, and wrought with so good a will, that within two or three years the Emperor could not hinder Milan re-edified. them: and they re-edified it in such manner, as there seemed nothing to be wanting. To all which (as writeth HENRICUS MUCIUS) the presence of GVALPHAGO (called Earl of Angleria) was a great help; who escaping out of prison in Germany came thither. Whilst that the Emperor lay before Ancona, and cruel war was made against Rome, WILLIAM King of Sicilia died; and his son of the same name succeeded him, who was an excellent man of war, and a great friend to the Church of Rome. At that time EMANVEL Emperor of Constantinople sent a solemn Ambassage to Pope ALEXANDER; whereby he promised in person with great power to come to his aid, and to drive FREDERICK BARBAROSSA out of Italy, and to conform the Greek Church, and to make the same subject to the Latin; conditionally, that he would reduce the whole Empire into one head, by taking it from the Germans, and deprive FREDERICK, seeing that he had already excommunicated him, and that he was a schismatic and a rebel. But Pope ALEXANDER (notwithstanding that he was much oppressed by the Emperor, reposing small confidence in the promises or power of EMANVEL) gave a pleasing Equivocal answer, and sent Ambassadors to temporize with him, but not to conclude any thing at all. It happened at this time, that the flower of all the men of war in Rome, went to besiege the town and Castle of Tusculano, which is near to Rome, from whence they were much annoyed, that Town holding for the Emperor, whereof a German Prince was governor; and the besieged seeing themselves distressed, sent to the Emperor (lying before Ancona) for relief: to be brief, from the Emperor's Army came for General, CHRISTERNE Archbishop of Mentz; who with such troops as he brought from the Camp, and such others as he could get by the way, came to fight with the Romanists which besieged that town, being in number above thirty thousand men; who fought with the Germans (but not with order and valour like Romans) and as as they were fight, the besieged governor with his Garrison salied out of the Town, and assailed his enemies at their backs, in such manner as the Romans were broken and overthrown; and so many of them were slain in the battle and in the pursuit, as some Historiographers have compared this overthrow to the battle of Cannae, where they were overthrown by HANNIBAL. Although the comparison be great, yet it is certain that in a long time after Rome could hardly recover itself: and Pope ALEXANDER took it very grievously, and sought by all means possible to encourage and animate the remainder of the Citizens. The Imperialists, as Masters of the field, daily taken towns belonging to the Church of Rome; and the Emperor (who still lay before Ancona) when as he understood of this victory, knowing the time to be fit for his purpose, departed presently thence towards Rome, and made no stay until he came before the same; where the Pope and his friends had already set all things in the best order they could for their defence. The Emperor presently caused the Vatican to be assaulted; and notwithstanding that the assault was terrible, yet the place was so well defended, as it sufficed to keep him from entering: wherewith he was so much enraged, that the next day he commanded a more terrible assault to be given, causing fireworks to be thrown upon Saint PETER'S Church; in such manner, that the Pope being out of hope to defend the place, abandoned the Vatican, and fled into the City, to lodge himself amongst the Rome assa●…led by the Emperor. Frangipanes, who were his trusty friends, and set great guards to defend the City, and made many bridges over the river of Tiber: the which the Emperor (being master of the field, and having the Vatican) greatly annoyed and oppressed; with a resolution not to have risen from before it, until it had yielded, or that he had entered the same by force: and during the siege, he spoilt all the Country round about Rome. WILLIAM King of Sicily understanding how greatly Pope ALEXANDER was distressed, and being willing to imitate his father WILLIAM, he sent to the Pope up the River of William King of Sicilia relieved Pope Alexander against the Emperor. Tiber to Rome two Galleys with a great sum of money, men, and such other necessaries as they could bear, to the end that the Pope might fly away, if he pleased. The Pope made great account of this relief, and presently divided this money amongst his friends and servants, wherewith they were greatly encouraged to defend the City: and he sent back the Galleys to the King of Sicilia, and in them two Cardinals, to confer with him, and to ask his counsel what was best to be done concerning his person. In the mean time the Emperor seeing that the City defended itself, and could not suddenly be taken by force, he laboured to persuade the Romans both by secret and public messages, to give up the City, and then he would restore whatsoever he held belonging to the Romans; and that by them it should be determined, whether of the two aught to be held for Pope; to the end that he, generally by himself and by all others, might be respected and obeyed. With these practices which bore so great an appearance of a certain peace, a great part of the Roman people were much moved, and were of opinion that these conditions aught to be accepted, whether the Pope would or not. The Pope understanding hereof, held it for a great disgrace to his Holiness, that he being Christ's Vicar, should be judged by his enemies: and holding himself to be in no safety in Rome, he left the City by night and went down the River of Tiber to the City of Gaietae, and from thence to Beneuent: from whence he wrote his Letters to the Emperor of Constantinople, and to the Kings of France and Spain, and to the Cities of Lombardy, which held for him, imploring their aid and secure. Some writ that Pope ALEXANDER, flying from Rome, OTHO the Emperor's son pursued him with seventy five long ships or frigates; who coming to the coast of Histria, he was encountered by the Venetian fleet commanded by CIANUS, who fought with him, defeated his Army, took OTHO prisoner, and carried him to Venice: at which time the Pope entering there in triumph, he cast a Ring into the Sea, and wedded it unto him, ordaining that every year on the Ascension day they should observe the like Ceremony. Having in this manner abandoned Rome, within few days after the Emperor was forced to do the like; for it pleased God to sand so great a plague, both in his Camp and in the City, as there died daily thousands of the one and the other party: principally there died many German prelate's, and some Princes, which came with the Emperor: Wherhfore he hastily A great pestilence in Rome, and in the Emperors Campe. departed, leaving Pope PASCAL with a good guard of Soldiers in Saint PETER'S in Rome: which was in the year of our Lord 1168, and he with his Army came into Tuscan, and the marches of Florence, where he took some strong holds which held for the Pope; in which, and in many other he placed Garrisons of his own soldiers: and in the marches of Ancona and in Tuscan, he gave some places to certain principal men of Germany, with titles of Dukes and Earls, to annoyed and oppress Rome. Whilst the Emperor was busied about these matters, Pope ALEXANDER procured aid and secure from all parts, and sought to support such as were his friends: And EMANVEL Emperor of Constantinople sent him an Ambassage, offering him a very great sum of money, desiring the same which we have before specified, which was, that transporting the title of the Empire from Germany, by depriving FREDERICK, he should give the same to him, and to his house: But the Pope for many considerations would not yield thereto, notwithstanding that he very pleasingly answered him. Within few days after, Pope PASCAL died in Rome, where the Emperor left him: and the Emperor (persisting in his resolution) chose one JOHN borne in Hungary, who was called CALIXTUS, whom Pope ALEXANDER presently excommunicated. The Emperor having remained some space in Italy, desiring to return into Germany (for there was need of his presence) he sent a Bishop to Pope ALEXANDER with certain Articls of peace; what they were, Authors writ not: but they all say that the Pope would not accept of them; and so they took no effect. The Pope laboured with the Romanists for his return to Rome; but as then the City being governed by Consuls, which were odious unto him, he could not effect the same according to his desire: And so went to other places in Romagna, and in the marches of Pulia, where he was favoured and supported by WILLIAM King of Sicilia. The Emperor came to Pavia which held for him, where he fortified some Towns: and forasmuch as a great part of his Army was sick and many dead, he could not make war to any purpose against Milan and the other rebellious Cities: but, after, he took his way towards Germany, having done in Italy such harm as is expressed; without effecting what he principally desired. Being returned into Germany, his greatest care was to make peace between all men, and to purchase the good will of the people, and to make himself rich; to return into Italy, which he resolved wholly to subdue. At this time he inherited all the Castles, lands and goods, which belonged to his Cousin-german FREDERICK, son to the Emperor CONRADE, who died of the plague at the siege of Rome: and he inherited also the lands and goods of some other Princes, which died without Heirs, and he also rewarded some, giving them Titles, and Castles, and to some others he gave new Arms and dignities. To the King of Bohemia he gave for his device, a read Lion in a silver shield; and to others he gave many such like honours. But in the mean time, GVALPHAGO tyrant of Milan, and the Milanois, were not careless, but continually fortified the City which they had new built: besides which with the other Cities in Lombardy of their confederacy, in honour of Pope ALEXANDER (under whose title and name they opposed themselves against the Emperor) by a common consent and contribution Alexandria in Lombardy built in honour of Pope Alexander the Third, and so called after his name. they began to build another City, calling it Alexandria, after the Pope's name, upon the side of the River of Tanaro, in a place which should serve for a frontier Garrison against Pavia, Tortona, and the Marquisate of Monferrato, which were loyal to the Emperor. And in this his absence they made such haste (but chief those of Milan, Placencia and Cremona) as they walled and peopled the same, in such manner as it become a very strong fortress; and many of those which lived in the borders thereof in villages, and unfortified places, came thither to devil, in such numbers, that the very first year it began to be inhabited, there were fifteen thousand men fit to bear Arms; so as at this day it is a good and a famous City, and is called Alexandria of Straw, which name the enemies thereof gave it in the beginning in contempt. This alteration (added unto the rest) made the Emperor to hasten his coming into Italy, when as he now had remained some time in Germany: And having disposed all things in good order, he set forwards and came with a mighty Army by sundry ways, addressing his journey directly towards the estate of Monferrato, and those places which held for him: but he first took a Town at the foot of the Alps, called Secusa, which he made to be thrown down and ruined, for that it rebelled: and from thence he marched (not without trouble) towards Aste, which yielded unto him, more for fear of the like fortune as happened to Secusa, then for aught it wanted wherewith it might have defended itself. And having such success in the beginning, he went to besiege the new City of Alexandria, against which he came greatly incensed, purposing to have utterly destroyed and razed the same. In Lombardy and in Piedmont, the marquis of Monferrato held for the Emperor, together with the cities of Pavia, Noüarra, Turin and their territories, subjects and friends, and some other Alexandria besieged by the Emperor. Towns. He besieged Alexandria, and lay before it four months, in which time were done many notable feats of Arms; at the end whereof, the Emperor was constrained to rise from before it, for that it was relieved by the River with great store of provision; and all the Cities which were friends to it, sent thither soldiers to defend it. But the principal cause was, that the great Duke of Saxony, of Baviere, and of many other estates, called (as was his father) HENRY the Proud, being at this siege before Alexandria, went from the Emperor with all his forces; alleging that he would not be excommunicate, and a rebel to the Pope. It was suspected that he was corrupted and did this for money: or (which I rather believe) that he had some practice or conceit to have made himself Emperor, under pretext that FREDERICK was disobedient to the Church of Rome: for which cause the Emperor raised his siege, and went to overtake him, and sought by all means to have stayed him; in so much that (as some writ he would have cast himself at his feet, if the other had not hindered him; and a private servant of the Dukes called JORDAN standing by, said to the Duke, My Lord, suffer the Imperial crown to come to your feet, seeing that shortly you shall wear it upon your head: Finally, Duke HENRY would not stay; and the Emperor had so few soldiers left, and was so void of all relief, that within few days he was constrained to leave the wars, for that time; and so left Italy, without effecting aught more than I have said. And although that BLONDUS and PLATINA conceal this his departure, let the Reader nevertheless understand that I draw the web of my History from all the best Authors; and therefore I say, that he departed in great danger of his person. WESPERGENSIS, NAUCLERUS, and HENRICUS MUCIUS writ, that he was aided and succoured by those of Noüarra, and of Turin, in the passages over the Mountains, through which he took his way towards Burgundy, which was his wife's patrimony; and that upon the w●…y he was in some places in such danger, that he was driven to go disguised as another man's servant. After all these extremities, arriving in Burgundy, he gathered together his soldiers, and raised some new companies, and so went into Germany; where the said HENRY had already practised some Innovations against him, some Earls conspiring with him; for he was the greatest Prince in all Germany: But the Emperor brought him to be one of the lest; for as he was much feared and very valiant, the Duke could do little against him. But the Emperor as soon as he came into Germany, assembled a Diet or Council of all the Princes, whither he summoned HENRY to come: but he not daring to make his appearance, the Emperor proceeded against him (although not without contradiction and many difficulties) and in the end confisked The Emperor deprived Duke Henry of Saxony of his estate. his estate, and all his lands: which he might easily do, by bestowing the same upon men of great power, all which making war against him at once, took the same from him: Yet some writ, that this Sentence and confiscation was afterwards, in the year of our Lord 1180, when the peace was made between the Emperor and the Pope: It may peradventure be, that at this time the process began, and judgement was then given, but afterwards put in execution; which was in this manner. The Dukedom of Saxony he bestowed upon a valiant Knight, called BERNARD, Earl of Anhald, whom the Archbishops of Mentz and Colen, and the Lantzgrave of Turingia holp to take the same. The best and greatest part of the Duchy of Baviere he gave to one OTHG Count Palatine, not of the Counties Palatines of Rhine, but of Witilispach; which he took by the help of two of his brothers, who were men of great power: another part of this State, which lay on the other side of Danubius, he added to the house of Austria: other his lands and Earldoms he divided between HENRY Lantzgrave of Alsacia, LEWES Marks of Turingia, BERTOLD of Carinthia, and some others; all which together made wars against him; so as to him, his offspring and descendants, remained only the County of Bruinswick, which afterwards in the time of FREDERICK the Second was erected to a Duchy; and that estate increasing, great enmity continued between the Dukes thereof, and the successors of BERNARD, to whom was given the Duchy of Saxony. The Emperor did not only apply himself to suppress this HENRY in Germany, but from the very first day of his coming thither, was careful for the getting of money, and the raising of forces for his return into Italy: and so, being assisted by all those Princes, to which he had given and promised to give those estates, and by his own house and kindred of Suevia, and his servants and subjects; he in short space raised so good an Army, that he went very mighty into Italy, and carried his wife the Empress with him. Being comn to the City of Como, in the month of june, notwithstanding that he wanted neither courage, discretion, power, or forces; yet matters prospered not with him as he expected, but rather clean contrary: for the Milanois and their confederates had now taken such heart, and were in such readiness, that they resolved to give him battle, after they had spoiled the fields about Pavia, and such other Towns as held for him: and so they took the plain field just in the way which leadeth from Como to Milan, by which the Emperor was to pass; who had no less desire to fight: and was very glad, when he understood their resolution. The two Armies being upon a clear day come within sight the one of the other, and the squadrons and battalions of either side marshaled in very good order; the Emperor drew near to the place which his enemies held; and (in a manner) with equal spleen, hatred and power both parties began to fight: first the horsemen broke; and then all the rest; and so there was fought a very fierce and bloody battle; the one wounding and kill the other most cruelly. It happened, that in this so great fury, he which bore the standard and Imperial Eagle (through A battle between the Emperor and the Milanois wherein he was thought to have been slain. his rash hardiness, and desire of victory) advanced himself so fare forwards amongst his enemies, that he was slain, and the Standard taken: which when the Emperor saw, who (as it seemeth) was not fare from thence, he was therewith so much enraged, that encouraging his soldiers, with a new fury and resolution, he so oppressed his enemies, that he slew and wounded many of them with his own hands: but as this could not be done without great danger to his person; so in the thickest of the press, and greatest throng, his horse fell with him; being as is thought, first wounded: and the charge on every side was so hot, that the Emperor was held for dead; which gave the Italians cause to gather courage, and the Germans to faint; for both parties certified the death of the Emperor, which so much discouraged the Imperialists, that victory apparently showed itself for their enemies: and the Imperialists fled and abandoned the field, where a very great and cruel slaughter was made of them, besides those which thinking to escape by swimming, were drowned in the river Tesino, near to the place where this battle was fought. This battle being lost, and all the Imperial Army broken and put to rout; all men holding the Emperor for dead; and his wife the Empress, remaining in the City of Como, clad in mourning attire, suing to have her husband's body, to bury the same, which she requested the Milanois to grant by her Ambassadors: the fift day after the battle, the Emperor appeared alive, and in health, in his Imperial robes, in the City of Pavia: whither upon the bruit of his being there, came all those which were dispersed and escaped from the battle; and those which most desired to aid him, and to do him service. In what manner the Emperor escaped alive, it is not written; but it may be conjectured, that being fall'n, he remained in the field, although without hurt, and the night being come, escaped by secret and unknown ways. His enemies by reason of this victory got such credit and reputation, that many Towns and great men in Italy forsook the Emperor, and went unto Pope ALEXANDER. The Empress with some Princes and prelate's of the Empire, being come to Pavia, boldly and plainly told the Emperor to his face, that for the schism which he had made, and maintained in the Church of Rome, this calamity was befallen him; for God would never give him any entire victory, and except he would submit himself to the obedience of the Church, they could not well do him service: whereupon being moved with these admonitions, and Note the pride of Pope Alexander the Third. knowing the time; (notwithstanding that his servants and subjects daily repaired unto him with many warlike troops) yet he sent his Ambassadors to the Pope; unfeignedly suing to him for peace: and so they began to treat thereof by Ambassadors. In this negotiation, and by what A peace concluded between the Emperor and the Pope in the cit●… of Venice, where the Emperor prostra●…ed himself at the Boys seete and the pope in in●…ting manner setting his foot on the Emperor neck, used these wo●…dss: Super aspidem & Basiliscum ambulabo, & conculcabo lconem & draconem. means this peace was made, there is great difference among Authors; some relating it after one manner, and some after another, which I recite not, avoiding the loss of time and labour: but they all agreed, that after many days spent in this treaty, the Pope went to Venice, whither the Emperor came, and that there with great solemnity the peace was concluded, and that the Emperor kissed the Pope's foot, and yielded him obedience. Some Authors writ, that (among many Dukes and others which were present, when as the Emperor did in all humility prostrate himself at the Pope's feet) THEODORE, marquis of Misnia, seeing the tyrannous insolency of the Pope, setting his foot upon the Emperor's neck, moved with a generous disdain, with a threatening countenance, and eyes inflamed with fury, ran to take him up: whereat the Pope was so terrified, as he fled into the Emperor's arms and kissed him; neither could he be drawn away, before he was secured. Than a truce was granted by the Emperor to the King of Sicily, for fifteen years; and to the Cities of the league, for six: which (according to most writers) passed in the year of our Lord, one thousand, one hundred seventy and seven; and afterwards in the year, one thousand, one hundred eighty and three, the peace with Lombardy was concluded in the city of Constance; but all in such manner as it pleased the Pope; and such towns as were withheld from him, were commanded to be rendered: and so the Emperor continuing there some few days, returned into Germany, and the Pope to Rome, but he first granted to the city of Venice, and the Dukes thereof, great privileges, immunities, and exemptions. The Pope being come near to Rome, before he entered the city, some speeches were used concerning the deposing of the Consuls, and that no more should be chosen: but as it was a custom of fifty years continuance, so it could not then be abolished; but order was taken, that none should be chosen, but such as pleased the Pope, and that before they executed their offices, they should swear to be in all things serviceable, and obedient to his Holiness. This being concluded, the Pope came to Rome, where he was received with great solemnity: and the other Pope CALIXTUS, acknowledging himself to have erred, cast himself at the Pope's fear, craving mercy (having first laid aside his pontifical habit) and renounced all the right and interest that he had to the papacy: and so ALEXANDER remained sole pope in peace all the rest of his life; and so this schism (which had continued twenty years) ceased. The Emperor FREDERICK being come into Germany (now old and tired with five and twenty years wars, and combustions) spent his time in preserving the peace which he had granted, and in establishing his five sons in estates: which he did in such manner as you shall hear. This peace being concluded in such manner as I have told you, Pope ALEXANDER died, after that he had been Pope the space of one and twenty years, the most of them, in troubles and contention, and LUCIUS the Third succeeded him: the year before his death, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, one hundred and eighty, died EMANVEL Emperor of Constantinople, who reigned seven and thirty years, and left a son who was a child called ALEXIUS for his successor, appointing a kinsman of his, whose name was ANDRONICUS (a man of great parentage) to be his Governor and Protector; who was so very a Villain and so arrant a Traitor, that after that he had governed certain years, and committed many insolences; The young Emperor of Consta●…inople murdered by his protector. he killed the young Emperor, and made himself tyrant of the Empire, putting many great men (such as he feared) to death: against whom for his detestable treason, WILLIAM King of Sicily made sharp war, and took many Towns from him; which brought him to such an end as he deserved: for the constantinopolitans seeing themselves thus oppressed, rose against ANDRONICUS, and made one ISACUS or ISACIUS, descended of Imperial blood, Emperor: and ISACIUS prevailing, ANDRONICUS was apprehended, and having one of his hands cut off & one of his eyes put out, was carried through the streets upon a Camel; and by the general consent of all men had such a death as he deserved, and as such deserve, as through ambition and desire to rule, are traitors and disloyal to their Lords. And so ISACIUS remained Emperor, and was an excellent prince: his end you shall know hereafter. The Emperor FREDERICK enjoying peaceful times in his Empire, summoned a Council to be held in the city of Mentz, where he settled his sons in such estates, as you shall hear. His eldest son he caused to be chosen King of the Romans, and his successor: his second son FREDERICK he made Duke of Suevia, which was his own inheritance: to OTHO his third son, he gave the title of Duke of Burgundy, appointing him to succeed his wife, the Empress, to whom that estate appertained: to his fourth son CONRADE, and to his fift son PHILIP, he gave other rents, and some towns wherein they might live: but it afterwards ensued otherwise: for CONRADE succeeded FREDERICK in the Duchy of Suevia, for that he died without issue; and PHILIP after the death of his elder brother HENRY, came to be Emperor. Pope LUCIUS knowing there was great contention and discord between the Princes of the Holy land, and the states of Soria, and fearing the danger that might ensue, endeavoured by his Letters and Ambassadors to reconcile them, and to make them friends: and procured WILLIAM King of Sicilia, which then warred upon ANDRONICUS, Emperor of Constantinople (who as I said made away the young Emperor ALEXIUS) to give over his wars, and to relieve that country, which was oppressed by the Infidels; and so the King of Sicilia sent thither forty armed galleys; wherein went some principal men and soldiers unto that service. The Emperor FREDERICK before that the time of the truce by him granted in Venice to the cities which had rebelled in Lombardy, was expired; (desiring by fair and gentle means without rigour or Arms, to reduce them to his service) summoned a Council, or Parliament, to be held in the city of Constance; whither he willed them to sand their Ambassadors, with sufficient power and authority to conclude a peace, showing them signs of great love and good will. The cities being weary of the wars, imagining that there would be fare better condiditions propounded, held it for their good: so as besides Pavia, Cremona, Aste, Alva, Tortona, and some others which had still preserved loyal and in the Emperor's service; the cities of Milan, Bercelli, Lodi, Bergamo, Brescia, Mantoa, Verona, Noüarra, Vicencia, Padua, Treviso, Bolonia, Faventia, Modeno, Rezzo, Parma, Placencia, and others sent their Ambassadors: with which the Emperor came to an agreement; granting them perpetual peace and pardon for all offences past; leaving to them, their laws, customs, jurisdictions, civil and criminal, with authority Exemptions granted by the Emperor to sundry cities in Lombardy. to choose Consuls and Governors, and commanded to be restored all whatsoever had been taken from them in time of war; and they acknowledging him and his successors for their sovereign Lords, swore to him fealty, and homage: and it was set down, how, and in what manner they were to do him service; greatly to their advantage. And besides this, that whereas certain appeals for certain sums should come to the Emperor; he ordained therefore to have his Agents in Lombardy, to the end that the people should not be constrained to come to him into Germany: and that the Consuls and Officers to be chosen, before they did execute their offices, should do their homage and be sworn to the Emperor: setting down likewise what services they should do, at such time as the Emperor in person should be in Lombardy. Finally, there were new covenants and agreements made, which were sworn, and confirmed by the Emperor, and the Ambassadors. The Instrument of all which, as it passed, appeareth at large, and in particular, in the Civil Law, in the end of the Volume entitled (De pace Constanciae.) This peace being concluded in this manner, the Ambassadors with great joy returned; and all the Towns approved and swore to observe and keep the same. Within few years after this, in Verona died Pope LUCIUS the Third, whither he came to have assembled a general Council, for the relieving of the King of jerusalem, and the Christian Princes of those Provinces in the East, between whom was great combustion. And the potent King SALADINE did much oppress them, who by stratagems, and great battles, had made himself Sultan, and Saladine Sultan of Egypt. Calipha of Egypt, King of Damascus and Aleppo, and held great part of Armenia, Licia, and the most part of Mesopotamia; so as on every side he had means to make war upon BALDWIN the Fourth, than King of jerusalem, who carried himself valiantly; and against the Princes of Antioch, Tripoli, and others which held, and defended those parts. And he so much oppressed BALDWIN (who in former time had been of such power, that Egypt was tributary unto him, and he held certain cities therein, which his father and predecessor ALMERICUS had gotten, and had in person conquered Palestina, and other lands) that he now employed all his forces in no other thing, but to defend himself: and in the end what befell him, we will declare; for that it appertaineth to our history, to show the reason, moving the Emperor FREDERICK to go to the wars of the East, wherein he died. Pope LUCIUS (as I said) dying in Verona, was buried there; and in his place was chosen VRBANUS the Third, borne in Milan. At this time, which was in the beginning of the year; one thousand, one hundred, fourscore and six, the Emperor FREDERICK came peaceably into Italy, and with the good will of the Milanois, and of all Lombardy, and at their especial request and entreaty went to Milan, and was there received, with the greatest joy and solemnity, that could be devised; and there a marriage was solemnised, between his son HENRY, King of the Romans, and the sister of WILLIAM King of Sicilia (yet some say that she was his Aunt, sister to his father King WILLIAM of Sicilia, and daughter of his grandfather ROGER) she was a woman of the age of thirty years, but very fair, and he of one and twenty, as GODFREY VITERBINGENSIS; and OTHO in the addition to OTHO FRISINGENSIS his Chronicle, and the Abbot WESPERGENSIS also writ; which in my opinion is true; no●…withstanding that PLATINA and BLONDUS say, that this marriage was made after that the Emperor FREDERICK was dead, by the procurement of Pope CELESTINE the Third, and that she was threescore years old; and that WILLIAM King of Sicily dying without heirs, the Pope by this marriage made him King of Sicily. But in my opinion, the first Authors are to be believed, for that they might be eye witnesses, and the others deceived; for as he was afterwards (through this marriage) king of both the Sicily's, they imagined it to have been done then. This wedding feast being ended, the Emperor, leaving his son HENRY for his Lieutenant and Governor of Lombardy, returned into Germany. Pope VRBANE knowing what passed in the East with the King of jerusalem, and the other Princes; when as he was confirmed Pope, endeavoured to persuade and encourage Christian kings and princes, to secure and relieve those places: but they making long delays (notwithstanding that they sent some supplies) it came to pass, that jerusalem, and many other Cities held by the Christians were lost: the cause whereof (as well for that it was so great a matter, as also for that it appertaineth to our History) I will set down, although it will be somewhat long; for I presume that the Reader will not be discontented therewith, which as briefly as I can express the same, passed in this manner. BALDWIN the Fourth (as I said) reigning King in jerusalem; and BOHEMUND who was a mighty Prince being Duke of Antioch: and RAYMOND, or REMON, Earl of Tripoli, who was also Lord of other Cities, and of the provinces of Galilea, and Tiberiades, which he had by the marriage of his wife, who was a great prince's daughter, and Lord thereof; and so other Princes and Captains: which although they banded, and had quarrels with the Knight's Templars, and of Saint JOHN, yet they jointly together defended what the Christians held in the East (which was no small matter) against the forenamed SALADINE. Matters standing in this estate, BALDWIN who was a man of great spirit and valour, being in the city of Nazareth (wherein he then lay) was taken with such a leprosy, that he was not able to go, nor to stand on his legs; whereupon he was carried to jerusalem, and his disease held him in such manner, that he daily expected his end. Which being published, so much encouraged the Infidels, that they made continual roads and incursions into the countries of the Christians. He seeing himself in this estate (having no son to succeed him, or to govern the country for him) made a man of great sort, called GVIDO of LUSIGNAN, governor thereof; who was the second husband of his sister SIBILLA, who by her first husband, called WILLIAM LONGSWORD, marquis of Monferrato, had a son called BALDWIN; and a daughter called SIBILLA. With this government some of the Princes were much discontented, and SALADINE with a mighty Army invading their countries, the Christians disagreeing amongst themselves, GVIDO the king's brother in law, and Captain general of all his forces, daring not to fight with him, the Christians daily lost Towns and Castles: whereupon the sick King BALDWIN resolved to take another course; which was before his death, to make his Nephew BALDWIN, who was his sister's son, King, notwithstanding that he was but a child, and RAYMGND of Tripoli, his governor and protector; and to put his brother in law GVIDO from the government: by reason whereof, ensued new factions, after which followed the loss of those countries, through conflicts, besiegings, assaults, and taking of towns, by SALADINE in five or six years, that this war lasted, until the greatest loss of all; which was the death of King BALDWIN; which happened in the year of our Lord, one thousand, one hundred, eighty five. RAYMOND Earl of Tripoli, coming to govern the kingdom, in the behalf of the young King, GVIDO of LUSIGNAN and SIBILLA mother to the said King, were so invested The death of Baldwin King of jerusalem. therein, that he could not execute his office: whereof ensued new troubles, the one for private and particular passions and quarrels (forgetting the public good) seeking the ruin of the other. In this confusion died the young King BALDWIN, eight months after the death of his Uncle; His father in law GVIDO, and his mother SIBIL, concealing his death for fear that RAYMOND Earl of Tripoli, by means of his great power, would by the general consent of the people, have made himself King: the matter was carried so cunningly, that by means of gifts and fair words, the Patriarch, and other chief men of jerusalem, chose him for their King; which was the occasion of the evils which afterwards ensued: for RAYMOND Earl of Tripoli, was so highly offended herewith, that (to the ruin of himself, and of all the rest) he Guido Lusignan brother in law to King Baldwin deceased, was chosen King of jerusalem. made a league with SALADINE; promising and assuring him, that he would neither aid, nor relieve the King of jerusalem. This friendship being made, such courses were held, that after certain truces and treaties of peace and breaches of the same, SALADINE began to make war against the King and kingdom of jerusalem with greater fury then at any time before: and as GVIDO wanted the aid of the Earl of Tripoli, and BOHEMUND Duke of Antioch could hardly help him, by reason of the fare distance; and for that he also had enough to do, to defend himself against the Captains of the said SALADINE, he was much distressed, and daily lost towns & Castles; never ceasing by Ambassadors & Letters, to solicit the Emperor, the Pope, and other Western Princes for aid; and they resolving to yield the same, and making preparation for the voyage, it happened, that RAYMOND Earl of Tripoli (either made a double league, as some writ, or knowing that if the kingdom of jerusalem were lost, he should be assured to have an evil neighbour of SALADINE) agreed, and made a peace with the King of jerusalem, and came with his power to aid him; whereupon SALADINE raised his siege from before Ptolomaide, and encamped himself before Tiberiades, which belonged to the Earl of Tripoli, strictly besieging the same. The King of jerusalem having drawn together all the power he was able to make, came with a great Army, the Duke of Antioch being with him; whither came with all their power, the said Earl of Tripoli, the masters of the orders of the Knight's Templars, and of Saint JOHN, with other great men, Knights and Captains, the Patriarches of jerusalem, and of Alexandria, and certain Bishops; so that (as it is affirmed) there were 30000. horsemen, and 40000. foot; which was the uttermost of the Christians power in the East. After many Counsels and opinions, the King at the instance of the Earl of Tripoli resolving to free Tiberiades, and to fight with SALADINE, which lay before it, presently began to march, and the troops and men of war which he had with him, which were such, as no man seeing them doubted of victory; but it pleased God to give it an other success: for SALADINE, who knew their resolution (as a man which wanted not courage, and had an Army containing double the number of the Christians, of very well trained soldiers) resolved to fight with them; (but not near to the besieged City) and to that purpose went to meet them upon the way: and it happened that the two Armies drawing near together, and the King of jerusalem one day purposing to march with his people with great speed, and to lodge them in a place wherein was very great plenty of water (whereof in those countries is great scarcity) SALADINE by espial or some other misfortune being advertised thereof, marched thither with so great celerity, that before the coming of the Christians, his men had taken the same place; and the Christians coming extremely weary, and thirsty, by reason of their long march, and the heat of the Sun, found enemies in the place where they thought to have found water and ease; wherewith they were much troubled: Nevertheless, the King seeing there was no other remedy, commanded the place forthwith to be assaulted, presuming thereby to have repelled the enemy: but missing of his purpose, he with his Army was driven to lodge all that night in the dry fields; where they endured intolerable thirst; and by the break of day, SALADINE (who the most part of the night had been busy in ordering his troops) took the field with his squadrons, where the Christians (with tired and weak bodies through extreme thirst, and their horses being in the same extremity) stayed for them: and notwithstanding A battle fought between Saladine the Soldan of Egypt, and the Christians. that they began the fight with great courage and resolution, yet their strength failing they were overthrown by the Infidels; and there was the greatest and most cruel slaughter made of them, that in those days had been seen, either in Asia or in Europe. The King was taken prisoner fight; and the Earl of Tripoli escaped by flight, and some say that he made all the rest to flee, and that he afterwards died miserably. The Duke of Antioch was slain after that he was taken, with all the Knights Templars, and of Saint JOHN, that could be found. SALADINE having obtained so notable a victory, following his course, went to Ptolomaida, which he easily took; and did the like by Berito, and other Cities too long to relate. Finally, in his own person (after the taking of many Towns, which, out of hope of any succours, or to be relieved, rendered; and the sooner, for that he was a very just Prince in performing his promise, and courteous, entreating those very friendly which yielded) he marched forwards, and sat him down with his Army before jerusalem: and having fiercely besieged jerusalem yielded to Saladine and assaulted the same for the space of thirty days continually, they yielded, upon the second day of the month of October, in the year of our Lord, 1187. And so was this City lost; and at this day is in the hands of the Infidels, almost eighty nine years after that it was taken by GODFREY of Buillon, and the other Princes before mentioned: in which time had reigned nine Kings with him who then was, to weet, GODFREY of Buillon the first and only King of that name; and then after him, the two BALDWINS, and FULCO, and BALDWIN the Third, than ALMERICUS, and BALDWIN the Fourth, and BALDWIN the child, and GVIDO which then reigned: and notwithstanding that the name and title of King of jerusalem continued a long time, and that the Christians held many Towns and Cities in Soria for the space of one hundred and odd years afterwards, and many Princes went thither to have made a conquest thereof: yet in the City of jerusalem they reigned no more, neither possessed the same, but a small time that the Emperor FREDERICK the Second was there. The East parts being brought to this estate, and jerusalem lost; Antioch, and the Provinces thereto belonging, together with Tyre, Sidon, and Tripoli, were in the like danger. The Emperor FREDERICK understanding these unhappy news (although now old and tired) resolved to adventure his whole power with his person, for the recovery of what was lost, and to defend the remainder: and God did put the like resolution into the hearts of the Kings of England and of France, and of many other Princes. The fame of SALADINES' acts daily increasing; it is written, that besides the estate of Antioch, he took one hundred and five and twenty walled Cities, and that he made cruel war over all the Country. Through sorrow and grief for so great loss, the greatest provision and preparation was made to go to the relief thereof, that hath been seen in Christendom at any time before or since. For, first the Emperor (leaving his son HENRY, who already was King of the Romans, for his Lieutenant, and with him his two brothers, CONRADE and PHILIP) prepared a great and excellent army both of foot and horse, and began to march through Hungary, Bulgaria, and Thracia, towards Constantinople, thence to pass over into Asia: and with him went his son FREDERICK Duke of Suevia, and BERTOLD Duke of Moravia, and his brother the marquis of Banda or Baden, and many other Dukes, Earls, Archbishops and Bishops. A little before this, died HENRY King of England, who purposed to have go the same journey: for it was enjoined him for his penance concerning THOMAS BECKET, called S. THOMAS of Canterbury, which I had no time until now to speak of. But his son RICHARD King of England, and PHILIP King of France, concluding a peace (for they were at wars about the Duchy of Normandy) either of them with the best Army that he could make, went to this war in the East. The like did OTHO Duke of Burgundy the Emperor's son, and the Venetians sent thither a great fleet, and so did the Pisans, who then were mighty at Sea. To this service also went CONRADE marquis of Monferrato, and HENRY Earl of Champania, and many other great Lords and Captains of Italy, France and England, whose names for brevity I leave. That which now most maketh me wonder in this zealous voyage of the Christians, is, that from Denmark and Friesland came fifty Galleys, it being so long a voyage from thence into Soria: and the Earl of Flanders sent twelve: and WILLIAM King of Sicilia did very well setto his helping hand: for (besides the forty Galleys which he sent before) he furnished and relieved all such as went, and came by him, and wanted, with shipping, victuals, arms, and other necessaries, and maintained (for a long time) a great Navy, to assure all passengers that would go this voyage, from rovers and pirates by Sea. The success which all these men had, and what befell them, aswell by the way, as in that war, is too long to be written (for they did great matters) and I should too much digress from the history of the Emperors (which is my task) wherefore it shall suffice that the Reader understand by me the issue of these proceed; the rest let him read in the Authors which wrote thereof, which I will name: I will conclude in the history of the Emperor, who coming with his forces to Constantinople, made a league with the Emperor ISACIUS; and being there, was given to understand, that GVIDO of LUSIGNAN, King of jerusalem, was gotten out A voyage to jerusalem. of prison, together with the Master of Saint JOHN; and that with such men of war as repaired unto him, he had renewed the war, and determined to take the Field, in hope to have recovered certain places: whereupon the Emperor in great haste passed his Army over the Straight at Constantinople, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, one hundred, eighty nine, and began to march through Asia the Less; where passing in peace through the Countries of the Christians, he entered the Country of the Sultan of Iconium, who was a mighty Prince in those parts, with whom he made peace; upon condition, that he should give him victuals and free passage: which if he performed, than he would not war upon his Country. But, the heathen King not only broke his promise, but gathering together a great number of Turks, stopped his passage, and did him the greatest hurt he was able: wherewith the Emperor being very much incensed, made cruel war in his Countries; and coming to the mountains at the entry into Cilicia, he made his passage with great difficulty and danger: for, the Sultan had drawn a head of a great multitude of Turks and other heathen Nations, thinking to have overthrown the The Emperor Frederick his victory against the Soldan of Iconirm. Emperor in those Straitss. But it pleased God that he passed, although with great danger and some loss: and, coming down into the Plains, he fought with the Infidels, and overthrew them, and slew a very great number of them. And so, taking and sacking Cities and Towns, he marched forwards, and entered Armenia the Less, and by force took the greatest part of all that Province. The news of his coming and victories strake so great fear into his enemies, and so much encouraged the Christians, that GVIDO King of jerusalem, and his brother EMERICUS, and other great men before named, which were there assembled, leaving the Cities of Tyre and Tripoli, whither they had retired themselves; with a well ordered Army took the Field, and assailed Ptolomaida or Acon, purposing to have the same, for tha●… it was a Haven of the sea, and of great importance; whither came the fleets from Denmark and Flanders, and from other parts. The siege was reinforced, and the Christians Army daily increased; and all men knowing the Emperor to be near at hand, SALADINE thought himself unable to defend what he had gotten: and King GVIDO, and those which were with him, recovered force and courage. But it pleased God in his secret judgement, that in the time of this hope and of good success, there happened so great a disaster, that all was changed and turned upside down; which was, the death of the Emperor, which happened by great misfortune in this manner: The Emperor being very near to Soria, upon a very hot day in the summer time, desiring to wash and refresh himself in a river (as they writ that at other times he had done) the swiftness and depth thereof was greater than he thought or mistrusted: and so in the presence of his people going into the water, without that any of them was any way able to save or help him, he was carried down the stream, and therein drowned. And so in a little water died he, for fear of The Emperor Frederick drowned. whom all Asia trembled; which happened upon the tenth day of june, in the year of our Lord, 1190, and in the eight and thirtith year of his Reign: through whose death the enterprise was extremely hindered. At the same time befell another misfortune, which was a controversy and discord between the Princes of those parts; which happened by reason of the death of SIBILLA, wife of GVIDO King of jerusalem, and sister to King BALDWIN deceased. Whereupon, HERFRAND, who was married to ISABEL, sister to this Lady, with the aid of some of his friends, would have been King, by the right of his wife; which the widower GVIDO withstood, alleging that he was the sworn and obeyed King, and therefore aught not to be deposed. And it followed, that CONRADE, marquis of Monferrato, took his Lady from him perforce, alleging that she was not lawfully married to HERFRAND: and so he married her, and in like manner challenged to be King of jerusalem; which (besides that it was a vile deed) caused great trouble: for, this Prince held the City of Tyre. By which means, the widower King GVIDO lost much of his authority, for that he would not fall at variance with them: yet he still held the name and title of King. The matter remaining in this great confusion, after the sudden and infortunate death of the Emperor, a man may easily conceive the great grief and sorrow of the whole Army: nevertheless, his son FREDERICK, Duke of Suevia, as a valiant and courageous Knight (being presently upon the death of his father, as reason was, made General and their Head) encouraged his people, and taking the dead body of his father, marched directly towards Soria; and sent certain messengers to GVIDO King of jerusalem, who lay before Ptolomaida, to advertise him of the death of his father; and desiring him to sand him such men as might guide and direct him what was to be done. Which although it was not to be effected without great danger (for, the most part of their way lay through their enemy's Countries) yet King GVIDO sent him two Knights well experienced in the wars, which guided him and his people to the City of Antioch, which lay nearest to his way: where, after that he had (for some day's space) refreshed his Army, he thought to have made great wars, and to have recovered the Cities lost in that estate; and so to have proceeded forwards. But his Army of Germans, which came wearied and tired of their long journey, finding there great abundance of victuals; by means of their forepast hunger, so disordered themselves by surfeiting (or, it was God's will that it should be so) as there fell so great a plague among them, that within few days most of them died; in such sort, that FREDERICK (with such as escaped the plague) departed from Antioch; and drawing near to the sea, embarked himself, and sailed to the City of Tyre, which (as I said before) was held by the Christians: and leaving there the dead body of his father, he went from thence with his people (but not without great danger of the enemy) to join with GVIDO of LUSIGNAN, King of jerusalem, who lay before Ptolomaida; which, SALADINE had so The siege of Aco●… or Ptolomaida. fortified and garrisoned, that the Christians were much troubled in the siege thereof; and prevailed little, until the coming of the Kings of England and of France, after many accidents be●…ln them in the way, which was in the same year: but they continued the siege, accompanied with other Princes, notwithstanding that there was ever little conformity among them; where we will now leave them, to make relation of the succession in the Empire, for this their history apper●…aineth not to my charge: and how HENRY the Sixt, the Emperor FREDERICKS eldest son was chosen Emperor, who held his father's place in Germany, being already made king of the Romans, and what he did in Germany and in Italy. Yet forasmuch as this enterprise of jerusalem was so notable a matter, and so great Kings came to the service, we will briefly tell you what end it had, though not the success. In Constantinople all this while reigned ISACIUS: in Italy a little before this, died without issue, WILLIAM King of both the Siciliae: wherefore Pope CLEMENT the Third challenged those kingdoms for the Church of Rome; and HENRY King of the Romans, and future Emperor, pretended to be his, by reason of his marriage with Constance sister to King WILLIAM. But the Sicilians and Neapolitans, against the Pope's will, chose one tancred, who was Uncle to King WILLIAM, a base son to ROGER King of Sicily: who seized on the kingdom. In writing this Emperor's life, I have spent longertime than I ordinarily do, for that many great accidents happened in his time, and for that so much is written of him, I have been in a manner constrained thereto; and also as at other times I have said, in matters which draw near to our times, it shall not be amiss to make longer and more ample relation. My authors in whose books the same may be seen more at large, are these which follow: OTHO FRISINGENSIS in the history which he particularly wrote in two books, of the beginning of the Emperor FREDERICK'S reign, and RAUDAVICUS in what he added thereto, and GODFREY VITERBIENSIS, all eye witnesses, and the Abbot WESPERG. in his Chronicle, an author of the same time, wherein he writes his life; Abbot ROBERT in the addition which he made to SIGIBERT'S Chronicle, OTHO of S. Blaze, BLONDUS of the declining of the Roman Empire, PLATINA in the lives of the Popes, JOHN COLUMNA in his Sea of histories, JOHN BAPTISTA IGNACIUS, JOHN EUTICHIUS, BENEVENT de Rombaldis, JOH. CARION, JOH. CUSP. RAPHAEL VOLATERANUS, in their writings of the Emperors, HEN. MUCIUS, GASPAR CHURREUS in his Affairs of Germany, in that part wherein he treateth of FREDERICK the first, FRANCISC. IRENICUS, PAULUS CONSTANTINUS PHRIGIO, CHRISTIANUS MASEUS, MATHEW PALMERIUS, and the other general Historiographers, treating of these times, as S. ANTH. ANTONIUS SABELLICUS, JOH. NAUCLERUS, which best of all handleth the matters of Germany, PHILIP BERGOMAS; and besides these, PAULUS EMILIUS, ROB. GAGVIN, and other French writers, POLIDORE VIRGIL in his English History, Pope PIUS in his history of Bohemia, JACOB MEIER in his abbridgement of the history of Flanders, ANTONIUS SABELLICUS in the history which he particularly wrote of the Venetians, ALBERT CRANTZ in his history of Saxony, GEORGE MERULA in the history of the Dukes of Milan, AUGSTIN JUSTINIAN in his Annals of Genoa, MICHAEL RICIUS in his book of the Kings, and some others which I now remember not. THE LIFE OF HENRY, THE SIXTH OF THAT NAME, AND FOURSCORE AND EIGHTEENTH ROMANEEMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. AFter Frederick succeeded his eldest son Henry: who as soon as he had the government of the Empire, went into Italy to be crowned, and to get the kingdom of Sicilia, which came un●… him, by the right of his wife; and was crowned by Pope Celestine. He would have made a conquest of the kingdom of Naples, but the plague made him return into Germany. He again came into Italy, upon the same occasion of Sicilia: wherein finding tancred dead, h●…e easily obtained the kingdom, notwithstanding that he committed some cruelties therein worthy of blame: Being returned into Germany, he sent many men to the wars of jerusalem. And living in peace, he came in progress to visit his new kingdom of Sicilia: where, for his pleasure riding on hunting (as his custom was) he fell sick and died, when he had reigned eight years. THE accidents which happened in the time of the Emperor FREDERICK, were so many and so great, that I imagine to have insom sort satisfied the desire, which men commonly have to read of great adventures: and if they yet remain with an appetite, from this time forwards they shall have such and so many, that I presume they shall not want to satisfy them. I say then, that as evil news are commonly more swift of foot, than the good: so the death of the worthy Emperor FREDERICK was soon known in Italy and in Germany, for which all Christendom generally was sorry; as well for that it was so unfortunate, as for that it troubled and interrupted the enterprise which he had begun, and followed with such courage and good success. His eldest son HENRY, who (as we said) in his father's life time had been made King of the Romans, and future Emperor; when as he understood of the death of his father, wrote to the electors, and to the other Princes of the Empire: Henry the eldest son of Frederick Barbarossa chosen Emperor. and they yielding him the obedience which they had promised in his father's time, he took upon him the state and majesty of Emperor: which was in the year of our Lord, one thousand, one hundred, ninety, and one, and was called HENRY the Sixt; yet the Italians call him the Fift, for that they reckon not the first HENRY. This man was a wise Prince, of a sharp and quick wit, well spoken, of a pleasing countenance, but somewhat pale faced, of a mean stature, and tender and delicate of body; but of a fierce and cruel mind, and very valiant, wherefore he was greatly feared of his enemies, and was more addicted to hunting, then was fit for the good government of his estate. In the beginning of his reign, those of Colen rebelled, and with them certain Earls & other great men, but it was a matter of no great importance and so it was soon pacified. Being freed from this care, seeking the aid and favour of his friends, he made preparation to go into Italy (which was the next year) with a desire to be crowned in Rome, and to get the kingdom of Sicilia, which fell to him by the right of his wife the Empress, CONSTANCE, whereto he was invited and called by Pope CELESTINE the Third, who was newly chosen Pope (yet some authors say, that at this time, this CONSTANCE was given to him in marriage by this Pope CELESTINE, who gave her a dispensation for that she was a professed Nun, to the end, that they should have the kingdom) for the bastard tancred King of Sicilia and of Naples, who possessed the same, was odious and an enemy to the Pope. The Emperor HENRY being comn into Italy, passing peaceably through the States of Lombardy (according to the agreement made between his father and them) went towards Rome to be crowned; but before the Pope gave him the Crown, he went against the City of The Emperor Henry the sixt crowned in Rome by Pope Celestine the third. Tusculano, which was situate in the Mountains near to Rome, which rebelled, and did and had done the Romans much harm; and taking the same (for it yielded without any resistance) he gave it to the Romans (for so was he enjoined to do, before the Crown should be given him) and they presently razed the City, and used the Citizens with great cruelty, for which the Emperor was much taxed, and blamed to have suffered so cruel a fact. This cruelty being executed, and the Emperor being with great solemnity crowned in Rome by Pope CELESTINE; and other covenants and agreements being made between them concerning the kingdoms of Sicilia, and of Naples, as feodatory kingdoms to the Church of Rome, and the fee and tribute set down to be paid for the same: The Emperor marching forwards, found all those Countries in Arms against him, holding for tancred, whom they had chosen, and held for King and their sovereign Lord; yet he took some Towns by force, and went as far as Naples, The Emperor besieged Naples but could not take it. and besieged the same, as the head of that kingdom; and the Neopolitans valiantly defending their City, the siege continued the space of three months; in which time there fell in the Camp, so great a mortality, and so many of the Emperor's soldiers died, that without effecting what he had purposed, he raised his siege and returned into Germany: And as he arose from before the City, his wife the Empress (some say going into Germany, which seemeth most certain; and others say, that she coming to her husband, to go with him to the wars) was taken by certain Captains upon the way; but so great diligence was used, and such a course was taken, that within few days she was set at liberty; and they which took her, were severely punished: and so at this time, he returned crowned, but not victorious, into his Country. Two years of his reign were expired, and he frustrate of his purpose and desire to recover the kingdoms of Naples and Sicilia, but yet he still had a resolution to return thither again (as he afterwards did) where let us leave him; and I will tell you what happened unto his brother FREDERICK, and the other Princes which had continued in the East ever since the death of his father, the Emperor FREDERICK BARBAROSSA: wherein if all the skirmishes, encounters, battles, and fears of Arms done by these three kings, of jerusalem, France and England, in those two year's wars, should be written, I should have much to say; but the success thereof was this, that the siege of Ptolomaida continued two years, reckoning from the time that GVIDO King of jerusalem first besieged it, until it was taken; during which time, many great matters passed between them and the besieged, and SALADINE'S other forces. At this time died the said FREDERICK Duke of Suevia, son to the Emperor FREDERICK BARBAROSSA, and brother to the Emperor HENRY, and other great personages. At the end of this time, the City was yielded to the Christians, and the Kings were grown Ptolomaida yielded to the Christians. so mighty and so much feared, and the potent SALADINE had lost so many men, that thinking himself unable to defend his countries, he caused the walls of Cesaria in Palestina, with Ascalon, Gaza, Porfiria, and of other Cities upon the Sea-Coast, to be thrown down: and the power of the Christians so much increased, that SALADINE began to parley of the giving up of jerusalem, upon condition that he might live in peace. But God otherwise disposed, for the Kings of France and England, were so ill met, that they could never agreed upon any thing: Wherhfore the King of France resolved to leave the wars, and to return into his country, The French king left the wars in the Holy-Land. and did so, and left the greatest part of his people with the Duke of Burgundy; and so the opportunity of the taking of jerusalem was lost; for by reason of his departure, SAEADINE'S mind altered: Nevertheless, RICHARD King of England was a Prince of so great a courage, and carried himself so valiantly in those wars, as beside, that he new builded and fortified japha (whilom called joppa) and some other Towns, he reduced the wars to as good Richard 〈◊〉 de Lion Ki●…g of England his wars in Palestina. order and estate, as they were in before the French Kings departure. It followed in this time, that CONRADE marquis of Monferrato, who was possessed of the great City of Tyre, and the marches thereof, and was called King of jerusalem, for that (as I told you) he married with ISABEL sister to SIBIL, which was King GVIDO'S wife, was in the same City slain by certain fugitives, Turks; and the widow ISABEL having one daughter by her husband, was married to HENRY, called Earl of Champania, Nephew to the French King; and he marrying her, had with her that City, and the title to the Kingdom of jerusalem, against GVIDO, which held that name and title. Whereupon King RICHARD dealt with GVIDO to renounce the right which he pretended to the kingdom of jerusalem, and he would give him the dominion of the Isle of Cyprus, with the name of King thereof; which Island the King of England took in his way as he came to this war. GVIDO accepted this bargain; and providing men and shipping necessary, sailed into Cyprus, as King of that Island, and reigned therein all his life time; and that kingdom remained in him, and in his heirs and successors, until the year of our Lord, one thousand, four hundred and sixty, that the Venetians (I know not by what title) made themselves Lords thereof: and the house of England hath ever since pretended right to the kingdom of jerusalem, as saith PLATINA, and other Authors. This being past, and many other matters in this war, amongst which was a great battle which continued from noon until night; wherein the valiant SALADINE was overthrown, and the King of England, and the Princes with him, had the victory; they resolved to go and besiege the City of jerusalem, knowing for certain that SALADINE durst not abide them, for he sued to them for peace, or truce, promising to tender jerusalem, and other places in those marches, to the end that he might obtain the same for some long time: but the Christians were of such power, that they were not therewith satisfied. But upon a sudden the King of England (very unadvisedly) gave out in speeches, that he would return into his country, for that he was certified the French king had entered and taken his Duchy of Normandy: which if he had concealed, The cause why 〈◊〉 was ●…alen by the ●…ianss. he might have had what composition he would have required: but SALADINE knowing his determination, and that the fleets of Pisa and of Venice were already departed, by reason of discord and dissension between them, would not resign jerusalem. In the end the king of England concluded a peace with him for five years; and leaving Garrisons and Governors in the Cities which the Christians had recovered (OTHO Duke of Burgundy, and HENRY the husband of ISABEL, which challenged the kingdom of jerusalem, remaining commanders ●…ng Richard ●…ueur de Lion, 〈◊〉 prisoner ming from 〈◊〉 w●…eses in 〈◊〉 Holyland ●…y the Duke of ●…rich. thereof, with the Knights of Saint JOHN and the Templars) he departed homewards, in the year one thousand, one hundred ninety three, and by the way was taken prisoner by the Duke of Austria, and was ransomed, and other accidents afterwards befell him: and so he left the affairs of the East, and more Towns, and better fortified than he found there: yet not so many as a man would have thought that so great Kings, and such mighty Armies, might have taken: what ensued, you shall understand hereafter. The Emperor HENRY (as some men writ) was well relieved and furnished with the money which the king of England paid for his ransom, towards his journey into Italy, for which he then made preparation but he first made his brother CONRADE, Duke of Suevia, for that his other brother FREDERICK died in the East without issue. He then marching towards Italy, to conquer the kingdoms of Sicilia and Naples, which fell to him by his wife, and the Pope's grant; and having sent certain Captains before with an Army, by which the wars were already begun; King tancred which possessed those kingdoms died; and a little before him, his eldest son called ROGER, who was married to YRENE the Emperor's daughter of Constantinople, and he left another son called WILLIAM (whom they presently made their King) and two or three daughters: by reason whereof the Emperor hastened his journey, leading with him his brother PHILIP, and other great Princes: but for all this, the great men, and Cities of those kingdoms left not to rebel, and to withstand the Emperor HENRY, who with his men of war entered the Country, besieging and battering Cities with such rage and fury, that whatsoever City resisted him, he caused to be ruined and burnt; using greater cruelty than befitted a virtuous or Christian Prince: and so perforce, and for fear, all the cities in the kingdom of Naples, and the most of those in Campania, and Pulia, yielded; and thence marching into Calabria did there the like: and seeing himself Lord of the estates in the main land, he passed over into Sicilia: wherein, as there was not any King, or head, to rule and command (for TANCRED'S son was a child, and his father had been wicked, and a Tyrant) in short space he become Lord of a great part of that Island. Nevertheless, after this the prelate's and great Lords of those kingdoms, with the greatest power they possibly could levy, gathered head near to the City of Catanea, with a full resolution to try their fortune: where they fought with the Emperor (yet some say the Emperor was not in the battle) and the Sicilians were overthrown, the City taken, and of them was made great slaughter, in which was executed extreme cruelty, putting to the sword both men and women, not sparing those which had retired themselves to the Churches for sanctuary: and some Noble men and Bishops were taken prisoners. After this, many of the principal men conspired by any means howsoever to kill the Emperor; which being revealed unto him, he caused death to be inflicted upon all those he could get, which had been accused to have been of that conspiracy, with such cruelty and rigour, as he could not avoid blame for it: for some he made to be fleyed alive, others to be burnt, and of some he caused sharp nails to be driven into their heads: finally, he executed such horrible cruelty upon them, that he made himself to be the most redoubted man in the World: By means whereof within short space he become Lord of the whole Island; and coming with his forces to the City of Palermo (which was the richest and most populous City of the Island) he was received without battle or resistance, and made his entry most solemnly, with all the representations, triumph and shows of victory that could be devised: in that City (it is reported) be found many precious jewels, and great riches, which had been the Kings of Sicilia, and there were kept. He got also into his power YRENE the Emperor's daughter of Constantinople, who was betrothed to the deceased King TANCRED'S son, ROGER; which YRENE he married to his brother PHILIP, although against her will. And the child whom the Sicilians had made their King, he made his eyes to be put out, thereby to make him incapable of the kingdom; and caused him to be carried prisoner into Germany, where he afterwards died miserably: and his mother the widow with her two daughters, he commanded to be put-into a Monastery in Germany, so that he left nothing forgotten that might assure him of those kingdoms. This being done he went into Calabria, carrying with him for hostages, such men as he held to be of greatest account in both the kingdoms: and for his better assurance, both in the main land, and in the Island, he placed German governors and captains: to some of which he gave certain estates and titles. Before this, his wife the Empress, who was there with him, bore him a son called FREDERICK; at whose birth, by reason that some doubted whether that a woman of her years might be with child or not, he permitted all that would to be present at the birth, commanding it first to be published, at such time as it was thought she should be delivered. In this manner did the Emperor HENRY leave the two Sicily's in peace and subjection: And with the hostages before mentioned, which were great Lords and Prelates, departed towards Germany (Milan and all Lombardy peaceably obeying him, both at his coming and going) which was in the fift year of his reign, and in the year of our Lord 1195. It is true, that although the Emperor obtained his desire in the conquest of Sicilia and Naples, yet all writers affirm that he therewith purchased the name of a very cruel, and vindicative Prince, for the great cruelties which he committed. And PHILIP BERGOMAS affirmeth that through these cruelties, he fell at such odds with Pope CELESTINE, that he excommunicated him, by certain Bishops and other men of orders, which the Emperor apprehended, and put to death: and that he afterwards suing to the Pope for pardon, was absolved. He was also noted and taxed of excessive covetousness, for the great loans and imprests, which he exacted from the people in those kingdoms: which gave occasion that it was not long before that in Pulia, some towns and great men, began to mutin and to rebel against him: whereupon he put out the eyes of all the hostages, which he had sent into Germany; and sent Captains and soldiers to suppress the Insurrections; and they by his commandment, inflicted cruel punishment upon the offenders. Being in this prosperity, so as no man rebelled, or held up his hand against him, his brother CONRADE Duke of Suevia died, at such time as he began to war against BERTOLD Duke of Zeringe, which then, and before that time was, and had been, a great house in Germany: and his brother CONRADE being dead without issue, the Emperor gave the Duchy of Suevia to his brother PHILIP, who (as I said) married the Emperor's daughter of Constan. After all these things, he sought by all means possible, that the Prince's Electors should choose his son FREDERICK (a child of little more than two yeerrs old) for King of the Frederick the Emperor's son being a child was chosen king of the Romans. Romans: and forasmuch as he was of great power, and much feared, they did so; notwithstanding that it seemed to them, to be a matter very unjust and unreasonable. At this time Pope CELESTINE very earnestly solicited the Princes of Christendom, and especially the Emperor (seeing that the time of the truce, made in the East by the King of England was expired; and that the great SALADINE was dead, but a little before, on whom depended the chiefest force of the Infidels) that they should not now forget the conquest of jerusalem, seeing they had so fit an opportunity. The Emperor (with the zeal of a Christian Prince, though a cruel one) seeing that he could not go himself in person, by reason of his small assurance in his Kingdoms of Sicilia, and the tranquillity of Germany: many Princes offering themselves to go that journey voluntarily, and many soldiers and men of war, which he sent in his pay (at his own charges) provided a very great and good Army: wherewith went the Archbishop of Mentz, the Bishop of Ratisbone, BERNARD Duke of Saxony, CONRADE Chancellor of the Empire, LEOPOLD Duke of Austria, HARMAN Lantzgrave of Turinge, the Duke of Brabant and some other Marquesses, Earls, and men of estate; all which leaving their houses and countries, of mere devotion, with valiant minds, after long travail by land and sea (wherein they were much aided and relieved by ISACIUS Emperor of Constantinople) Another voyage to jerusalem. came to the coast of Palestina, to the city of Tyre and Ptolomaida, which they called Acon; where they presently applied themselves to the wars; the truce granted by the King of England being expired. In which time, GVIDO King of Cyprus, who before had been King of jerusalem, deceased; and forasmuch as he had no son, his brother ALMERICUS had that kingdom: and it also happened, that at that same season, HENRY, who was called king of jerusalem, by the marriage (as I said) of ISABEL sister to SIBIL, in his city of Ptolomaida fell out of a very high terrace or gallery in his palace; and so died unfortunately: and ALMERICUS king of Cyprus, sought to marry with his wife, wherewith she was content; and so for a time he was called king of Cyprus and jerusalem. But for as much as he was negligent, and of small experience in the wars, and in matters of government, he afterwards lost the title of jerusalem, which was given to JOHN DE BREGNA, a Frenchman, being a man of great worth and valour, who married the daughter of this ISABEL, which she had by her second husband CONRADE. The Germans sent by the Emperor, joining with ALMERICUS his forces, become masters of the field; and marching forwards, besieged and assaulted some cities, took Berito, and re-edified joppa, now called japha. While the Army did these things in the East, the Emperor HENRY setting all things in order in Germany, came with his wife and his young son into Italy, to visit his estate of Milan; and from thence went into Sicilia, the better to confirm himself in his new Dominion; and the better also to provide for the wars and conquest of the Holy land, which was generally desired. He came into Sicilia, to the City of Messina, with his wife and his son, (who was already called king of the Romans) and governed the Empire and those Kingdoms in peace, enlarging the same more than the Pope would he should have done, for he held from him the Marca de Ancona, and some places in Tuscan. But it pleased God to frustrate all his dessigns by death: for being much delighted in hunting; it happened, that hunting upon an extreme hot day, in the month of August, he laid him down one night to sleep in a green field, near to certain fresh springs of water: and awaking with the cold and the dew of the night, he felt himself very ill, and was carried to Messina, where his infirmity increasing, he died; when he had reigned eight years, in the year of our Lord 1198. having first recommended the protection and government of his young son FREDERICK, who was called king of the Romans, and of the two Sicily's, to his brother PHILIP Duke of Suevia, until that he should come to age fit to rule; and wrote his Letters concerning the same to Pope INNOCENT the The death of the Emperor Henry the sixt. third, who succeeded CELESTINE the third, who died a little before him in the same year. This Emperor was a wise, a valiant, and a mighty Prince, but his overmuch fierceness and cruelty blemished those virtues. All this while reigned ISACIUS in Constantinople, which he governed very well for the space of eleven or twelve years in peace; after the death of the tyrant ANDRONICUS, as we have set down in the life of the Emperor FREDERICK. THE LIFE OF PHILIP, THE SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND FOURSCORE AND NINETEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR; AND OF ISAGIUS AND ALEXUS Emperors of Constantinople. THE ARGUMENT. THE Emperor Henry being dead, the Empire was divided betwixt two competitors, which were Philip and Otho: and either of them marshalling the forces of his friends and assistants, many sore battles were fought between them. They both were crowned: but Otho's coronation was ratified by the Pope, and Philip's reproved, and himself excommunicate: but he making slight account of the excommunication persisted in his attempt; and having in a bickering overthrown the Lantzgrave, become very mighty; and Otho's power daily grew weak; and he himself, in the end, was driven to fly, and to go into England. Philip afterwards sought to pacify the Pope, and to be at peace with him: and the reconciliation being made, a Peace was procured with Otho. which was concluded by making him his son in law, and his successor in the Empire: but this joy lasted not long. For, Otho being comn to the Court, the Count Palatine of Witilispach, who was Philip's secret enemy, upon a day (with a resolution to kill him) came to his chamber, desiring to speak with him, and being let in; he took his sword from his Page, and therewith slew the Emperor, when he had reigned ten years. IT is a common and usual thing through all the World, that after The death of great Prince's cause great alterations. the death of great Kings and Princes, ensue great changes and alterations; which is verified by the death of HENRY the sixt, whose History we have now ended: for by reason thereof, followed great innovations, and unexpected accidents. First in the Army which he sent into the East, to the conquest of jerusalem, and which had begun the war with good success, his death being published, the Princes and Prelates which went thither agreed together in all haste to return home to their houses, and did so; nothing prevailing with them the counsel and entreaty of SIMON of Monferrato, a most excellent soldier, who came thither with certain troops of Frenchmen to their aid: and so they left the country abandoned, and in such necessity, as the Infidels taking the City of japha, destroyed the same, and laid it even with the ground; and king ALMERICUS and the Christians were brought to such extremity, as they were driven to sue to the Infidels for peace: so as it appeareth, that it was not God's will that the wars and conquest of the Holy-land should ever have any good success. In Germany followed the greatest tumults, wars and battles, touching the choice of an Emperor, that ever had been seen for the like cause. Pope INNOCENT began to recover some places which the Emperor HENRY held from the Church. The Empress presently sued to the Pope, for the confirmation of Sicilia to her and her son, which she hardly obtained, but with the loss of lands and dignities. So great effect worketh oftentimes the absence, or presence, of one man only: for PHILIP Duke of Suevia, whose History I now begin to writ, was interrupted by his brother's death in Italy, he going to visit him; from whence, as soon as he understood thereof (for as some authors say he was not present when he died) he returned into Germany, and by the way past many dangers, with an intent (notwithstanding that he had the title of his Nephew's Protector) to get (if he might) the Empire for himself: whereto, being comn into Germany, as well by means of his estate and authority, as also for that he was the brother and son of an Emperor, he found great favour, and great contradiction and resistance also, by many Princes which were enemies to his house and family, and for some other respects. Principally, the Electors voices being divided into two, the one part named the same PHILIP for Emperor; for of his nephew, by reason of his infancy, and also for Philip chosen Emperor. that he was King of Sicilia (notwithstanding their promise made to his father) they made small account: and the other party chose OTHO, Earl or Duke of Bruinswick, the son of HENRY the Proud, who had been Duke of Saxony, and was dispossessed (as we said) by the Emperor FREDERICK, wherefore some authors call him Duke of Saxony: This OTHO'S mother Otho chosen Emperor. was sister to the king of England, by whose means (as some say) he was called to the Empire. Between these two was cruel and sharp war and competency, having recourse to their Arms: yet the Abbot WESPERG. saith, that BERTOLD Duke of Zeringe, before, or at the same time, was a third competitor, and was called Emperor: but Duke BERTOLD'S challenge Bertold called Emperor. continued not long, for he soon agreed with PHILIP; and for that most authors writ it not, I will pass it over, with the only remembrance thereof. PHILIP and OTHO being in Arms, each of them with his partakers and friends, began to war, kill, robbing and imprisoning one another. OTHO was helped and supported by the King of England as his Uncle and friend, and by the Lantzgrave of Turinge, the Count Palatine of the Rhine, the Duke of Liconia, the Earl of Limburgh, the Archbishop of Colen, and his Prelates and Suffragans, the Earl of Flanders and his friends, and some other princes and prelate's: Pope INNOCENT also favoured his cause, calling to mind that the ancestors of this OTHO, Dukes of Saxony, had greatly assisted and defended the Church of Rome: and to the contrary, PHILIP'S predecessors Dukes of Suevia, had persecuted the same, causing schisms and divisions; as HENRY the fourth, FREDERICK the first, and his brother FREDERICK had also held many places in Tuscan, and Ancona, belonging to the Church of Rome. Those which took part with PHILIP, were the King of France, the Archbishop of Mentz, the Dukes of Saxony, and of Ostrich (who then came from the wars in the East) the King of Bohemia, the Duke of Baviere, the Dukes of Lorraine, and of Brabant; and all the rest of the Princes which took not part with OTHO (but yet the success changed these favours) and PHILIP for his person was better beloved and more esteemed than OTHO, for he was mild, of a noble disposition, discreet, and liberal (whereby good will is principally got) very valiant, though but of a weak body, and of a mean stature; of a good countenance, and fair, white and read. OTHO had not so good parts of a man in him; for he was held not very wise, rash, and without measure audacious. PHILIP having assembled his friends in the City of Mentz, he was there anointed and crowned Emperor by the Bishop of Tarantasia; the Bishop of Sutrino, who was the Pope's Ambassador and Legate, being there present, who came thither for another Philip crowned Emperor. purpose; wherewith the Pope was extremely moved. OTHO and his friends, perceiving that PHILIP was crowned, went to Aken, which PHILIP had already taken; and besieging and scaling it, took the same upon composition: and there ADOLPH Archbishop of Colen preposterously crowned him, and he therefore was held for right Emperor: which coronation was afterwards confirmed by Pope INNOCENT, who sent GVIDO Cardinal of Otho crowned Emperor. Preneste, for his Legate to the City of Colen, for the same purpose, and to excommunicate PHILIP, and all his followers and abbetters. PHILIP (as a man of great spirit) sought to fight with OTHO, and to that end entered his enemy's countries, destroying the same with fire and sword, and took some strong Castles near to Argentine, where between his and OTHO'S troops, were many skirmishes and encounters, and many men were slain of either side: and the next year following he came against the same City of Argentine, which held for OTHO; which yielded upon composition, and he was therein received and obeyed. OTHO in like manner with all his whole power came against PHILIP: and between the soldiers of the one and other, were some battles and skirmishes; wherein PHILIP for the most part had the victory, which made some to come over to his side: but yet the coming of the Pope's Legate at this time, and the publishing of the excommunication, did greatly hinder PHILIP'S proceed, and was a great help to OTHO, with the Prelates and ecclesiastical Personages. PHILIP having the greatest quarrel against the Lantzgrave of Turinge, for that by his means principally OTHO was chosen; he therefore resolved to enter his Country, and to spoil it; and putting the same in execution, took one or two very strong Towns of his. The Lantzgrave raising his power, and sending for help to the Count Palatine of Rhine, and to OTHO CHARUS, King of Bohemia (who now joined with OTHO, by reason of the Pope's excommunication) and to other his friends and kinsmen; levied so great a number of good men of war, that PHILIP, not daring to fight with him, retired to a strong Town, wherein they besieged him: but he used such means, that in the night he got out of the Town, and put himself in safety. And within few days after came OTHO to the aid of the Lantzgrave with his whole power, in hope to have taken PHILIP; for, they had written to him, that he could not escape from the place wherein they held him besieged. So as OTHO, being then Master of the field, summoned a Diet or Council to be held in the City of Mersburgh, in the month of August, in the year of our Lord 1203: where, in the presence of the before named Princes, and of his friends, he was the second time crowned by the Pope's Legate; and his first election was approved and confirmed, and many revolted from PHILIP to him, by reason (as they pretended) of the Pope's censures. At this time the Empress CONSTANCE, Tutoress of the young FREDERICK King of Sicilia, dying, she recommended the protection of the child to Pope INNOCENT, who sent certain Legates to govern those Countries in the behalf of the young King; who afterwards was Emperor, as you shall hear. OTHO his favourites & partakers being go from this Diet or Council with victory, the next year following their fortune altered: for, PHILIP with the aid of France, Saxony, Austria, Mentz, Wittenberg, Suevia, Baviere, and the rest of those which held with him, came upon the Lantzgrave and his confederates; and entering his Countries (as he had done the year before) took certain Castles. The King of Bohemia & the Count Palatine came to join with the Lantzgrave, and so to fight with PHILIP: but PHILIP met and fought with them before they could join with the Lantzgrave, and obtained the victory, although bloody; the Bohemians running away, and disordering themselves in the beginning, so as great slaughter was made of them in the chase. PHILIP through this victory won so great The Bohemians overthrowns. reputation, that many of those which until then had been silent and neuters, came to serve him; and from his enemy came not a few. And the Lantzgrave, seeing his succours overthrown and scattered, and his Country spoiled, sought means to come to some composirion with PHILIP, and to serve him: and PHILIP (as he was a mild and courteous Prince) admitted him into his favour and friendship; and the Lantzgrave with great humility came and yielded himself into his power. After him came ADOLPH, Archbishop of Colen; who nothing fearing the Pope's excommunications, against such as took part with PHILIP, or defended his quarrel, compounded with him also, promising to bring the Dukes of Lorraine and of Brabant to his devotion; a thing which PHILIP much desired, and gave him to effect the same a great sum of money: which was the cause that many others did the like. So as this party growing now to be strongest, a meeting was appointed to be had in Aken: and for as much as PHILIP had not been crowned there by a general assent, he was again with great solemnity crowned Emperor and King of the Romans by the hands of the said Archbishop ADOLPH, who despised and contemned his Pope's censures: whereupon Pope INNOCENT deprived and deposed him from his Archbishopric, and sent commandment to his Legate, who then lay in Colen, to 'cause another to be chosen: and the Canons assembling, made choice of one BRUNUS, a man of great account; and OTHO took such order, that he was presently consecrated by two Bishops that came from England: wherewith PHILIP was so much enraged, that he presently went and set upon the City of Colen; and not being able to take it by force, he spoilt the fields, and put the deposed Archbishop in the possession of some Towns in the Marches and Territories of that City; in so much that neither the one nor the other party could rule or govern that Church. The like happened afterwards in many other Churches; some holding of the one faction, and others of the other: and miserable Germany at this time endured grievous calamities; for, besides the great wars and battles, the Churches and Monasteries were rob. After all this, the next year following, which was the year 1205, PHILIP, with a great power of Princes and marshal men, came to make war upon OTHO, who with his friends and allies was in Colen; with whom, amongst such orhers as came thither, was GVIDO the Pope's Legate, and BRUNUS the Archbishop thereof. And with PHILIP came the deposed Bishop: but OTHO, having no sufficient forces to fight with him in field, held himself within the City, not daring to keep the field against him; which, PHILIP perceiving, he sent for all the forces he could levy, and besieged OTHO, and those which were with him in Colen: so as OTHO was in greater distress than he thought of in the beginning; and the siege was so sharp, that it was impossible for any man to get in or out without the leave of the besiegers. OTHO knowing that if he stayed any longer there, besides the reputation which he lost, his person and life would be in great danger, resolved to make way through his enemies, or to die in the action: and making choice of his best men, both of horse and foot, besides men of account, he one day suddenly salied and charged into his enemy's Camp, and in the beginning made great slaughter of them; but being oppressed with the multitude, he used the means he had propounded, and so escaped by flight: yet in the chase, many of those which salied with him were taken prisoners and slain. Among which, BRUNUS the new Archbishop was taken prisoner, whom PHILIP held in irons above one whole year after: and in this flight, OTHO never stayed till he came into Saxony, where he was harboured and protected by Duke BERNARD. PHILIP, thus prevailing, offered so honourable a composition to those of Colen, that they yielded, and came all to his service; and restoring ADOLPH to his seat and Bishopric, he wholly disannulled and made voided the new election of BRUNUS, without any regard of the Pope's commandments. OTHO perceiving that PHILIP'S power did daily more and more increase, and that he had not any forces wherewith he might defend himself, took ship and sailed into England: and so for that time remained PHILIP peaceful Emperor, finding no man that in field made any resistance, but what the Pope did with his fulminations, whereof (as it seemeth) he made small account. And the better to assure to himself the love of men (he naturally desiring to end matters by clemency) he gave his eldest daughter in marriage to the King of Bohemia, and another daughter to the Duke of Brabant's eldest son: and so upon other Princes he bestowed favours and benefits; wherein (as saith the Abbot WESPERGENSIS) he spent his whole patrimony, giving Towns and Castles, yea, Churches and their revenues: for, so much do men desire to reign, that, to bring the same to effect, there is no law but they will break and violate; yea, and they think they may lawfully do it: which may well and sufficiently be proved by such matters as passed in these times in the Empire of Constantinople; which, for that they make to our purpose and history, I will here briefly recite, although so great accidents require a long relation: and so for a while we will leave OTHO fled and banished into England, and PHILIP to enjoy his victory. In Constantinople then reigned ISAC or ISACIUS (of whom we have made mention) as a just Prince and good Governor; who with a great sum of money redeemed a brother of his, a valiant and excellent Captain, called ALEXUS, who in the wars was taken prisoner by the Turks: to whom after his coming to his Court (besides the Lands & estate allowed him for his maintenance) he gave so great authority and command in the government, that all matters of greatest importance were ordered by his direction; and he being in this favour, the devil, ambition, and desire to reign, possessed him; so as, to bring his purpose to effect, he resolved to break all laws both divine and humane, together with the bands wherein he stood bound to his sovereign Lord and brother: for, in requital of the benefits received, with the help and assistance of such as himself, he apprehended his brother, and put out his eyes, and seized upon the Empire to his own behoof: and a son of ISACIUS, called after his treacherous Uncle's name, ALEXUS, fled, and came into Germany to the Emperor PHILIP, whose wife YRENE was this young man's sister: but as PHILIP was not so firmly seated in his Empire, as to be able to secure and relieve another, by reason of his wars with OTHO, so he could not then do as he would have done. At that time by chance (or else it was Gods will it should be so) were in Venice, BALDWIN Noblemen in Venice. Earl of Flanders, and his brother HENRY; and BONIFACE marquis of Monferrato; L●…WES Earl of Savoy; and other Noble Personages, with many soldiers and men of war; induced to meet there, by Pope INNOCANT, for the conquest of jerusalem and the holy Land: where they stayed for shipping to go on their voyage; whither came, recommended to them by the Emperor PHILIP, this young ALEXUS. Whereupon these Princes (by the consent of the Duke and Senate of Venice, and of the Pope) concluded to go against the Tyrant ALEXUS: whereto the Venetians gave great aid, sending an Admiral with a great fleet. The league and accord being made with the Nephew ALEXUS; he promised, that being restored, he would reduce the Greek Church to the obedience of the Latin; and many other matters in recompense: and so they departed with a good and prosperous wind. And omitting such accidents as befell them in their voyage (wherein they took the I'll of Creta, now called Candia, and other places) it was so, that they arrived near to the City of Constantinople, where the Tyrant ALEXUS in a readiness awaited their coming, with a very great number of soldiers; and they, setting their men on land, had a battle with T●…EODORE LASCARUS the Tyrant's son-in-law, who salied forth with an Army to fight with them: and he being overthrown, they pursued him to the gates of the City, which they besieged both by sea and land. At the end of eight days which they had been there (wherein were many brave skirmishes and fierce encounters) the Tyrant ALEXUS, seeing that he could not prevail, fled out of the City by night; and after him followed the most part of his complices: and the next day, the Citizens opening the Ports, took the blind Emperor ISACIUS out of prison, and with him went forth to t●…e Camp; where very willingly they took the son to be Emperor, together with the father: and he was with great solemnity received into the City, and crowned in the Church of Saint SOPHIA, in the presence of all the Latin Captains; wherewith the blind father was greatly recomforted; and it seemed that all went well, and to the contentment of all men: and the Knights and Commanders of the Latins, to avoid the scandals which might arise between their people and the citizens, went to their Tents in the Camp. In the mean while that the new Emperor and his father made payment to the Venetians of what they had promised, and had accomplished the same, the Greeks greatly murmuring for the natural hatred which they bore against the Latins, the blind Emperor ISACIUS died; and then presently began new scandals and tumults in the City, they all exclaiming against the promises made by the young ALEXUS to the Latins; and alleging that they aught not to be performed, put themselves in Arms against them: but yet the new Emperor desired to have throughly accomplished the same. Yet some Authors lay this breach to his charge; saying, that he would not hold his word. Finally, the matter fell so out, that the tumult infinitely increasing, one MIRTILLUS, who had been a Favourite of the Emperor ISACIUS (being the chief occasion of this mutiny, and whom the Greeks chose for their General, calling him Emperor) went to the Palace where the new Emperor ALEXUS was, and with his own hand slew him, within one month after his coronation: and the new upstart Traitor MIRTILLUS was set in his place, who presently studied how he might set the fleet of the Venetians, and of the Princes of the Latins, on fire, and to cut off all victuals from them, and by assaulting them in their lodgings, to have overthrown and defeated them; but the effect ensued after another manner: for, after many skirmishes, slaughters, and effusion of much blood (which for brevity I omit) the Latins had the victory, the Tyrant fled, and they were Lords of the City, together with all the country round about it. And forasmuch as the Empire was without any lawful successor, and that they had made a conquest thereof, by a general consent they resolved to choose an Emperor; and, making among themselves fifteen Electors, BALDWIN Earl of Flanders was chosen and created Emperor, and for such was sworn, received and obeyed: and the Patriarch, THOMAS MOROSINI, a Venetian Gentleman, presently went unto Rome, where his Prelacy, and the Emperor's election, and all the rest, was approved and confirmed by the Pope; and he with his own hands invested him, and gave to him for the Emperor the Imperial Ensigns. This great attempt being achieved by these Captains, according to their first agreement they divided what they had gotten; and the Lands of Creta, now Candia, and Euboea now Negrepont, were given to the Venetians, which they have held unto this day: and for as much as the I'll of Candia was first given to BONIFACE, marquis of Monferrato; the Country of Thessalia, which is a Province of Macedonia, was given him, with the title of King; with other rewards and shares given to other Princes, aswell in the Lands, as in the Main; of which remained estates, and houses, which I omit: and so the Empire continued BALDWIN'S and his successors, for the space of more than 60. years; with such adventures, as you shall hear hereafter: but Adrianople rebelling, defending itself all this while; THEODORE LASCARUS the Emperor ALEXUS son in law, who (as we said) salied out to fight with the Latins, being gotten into the same. The new Emperor, BALDWIN, besieged that City, and died before it, and his brother HENRY succeeded him in the Empire: the rest you shall understand when the turn cometh. Now let us return to our story of PHILIP Emperor of Germany, whom we left victorious; and to OTHO fled into England: yet let the Reader remember and abhor the treasons of ALEXUS and MIRTILLUS; whereof the one put out the eyes of his own brother; and the other murdered his sovereign Lord: and let him consider what ends they had, and therewith, how little stability and assurance there is in the Empires and principalities of this world; and with how unjust titles they are oftentimes gotten and possessed; of all which, there hath been a sufficient and apparent example, in that which hath now been spoken of the Greek Empire. The Emperor PHILIP having expelled OTHO out of Germany, he and his followers imagined that their adversaries should not be able any more to molest him: nevertheless in regard of peace, he being in disgrace with the Church of Rome; by the advice of the Princes which were assembled for that purpose, sent his Ambassadors to the Pope, excusing his doings, alleging the equity of his cause, entreating him to establish some peace in the Empire, to absolve him, and to confirm his election; and therewith yielded himself to his obedience. The Pope hearing the Ambassage, gave also ear to the treaties, and sent, for his Ambassadors, Cardinals, Legates of great account, to the Emperor, to treat of a peace: which being come, and with much honour received; among other motions, one was, that the Emperor should marry a daughter which he had, to RICHARD the Pope's Nephew; and should give him therewith the estates of Spoleto in Tuscan, and the Marca de Ancona, which belonged to the Church of Rome, and were in the Emperor's possession. This motion (as saith ABBAS WESPERGENSIS) was made by the Emperor, by that mean to win the Pope's grace and favour: yet some attribute it to the Pope. These and many other matters were motioned, and there were many meetings of Princes; whither his competitor OTHO also sent his Ambassadors; and afterwards came out of England into Saxony in person: And of the one side and of the other, many demands and offers were made (the Cardinal's Legates being umpiers and mediators between them) in the end, in a general meeting which was held in a Town on the borders of Saxony, OTHO being in a Castle near unto it, security being given by either party, a general peace was concluded, upon condition that OTHO should marry with the daughter of the Emperor PHILIP, and be held for king of the Romans, and future Emperor after the decease of PHILIP: Which agreement was confirmed & sworn, and a general pardon was given by one to the other, and the Pope dispensed with their near enesse of blood; and all such as were excommunicate, were absolved by the Pope's Legates: and so all was in peace and quiet, and OTHO remained the Emperor's son in law, and heir apparent, and for such was presently sworn, and the Legates returned to Rome: All which passed in the year of our Lord 1207, wherewith all men were very glad and well contented, hoping that it would have long continued; for PHILIP was an exceeding liberal and courteous Prince, and dearly beloved generally of all men. But it otherwise happened: for the year following, the Emperor being in the Town of Bambergh, for the recovery of his health; OTHO Count Palatine Witilspach, who had been his deadly enemy (and was so still in secret) came to the Emperor's court, showing himself publicly to be his loyal servant. His coming (as it afterwards appeared) was but to practise the Emperor's death, and as a traitor to kill him, which PHILIP nothing suspected. The Emperor being one day after dinner in his chamber reposing himself upon his bed, for that he finding himself somewhat ill, had been let blood that day; the Count Palatine called at his chamber door, accompanied with some which were acquainted with his pretence: and the Emperor understanding who he was, made the door to be opened, notwithstanding that none were with him but his Chancellor the Bishop of Spire, and a page which waited on his Cup, called HENRY of Wilspurch, without any weapons: the Count Palatine at his entrance, imagining the time now fit for him to execute his devilish intent and treason, at the door took his sword from a page which carried the same; and suddenly drawing it, before that the Bishop orpage could rescue him, wounded the Emperor in the throat: which wound, although it The death of the Emperor Philip. were not great, yet it was mortal, and he presently died thereof, the organ pipes being cut. The Page, making a loud outcry, would have shut the door, to the intent that the Count Palatine should not have gotten forth: but he gave him a sore wound over the face, and opening the door departed: and joining with the Bishop of Bambergh, and the marquis of Histria, which were his confederates in this treason, they all together fled from the Court, upon post horses which they had laid for that purpose. This murder was committed upon the 22. day of june, in the year of our Lord 1208. in the tenth year of this Emperor's reign. Great was the tumult which grew hereof, and the concourse of the people which ran to the Emperor's chamber: who finding him dead, made great moan and lamentation for him (for he was a Prince well beloved, for the nobleness and liberality of his mind) all men abhorring the Count Palatines treason: for which he escaped not unpunished; for he was slain by the Emperor's steward HENRY, in revenge of his Lord's death. The Emperor PHILIP had never any son, but four daughters then married, one with OTHO the King of the Romans, when the peace was made between them, which OTHO succeeded him: and another with the King of Bohemia, another with the Duke of Brabant's eldest son, and the fourth with RICHARD Earl of Tuscan; nephew to Pope INNOCENT. In Constantinople reigned HENRY the brother of BALDWIN, of whom we of late made mention. THE LIFE OF OTHO, THE FIFT OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDREDTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. AFter the death of the Emperor Philip, Otho without any contradiction was taken for Emperor; and, notwithstanding that he was chosen for his successor in Philip's time, it pleased the Electros to choose him anew: and he being confirmed, was crowned by the Bishop of Colen. After the ceremonies were ended, he applied himself to persecute the murderers of Philip; and notwithstanding that he was well pleased with his death, nevertheless he made this show of revenge. He came afterwards to be crowned in Rome: but a great tumult arising between his people and the citizens, he departed in choler with the Pope, and made war upon him; so as the Pope excommunicated him; and deprived him of the Empire. Whereupon, many Princes of Germany, denying him their obedience, chose another Emperor, which was Frederick, King of Sicilia: and although that Otho sought by many means to recover the Empire, yet he could never attain thereto; and so died a private Lord in Saxony, when he had reigned five years. BY how much PHILIP was a better Emperor than his competitor OTHO, it was not long before the same According to the German Emperors this Otho should be the fourth: but holding the ordinary course he was the Fist of that name. OTHO made it apparent; notwithstanding that in the beginning he gave some signs to the contrary: so as we may hold the old proverb to be true, which saith, that Authority will manifest a man. As soon as the violent death of PHILIP was published, the agreement being yet fresh in memory, that OTHO should succeed him; by common consent he was held for Emperor: yet he held not the dignity long, being cast down by the Pope's sentence which had raised him: and notwithstanding that in the life time of PHILIP he had been twice crowned, nevertheless the princes, electors (according to the ancient custom) met at Frauckford; and he being there chosen again went to Aken, and there was crowned by the Archbishop of Colen, although with some delay; for the Archbishop of Spire, who was Chancellor to the late Emperor PHILIP, and was present (as we said) when he was slain, had lodged himself in a very strong Castle; and would not deliver the Sceptre, the Cross, the Crown, and the Imperial ensigns, which remained in his custody; except he were first confirmed in his office of Chancellor: whereupon the new Emperor confirmed him; and so was crowned peaceably with great solemnity: which being ended, Pope INNOCENT'S Legates came to him (who had ever been his friend) to congratulate his election, and to approve and confirm the same 〈◊〉 the coming of which Legates, the Emperor attended in the city of Hiperboli; and they delivered their ambassade, and treated of other matters concerning the general peace and public good: and offered the Emperor in the behalf of the Pope, that if he would come to Rome, the Pope would crown him with his own hands, as his predecessors had done. OTHO having dispatched these Legates, he took his way towards Suevia, to take possession thereof, in the right of his wife the Emperor PHILIP'S daughter; with whom, at the conclusion of the peace he was married; and to whom (he said) that state did appertain: yet FREDERICK King of Sicilia, PHILIPS nephew, who afterwards was Emperor, was called Duke of Suevia; and was so afterwards. OTHO coming into Suevia (protesting his coming thither to be, to quiet the troubles, by suppressing robberies and violences committed in that country; much whereof he redressed) gave so ill entertainment and countenance to the Earls, Barons, and Gentlemen of that great Duchy, that many of them abandoned the country; and he made himself to be generally ill beloved: yet there wanted not some, which to flatter him, commended his doings (a thing which maketh Kings and Princes most to err, and to continued in their errors). And within few days after he went to Augsburgh, which is in the same province; whither he summoned the Princes to come; and with their consent he proceeded against OTHO, Count Palatine of Witilspach, (who murdered the Emperor PHILIP) and against such as were his complices in the murder: all which were condemned, being absent, as guilty of high treason, and were deprived of all the dignities, goods and lands which they possessed; of which, some he bestowed upon others, and part he confisked to the chamber of the Empire. And notwithstanding that all men presumed that he was well pleased with the death of PHILIP, yet he inflicted this punishment; and outwardly made show of much sorrow for the same: and some were of opinion that the Count Palatine murdered the Emperor PHILIP, in hope that his successor OTHO would have rewarded him for the fact. But whatsoever any man thought, he did as I say, and well might he be pleased with his death; and displeased with the treason. By means of this punishment, and for righting some other wrongs; he began in many men's opinion to be reputed a good Emperor, and a great justicer: yet amongst men of the better sort he was blamed, for the oppression which he used, both in Suevia and in other places: but in the beginning he was without contradiction obeyed of all men. Few days after this, in the month of March, in the year 1209, he summoned a general Parliament or Diet, to be held in the city of Haguena; where the principal point that was handled, was but how to get aid and relief from the Princes and estates of the Empire, towards his journey into Italy, to be crowned in Rome: and it was concluded, that he should do so; and many offered him their service, and to accompany him in that journey: and so he, and they which were to go with him, levied their forces, and put themselves in a readiness, with such expedition that in the beginning of july following, they all met in the city of Augsburgh; from whence he took his way towards Italy: first leaving his wife the Empress in Saxony, in the city of Branschaiel, which was his inheritance; which, with other towns, he held and defended, being part of the estate of HENRY the proud, when he was deposed; and descending down through the valleys of Trent, he went directly to Verona; where he was received and obeyed as A Council held by the Emperor in Bologna. their Lord: and from thence went to Milan, and by other cities of Lombardy, to Bologna; whither he summoned the cities of Lombardy, and all the towns and cities subject to the Empire in Italy, to come to a Council: wherein he was so fortunate, that all obeyed, and came at his summons peaceably, and furnished him with men and money for his journey; and many Earls and Barons accompanied him in person, in such sort, that he departed thence very strong towards Rome; where Pope INNOCENT attended his coming, and he and all his Nobles which came with him, were there received with great joy, and he himself was crowned in S. PETER'S Church by the Pope; who had much desired to see that day, persuading himself that he should have had a great friend of him, seeing that he had ever procured his greatness against the Emperor PHILIP: and the Emperor, after the accustomed manner, swore obedience to the Church of Rome, and to enlarge, and not to usurp the patrimony thereof: which he afterwards hardly performed. The same day, between his soldiers, which remained in his Camp near to the walls of Rome (part whereof were come to see the city) and the citizens, arose so great a tumult and bickering, that above a thousand of the Emperor's men were slain; wherewith he was very much incensed; and so was the Pope, who indeed was his friend: And seeing that greater inconveniences were likely to have ensued, he departed, and came directly to Milan with his Army, accusing and blaming the Pope for what had passed; and in Milan he was received and obeyed, and lay there all the winter, which was very tempestuous. Leaving there his Imperial ensigns (wherewith the Milanois held themselves greatly honoured) reinforcing his Army (for that he had discharged a great part thereof) he departed in the Spring, to make a conquest of the Church lands; first in the province of Tuscan, where he took many places: and thence he went into the Marca de Ancona, where he did the like, and could not be resisted: and from thence it was thought that he would have made war in the territory of Rome, and have besieged The Emperor made wars against the Pope. the city. The Pope sent his Legates unto him, putting him in mind of the favours and good offices which he had done him; and to require and admonish him to desist from his enterprise: but the Emperor making no account thereof, leaving garrisons in those towns, marched towards the kingdom of Naples, and began to make war against FREDERICK king of Sicilia: and took (the young King mistrusting no such matter) the city of Capua, and many others in those quarters: wherewith the Pope was no less displeased then with the former, but rather more, for that he held those kingdoms as feodatorie to the Church of Rome; and also for that the Pope had the protection and government of the young King: so that the Pope, seeing that all his Ambassages and admonitions prevailed not, resolved to use a more violent course, proceeding against him by censures and excommunications, and by his Letters and messengers excommunicated him through all Italy and Germany: and he also excommunicated all such as followed him, or did him service: which excommunications some prelate's obeyed; wheruepon new troubles began. But the Emperor regarded it not, but was rather therewith the more incensed, and prospered well in the war, taking all Pulia, and Calabria; and placing garrisons in the Castles and fortresses, made account to have been King thereof. Whereupon the Pope levied soldiers, and fortified the city of Rome, fearing to have been besieged; and again sent into Germany, to proclaim and publish the Emperor for deprived; and to release his subjects from the homage and faith which they aught him. CARION writes, that Pope INNOCENT the Third seeing that all Italy in a manner had yielded voluntarily unto OTHO, and fearing that the Pope's power & command would be thereby much shortened and restrained, for that he could not so suddenly repulse the victor by Arms, he flew to the weapon of excommunication, in which alone (whilst that superstition swayed and overruled men's consciences) they reposed all their safety. This, being fearful to men grounded in superstition, not only expelled, OTHO out of all Italy, but utterly overthrew him and ruined him; the Princes of Germany being persuaded by the Archbishop of Mentz (who was the chief Instrument of the Pope's tyranny in Germany, and the executioner of his unjust decrees) to reject OTHO, and to sand for FREDERICK the son of HENRY, to whom they had promised the Empire being a child before PHILIP and OTHO. OTHO being advertised hereof, and that the Archbishop of Mentz, the Lantzgrave of Turinge, and some others, clavae to the Pope; and that there were both private and public treaties and practices against him, with the King of Bohemia, the Duke of Austria, and other Princes, he was much afraid: and leaving garrisons in such places as he had taken, in great haste he left the kingdom of Naples, and marching by long journeys, came into Germany, in the year of our Lord 1212, and called a Council in the city of Norimbergh; in which Council it was decreed, that he should make war against the Archbishop of Mentz, and the Lantzgrave of Turinge: and so the war began, and was very cruel. At this time died his wife the Empress, daughter to the Emperor PHILIP. Notwithstanding all this, HARMAN Lantzgrave of Turinge, SIFRIDE Archbishop of Mentz, the King of Bohemia, the Duke of Austria, the Archbishop of Trevier, and others which resolved to take Arms with them, and to obey the Pope's censures, and to deny their obedience to the Emperor; taking the Pope's advice in the matter, who in all interposed his authority, chose FREDERICK King of Sicilia for Emperor; who was but a youth, little more than eighteen years old: and sent their Ambassadors unto him, with their authority, soliciting him to come into the Empire; alleging that in right he was and aught to be Emperor, for that he was chosen and sworn King of the Romans, in the time of his father HENRY the Sixt: the like reason they gave to the other Princes in Germany: whereat Pope INNOCENT greatly rejoiced, and in word and deed approved the same. OTHO herewith was very much troubled, and seeking means to defend his estate, made terrible wars against his adversaries. The German Ambassadors were well received by the King of Sicilia, who was in great doubt to undertake so great an enterprise; but being persuaded by them, and by the French Kings Letters (who was Frederick king of Sicilia chosen Emperor. OTHO'S enemy, for his strict alliance to the house of England) he consented thereto, and was called Emperor. FREDERICK having in this manner accepted the Empire; he first applied himself to recover such towns as OTHO had taken from him in the Kingdom of Naples; which being done, with the greatest power he could raise, he took his way towards Germany; and in his journey went to kiss the Pope's foot, and to entreat him that he might be crowned Emperor of the Romans, seeing that he was called and chosen: but the Pope resolved him that his request could not be granted, for that thereby the ancient custom in the election and coronation of Emperors should be perverted: and so encouraging him to proceed in his enterprise, he sent his Legate with him, to be present at his Coronation in Germany; and therein to use his authority, and to proceed against such as were disobedient, or rebelled against him. Herewith the Emperor elect continued his journey; wherein, the cities of Pavia and Cremona, and some other, aided and assisted him; Milan and the rest being against him. Finally, with much trouble and danger he arrived at the city of Constance in Germany, whither many men of war repaired to him, together with some Princes which were of his faction: which, OTHO understanding, as he was very valiant, so with the greatest power he could levy he went to that city, thinking to have been able to have either slain or overthrown this new Emperor FREDERICK: but the men of war which he brought with him, daily forsook him and went over to FREDERICK; in such sort, that seeing himself abandoned, he retired into his country: and FREDERICK, very mighty, and accompanied with a great Army, marched along the river of Rhine, to the city of Mentz; where many prelate's and Prince's were assembled; all forsaking OTHO, holding him for deprived, in performance of the Pope and his Legates commandment: amongst which, thither came the Archbishops and Bishops of Mentz, Trevier, Colen, Constance, Basil, Spire, Hiperboli, the King of Bohemia, the Lantzgrave of Turinge, the Count Palatine of Rhine, besides those which were already come with him; from whence, after the handling and concluding of many matters, FREDERICK departed towards Aken, where he was crowned with the first crown, in the presence of the Pope's Legate, Frederick crowned with the first crown in Aken. who approved and confimed his election; and so he attained to the Empire: and for his better assurance in that estate, he procured peace and a league with PHILIP, than King of France. The Emperor OTHO seeing himself in Saxony thus forsaken, got from England, and other parts, such forces as he could, and came into the country of Gelder's, where he made cruel war, for that it held with FREDERICK; and from thence, together with the Earl of Flanders, who was of that faction (for that he married with JOAN daughter to BALDWIN Earl of Flanders, which held the Empire of Constantinople, and at that time joined with England against France, and with the Earl of Bologna in France who had rebelled) they went to join with the King of England's forces, to fight with the French King (which OTHO did for the alliance between him and the house of England) thinking, by overthrowing the King of France, who was enemy to them both, he should be restored to his Empire. But his conceits deceived him: for the King of France came and fought a battle with them, near to the city of Tournay; which is recorded to have been very bloody and cruel, wherein the French king was in great danger to have been slain by the Emperor OTHO, who dismounted him: but he being rescued, encouraging his people, obtained the victory; and OTHO escaped by flight, but the Earl of Flanders was taken prisoner, and some other principal men: and OTHO in the best manner that he could got into Saxony; void of all hope to recover the Empire, when he had been Emperor the space of five years, and they not fully expired; and there with sorrow and anguish he ended his days. How long he lived after that he was deposed, authors writ not: but true it is, that his reign as Emperor, ended in the year of our Lord 1213. In Constantinople (as writeth BLONDUS) the same day that OTHO was overthrown, HENRY (brother to the Greek Emperor BALDWIN) died; who being Earl of Flanders obtained that Empire; and having made war with the Duke of Walachia (which is part of the ancient Dacia) he made a peace with him, marrying himself with his daughter, and he gave his own daughter to PETER, Earl ALTISIODORENSIS: and he (as I said) dying at this time without any heir, the said Earl PETER had the Empire, and came afterwards to Rome, and was crowned by the Pope. In the time of the Emperor OTHO (by whose aid, and the assistance of HENRY Emperor of Constantinople, an excellent French captain, called JOHN de Bregna, had the kingdom of the East, with the title of King of jerusalem; being called thereto, only for the valour of his person; marrying him with the daughter of ISABEL, to whom that kingdom appertained, as is aforesaid) the Captains and masters of those parts denied their obedience to ALME●…ICUS King of Cyprus, of whom particular mention hath been made. And so JOHN de Bregna had that kingdom, of whom we must of necessity speak hereafter: for which cause we remember him in this place. THE LIFE OF FREDERICK, THE SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND THE HUNDRETH AND FIRST ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. FRederick having obtained the Empir, made a solemn vow to go to the wars of the Holy land; and coming to be crowned in Italy, was earnestly persuaded thereto by the Pope; whereupon he entered into the Crusade; and deferring his going, many Lords went into the East without him. In the mean tim●… there grew discord between him and the Pope, for that he withheld certain lands belonging to the Church, anlfor deposing certain Bishops from their Bishoprics in Sicilia, and placing others at his pleasure; upon which occasions the Pope proceeded against him with his pontifical Arms, and excommunicated him: But the King of jerusalem coming afterwards into Italy, and giving the Emperor, his daughter to wife; he was absolved, and he again promised to go to the wars in the East: but delaying the time, and finding daily new occasions to defer his going, he was in the end again excomunicate; by reason whereof he resolved to go: but being arrived in the East, he procured an agreement with the Sultan, and obtained the city of jerusalem, and therein was crowned: but this satisfied not the Pope, neither the Christian Princes; and then he returned into Europe with small reputation, and went into Germany, where his son (through his Father's absence) had taken upon him very great authority, whereof grew some suspicions between them, which were soon ended; nevertheless, the Emperor coming into Italy (by reason of Lombardy) and finding that his son was his enemy, he causing him to be apprehended, made him to die in prison: and bending his forces against Lombardy, principally against Milan, he used such rigour, that the Pope become his open enemy; and calling a Council to be held in Lions in France, he excommunicated him, and induced the electors to choose a new Emperor: which was the Lantzgrave Henry, who lived but a while after, and then the Earl of Holland was chosen, against whom his son Conrade continually warred, although with no great success. But Frederick being in Italy, seeking to be revenged of certain Cities which rebelled, and seeing that his enemies become daily more mighty, by reason of an Overthrow given him, he with drew himself with dishonour into Pulia, where falling sick he died (as it was thought) through the practice of his base son manfred, when he had held the Empire, about five and thirty years. IN such manner as I have declared, had this second FREDERICK the Empire, and therewith the Duchy of Suevia; having first been King of Naples, Sicilia and Sardinia, and held the same the space of thirty and odd years, with great revolutions, wars, battles and troubles, as you shall hear: wherefore I must spend more time in writing the history of his life, than of some others. He was at no less variance with the Church o●… Rome, than the other FREDERICK his Grandfather was before him; and it now seemed to be an hereditary malady, through which the Emperors and the Popes never failed to be at contention and discord; for the Popes would uphold their Supreme Authority, their Lands also and Patrimony; whose only study and care was to make all old Italy which is divided from Lombardy by the river of Rubicon, subject to the City of Rome, from whence they had excluded the Emperors; The Pope's knowing that what they attempted, they should never attain unto, nor long maintain the authority which they had gotten, unless they should suppress the Emperor's growing power in Italy, neither could the wars be ever pacified, until they had gotten all they desired, or wrested away part: Neither did they as Popes do in these days, enrich their kinsfolks with the goods of the Church, but to settle and enlarge their dominion. This CARION writes, and this experience hath seen verified. The Emperors after they had obtained the Empire, and were established in their thrones, pretending that all the jurisdiction and supreme power in temporal causes, both in Germany and in Italy appertained to them, could therefore endure no superiority; and there wanted not men of either side to persuade them that they had reason: and sometimes ambition and covetousness Discord betwixt the Pope and the Emperor. of either side were the occasions of the miseries before mentioned, and of such as we will relate. FREDERICK seeing himself freed from his adversary OTHO; the better to justify his title and reign, caused a new assembly and meeting to be held of the Princes of the Empire, and of the deputies of the Imperial Cities, and went to Aken, where he caused himself to be the second time crowned with great solemnity; and then he made a public solemn vow, within a certain time to go in person to the wars and conquest of the City of jerusalem, for Frederick the second time crowned. the victory which God had given him: and in requital of the aid and favour received from Pope INNOCENT, he gave for ever to the Church of Rome the City and County of Fundi; with all which the Pope was very glad. After this coronation, FREDERICK went through sundry provinces, and making himself absolute Lord thereof, brought them to his obedience as to their Emperor. And for as much as HENRY Duke of Brabant had not yet done him homage, he with all the speed possible, with a great Army, marched into that province: and the Duke seeing himself in danger, sought his favour, offering to obey, and to do him service, and was admitted, he giving his son and other Noble men of his house, for hostages and assurance thereof. Few days after this (by the Emperor's consent) Pope INNOCENT called a general Council in the City of Rome, whither came from all parts of Christendom, Greek and Latin, the Patriarches of jarusalem and Constantinople, threescore and ten Archbishops metropolitans, four hundred and twelve Bishops, eight hundred and odd Priors and Abbats coventuall; and Ambassadors from the Emperor FREDERICK and King of Sicilia, from the Emperor of Constantinople, from the A Council held by the Pope in the city of Rome Kings of France, England, Spain, Arragon, Hungary, Cyprus and jerusalem; and from other Kings and Princes: in which Council were condemned certain sects newly risen in France; but the chiefest matter that therein was handled, was for the wars and conquest of the City of jerusalem, whereto they all gave their consent, promising aid and assistance. The Pope sent his Leters into all parts of Christendom, inciting all men to this holy war: granting large Indulgences and Pardons to such as died in that action: and all such as gave their names to go to that war, took for their device the sign of the Cross of jerusalem, which they ware upon their garments, and were called Croisats. And so an infinite number of men, and many Princes took the same: amongst which in Germany the Emperor FREDERICK took it, and HENRY Duke of Brabant, the Duke of Moravia, the Duke of juliers, the Count Palatine of Tubingen, the Marquis of Baden, the Earl of Nassao, the Duke of Limburgh and other Princes; with the Archbishop of Mentz, and many other Bishops: and in France, were m●…ny which prepared and armed themselves for this expedition, which afterwards took no such effect as the preparation seemed to prognosticate. Among other matters, the great wars between the Pisans and the Genoayes (then two mighty common wealths by sea) was a great let and hindrance; wherefore the Council being ended (which was one of the most famous that ever had been) the Pope went from Rome to Perugia, that by his authority he might settle some peace or truce between these two Commonwealths; where, within few days, without concluding aught, he died, having The death of Pope Innocent and the election of Honorius. governed the Church of Rome eighteen years and a half. He being dead, HONORIUS the Third was chosen, who in the beginning of his Papacy crowned PETER and his wife, Emperor of Constantinople; who (as I have heretofore told you) succeeded his father-in-law HENRY. While these matters passed, the Emperor FREDERICK applied himself to settle and confirm his estate in the Empire; and to provide for his coming into Italy to be crowned in Rome, deferring his journey to jerusalem until this were done. But Pope HONORIVs (having a prophecy revealed unto him, importing that in his time the City of jerusalem, should be recovered) used all means possible to 'cause those which had undertaken the same to departed A voyage into the holy land. into the East, and never ceased to urge the Emperor FREDERICK to accomplish the vow which he had made; threatening him with censures if he performed not the same: but the Emperor delaying his going; by the Pope's persuasion there went into the East, ANDREW King of Hungary, the Dukes of Baviere and Austria; and out of France, the Earl of Nivers, WALTER the King's chamberlain, and other great men; and with them went JOHN de Columna the Popes Legate, with so many good men of war, that it was hoped they would have effected some great matter: who being arrived in Palestina in Asia, in the harbour of Ptolomaida, otherwise called Acon; after certain consultations, joining themselves with JOHN de Bregna, King of jerusalem, and with the Masters of the Knight's Templars, of S. JOHN, and the Dutch Orders and all their forces, whose number was great; they departed thence with a prosperous wind to the City of Damietta, called in ancient time Pelusium, on the coast of Egypt, in one of the mouths of the river of Nilus where it falleth into the sea; which they besieged the space of eighteen months: in which time many accidents befell, which the Authors writ, and I overpass as nothing to my purpose. The Sultan of Egypt was heerwith so much put to his shifts, that he offered to give up the City of jerusalem and the Territories thereof, upon condition that they would raise their siege from before Damietta: and notwithstanding that there were sundry opinions between the Kings and Princes concerning the same, yet in the end it was concluded jerusalem dismantled by the Sultan's son of Egypt. The city of Damietta in Egypt taken from the Sultan by the Christians. not to accept thereof; wherein they greatly erred, as by the sequel it appeared. In the mean time, the Sultan's son CORDIRIUS, who was in jerusalem, seeing what distress Damietta was in, and that both he and his father were out of hope to defend jerusalem, threw down and ruinated all the walls thereof. In the end, the Christians took the City of Damietta, and certain other Towns in that Quarter, and in all things had then good success, although afterwards the contrary ensued. At this time, which was in the year of our Lord 1220, the Emperor FREDERICK came into Italy; and by Letters and Ambassages understanding the Pope's mind, came to Rome, and was therein received and crowned, with the ceremonies and solemnities accustomed, and there he again vowed and bound himself, to make his voyage into the East, promising also great matters to the Pope: but being out of Rome, their friendship continued not long, for he presently seized certain towns into his hands, pretending that they appertained unto him. CARION writes, that FREDERICK coming into Italy certain Noble men of Tuscanie and Apulia with some Bishops falling from their allegiance to the Emperor, by the Pope's instigation invaded both what belonged to the Empire and to FREDERICK by inheritance, whereof some places they took and held, others they spoilt and burnt: the Emperor being incensed with their perfidious treachery, came to Arms: and having happily subdued his enemies he displaced the Bishops and subrogated others in their places. The rest which had fled unto the Pope (the Author of the sedition) deprived both of dignity and estate he condemned to perpetual banissiment. The Pope requiring to have these restored, the Emperor in a grave Oration refused him, inveighing bitterly against the ambition, pride, fraud, and practices of Popes; whose speech is yet extant. This bred a bitter hatred between them, which burst forth into cruel wars. Than the Emperor came into Lombardy, to settle that estate; and passing through Tuscan, there arose some controversy between his soldiers and the inhabitants of that country: the like happened afterwards in Lombardy; so as he began to grow odious, and ill beloved: and from thence he gave a turn to visit his kingdoms of Sicilia and Naples; where, besides the taking of some towns and places from the Pope, he placed certain Bishops, in some Churches displacing such as the Pope had installed therein; alleging that the Kings of Sicilia had a privilege to do so. Whereupon the Pope and he fell at open variance, and the Pope proceeded against him by his fulminations, commanding him particularly to accomplish his vow, for the conquest of the Holy-land, and pronounced him for excommunicate, if within a prefixed time he restored not what he had taken; and performed not his vow: and so this contention continuing, he seizing many towns into his hands (which he left garrisoned and fortified) returned into Germany. Whilst these matters passed in Italy, great discord and dissension arose in the Army in the East, between the kings and princes, and the Pope's Legate about the superiority, and at what time, and in what manner the war was to be made: but finally, the Christians agreed to take the field, and to besiege the great city of Babylon in Egypt, called Cair, and other Towns thereabouts, in the month of july, in the year 1221, with an Army of threescore and ten thousand Babylon besieged by the Christians excellent men of war, foot and horse, besides grooms and horse-boyes. And notwithstanding that the Sultan had an exceeding huge Army, yet he durst not, or would not fight with them, of purpose prolonging the war, until that about two months after (the Christians having not encamped themselves in such place and order, as was convenient, and as they aught to have done) the river Nilus swollen and overflowed, as it usually doth in that country yearly in August: Besides which, the Sultan caused the dikes and banks thereof to be broken and cut, which in ancient time were made for a defence, and to keep in the waters of that river: so as the Christians Camp was environed with water, in such sort that they could not forage or get any victuals: finally, they were so distressed, that they sent to the Sultan (who lay not fare from them) offering to come to a composition with him: In conclusion (to be be brief, and to return to my History) after many treaties between the Kings, the Legate; and A peace between the Christians and the Sultan. the Sultan; a peace or truce was concluded for eight years, and that he should suffer them freely to departed; and that therewith they should presently tender the City of Damietta, and such other towns of less importance, which they held in Egypt; and that all Captives of either side should have liberty; and that the Christians should departed with their troops, to the Cities of Ptolomaida, Tyre, and such other places as they held in Soria. These conditions being agreed upon, the Sultan made provision for them, and holp them upon their way, until they came to Damietta; where the Christians again fell at variance amongst themselves, about giving up of the City: but in the end it was yielded, and the Christian army returned into Palestina, part by land and part by sea. And from the port of Ptolomaida the king of jerusalem returned to his country; and the king of Hungary, and the other Dukes, into Europe, unto theirs; with little contentment and less joy; extreme sad and sorrowful for their ill success; having done little or nothing to any purpose: by reason whereof, there was great sorrow and heaviness through all Christendom; and all men murmured against the Emperor FRBDERICK, for that he went not that journey. In the next year, which was in the year of our Lord 1222, the Emperor stmmoned a Council to be held in the City of Hiperboli, where he procured the electors to make his young son HENRY, of the age of 〈◊〉 years, king of the Romans; and so he caused him to be crowned in the City of Aken. Presently after this, JOHN de Bregna king of jerusalem, seeing the small power of the Christians in the East, resolved to come in person to seek relief, leaving the best garrisons in the country that he could (not withstanding the truce) and came from Soria into Italy and went to Rome, where the Pope gave him honourable entertainment, and he presently undertaken to be a mediator between the Pope and the Emperor, who then was a widower; whereby a peace was made in this manner: The King of jerusalem gave his only daughter in marriage to the Emperor, with the right of inheritance to the kingdom of jerusalem: And the Pope absolved him of his excommunication: Whereupon he promised presently after the marriage to go with his whole power to the wars in the East, and to reform all matters whereof the Pope accused him; and to restore such lands as he held from his Church. Upon this agreement he came from Germany to Rome, whither the king's daughter of jerusalem was brought; and the marriage was solemnised with great joy and feasting. By this title, and by the marriage of this Lady with the Emperor FREDERICK; CONRADE their son, and those which until this day have succeeded in the kingdoms of Sicilia and Naples, have been, and still are, called Kings of jerusalem. This being ended, the king of jerusalem went into France, where he received a great sum of money, which King PHILIP left him by his last will and testament, towards the wars: there he stayed certain days for the Emperor, whom all men believed (for that the inheritance of that country belonged to him, and for the great power and fit opportunity which he had, being King of Naples and Sicilia) would now have performed his vow and promise. But departing from Rome, he went with his spouse into the provinces of Pulia and Calabria, visiting his kingdoms, not caring to proceed on his journey, in more than two years space: for which cause, and for that he had not fully performed the agreement with the Pope, they again fell at variance. After this, his eldest son HENRY (who was in Germany) held a Council in Frankford; under pretext to procure certain Princes to go with their power to the conquest of jerusalem; to which the Emperor sent his Letters, certifying his speedy coming into Germany, to the end to go that journey: wherefore many Princes gave-in their names, promising to go with him. At this assembly was HENRY King of the Romans, the Emperor's son, married to MARGARET, daughter to the Duke of Austria. The year following, most of the cities in Lombardy made a league, and rebelling against the Emperor, denied him their obedience, alleging the principal ●…eason thereof to be, for that he was disobedient to the Church: wherewith he was very much displeased; and many ambassages were sent from the one to the other; and there were many tumults, and much levying of men, which continued many days; the Emperor pretending it to be the cause why he deferred his journey. At this time died Pope HONORIUS the Third, having been Pope ten years and half, in the end of the year 1226. This Pope is held for a very good Pope. The greatest reason why The death of Pope Honory and Gregory chosen. he is so esteemed, is, for that he solemnly confirmed the orders of the Franciscane and Dominicane Friars. After HONORIUS succeeded GREGORY the Ninth, an Italian borne, nephew to INNOCENT the Third. The first matter he took in hand, was to require the Emperor to restore what he detained from the Church of Rome, and to go the journey which he had vowed to jerusalem; publishing him for excommunicate, if within a certain time limited he did not put the same in execution; which he afterwards incurred: yet he presently answered, he was content to go from Sicilia, where he than was, and sent to his son to call a Council in the City of Aken in Germany; where (through his persuasion and the Emperor's letters) many Princes offered to go that journey: and the Emperor sent to them, that (with the greatest expedition that might be) they should repair into Italy, to the Port of Brundisium, which is in the remotest part thereof, whither he promised presently to come: whither repaired many men of war, Princes and Prelates, attending the Emperors coming all the summer: but he came not, pretending that he was sick. Which (as most Authors affirm) was but feigned: and as BLONDUS and others affirm, he treated under hand with the Sultan of Egypt, hoping to have concluded some peace with him before his going out of Sicilia into Italy: so as by reason of the great heat of the summer, the most of the men of war at Brundisium, and the Country thereabouts, attending his coming, died, together with many great Personages, amongst which was the Lantzgrave of Turinge, a rich and mighty Prince: which when the Emperor understood, he came to Brundisium, where he seized into his hands all the gold, silver, Arms and other things which the Lantzgrave brought with him; and it was said that the Emperor came thither for no other purpose. But the sickness increasing in the Army & Letters coming daily from the Pope; the Emperor, to perform his promise, departed with all his Army towards the East: but within few days sailing he returned, and arrived in Italy, alleging that contrary winds had constrained him so to do. But this was held but for feigned, and he was therefore ill spoken of by all men: and Pope GREGORY holding himself to be abused by the Emperor's promise (other discord and disagreement remaining betwixt them) sent to declare him excommunicate, and for such proclaimed him throughout all Germany and Italy. At this The Emperor Frederick the Second excommunicated by the Pope. time died the Empress, wife to the Emperor FREDERICK, and daughter to the King of jerusalem; who left behind her one son, whose name was CONRADE. CARION writes, that the Emperor lay sick in Brundisium, when as the Lantzgrave and divers others died; and that contrary winds drove him back, being in the Straitss of Peloponesus and Crete: yet the Pope began to thunder against him, taxing him with the crimes of perjury, adultery, cruelty to his wife, and with the loss of Damietta, for the which he did excommunicate him. He sent JOHN de Bregna, the Emperor's father-in-law, into Romagna, with the title of Exarch, and commanded the Earls of Tuscanie, with the Cities of Lombardy, to take arms. These matters which we have related being past; the Emperor, seeing himself in a straight by reason of the Pope's censures on the one side, and the entreaty of many of his friends on the other; with the greatest power that he could make, and with a great number of ships, set his course towards Soria, and landed in the City of Ptolomaida, otherwise called Acon: yet BLONDUS and some other say, that he first stayed in the I'll of Cyprus, and from thence sent a Captain with the greatest part of his Army to Acon; who by his commandment began a treaty of peace with the Sultan, before that he himself came to the war. FREDERICK coming afterwards thither, the Masters and Knights of the Orders of S. JOHN and the Templars ill agreed with him: for, they surmised he had intelligence and treated of a peace and agreement with the Sultan. And in Italy he was in no better terms with the Pope: for, RAINOLD, the Duke's son of Spoleto, whom he had left for Captain and Governer in the Kingdom of Naples, began to make war, and took certain places from the Church of Rome, in the Marca di Ancona and other parts. Whereupon, the Pope called to his aid JOHN de Bregna, King of jerusalem, who then was ready to have taken shipping, to have go to defend his countries in the East, and to have helped FREDERICK in the wars; which (it was thought) he would have done: and so open war began between the Pope and the Emperor's Captains and Countries. I have not read in any Author, in what manner he began and continued the war, during his abode in Palestina; only they say, that prosecuting the treaty of peace begun with the Sultan, it was concluded, and that they came to an agreement; which was, that the Sultan should deliver up the An agreement between the emperor and the Sultan. Cities of jerusalem, Nazareth, japha, and other places in that Kingdom; and should retain to himself certain fortresses of greatest importance, and that there should be peace & truce betwixt them for ten years. Many days were spent about this matter; and on Easter day, in the year of our Lord 1229, the Emperor entered jerusalem, and made himself to be crowned therein, and was called King of jerusalem. Than he presently sent an ambassage to Pope GREGORY, giving him to understand of all that had happened; therewith requesting him, seeing that he had accomplished his vow, to declare him absolved à poena et culpa, for his long delaying the same, and for some other matters. But when his Ambassador came, the Pope holding the peace and agreement made by the Emperor, dishonourable (sith the Sultan should continued in the possession of the fortresses and strong holds; presupposing, that as soon as the Emperor should have left those countries, the Sultan would presently resume them into his hands, as he afterwards did) protested that the Emperor had done this but only to make a show to have performed his vow: wherefore, and by reason of the wars which his Captains then and before that time had made against him; he affirmed, that the Emperor had made no satisfaction, nor was freed from the excommunication: and so practising with the Emperor's subjects in Pulia to renounce their obedience to their Sovereign, he recovered some Towns which had been taken from him; which when the Emperor understood, with the greatest speed that he possibly could make, he embarked himself, leaving part of his Army in Palestina, and the Towns fortified and garrisoned in the best manner he could; and with a fair gale of wind landed in Pulia, so as this enterprise of the Emperor FREDERICK the Second had no better success than the rest. Being arrived in Italy, those places which had rebelled and had held for the Pope, revolted and held for him; and he sent for men into Germany and into Sicilia; and began to war upon the Pope's towns, and took many of them: and notwithstanding that he seemed to have sped well in the war, yet he sought to be at peace with the Pope, by reason of some tumult and combustion in Germany. And by the intercession of the Master of the Order of the Knights and Friars, called Teutonicis (which like the Knights of S. JOHN and the Templars, lay in the East) and the Archbishop of Messina, a peace was concluded between the Pope and him: LEOPOLD A peace concluded between the Emperor and the Pope. Duke of Austria, with other Princes and Prelates of Germany, being there present. CARION writes that those Prelates and Princes of Germany were a whole year before they could pacify the Pope's displeasure against the Emperor: but in the end his choler was appeased with a hundred and twenty thousand ounces of gold; and so he was absolved and the towns were restored, and the Pope absolving him, proclaimed him King of jerusalem, Naples, and Sicilia; and they met at a place appointed, and with great show of love and good will dined together at one table, and so a peace was concluded between them for that time; wherein; and touching that which I have already written, were sundry opinions, as the custom is in this world, some excusing the Emperor, and others imputing the fault to him, for what had passed: and others attributed the fault to the Pope, for practising against him in his absence. This peace being made, the Emperor returned into his Kingdom of Naples; and the Pope to pacify matters in Perugia (where had been great tumults and contentions) went thither; what befell in Rome in the time of this his absence, I will presently tell you; first, bringing in few words to mind, the estate and success of the Empire of Constantinople, whereto I am also bound; for as the Emperor FREDERICK reigned long, it is not convenient to leave this, to make mention of another matter, wherein were great changes of Emperors, through the small time of their continuance: and thus it was. By the death of HENRY Emperor of Graecia (as we have above said). PETER had the Empire, for that he married his daughter JOLE; who returning crowned by Pope HONORIUS to his Empire, had wars with THEODORE LASCARUS; who holding the City of Adrianople, was called Emperor, for that he married the sister of the Emperor ALEXUS, Peter Emperor of Constantinople put Lascarus the Tyrant of Adrianople to death. who killed his own Brother, as is before declared: and a peace was made between them, wherein PETER being circumvented and taken prisoner by LASCARUS, was afterwards put to death in prison, when he had reigned three years only: which when his wife JOLE understood, she making her son, called ROBERT, to be proclaimed Emperor, undertook the government, until that he should come to Constantinople: (for he was in Italy when his Father died) and he being come, was obeyed, and began to govern the Empire. Within few days after this, died LASCARUS the Tyrant of Adrianople, and left the usurped name of Emperor to his son in law, JOHN de Plobatacio, who married his only daughter, called YRENE; by whom he had already one Son, called THEODORE LASCARUS, as his Grandfather. ROBERT having made show of a good Prince (by the devil's instigation) fell in love with a fair young damsel, which was betrothed to a Burgonian Knight (a man of great sort, and which had served the Emperor) and by the consent of her mother, brought her to his court, and married her, and made her to be honoured and held for Empress: which did so much grieve the Burgonian that should have been her husband, that after some days dissembling, he took a terrible revenge, which was, that joining himself with his friends and kinsfolks, together with many Greeks', which hated this ROBERT'S government; accompanied with them all; with armed hand he came one night into the Emperor's Palace, to the Empress which should have been his wife, and cut off her nose: and her Mother which had been the causer of the marriage, he threw out at a window into the sea, wherein she was drowned: and having done this; he departed, and put himself and his friends into a place of safety, so as the Emperor ROBERT could not punish the fact: who shortly after came to Rome to be crowned, and returning homewards, fell sick in Macedonia, and died, leaving behind him one Son, called BALDWIN; others say, a Brother, who was presently received for Emperor and his successor. And for as much as he was very young, by a general assent JOHN de Bregna King of jerusalem was sent to be his governor and assistant in the Empire, who then was in the Pope's service in Italy; and he with the Pope's leave and consent came into Graecia, and took upon him the government of the Empire of Constantinople; and betrothed a daughter which he had, to the young Emperor BALDWIN; and governing that Empire whilst he lived (which was some six or seven years) he left it in peace to his son in law: but in what manner he lost the same, you shall know hereafter. This coming of JOHN de Bregna to Constantinople, was about the same time that the peace was made between the Emperor FREDERICK the Second, and Pope GREGORY the Ninth: which being concluded, Pope GREGORY went to Perugia to pacify the City and the marches thereof: and the Emperor went to his Kingdom of Naples. During the time that the Pope was absent from Rome, the government of the Consuls being abolished, (which was so hateful to the Popes) and now the government of a Senator being brought in, sometimes one, and sometime five, which governed the body of the City; a man of great power, called HANNIBAL, was advanced to that dignity; who incensed the people against the Pope, he being absent: and the Pope coming to Rome at that time, many combustions ensued; but in the end, this HANNIBAL was deprived of his office, and one JOHN de Poli, a seditious fellow also succeeded him, who put the City in Arms against the Pope, and against such towns as held for him, and open war began between them, yet the Pope by all means that could be imagined sought peace. The Emperor FREDERICK being in Pulia, and advertised hereof; offered to come to his aid, and came to speak with him (and as saith BLONDUS) gave him for a pledge of his friendship a base son which he had, whose name was HENRY, whom he had made King of Sardinia, the Germane call him ENCIUS, and so do some authors; but the Emperor performed not what he had offered; for within few days after, he departed for Germany; the Pope remaining in the heat of his troubles with the Romans; wherewith he was much discontent, but yet not so as to break the peace between them. But before the Emperor's departure, the Pope with his money drew the German soldiers to his service, and with them recovered certain Towns which rebelled; and his Army overthrowing the Roman forces, he made quiet; yet for that time he could not safely come into Rome. The peace between the Pope and the Emperor lasted about eight years, although there were little love between them. The Emperor being comn into Germany, from whence he had been long absent, where his eldest son HENRY King of the Romans commanded for his father, and had taken greater authority upon him, than his father would he should have done: there grew some suspicions and jealousies between his father and him, and many Princes held with the Son, against the Father: Upon this occasion many Meetings and Counsels were held; but in the end, FREDERICK forced his son to leave the counrrey, and to go as his Lieutenant and Viceroy, into Sicilia and those Countries. After this, the Emperor being a widower, he married with the King of England's sister. In this journey, the Emperor gave to FREDERICK, Son to LEOPOLD Duke of Austria, the title of King, and that his eldest son and his posterity should so be called: but his successors have not enjoyed this privilege, the cause whereof I think to be, for that this Duke FREDERICK died without issue that might succeed him; and there was great contention for his estate; but in the end, RODOLPH Earl of Habspurg enjoyed it, who was afterwards Emperor, and gave the estate of Austria to his eldest son ALBERT, as when time cometh shall be declared. This being past, the Emperor made no long abode in Germany, but as soon as he could, levied an Army and went into Italy: for many Cities in Lombardy rebelled, and some men waxing mighty, tirannized the same, and many of them maintained the old league and confederacy, which they held in the time of FREDERICK the first; as Milan, Brescia, Mantoa, Bologna, Verona, Vicenza, Milan, Trivigi, and many others, which being assisted by the Venetians, made head against the Emperor: and for the Emperor, Cremona, Bergamo, Parma, Modena, and Rezzo, continued in their obedience, and bound the one to the other. The Emperor being comn near to Verona, after some skirmishes, the Town was forced to yield, through the policy and power of one ENCELINUS, called by his surname ROMANUS; who was the mightiest man in all those parts, and by descent a Dutchman, Nephew to another of the same name, who came into those parts in the time of OTHO the Third. From Verona, the Emperor went into the territory of Mantoa, where he took and sacked two strong Towns, the one of which was called Marcaria, and the other Claro. From thence he went to Cremona, where he was joyfully received, and made his abode there the space of nine months: at the end of which, giving it out, that he would go to besiege Mantoa; he suddenly returned and came before Vicenza, which he besieged: the inhabitants being taken unawares and unprovided, offered to yield upon composition; and the Emperor gave ear to this parley, giving them good words; but upon a sudden he commanded the City to be assaulted; and entering by force, he set it on fire, and did much harm, passing forwards and spoiling the fields and marches of Padua: thinking to have taken Trivigi, he besieged it, and put it to such distress, that if from Padua had not come relief, he had entered, and ruined it. As he lay before Trivigi, he had certain intelligence that his son HENRY, King of the Romans, whom (for that in Germany he had practised against him) he had made Governor of The emperor Fredericks son, Henry conspired against his Father. Sicilia, was confederate with the City of Milan, and the rest of that faction, and that some Princes of Germany were of that league, and that they levied their forces to secure those Cities. The Emperor stood in such fear of this practice, that he resolved for his refuge to flee to Pope GREGORY (notwithstanding that he knew him to be displeased, for abandoning him when he had war with his Citizens of Rome) and by Letters and Ambassadors complained to the Pope of the perfidy and disloyalty of his son, humbly entreating him to grant his Letters against him, as against one that was disloyal and disobedient to his father: and the Pope, knowing that it was true, did so, thinking it a just request; or else for fear of the Emperor's power. He wrote his Letters to the Princes of Germany, commanding them upon pain of excommunication not to join with HENRY, King of the Romans, against his father the Emperor, neither to obey his commandments. The Pope's command was of such authority, that none durst come into Italy, as they promised; and the Emperor used such means, that he apprehended his son, and sent him prisoner to a Castle in Pulia, where he afterwards died; some men were of opinion, that he was poisoned by his father's commandment: and he enjoined The Emperor committed his son to prison, where he died. the Dukes of Bohemia and of Baviere, to make war upon FREDERICK Duke of Austria (whom he had made a King) for that he had conspired with his son against him. Within few months after that HENRY King of the Romans was taken, his father the Emperor leaving the affairs of Lombardy in the best order that he could (notwithstanding that Milan and other Cities still continued disobedient) doubting of the estate of Germany, went thither; and making war in Austria, took the City of Vienna, and many other Towns: so as, taming and punishing the Duke of Austria, he was much feared, and generally obeyed. And Vienna in Austria taken by the Emperor. knowing that his son HENRY was dead (who left a lawful son called CONRADIN, of whom hereafter much mention shall be made) he used the means to assemble the Prince's Electors, and that they should choose his son CONRADE (whom he had by his second wife JOLE, and whom he had already made Duke of Suevia) for King of the Romans; and notwithstanding that the Electors did it in his absence, yet for the better assurance of what was done, he and his son called a Council in the City of Ratisbone, where what was already done was approved, and CONRADE was again chosen and crowned King of the Romans: from whence they both sent their Ambassadors to the Pope, for a confirmation of the title to the Kingdom of jerusalem, which his father-in-law JOHN de Bregna had resigned unto him. The Pope granted his request: for, the Emperor was of great power, and it was said that he would return into Italy; which put him in fear, notwithstanding that the speech went, that he came but against Milan, and the other Cities of that faction, with which he was much displeased, and resolved to bring them to subjection: but the Cities alleged, that they were content to serve him according to the agreement made with the Emperor FREDERICK the First, called the peace of CONSTANCE, as we have declared in his history; wherewith he held himself not satisfied: and so raising a very great power, he came again into Italy, leaving his son CONRADE, King of the Romans, in his place in Germany. The Emperor, coming into Italy, took his way directly towards Padua; and the Padoans, being induced thereto by ENCELINUS (who bore a great sway in Lombardy) received him into their City, assuring themselves, that the liberty and privilege which the Emperor FREDERICK the First had given them, should have been maintained: but this FREDERICK was of another humour; for, when he was within the City, he prescribed them such laws as pleased him, as to his vassals and subjects. Pope GREGORY, having intelligence of the Emperors coming into Italy, sent a messenger to meet him, called GREGORY de Monte longo; by whom he both desiring and requiring him (in requital of the benefits which he had received from the Church, as well in the peace and absolution granted him when he came from jerusalem, as in the favour which he had showed Isabel, daughter of john king of England, married to the emperor Frederick the second, died in childbed. him against his son, and in dispensing with his marriage in England) that his now coming might be for the good and peace of the country; and that he would maintain that peace and agreement which was granted by his Grandfather to Milan and to the other Cities, and which was confirmed by the authority of the Church. And after this he sent three Cardinals with the same message: but to neither of them he gave any good answer; so as they conceived, that he was no good friend to the Pope; and they all feared that he came no less against him, than against Milan; so as without any conclusion they returned to Viterbo, where the Pope then lay. It is written, that FREDERICK and his son CONRADE did require the rights belonging to the Kingdoms of Naples and Sicily; which, the Pope, contrary to covenants, unjustly detained from them: And the Pope, to arm himself with a faction, commanded the Emperor not to molest the confederate Cities of Lombardy, with whom he was in league: but the Emperor giving him reasons why he could not do it unless they would give-over their conspiracies against the Empire, and return to their obedience; the Pope, fearing the event, bend all his forces to this common war. The Emperor, leaving Padua garrisoned, marching through Lombardy, took his way towards the City of Brescia, which was of the league, and besieged a Town called Claramont; and taking it by assault (the more to terrify the Brescians, and to make them to yield) he destroyed and burnt the same. But, the Brescians for all this were not dismayed, but made show of greater obstinacy. FREDERICK at that time besieged not their City, but marched towards Milan, the Captain and Head of all the Rebels: and the Milanois (with the help of the Venetians, and of other Cities their friends) had an Army in a readiness; whereof, PETER TEUPOLO, the Duke of Venice his son, was General, together with CHARROCHIO a principal citizen of Milan, and other prime men of other Cities: all which with great courage (for that not long before they had overthrown his Grandfather FREDERICE) stayed to fight with him A battle between the Emperor and the Milanois. in the field, and met with him near to a place called Cro●…ona, and he marched with as great a desire to fight with them; so as they fought a very cruel battle, the Armies being in number and in force (in a manner) equal: but, after they had fought many hours, the Milanois begins to shrink, and the victory shown itself on the Emperor's side; and PETER TEUPOLO their General and other Captains were taken prisoners: all which, the Emperor commanded to be put to a shameful death. After this victory he came to Cremona, to refresh and reinforce his Army, having had some loss in the battle; where some cities which had rebelled, compounded, and yielded their obedience. The Pope being advertised of the calamity of the Milanois & of those of the league (whose cause he seemed to protect and defend) fearing the Emperor's greatness (whom he knew to hate him) made a league with the Venetians (which he knew to be much grieved for the pitiful death of their Duke's son) and resolved to succour Milan and their confederates. And the better to bring this to pass, he made a kind of peace and truce for ten years, between the Cities of Venice and Genoa, which at that time were at wars; and used such means, that he himself was received into Rome, having ever since the last troubles lived out of it. Being in Rome, he sent out his Bulls against the Emperor, which he published to all Christendom, and excommunicated both him and all such as took his part; who then from Cremona (where he had refreshed his Army after the battle) came to Pavia, leaving Milan, to make war upon the Venetians. And there he was advertised of the Pope's fulminations, and of the great preparation made by the Venetians against him, both by sea and land. Upon this he raised new forces, and so with a great victorious Army (wherein many Moors of Africa, which they called Saracens, served him on horseback) he took the field, and overran the Territories of the Venetians, wasting and spoiling the same; and encamping himself by the water's side in the sight of Venice, the Venetians salied forth with a great number of Archers and others, in barks and boats, therewith to annoyed his Camp as much as they could from the water. The Emperor, seeing how little he profited by lying there, returned to Padua, leaving ENCELINUS to war against Trivigi and the country thereabout, carrying with him some principal men of Verona and Padua, for hostages; giving it out, that he went to besiege Mantoa: and passing by it, he went to Parma, and from thence to Luca, and from Luca to Pisa, with a resolution not to stay till he came to Rome. At this time GREGORY de Monte longo (who was the Pope's Legate in Milan) came to Bolonia, and from thence took the field with the troops which came to him from Milan and other parts: and joining with the Venetians, and others of the league (first taking Ferrara by force) every where began a most cruel war, which was the greatest that of long time, either before or after, had been seen in Italy; some holding for the Pope, others for the Emperor. This war was so great, and so many and so great accidents happened, that if I should relate what I found written, I should spend a great part of this volume in this relation: wherefore I will only writ the sum thereof. The Emperor being in Pisa, with a resolution to besiege Rome, then began the great and fatal factions in Italy, between the Guelphs and the Gebelins; the Guelphs holding for the The original of the Guelphs and Gibelins in Italy Pope, and the Gebelins for the Emperor: of the original of which factions authors writ so confusedly, that I will not enter into disputation concerning the same. Let their beginning be what it will: I think it was the invention of some devil, as it should seem by the sequel: for within short space, these factions extended themselves so fare over all Italy, as no place was free from this infection (Venice except) wherein this pestilence took no hold: all the rest was divided into these two names and factions, without any other foundation of love or hatred, but only for the names sake: and there daily ensued scandals and slaughters; and in families and lineages it often happened that the father was against his sons, and brothers were against brothers; which fight slew one another, ransacking towns, burning and ruinating houses, in worse sort than if they had been traitors, or Infidels, with so great rancour and hatred, as the like thereof before that time had never been seen nor heard of. And truly it was a strange thing and to be admired: these two factions were so contrary the one to the other, that they could not in any thing endure any conformity or resemblance: for they differed in their ensigns, in their colours, in the fashion of their apparel, in attiring themselves, in their disports, in their feasts, yea, even unto their very manner of going, speaking, feeding, riding, and in all things that man's wit could invent. The Emperor and his adherents were called Gebelins; and he proclaimed that all such as The factions of th●… Guelphs and Gebelins between the Emperor Frederick the second and Pope Gregory the ninth. took part with him should be so called, which was performed throughout all Italy: and all the Guelphs held with the Pope. With this name the Emperor departed from Pisa towards Rome; wherein the fire of these factions was already kindled, and the greatest part of the people were Gebelins, who were ready to have set upon the Guelphs, and to have spoiled and killed them, without any redemption. The Pope seeing himself in so great danger, took the heads of Saint PETER and Saint PAUL (as they say) and made a solemn procession, and therewith a long oration to the people; showing them how vain a thing it was for men to kill one another, for that they had only taken contrary names; and dissuading them from their intent he persuaded them to defend his Church and their country against his enemy FREDERICK, who was coming thitherwards: and of his bountiful liberality he gave to all such as in his quarrel would take Arms, and would bear the sign of the Cross, plenary Indulgence, and absolution. The people were herewith so much persuaded, that when the Emperor with his Army came before Rome, presupposing that the greatest part of the Citizens had been Gebelins, he to the contrary found them all marked with the sign of the Cross, in Arms against him: and coming with his people to the gates of the city, some companies salied to skirmish with him: and so some were slain of either side, which made him to use extraordinary cruelty; for all those of the City which were taken with the sign of the Cross, he caused to be slain: some of them had their heads cloven across; and of some others he made crosses in their foreheads with hot irons: and priests he made to be crossed upon their crowns: and after three days (despairing to take Rome by force, spoiling the country round abount it) he went into Campania, and gave a sudden turn and came to Beneuent, which he took and sacked, and commanded the same to be dismantelled and razed: and so marched through many parts of Italy, warring upon the Pope's Towns, and such as took his part; wherein he took Ravenna, and besieged Favencia. And in Sicilia he confisked the goods of many Ecclesiastical persons, and apprehended and put some Bishops to death: others he banished out of that country; and he particularly caused all places, which appertained to the order of the Knight's Templars, to be sacked and spoilt; using herein the service of his horsemen, which were Moores of Africa, which served him in that war, to whom he gave many preeminences and double pays; and the City of Nuceria in Pulia to inhabit, which they possessed many years after. Pope GREGORY seeing himself so distressed, sent his Legates to the kings of France, England and Spain, bewailing his misery, and complaining of the Emperor, he implored secure, aid, and council: whereto they gave him gentle answers; and by their consent he called a general Council, for the reformation and preservation of the Church, and for a conquest to be made of the Holy land, which was now in greater distress than ever. The Emperor having intelligence that a general Council was summoned, and imagining that the chiefest intent thereof was against himself; he resolved by all means possible to disturb it, by stopping the passages, and apprehending such as went to it; and sent his son ENCIUS (king of Sardinia) to Pisa (which then was of great power by sea) where he armed a great number of ships and galleys, to stay the coming of the Cardinals, the Pope's Legates; which with many prelate's of Spain and France came to the Council: they being upon the sea, in a fleet of Genoa of 40 Galleys, between Corsica and Pisa, within sight the one of the other, the Legates would have fled, and so avoided the fight: But the Admiral who was a Genoais, would not altar his course, so as they fought a most cruel battle, which lasted the greatest part of the day: But in the end, the King of Sardinia had the victory, and the Cardinals and Legates being taken prisoners, were carried into Pulia, except some which were slain or drowned. The French Bishops and Abbats which were taken, the Emperor set at liberty, at the request of the French King: the rest lay long in prison; so as the Council could not be held or begun as the Pope would have had it: wherewith he was so much troubled, that with very rage and anger he fell sick and died; having been Pope above fourteen years, whereof the most part was Pope Gregory the Ni●…th died for anger. in trouble and contention. He died in the year of our Lord 1241. This Pope in his life time first canonised S. FRANCIS and S. DOMINICK for Saints; and afterwards Saint ANTHONY, called Saint ANTHONY of Padua, although a Portugal, and born in the Ci●…y of Lisbon. He compiled also the Book of the Decretals, and instituted the singing of Salue Regina at certain times and hours, with the ringing of the sacring Bell; and that our Lady should be prayed unto in the night, with Aue Maria, which should agreed with the ringing of the Bell; and did many other things like a Pope. Pope GREGORY being dead, by the general consent of all the Cardinals which were in Rome, GAUNFREDE de Castilion, a Milanois born, was chosen Pope, and called CELESTINE the Fourth, a good man and very learned, but old and sickly; who presently sought to be at peace with the Emperor, and to that effect sent his Legates to his Camp, he then lying before Favencia: but this Pope could not tarry for an answer; for, he died the eighteenth day after his election. CELESTINE being dead, the Cardinals could not agreed about choosing him a successor: some say, that for fear of the Emperors threatenings, they durst not choose whom they would have chosen. PLATINA saith, that the Cardinals of Rome determined to choose no Pope at all, until that the Emperor released those which he held prisoners. BLONDUS following his Author (who as he said was an eyewitness) affirmeth the cause to be, for that the Cardinals who were prisoners, sent to require, and therewith protested, that no Pope should be chosen without their voices. So as upon some of these occasions, or for all together, for the space of twenty months Rome was without a Pope. And in all this time the Emperor would not release those Cardinals which were his prisoners; neither would those of Rome choose a Pope. In which time the Emperor took the City of Favencia (which held out against him about one year) and came before Bolonia: but seeing that he could not take it, he spoilt the country, and transferred the University from thence to Padua; and afterwards went to Modena, and to Rezzo, which also stood upon their guard, and took Towns appertaining to the Church of Rome; so as there were great wars in all parts of Italy, which cost many men their lives. At the same time, when the Emperor thus warred in Italy against the faction of the Guelphs, Th●… original and suc●…esse of the Tartarians. the Tartarians invaded Hungary. These Tartars are a barbarous Nation in the North, which came out of Scythia Asiatica (as some say; and VOLATERRANUS saith, out of Taurica Chersonesus in Europe) about the year of our Lord 1202, and made an irruption into Asia, and subdued some Provinces therein, under the leading of their King and Captain, called CANGVISTA: and they afterwards so increased in the beginning of the Emperor FREDERICK'S Reign, about the year 1222, that they conquered Georgiana▪ Armenia the Less, and other provinces in Asia, and suppressed the power of the Turks (which I for brevity sake pass over). And coming afterwards into Europe by the Caspian sea, crossing the mountains Riphei, become Masters of those countries, and made wars in Russia and in Polonia, and subdued a great part of Sarmacia, which at this day is called after them, Tartary; and their King is called the Great CAN: they received the sect of MAHOM●…T, through their first conversing with the Turks; and in such manner they made war, that they put the world in fear of them. And the Emperor Hungary invaded by the Tartarians. now making war in Italy against the Guelphs, the Tartars, under the leading of their King called BATUS, came into Hungary, and warred therein three years, and did much harm; VELA the Fourth being then King thereof: at the end of which time they returned to the countries which they before had gotten. And so Hungary, a Province of the Empire, endured as great misery as Italy. And it happened also, that the Emperor of Constantinople lived not in peace in those days: for, JOHN de Bregna, King of jerusalem (who was Governor of the Greek Empire, with yoeng BALDWIN who married his daughter) being dead, the Empire remained in BALDWIN: against whom JOHN LASCARUS (nephew to the other of that name, who was called Emperor in Adrianople) raised such power, and found so many friends, that he took Smirnia and Satilia, with other cities, towns and Lands: so as the Emperor BALDWIN, accompanied with the Earl of Tolousa (who had been with him in all his wars and troubles) came into Italy to sue for aid and relief against his enemies: and finding it in such estate as you have heard (imagining that in time of such confusion he should not get any) he sought means to have a Pope chosen, and so came directly to the Emperor; who having then taken the city of Parma, and driven the Guelphs out of it, went thence to Placencia. And BALDWIN coming thither, and being well received and entertained, used such means to the Emperor FREDERICK, that at his request all the Cardinals were released and set at liberty, whom he had long detained prisoners in Melphi: and the Emperor of Constantinople with the good leave of the Emperor FREDERICK, went to Bologna, where the Cardinals were, to treat with them concerning the election of such a new Pope, as might be acceptable to the Emperor FREDERICK, to the end that peace might be maintained between them. Where he was with great joy honourably received, in june, in the year 1244. and they presently conferred about the election of a Pope, and one SINOBALDUS Cardinal of S. LAWRENC●… borne in Genoa, was chosen, and called INNOCENT the Fourth; who was the Emperor's greatest friend of all the Cardinals: which when the Emperor's friends and servants understood, with all possible speed they gave him to understand thereof: when the news was brought unto him in the city of Parma, it is reported that he presently said, (presaging what would follow) I have exchanged my best friend, being a Cardinal, for my greatest enemy, being Pope. After the election, the new Pope, the Emperor of Constantinople, and all the Cardinals came together to Rome, where they consulted of a peace to be concluded with the Emperor FREDERICK, and Ambassadors were sent from the one to the other: but the Emperor in the time that the Papacy was voided, was grown so great and so mighty a Lord in Italy▪ that he would not accept such conditions as were propounded; and so gave ambiguous and uncertain answers, such as they knew not how to resolve: four months being spent in this parley, the Pope was certified that the Emperor had secret intelligence with sundry in Rome against him: the effect whereof was, that in a place called Castello amar, whither it was agreed that the Pope should come, to yield his resolution concerning the peace, and there expecting the Emperor's coming, should be seized on. This being discovered, and the Pope seeing how small power he had in Italy, speedily went to Hostia; and there embarking himself in certain galleys of Genoa, which he had secretly caused to be brought thither for that purpose, went to Genoa, where he fell sick, and recovering health he there again shipped himself, and went into France; and arriving at Aigues mortes, and Pope Innocent went into France, where he excommunicated the ●…pero, and released his sub●…ectss from their 〈◊〉 ●…geance. coming up the river Rodanus, the French King received and entertained him with great solemnity: and then he went to the city of Lions, where he complained of the Emperor, and w●…in some few days after, proclaimed through all Christendom, a Council to be held at Lions in France, in the beginning of the year 1246▪ whither he cited the Emperor to come and to make his personal appearance; and in many his sermons and orations which he made to the people, he with a loud voice summoned him to appear: and so prelate's from all parts of Christendom repairing thither, the Council began; and the Emperor sent his Ambassadors to make his excuse; and otherwise made many large offers. But the Pope would accept neither his offers nor excuses; but published, that if within a certain time limited he appeared not, he would then pronounce Sentence against him; as is contained in the chapter Adapostolica●… sedem, de reiudicata, libro sexto: wherein he condemned him in the loss and deprivation of the Empire, and of all the other kingdoms and dominions which he enjoyed, and presently proclaimed the same throughout all Christendom, and commanded the Prince's Electors with all speed to choose a new Emperor, releasing them from all allegiance and oaths made to the Emperor FREDERICK whatsoever. At this time, BALDWIN Emperor of Constantinople, understanding that his enemy ROBERT LASCARUS was dead, returned, and had such success as you shall hear. So great account was made of the Pope's sentence pronounced against the Emperor in Germany (it being approved by the Council) that the Electors began to treat of the choosing of a new Emperor: and notwitstanding that his son CONRADE King of the Romans, was therewith much grieved, and by all means sought to have prevented the same; yet they met at Hiperboli, and chose HENRY Lantzgrave of Turinge, Emperor: and he according to the accustomed manner went to Aken, where he was crowned: whereupon presently between him, and CONRADE the Emperor's son, began a cruel war; the end and success whereof we will report hereafter, when we have related▪ what FREDERICK did when he understood that he was deprived. As soon as he heard thereof, in extreme choler he caused the houses of the Pope's friends and kinsmen in Parma to be thrown down, and their goods to be spoiled: and wrote his Letters into Germany, excusing and justifying his proceed, and to animate his son. But conceiving his estate to be in great hazard, he resolved to go in person to the Council at Lions in France; and to that effect he first made a league of friendship with the Duke of Burgundy; and had a safe conduct and assurance from the French King, for his going, abode and return. And leaving his son ENCIUS (King of Sardinia) in Parma, he commanded him not to salie out of that City, for that he held the same and the situation thereof, to be of great importance: and so being accompanied with men both of peace and war, he took his way towards France; and having past Turin, messengers overtook him, which gave him to understand, that Parma (whereof he made so great account) was lost, through his son's oversight: for he through a greedy desire to have taken Brescia, which was of the contrary faction, by the advice and procurement of those of Cremona, went from Parma with part of the garrison which lay therein; and in the mean time that he was about this exploit, the Pope's friends and kindred, which lived in Placencia, having intelligence with some which were within Parma, came thither, & by surprise took it, but not without shedding of much blood. These ill news touched the Emperor FREDERICK to the quick: and he fearing on the one side, his unsafe going into France, and on the other side, that other Cities in Italy following the example of Parma (he being absent in a strange country) would also rebel, resolved therefore in great fury to return: and raised forces in Sicilia and Naples: and from Trivigi came his great friend ENCELINUS with a great troop of men of war; all which he sent against Parma, whither he himself marched with a full resolution to have ruined the same, and to have laid it waste, and used some speeches to the same effect: but he failed of his expectation; for GREGORY; de Monte longo, who from the time of GREGORY the ninth had been the Pope's Legate in Milan, and in the other Cities of that faction in Lombardy, getting soldiers from Milan, and other Cities of the league, put himself with them into Parma: and Furnished and provided it with all things requisite to endure a siege. It was not long before the Emperor came before it with his Army (wherein were threescore thousand men) and besieged it, with a full resolution not to rise from before it, until that he had taken the City; and so he began to assault it on every side. But the besieged defended themselves so well, that they daily salied out and skirmished with their enemies, in such manner that it behoved the Emperor to withdraw his Camp a little further from the City, and the war continuing, he compassed the City round about with a wall: and as he purposed wholly to have ruinated Parma, so he caused a new City to be built in the same place where his Army lay; which he presently environed with walls, and made market places, Churches, and houses in it; and appointed lands for those of Parma, which would come thither to ●…abit: so as within short space the city was built, and peopled, and he named it Victoria. And as the Emperor had lain about two years before Parma, and the news of this new City, and the distribution made by him was bruited abroad, many came thither from all parts to devil; in Victoria built by Frederick. so much that PLATINA affirmeth, that therein were as many fair gardens and orchards, with birds and beasts in them, and so great concourse of men and women, as in any the most peopled ancient cities of Italy. While the Emperor lay before Parma, his son CONRADE and the Lantzgrave HENYY, made cruel wars; which Lantzgrave through FREDERICK'S depriving, was chosen and called Emperor: and he raising the greatest power he could (therewith to make himself Lord of the Empire) he met with the Emperor's son CONRADE, near to Frankford, who had as great an Army as his; and there they two fought (as some authors writ) one of the most cruel battles that of long time had been seen, wherein CONRADE being overthrown, he fled into Suevia; and HENRY remaining master of the field, was held for Emperor. And for as much as he understood, that the Emperor's son CONRADE levied new forces, and gathered head in Suevia, he went thither with his Army, and besieged and took some cities; and continuing his course of victory, laid siege to the city of ulme; and holding it very hardly besieged, at a time when he thought that nothing could have offended him, or defended itself against him; an arrow shot at random out of the city (which was though●… to be poisoned) wounded the new Emperor HENRY, so as within few days after he died thereof, within one year after his election: and the princes and men of war which were with him dispersed themselves, so as it presently appeared, that the party of the Emperor FREDERICK and his son CONRADE would again prevail. But yet the electors of the Empire, within few months after (by the procurement of the Cardinal of Saint GEORGE called PETER Image of gold, whom the Pope (being advertised of the death of HENRY) sent from Lions thither, the Emperor's son CONRADE not being able to stay or hinder the same) they met at Waringen, and chose WILLIAM, Earl of Holland, for Emperor: who, accompanied with the Electors, and other Princes and Prelates, went to Frankford, and there was William, Earl of Holland, chosen Emperor. crowned. And for as much as he understood that CONRADE levied a power against him, he called a Council in the City of Vtrecht: whither came the Archbishops of Mentz, Trevier and Colen, and other Prelates; and LEWES, Count Palatine of Rhine, with many other Earls and Deputies from more than twenty several Imperial Cities in Germany, and from some Princes also; where they handled some matters concerning his confirmation in the Empire. But CONRADE, raising a great power in Suevia and in other parts, began to war against WILLIAM; and WILLIAM levied an Army to do the like by him: in which war we will leave them for this time, to speak of the Emperor, and of what success he had in Italy; and then afterwards, when time shall serve, we will again return to this subject. Two years were now expired since that the Emperor FREDERICK came to lie in his new City Victoria, before Parma; daily expecting when it would have yielded (for, the Besieged endured extreme famine): by reason whereof, there was not so good guard held in the Camp as there was wont to be. And GREGORY de Monte longo, the Pope's Legate, who had the command of the City, as he had valiantly defended it, so he never let slip any opportunity to do any notable service; who perceiving, and being also advertised, what manner guard was held in the new City (without attending any other forces to join with him) he resolved to salie, and to attempt it; and laid such a plot, that he performed one of the strangest exploits that hath been seen or heard of; which was in this manner: Certain companies of Moors and Germans, coming from the Camp, drew near to the City, expecting that some would come forth to skirmish with them, as at other times they used to do. The Legate, perceiving this, and thinking it now a fit time to put in execution what he before had projected, with all possible speed made all his Troops to be armed; and setting them in order, when the skirmish in the field was most hot he commanded the Ports to be opened, and sallying suddenly, charged with such resolution, that without any great ado or difficulty he overthrew those Troops; that presently retiring they turned their backs and fled: and he pursuing them came to the new City (wherein was the Emperor FREDERICK in his palace disarmed, suspecting no such matter, and so was the greatest part of his Army) and charging with such fury that the Guard could not withstand them, entered the City, putting to the sword as many as they found to bear Arms against them: and so the fight began on every side. But as the attempt was sudden and unexpected, so great a fear surprised them, that without making any great resistance they all fled: and the Emperor, knowing no better course to be taken, took horse, and so escaped with such as could keep with him; and all those which remained, were either slain or taken: and the Legate and his people had one of the richest preys and booties that had been seen, as well of such things as were the Emperors and of the Army, as of the Inhabitants of the City; which they presently razed and made level with the ground, executing as much therein as the Emperor thought to have done in Parma. And here was slain JOHN The city of Victoria taken and destroyed by the Parmasans. TURRIO, one of the heads of the faction in Milan, who kept with the Emperor: and with the Legate was one MATHEW VISCOUNT, who was the other: for, these two, namely, Viscounts and Turrions, were the two factions, then in the City of Milan. As soon as the fame of the taking of Victoria was spread over Italy, those which held for the Pope were greatly encouraged. The Emperor in his flight stayed not in any place until he came to Cremona; but he trusted them not so well as to come into their city, notwithstanding that they earnestly entreated him: but raising men from all parts (besides that many of the Gibelins came voluntarily to serve him) within a small time, as a valiant man, and as if he had had a great Army, he came to Placencia, but besieged it not, only spoiling the Country. And leaving his son ENCIUS, King of Sardinia, for his Lieutenant in those Towns which held for him, he went into Tuscan, in hope to have taken Florence, which in that Province was against him. But as his faction was now but little regarded or feared, so the Florentines would in no wise receive him; but agreed with him to put all the Guelphs, which were his enemies, out of the Town, wherewith he was contented: and staying in the Country near Florence, in hope to have levied some new Troops, and so to have recovered the honour which he lost, news came how that his son ENCIUS, with the greatest power that he could levy, thinking to have done some notable piece of service, went towards Bologna; and the Bolognois, being advertised thereof, with the aid of their friends, salied forth to fight with him; and overthrowing him, had taken him prisoner. Which when the Emperor understood, he was extremely grieved and offended; and seeing that in Lombardy his enemies were too hard for him, and that out of Germany he was out of hope that any succour could come, for that therein his son CONRADE made war against WILLIAM, Earl of Holland, who was called Emperor; he therefore resolved to go into his kingdom of Naples, in hope there to reinforce his Army, and to take some other counsel. And coming into Pulia with greater wrath than honour, by reason of such adventures as were befallen him; he made a base son of his, call MANFRED, Prince of Tarent, and gave him many places in subjection. Within few days after, he fell grievously sick, and his disease held him long, whereof in the end he died: which Historiographers relate after sundry manners, so as it seemeth that the truth can hardly be known. Some say, that his disease killed him: others say, that beginning to recover health, he was poisoned: others say, that his son MANFRED practised his death, The death of the Emperor Frederick the Second. with desire to reign; as it after appeared. Some writ, that when he saw that not only his friends failed him, who commonly change their minds with fortune, but that also fortune had abandoned him, which hitherto had favoured him, and understanding that there were practices to poison him, he resolved to return into Sicily: but upon the way he fell into a burning fever through poison, and ended his days in a certain Castle of Apulia. Some affirm that his base son MANFRED (hearing that the Physicians had abated the force of the poison, and that there was hope of his recovery) smothered him with a pillow. But howsoever, he died at this time, which was in the year of our Lord one thousand two hundred and fifty and in the six and thirtith year after his election. In the time also there is ever some difference; for there be some authors which do reckon, but from the time of his coronation, and not before. He was when he died seven and fifty years old, and left behind him, three sons, two bastards, and one legitimate: his eldest son CONRADE he had by JOLE, daughter to the King of jerusalem, who in his father's time was King of the Romans, and inherited the Kingdoms of Sicilia and Naples, and the Duchy of Suevia. And his bastard son ENCIUS, whom he made King of Sardinia, lived, and died prisoner in the power of the Bolognois: whom they would never set at liberty for any ransom. Some authors writ, that he was prisoner there twenty and odd years, very well used, and died in Bologna, and there was buried: and MANFRED, the afornamed Prince of Tarent; he also had two daughters, ANNE and CONSTANCE, which married with several Princes. This Prince was adorned with sundry virtues, and excellent graces: and so likewise infected with dangerous vices: but he was very valiant, and of a strong constitution, able to endure travel, very wise, and expert in the war, desirous of glory and fame, very liberal, and inclined to learning, and skilful in the tongues, and could speak Greek, Latin, Arabic, French, and Dutch very well, and delighted much in the reading of Arts and Histories. But these virtues were greatly obscured, through his unmeasurable desire of honour, and his ambition to command and to be Lord over all men, and through his cruelty used in many exploits in the wars; destroying and rasing towns, and in shedding blood, for he was very vindicative and sudden: and, above all, was an enemy to the Popes, and scorned their command. He was likewise noted of incontinency: for, beside that he had sundry wives, he kept many concubines, and accompanied other women; all which, in Princes deserve greater reprehension: for In the In maxima fortuna minima licentia est. higher degree, the less liberty. What things followed after his death you shall know in the next. CARION, writing of this Prince FREDERICK, saith, that he was of a noble and generous spirit, never dejected nor daunted in danger, constant and temperate in all fortunes, valiant and wary in battle, active both with hand and counsel, bountiful, and most free from cruelty. And when as the Popes by open force, secret fraud and treachery, had sought his death, yet he suppressed his indignation, and desire of revenge, as much as might be, being Victor; and did moderate the offender's punishments. But his many crosses and homebred conspiracies in the end did much altar him, and made him bitter, when as he was deprived of the Empire, not finding any one among his own whom he might trust: and being often vexed and wounded to the very heart with the fear of his friends falling from him, and of new conspiracies, every thing grew suspicious unto him, and age did make him more apt to jealousy; insomuch that he spared not those who were nearest and most faithful unto him. But as there is no humane virtue, how great and glorious soever, that is perpetual and without some blemish, the which is more apparent in great Personages than in private men: so I will not deny but FREDERICK was subject to some vices, whereof I may partly impute the cause to his afflictions; the which errors at his death he did much lament. In Constantinople BALDWIN was Emperor, who had great wars with MICHAEL PALEOLOGUS, who was called Emperor, and succeeded ROBERT LASCARUS before mentioned, who left him Tutor over his son JOHN: but he took the Empire to himself, murdering the pupil, and warred to make himself absolute Lord over all. In France at this time reigned King LEWIS, called Saint; who, understanding that the City of jerusalem, after that the Emperor FREDERICK had recovered it, was again lost, and that the Christians in the rest of the Cities were greatly distressed; providing a great Army and Navy, departed therewith in person, and sailed into Egypt to war upon the Sultan; and, taking land, besieged the City of Damietta before named, and after some skirmishes and conflicts took the same, and performed other worthy adventures, in the year of our Lord one thousand, two hundreth, forty and nine. But, prosecuting the war, it pleased God that in a battle he was afterwards overthrown, and by the Sultan taken prisoner, with two of his brethren; and, to recover their liberty, he gave up the City of Damietta, and the rest of what he had gotten; and so returned to his Country, having effected as little as those which went before him. The Kings of Spain, with equal courage to any of the other Princes (but with better fortune) reconquerd the countries which the Infidels held in Spain. At that time reigned King FERDINAND, who won Sevil and Cordova, and many other Towns and Cities. THE LIFE OF CONRADE, THE FOURTH OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDRETH AND SECOND ROMAN EMPEROR; AND OF THOSE WHICH WERE called Emperors till that RODULPHUS was chosen Emperor. THE ARGUMENT. FRederick being dead, the Empire being divided between two Emperors, was infested many years; each of using all means to suppress the other. First, Conrade determined to go into Italy to take possession of the Kingdoms of Naples and Sicilia: and going with a mighty Army, he took those Kingdoms by force. After which conquest he died, and William remained sole Emperor; who desiring to go into Italy to be crowned by the Pope, was hindered through a tumult raised by the Frisons: and going against them with an Army, he was by them unfortunately slain. The death of William was the occasion that the seat of the Empire was voided, and that the Electors were divided, and could not agreed among themselves: for, almost every one of them would have such an Emperor as was best to his liking; whereof ●…nsued great trouble and much prejudice to the Country of Germany. In Italy also were great wars between manfred and the Pope, King Charles and Conradin, whereof in the end King Charles had the victory. And in Germany the Electors being a long time at variance, in the end agreed to choose Rodulph Earl of Habspurgh, when as for a long time they could never agreed upon any other man. THE greatest part of the Authors which wrote the lives of the Emperors, accounted all the time from the death of FRBDERICK (whose life we have now written) until that RODULPH, Earl of Habspurgh, was chosen Emperor (which were 23 years, beginning in the year 1250, in which FREDERICK died; and ending in the year 1273, in which RODULPH was chosen) for an interregnum and vacation of the Empire; accounting none of those for Emperors which in that time were chosen and so called, for that they were chosen in competency one against another, and were not crowned by the Popes; which were WILLIAM, who was Emperor in the time of FREDERICK, and FREDERICK'S son, CONRADE, who was King of the Romans; and RICHARD, brother to the King of England; and ALONSO, King of Castille, whom the Spaniards call the Wise: all which were chosen in contention, and were competitors; wherein (in my opinion) they have no reason, especially in what concerns WILLIAM, sith he before FREDERICK'S death was in name and possession Emperor; and albeit he was not crowned by the Pope, yet his election was approved and confirmed by him: wherefore (to yield every man his title and dignity, howsoever it were, as also to keep the course of our history) I have determined to treat briefly of all in such matters as concern the Empire, which is the subject of my travel. I will likewise in sum relate what past in Italy, that so the history following may be the better understood. I say then, that the Emperor FREDERICK'S death was soon published (as that of Emperors and Kings is usual) and caused new accidents. In Germany his son CONRADE, who in his father's life time was Duke of Suevia, and King of the Romans, and his heir in the Kingdoms of Sicilia and Naples, and by his mother pretended title to the Kingdom of jerusalem, took upon him as Emperor against WILLIAM Earl of Holland, who by the Pope's commandment was chosen against his father, and possessed the empire. WILLIAM, seeing that his competitor was dead, made account to have defeated and supplanted CONRADE: whereto he was presently countenanced and encouraged by Letters from Pope INNOCENT, who all this while was in France, and was supported by many Princes of Germany; which, forasmuch as CONRADE was excommunicate (as well as his father FREDERICK) WILLIAM pretended that CONRADE had lost his right to the Empire, and was deprived thereof by the Pope, as indeed by the Pope's Sentence he was. Nevertheless, CONRADE was still called Emperor. And so they were divided into two factions: yet WILLIAM was the mightier, for he commanded (in a manner) all the cities in Germany. In Sicilia and Naples, FREDERICK'S base son MANFRED, who (some say) smothered his father, had a conceit in time to make himself King of Naples and Sicilia: but being a bastard he knew that the lawful inheritance appertained to his brother CONRADE, who was in Germany, in whose name (as governor for him, and to his use) he possessed himself of those kingdoms, excepting Naples, Capua, and some other towns, which would not receive him: whereupon he proclaimed them traitors and rebels, and began to war against them. In other parts of Italy the wars ceased not, notwithstanding that the Emperor was dead: for malice and hatred had taken so deep root between the Guelphs and the Gibelins, that they were never without wars and troubles, murdering one another: and ENCELINUS (who as I said before was of great power in Lombardy, and a faithful servant to FREDERICK) took part with CONRADE, as with the Emperor, and so did some others: yet the contrary part which held for the Pope was more mighty. CONRADE seeing the affairs of the Empire to stand in this estate, and considering that it was doubtful holding of Germany against WILLIAM; and that Naples and Sicilia was a good portion, & came to him by inheritance from his father, raising the greatest power that he could in Suevia, leaving garrisons therein, and in such other parts as he held of the Empire; with the aid of the Duke of Baviere, with whose sister he was married, came to take possession of those Kingdoms, as most certain and assured; and with a very good Army came to Verona, holding stil●… the name of Emperor, where he was received: and afterwards (being assisted and guided by ENCELINUS, Governer of Lombardy) he came to certain Harbours upon the coast of the Venetian Sea; where he was shipped by the Venetians, and thence sailed into Pulia (for, from thence there was no safe passage for him by land) and taking land with his people, he was obeyed by his brother, and received into the Towns of Naples and Sicilia. And notwithstanding that those of the Cities of Naples and of Capua alleged, that in that they refused to be commanded by manfred, it was not in respect that they had any meaning to have rebelled against him, but for that they understood that manfred meant to become a Tyrant; Yet manfred carried the matter so cunningly, that his brother was persuaded to the contrary, and therefore highly offended: by reason whereof, the Neapolitans and Capuans durst not put themselves into his hands, but stood upon their guard; and CONRADE with great fury held Naples besieged the space of eight months: in the end whereof he took the same through famine, and executed cruel punishment therein; and thence went to Capua, where he did the like, and in some other places which were of their confederacy: so as from thenceforth, wheresoever he went he found no resistance, neither by Cities, Princes nor Lords.. And those which he any way suspected, he banished, and then began to war against the Lands and friends of the Church of Rome. After this (two years after his coming into Italy) he fell sick and died, being poisoned in his medicines (as it was then thought) by the practice of his brother manfred, who did it of purpose to have been King. NAUCLERUS and HENRICUS MUCIUS writ, that the Emperor CONRADE before he died went into Germany, leaving garrisons in Sicily; for that he understood, the Emperor WILLIAM made himself strong, and was possessed of the whole Empire, by the means of the Legates which the Pope sent thither for that purpose; and that CONRADE, coming into Germany, joined with the Duke of Baviere, and with an Army entered the jurisdiction of Ratisbone, and afterwards took the city itself, where he committed great spoils; and that WILLIAM, understanding thereof, levied such forces, that CONRADE durst not give him battle; and that he then abandoning Germany, went to Naples, where he died. Hereof other Authors make no mention: wherefore I am of opinion, that it was before CONRADE'S first coming to Naples, and that after his coming thither he returned no more into Germany. But whether he returned into Germany or no (for, it might be) he died in the Kingdom The death of the emperor Conrade the four●…. of Naples, and left his son CONRADINE (who was in Suevia, being very young, and whom he had by the Duke of Baviers sister) for heir of his estate and Kingdoms; wherein also is difference between the Authors: for, some say, that he was his son (which is the most likely) and others say, that he was his nephew, and the son of his elder brother HENRY, who (as we said) died in prison in the time of his father FREDERICK. But I find it written, that HENRY married MARGARET the daughter of LEOPOLD the Glorious, Duke of Austria, by whom he left two sons, FREDERICK & HENRY, whereof one was poisoned by CONRADE; the other by MANFRED a bastard; as competitos to the kingdoms of Sicily & Naples. His son CONRADINE remaining his heir, and not of age fit to govern his Kingdoms, he left him under the tutele and protection of his mother, and of certain Dutch Princes. And manfred (as some writ) for certain days space concealed his brother's will; and though as yet he durst not take upon him as King, yet in his nephew CONRADINE'S name he sought by all means to possess himself of the whole Country. As soon as the death of CONRADE was published in Germany, all those which had taken his part, sought to be friends with WILLIAM; who being freed from his competitor, friendly received them, and sought (by force or policy) to draw them to him, to the end to have made a general peace. At this time Pope INNOCENT (who had made his abode in France for the space of nine years) understanding that CONRADE was dead, came presently into Italy: Pope Innocent returned out of France into Italy And manfred (as he knew him to have been an enemy to the Emperors, FREDERICK and CONRADE; and that he alleged, that their wills and testaments were of none effect, seeing they were by him excommunicate and deprived; and that the Kingdoms of Sicilia and Naples belonged to the Church) feignedly took part with him in Otranto; purposing to exclude those which came to govern for the child CONRADINE, who remained in Suevia, and by fishing in troubled water, to get the Kingdom for himself. The Pope being joyfully received into most of the Cities in Italy, with the greatest power that he could make, took his way towards Naples, where he was received; and to that place came manfred, and some other Princes and Governors of Cities, to yield their obedience, as feudatories to the Church of Rome: and he, excluding CONRADIN'S tutors, thought within short time to be Lord of the greatest part of the rest. And as this was his drift, so after that the Pope had confirmed him in his estate, and had bestowed other favours upon him; he began to publish the discord openly, which he before had sown in secret, and to show himself enemy to the Pope: but before that it took any effect, the Pope died in Naples, having been so eleven years and half, in the year of our Lord 1254. This Pope gave order that the Cardinals should ride on their food-cloathes, and wear read Hats and Robes, which they use at this day; to the end that as they did excel other men in dignity The institution of the Cardinal's Hats and robes, by Pope Clement, and riding upon foot-cloths. and pre-eminence, so they should go different in apparel, and thereby be known from other men. Presently upon the death of Pope INNOCENT, manfred publishing that his Nephew CONRADINE was dead, cladding himself in mourning attire, proclaimed himself King of Naples and Sicilia; and raising forces, drew the African Moors, which dwelled in Nuceria, to his service; and suddenly set upon those places which held for the Pope: so as ALEXANDER succeeding INNOCENT the Fourth, sent a Cardinal whose name was OCTAVIUS to Naples, against manfred, who proceeded so fare as to excommunicate him: but manfred, who now was called King of both the Sicily's, took such order with the Legate that he constrained him to shut up himself in Naples; and so was he Master of the field, and not only in that province, but in all Italy sought to raise dissension and discord, showing himself to be of the faction of the Gibelins, with whose aid he made himself mighty, and was principally assisted by the great tyrant ENCELINUS. In Florence, in Lombardy, and in other parts, happened many great accidents, which I have no time to relate, being to return to my History of the lives of the Emperors: nevertheless it shall be expedient to declare what end manfred and his Nephew CONRADINE made; who was also called King of both the Sicily's; and at that time, by reason of his nonage, was in his mother's keeping in her estate of Suevia; which gave opportunity to manfred to rise, as he did, with the kingdom. The Emperor william, seeing in what estate Italy stood, and being now Lord of all Germany in peace, desiring to come into Italy to visit the lands of the Empire, which had recovered liberty through the long absence of the Emperors; and likewise to be crowned by the hands of Pope ALEXANDER, he summoned a Council to be held in the city of Colen: and having therein determined of his journey, he was advertised that the province of Friesland was up in Arms, and rebelled against him; and that not content therewith, they had invaded Holland, where they had done great harm, by taking and carrying away whatsoever they found. WILLIAM, to suppress this rebellion, resolved to go in person to bring the Frisons to obedience, which were such men, and so many, that he otherwise knew not how to bridle them; and it seemed no sound course for him to go into Italy, and to leave Germany in an uproar. And so marching with his Army against the Frisons, which lay encamped not fare from him, as it was in the winter, and in that country are many Lakes and Moorish places, which then were frozen, the Emperor with one or two with him, or else alone on horseback, went to view his enemy's Camp, or to view some ground where his own Army might lodge: and passing over a lake, his horse slipped, and fell with him, and the Ice breaking, his horse and himself were so pestered in the water, that they could not get out of it: which a company of Frisons (which lay undiscovered in an ambush) perceiving, sallied out, and unknown slew the Emperor, thinking that they had slain but some mean horseman, without being perceived by any man in his The Emperor William, Earl of Holland slain and drowned. Camp, neither by them which were with him, or else they durst not reveal it: and so he lay unseen in the water, until that afterwards he was found and known by his enemies. This happened in the year of our Lord, one thousand, two hundred, fifty and six: in the eight and twentith year of his age, and the seventh of his reign. And as he was missed in his Camp, and no man knew what become of him, nor what was befallen him (men being of sundry opinions) some imagining that he was go, and had abandoned them, and others were of other opinions; at last they were certified of the truth by their enemies. Whereupon the Army disbanded, and went every man whither he listed: in this manter ended the aspiring thoughts, life, and reign of the Emperor WILLIAM, whom his son FLORIS, which then was a child, succeeded in the estate of Holland, and the rest: who afterwards made cruel war against the Frisons, in revenge of his father's death; who until then lay in a poor Sepulture. In Sicily and Naples manfred grew daily more mighty, and was called King. The discord and division, which (as we said) was in the Empire between FREDERICK and WILLIAM, and afterwards between WILLIAM and CONRADE, FREDEKIC'KS son, and that which we will declare which happened after his decease, was the beginning and The cause of the declining of the German Empire. original cause why the Empire lost in those times great part of the authority, power and reputation, which it before enjoyed, and that some Cities in Italy recovered liberty, and were exempt from the Empire, and that others fell into the hands of Tyrants, as it afterwards ensued. For notwithstanding that there afterwards were valiant and mighty Emperors, yet all matters were so corrupt and out of order in the Empire, as it could not be reduced to the ancient policy; neither did the Electours and Princes of Germany (in whom consisteth the chiefest strength of the Empire) yield such obedience and fealty to them, as their ancestors had done, making themselves through these vacancies and dissensions, free, and of greater power, and the Emperors become poor, of less account, and were less respected by them. I say then, that as the Prince's Electors of the Empire were certified of the death of the Emperor WILLIAM (which were as all men know) the Duke of Saxony, the Count Palatine of Rhine, the marquis Prince's Electors. of Brandenburg, the Archbishops of Mentz, Colen and Trevier, and (when they cannot agreed) the King of Bohemia, they began to consult about choosing of a new Emperor, first writing the one to the other, and afterwards meeting in Frankford, where they could not agreed, for there were many Competitors, and the matter was carried by bribes, gifts and sinister means. Coming in the end with great difficulty to make the election, upon Twelfth day, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, two hundred, fifty and seven: the voices were divided into two parts; the Duke of Saxony, the Archbishop of Trevier, and the marquis of Brandenburg chose ALONSO King of Castille: and EBERARD Archbishop of Mentz, CONRADE Archbishop of Colen, and LEWES Count Palatine of the Rhine, gave their voices to RICHARD Duke of Cornwall, brother to the King of England. In this manner they parted divided, Disagreement in choosing of the Emperor. either party holding him for Emperor whom they had chosen: but most men affirmed that it was no election, for it seemeth not that the King of Bohemia gave his voice, or was present at the election, or would join with either of the parties, but was singular in his voice, seeking to have been Emperor himself. Those which chose ALONSO and held with him, sent him their Ambassadors (which were the Bishops of Spire and Constance) to give him intelligence Alonso King of Castille chosen Emperor. of his election, desiring him to prepare himself to come into the Empire: at their coming into Castille they were joyfully received by the King, who being very glad of their Ambassage, accepted the election: but he being busied in the wars against the Moors (from whom he had a little before taken the Town of Niebla and other places) he could not then come into Germany: but writing his letters to the Prince's Electors, he dispatched the Ambassadors (giving them and sending to the rest many jewels and great rewards) and so they returned very well content. But King ALONSO his going into Germany, through many occasions which were offered in Castille, as well against the Moors (from whom he twice wan the City of Xeres, the City of Murcia and other places) as for that his brother PHILIP withdrew himself from his service, his journey was a long time deferred. The other part of the Prince's Electors, which had chosen the King of England's Brother, sent him also a solemn Ambassage; and Richard Brothe to the King of England crowned Emperor in Aken in Germany. he came into Germany, and with the aid of his Brother the King, came to Aken, and there was crowned by those which had chosen him, and he afterwards was possessed of some Towns and Cities upon the Rhines side: and so began very great wars and troubles in Germany, some holding for RICHARD, and others for ALONSO; others (which were the greatest number) admitted neither the one nor the other, holding the Empire for void: and so miserable Germany was set on fire with cruel war, which continued the space of fifteen or sixteen years, in which time, RICHARD died out of possession of the Empire, and King ALONSO could The death of Richard, Brother to the king of England. never come thither, by reason of sundry accidents whieh happened in Castille, as in the Spanish Chronicles doth appear. At the same time BALDWIN the Emperor of Constantinople being unable to make his party good, against MICHAEL PALEOLOGUS, (who by making away the two sons of THEODORE LASCARUS, got the Empire to himself) fled from Constantinople, and Baldwin deposed from the Greek Empire, by Michael Paleologus. MICHAEL PALEOLOGUS had the Empire, and so it returned to the Greek nation, having been above seventy years governed by the Latins: the first that had the same was called BALDWIN, and so was he which lost it, which was in the year of our Lord 1260. At this time also came Ambassadors to Pope ALEXANDER, from CONRADINE Duke of Suevia (who was called, and aught to have been, King of Sicilia and Naples) entreating his favour in his behalf against MANF●…DE, who usurped the said kingdoms; but it could take no effect at that time; for manfred was now grown so mighty, that the Pope was not able to make head against him: and besides the kingdoms of Naples and Sicilia, he was Lord of Florence and other towns in Italy. Within few days after this died Pope ALEXANDER, having held the chair about seven years, with troubles and wars in little prosperity. This Pope Alexander canonised Saint Clare for a Saint. Pope canonised Saint CLARE, of the order of Saint FRANCIS, for a Saint: and he being dead, the Patriarch of jerusalem (a French man borne) was chosen Pope, and called VRBANE the Fourth; who considering what great power the Tyrant MANFRED had got in Italy, (for what his father held therein, was at his dovotion.) And seeing that there came no sufficient aid from Germany, and moreover having no meaning to approve the succession of CONRADES son CONRADINE, for that his ancestors had been ancient enemies to the Church of Rome, but chief for that he had small confidence in his power, and for other occasions which I forbear to writ; by the advice of his Cardinals he sent his Ambassadors to LEWES the French King, desiring him to sand his brother CHARLES Earl of Provence and Anjou with Pope Vrbane the fourth, called the Duke of Anjou into Italy, to make war in Naples and Sicilia. an Army in relief of the Church, and to expel the Tyrant MANFRED out of the Kingdoms of Naples and Sicilia, and that then he would give the same to him in fee, as the Church's inheritance. The French King willingly gave ear to the Popes, Ambassage, and yielding to his demand, offered aid, and to sand him into Italy: and so CHARLES began to provide necessaries for his journey, which Pope VRBANE could never see take effect, for he was intercepted by death in the city of Perugia, in the third year of his papacy: in all which time (by reason of factions and partialities) he never came to Rome. This Pope instituted the feast of Corpus Christi, which is celebrated by the Church of Rome The Feast of Corpus Christi instituted by pope Vrbane the fourth. with great solemnity, unto this day, being first invented by the famous Doctor THOMAS of AQVINE, a Friar of the order of Saint DOMINICKE, who flourished in those times. At that time also flourished S. BONAU●…NTURE, a Doctor and Friar of the order of Saint FRANCIS. VRBANE being dead, GVIDO Cardinal of Sulconia borne in Narbone in France, was chosen Pope, and called CLEMENT the Fourth; in whose time at his instant entreaty, the French Kings brother, or cousin german, Earl of Anjou came into Italy with a great Army, to make a conquest of the Kingdoms of Naples and Sicilia from MANFRED, who was already called king of Naples and Sicilia; and there passed between them many conflicts and encounters, which I overpass: CHARLES being assisted by the faction of the Guelphs, at length near to the City of Beneuent, MANFRED and he, with power against power fought a battle, wherein MANFRED was overthrown and slain, after that he had seen CHARLES cast to the earth, and his Army in a manner wholly overthrown, but yet in the end CHARLES had the victory; wherein he was much assisted by the counsel and help of john de Rata, Earl of Caserta, who sought revenge for that MANFRED had ravished his manfred king of both Sicily's, overthrown and slain by Charles duke of Anjou. wife. Thus MANFDED lost his life with his kingdoms, the which he had gotten by fraud, treachery and parricide. This overthrow and death of MANFRED caused a great alteration in Italy, for the faction of the Guelphs every where prevailed (in a manner) in all the cities of Italy, being favoured by the new king of Sicilia, against the Gebilins. And in short space king CHARLES was possessed of the kingdoms of Naples and Sicilia, being first crowned in Rome king of both the kingdoms; and in acknowledgement of the fee, he was bound to pay yearly to the Church of Rome, threescore thousand ducats, or crowns of Gold. In this manner, the state of Provence, whose head is the City of Marselles, was united to the kingdom Naples, which was in the year of our Lord 1266. In the time of these alterations in Italy, Germany was still troubled about the election of an Emperor: and whereas the king of England's brother RICHARD, who contended with ALONSO for the Empire, at this time died, if ALONSO had then come into Germany he might easily have obtained the Empire, seeing his competitor was deceased: but by reason of civil wars against the Moors, he could never have opportunity to come thither: and his brother PHILIP, and other great men of Castille, left his service, and overran his country. Germany being thus without an head, endured great misery, aswell for this cause, as through the great wars which the king of Hungary made against the king of Bohemia, and other Princes, upon sundry occasions. CHARLES the new king of Sicilia living in this prosperity, all those which in Italy were of the faction of the Gibelins, sent to solicit CONRADINE Duke of Suevia, who was also king of Naples and Sicilia, (as son of the Emperor CONRADE, and Nephew to the Emperor FREDERICK) to come, and reconquer his kingdoms, and that they all would help and serve him in that action: whereto CONRADINE (as a courageous young man) soon agreed, and began to gather forces and to try his friends, whereto he was also persuaded & encouraged by HENRY the king of Castile's brother, who was banished from his brother for some factions and confederacies which he had made against him; And at that time was governor, and a Senator of Rome, made by Pope CLEMENT; which dignity he obtained (after that he had wandered through England, France and Germany) at the request of king CHARLES of Naples, by reason of his affinity, and the Pope's favour, to whose court he came, lying then in Viterbo, and the Pope made him a Senator of Rome, which then was the highest dignity and command therein. This HENRY was a man of so great valour, and therewith so politic, that he wholly commanded the City; and being so, he induced CON●…ADINE to come into Italy (for he was his kinsman, and had found him his friend at his being in Germany) promising and putting him in hope, that he should not only have the kingdoms of Naples and Sicilia (which were his by inheritance) but should also be Emperor of Rome; for he would receive him into the Conradine his coming into Italy against the Duke of Anjou. City. Finally, CONRADINE moved by these Letters and messages, but reposing his chiefest confidence in the Gebelins, came into Italy with ten thousand the most expert men of war that he could get; to whom many of the Gebelins resorted, and he was received and lodged in Verona, whither the Sienois and Pisans sent their Ambassadors (and many other Cities wherein the Gebelins were masters) exhorting him to proceed. When King CHARLES was advertised hereof, he went from Tuscan, where he then remained, into his kingdoms; leaving good garrisons in those towns which held for him; and a governor with the title of Martial. And HENRY the King's brother of Castille, who was then in Rome, whither CONRADINE was travailing, openly showed himself for him, being of power able to do so, whether the Pope would or not; who favoured CHARLES his party, as a King whom he had made. But the factions in Italy made all poor, and inconstant. To be short, after other matters which befell CONRADINE by the way, he being come near to the City of Arezzo, fought a battle with the Marshal whom King CHARLES had left in those parts. And notwithstanding that the Marshal and his people fought valiantly, yet CONRADINE was Victor and the Marshal was slain in the battle, and his party overthrown; whereby CONRADINE won so great credit and reputation, that if he would have stayed in those quarters, many towns would have yielded unto him: but being solicited by Letters, and messages from HENRY in Rome, he took his way thitherwards, passing near by Viterbo, where Pope CLEMENT lay, who as an enemy to wars, and bearing of Arms, was very sorry for what passed: and coming to Rome, he was solemnly received with all the ceremonies accustomed, and HENRY calling him Emperor, lodged him as one in the Capitol. After some few days stay in Rome, he departed towards Naples, accompanied with the said HENRY, to find out king CHARLES; and HENRY left in his place and office in Rome, one GVIDO FERRETANUS, a man whom he much trusted. King CHARLES having already intelligence of CONRADINES' coming, and seeing that by delays he daily lost more and more, notwithstanding that he had no equal forces, yet he resolved to end the controversy by a battle, which by CONRADINE (who presumed much upon the multitude and valour of his soldiers) was chief desired, so as the one Army drawing near the other, near to Alva; CHARLES knowing how to take benefit of the ground where he was encamped, marshaled A battle between Charles of A●…ow king of Sicilia, and Conradine duke of Suevi●…. his troops in such manner that he might shadow the greatest part of his Army behind a Hill, and ●…o the fight began and continued above three hours: in the end whereof, CHARLES his troops being near overthrown, he broke out of his Ambuscado, and charged with such fury, that he forced his enemies to turn their backs, and obtained the victory: And CONRADINE, HENRY and FR●…DERICK, who (I know not by what title) was called Duke of Austria, escaped by flight. But through sundry casualties they all three with●… few days after fell into his hands, and he cruelly executing the law of Arms, made the heads Conradine duke of Sueu●… and king of both the Sicily's ●…ut to death by Charles duke of Anjou. of king CONRADINE, and of FREDERI●…K Duke of Austria to be stricken off, contenting himself to hold HENRY prisoner for their nearness in blood. Some Authors writ, that when these Princes were brought before CHARLES, he not content with the glory of the victory (which had been the part of a noble and generous mind) insulted proudly over them. Than by the barbarous and wicked cruelty of Pope CLEMENT the fourth, who being demanded his advice touching the prisoners answered; The life of CONRADINE is the death of CHARLES, and the death of CONRADINE is the life of CHARLES: whereupon, by a never heardof example of cruelty in the Christian world and unworthy the name of a King, he put them to death, as hath been said; The Earl of Flanders telling him in vain, that moderation and clemency did become a generous conqueror. So in the end by the execution of CONRADINE, a most generous and innocent young Prince, the most ancient and noble family of the Dukes of Suevia having managed the affairs of the Empire and their own at home and abroad, both in peace and war, wisely and valiantly, was by the practice of Pope's extinct, when it had reigned in the Empire, one hundred and fifteen years, and held the realms of Sicilia and Naples, 76. By this means king CHARLES won great reputation, for he had overthrown and slain two kings, MANFRED and CONRADINE. And within short space all those towns which held for CONRADINE hearing of his death, reduced themselves to CHARLES his subjection: and so in Sicilia, Pulia, Calabria and in all Italy, the faction of the Guelphs recovered the upper hand. So as poor CONRADINE in hope to have gotten the kingdom of Naples, lost his life, and therewith his estate of Suevia, whereof he was assured: and in him ended the line of the house of Suevia, for he left no heir; and that state was lost, most of the Cities therein making themselves Imperial: yet RODULPH and his son JOHN were afterwards called Dukes of Suevia. The victorious triumphant king CHARLES, with Pope CLEMENT'S leave and authority, went to Rome, to execute the office of Senator, which HENRY had lost, and to pacify the factions which were in the City; and the Pope from Viterbo where he made his residence, never ceased to procure peace and concord between the Cities of Italy, and to pacify king CHARLES: but his desire took no effect, for he was interrupted by death, which overtook him in the end of the year 1278, having been Pope little more than 3 years, and was reckoned amongst the Saints. Pope CLEMENT the fourth being dead, the Cardinals agreed so ill about choosing him a successor, that for the space of two years there was no Pope. What happened in the mean time, is too long to be written, wherefore I leave it apart: amongst which Saint LEWES King of France went against the kingdom and City of Tunis, where he died of the Plague. His going thither was with an intent to have go from thence to the conquest of jerusalem, whereto he was induced by Pope CLEMENT before his death. Before the Pope's death, EDWARD King Edward Longshanks at the wars in the Holy-land. King of England went to the same service with about two hundred thousand men, which from all parts of Christendom vowed to go that voyage, but all was afterwards. Two years being past that the Cardinals could not agreed, by their common consent in the year 1270, THEOBALD a Cardinal was chosen, and called GREGORY the tenth, who was a Legate with King EDWARD in that enterprise: which EDWARD performed as little in that action, aswell by reason of King LEWES his long abode before Tunis, where he died, for whom The dea●…h of S. Lewes' king of France before Tunis. King Edward the first of England returned from the war in the Holy-land. King EDWARD stayed; as also for that the Pope's seat was voide the space of two years, which put all out of order, and caused him and such as were with him, to endure great want and penury: and for that at this time also died the Patriarch of jerusalem; by whose counsel he began and continued that war, and in the end THEOBALD: who was the Apostolic Legate in this journey, came to be Pope, wherefore King EDWARD also returned to his country, without effecting what he desired. When TH●…ALD, or P. GREGORY the tenth, being in Aken was advertised of his election; with the aid of King EDWARD, who furnished him with men and shipping, he came into Italy, and was joyfully received and entertained by King CHARLES of Naples, through whose country he passed, who accompanied him some day's journeys; and coming to Viterbo, where the Cardinals attended his coming, he was crowned after the accustomed manner: and he then presently summoned a general Council, First to procure the reformation and peace of the Church: Secondly, that an Emperor should be chosen; for Germany was brought to ruin through civil dissension and want of justice: and Thirdly, to take order for the conquest of the Holy-land, appointing Lions in France to be the place where this Council should be held; whither he presently went, first settling the best peace he could in Italy, principally between the Genoais and the Venetians, two mighty Commonwealths in those days who made most cruel war. This being done he came to Lions, from whence he sent to the Prince's Electors, commanding them to meet, and to make choice of an Emperor. To this Council at Lions, came PALEOLOGUS the Emperor of Constantinople, whom the Pope confirmed in his Empire, notwithstanding that he obtained the same by indirect means; and he and the Prelates which came with him, in the name of the Greek Church, submitted themselves to the Council in certain points, wherein the Greeks dissented from the Latins: but they observed the same as little as at other times they had done. The Prince's Electors met at Frankford, to treat of the election of an Emperor, seeing how many years the Empire was void, for now twenty years were fully expired since the death of FREDERICK, in all which time, Germany was never free from factions and partialities about the Empire, and thirteen or fourteen years since the Emperor WILLIAM died, so that Germany lay abandoned without an head or sovereign Lord: for RICHARD brother to the King of England, and ALONSO King of Castille, were chosen in discord and dissent of voices; and RICHARD within short space died, and King ALONSO could never come to enjoy the Empire. All the Prince's Electors meeting, spent three years before they could agreed about the Election; for either of them would have him to be Emperor in whom they thought to have greatest interest: some alleged that no election could be made, for that King ALONSO of Castille was chosen; and the same King sent his Proctors to protest that he prepared himself speedily to come unto the Empire: there were others that hindered the election, for that they had usurped the lands and possessions belonging to the Empire, and were in fear to loose the same: finally, the matter was very confused and out of order, but in the end they agreed: and notwithstanding that OTHO CARUS King of Bohemia, had won the most part of the Electors, and assured himself that he should have been chosen in this great confused Anarchy during the vacancy, Italy being on fire with intestine combustions and seditions, and Germany●…ost ●…ost with old hatreds and new alterations, when as all things threatened a fearful ruin, than did the Electors chose RODULPH Earl of Habspurgh and Hessia, who in line Masculine descended lineally from the father to the son, from PHAROMOND King of the Francons: The Earl of Halspurgh and Hessia chose●… Emperor. others have written (amongst which is VOLATERRANUS) that this RODULPH was descended from the house and family of the PERLEONES, or LEONES in Rome, an ancient house of Earls, and that one of them upon certain occasion left his country, and went into Ergovia, and there built the Castle of Habspurgh, from whence descend the Earls of Habspurgh: which they say was in the year 1150. But it cannot be so, for the Town and Castle of Habspurgh, from whence these Earls are descended, is not in Ergovia, but another much more ancient, and fare distant from that, whereof long before the time that they speak of, the Earls of Habspurgh were Lords: And JOHN STABIUS setteth down a pedigree of nine Kings and fourteen Earls before this RODULPH, of whom we now treat: who besides that he was chosen and crowned Emperor, and governed the Empire the space of eighteen years, came (through want of Heirs) to be Duke of Austria: and that house hath continued in that lineage from that time until this day, and hath produced nine Emperors, and a great number of dukes: from which RODULPH the First, is descended RODULPH the Second now reigning in the year one thousand six hundred and four. In Constantinople still reigned MICHAEL PALEOLOGUS. THE LIFE OF RODULPH, THE FIRST OF THAT NAME, AND THE HUNDRETH AND THIRD Roman Emperor; And of MICHAEL PALEOLOGUS, Emperor of Constantinople. THE ARGUMENT. WHen Rodulph's election was published, all Germany rejoiced, seeing an end of so many troubles: he was according to the custom crowned in Aken, but would never go to be crowned in Italy, alleging that all the Emperors which went thither, either died there, or returned with great loss. He had great wars with the King of Bohemia, who by his wife's persuasion, violating his faith, rebelled against the Emperor to whom he had sworn fealty and obedience. After this war, the Emperor addicted himself to maintain justice; and taking no care to come into Italy, contenting himself with their tribute, he held all Germany in peace, a thing which no Emperor ever had done. He subdued all those which rebelled, and being old departed out of this life. He made alliance with many great Lords by means of his daughters, for in his sons he was not very fortunate. AS soon as it was published that RODULPH was chosen, there was great joy in all the towns and Cities of Germany, and by all men which desired peace and justice, as well through the desire they had to have an Emperor, as for that RODULPH was a man much esteemed, and the hope they conceived that he would prove a good Prince; for he was held to be a man of great judgement and very valiant, whereof he had made great proof both in peace and war, in the service of FREDERICK the Second, who was his Godfather, and afterwards in the war against the King of Bohemia, But the Ambassadors of the King of ALONSO, and likewise of the King of Bohemia, departed very much discontented from Frankford, making first their protestations. Earl RODULPH had little apprehension thereof when the news was brought him of his Election, who at that Psitaci and Stellleferi, two factions in Basil. time lay before the City of Basil, besieging the same, wherein were two factions of the Psitaci and the Stelleferi, whereof the one had driven the other out of the City: and he took upon him the charge to restore the banished to their houses; with whose aid, and the aid of his The Emperor Rodulph crowned in Aken. friends and subjects, he besieged that City: but being advertised of his election, he came to the City of Aken, and there according to the accustomed manner was crowned; whither came Ambassadors from the Princes of Germany to congratulate his election: but neither the King of Bohemia, nor the Duke of Baviere would obey, or hold him for Emperor on What ensued, you shall understand hereafter. After the coronation, he and the Electors sent their Ambassadors to Pope GREGORY the Tenth, who then was at the Council of Lions in France, who being hery glad of his election, confirmed the same: and promised to give him the Imperial Crown, if he would come into Italy; but he would never go to be crowned in Rome, neither come into Italy: It is written that being demanded wherefore he would not go thither, for answer he recited one of ●…SOPS' fables; saying that the Lion as king of all other beasts being sick, would have them all come to visit him, and they went & comforted him: but the A tale of a Lion Fo●… of purpose staying to be last, and being come to the mouth of the Cave wherein the Lion lay, would not enter; and the cause being demanded, answered, that the most part of the footsteps which he saw, were of such as went in, but he could hardly perceive that any of them came forth again; whereby he knew that the most part of them remained food for the sick Lion: wherefore he would not put his life in such hazard. After this manner said RODULPH it befell the Emperors, his predecessors, in t●… journeys into Italy: for they either died there, The cause why the Emperor Rodulph would not come into Italy. or returned with great loss: wherefore upon this consideration, he would never come into Italy to be crowned, which was the cause that many Cities exempted themselves and become free. The new Emperor through a desire to reform the estate of the Empire, summoned a Diet or Parliament to be held in the City of Norembergh, whither came all the Princes in person; or else such as could not come, sent their Agents or deputies, excepting the King of Bohemia, and the Duke of Baviere, who neither came nor sent; neither would they acknowledge him for their Emperor: Whereupon RODULPH by the consent of all those which were present, ●…soribed them a certain time, within which they should restore and deliver up the Lands and possessions which they had usurped in the time of the Empire's vacancy: as well such as appertained to the Empire, as to other particular persons; and charged them to make their appearance within the time limited, in the City of Augsburgh. The time being expired, and the Emperor being comn thither, all came or sent their lawful excuses: And notwithstanding that the Duke of Baviere came not, yet he sent by his Agents, to yield his obedience to the Emperor; but in the behalf of the King of Bohemia it was not so; for he sent his Ambassadors, amongst which was a Bishop, to whom public audience being given, the Bishop began a long set Oration, wherein he sought to prove, that the election of RODULPH was of no effect; and that the King of Bohemia was not bound to yield him obedience, neither to acknowledge him for his Lord: Wherewith he and the Princes present were so much displeased, that without permitting him to end his discourse, they commanded him presently to departed the Court and City; and so he and his associates departed. In that Council the King of Bohemia was proclaimed a Rebel and disobedient, and as such, they were to proceed both against him and his estate: The Emperor presently sent the Burgrave of Norembergh (which is a dignity in Germany) to require him to surrender the Duchy and states of Austria, Carinthia, Carniola, and Stiria, which he usurped. But the King neither would, neither had any meaning to do so, and therefore took Arms to make resistance: And the Council being ended, the Emperor likewise levied an Army against him: What ensued, we will tell you after that we shall have related what end the King of Castille had in the Empire, which passed in this manner. ALONSO King of Castille understanding that RODULPH of Habspurgh, was chosen Emperor, was very sorry; and after many consultations held, and a peace established with the King of Granada, he departed from Spain, purposing to have been Emperor, and sent soldiers and other provision before him, by sea and land to the City of Marselles; for he held the Kings of France and of Naples for his friends and kinsmen: and so departing from Castille, accompanied with his brother EMANVEL, and other great men in the month of March in the year 1275, leaving his eldest son HERNANDES Governor in his absence, he came into France, with an intent to have proceeded on his journey. What ensued and how he passed, Histories record not: the effect is, that at the same time the Pope GREGORY having dissolved the general Council, and returning into Italy, met with King ALONSO, at a place called Bellocadoro; where the King shown himself discontent, for that the Pope (to his prejudice) had consented to the election of an Emperor, he pretending to be already lawfully chosen: but the Pope so excused himself, and gave the other so good counsel, that he persuaded him to give over his challenge, and to return to Castille; which was greatly furthered through the news of the death of his eldest son, and of the incursions made into his Country by the Moors, and of the pra●…ss of his second son called SANCH●…S, (who afterwards was King) who then took upon him the government of the Kingdom, and sought to have succeeded by depriving the sons of DON HERNANDES for these and other great difficulties (whereof the King was advertised) he returned into Castille; where he afterwards lived in great trouble, for his son SANCHES rebelled with the Kingdom; only the Cities and Kingdoms of Sevil and Mur●…ia were faithful unto him til about 9 or 10 years after he died in Sevil, in the year 1284, and the said SANCHES succeeded him in the Kingdom. Pope GREGORY after his departure from king ALONSO, travailing through Italy towards Rome, died in Arezzo, and in his place was chosen PETER TARENTA●…S' Cardinal of Hosti●… a Dominican friar, and was called INNOCEN●… the fift: in whose time the truce between the Venetians and Genoais being expired, cruel war began between them: the Pope sought to make peace between them and the other cities in Tuscan, Pisa, Florence, Luca, Sienna, and the rest which were in arms; K. CHARLES of Naples also interposing his authority. But before he could effect it he died, having been Pope 5 mon●…ss and two days only; to whom succeeded OTHO BON, a Cardinal, and was called ADRIAN the fift, who was Pope but forty days: after him was chosen one PETER, born in Lisbon, and was called JOHN the 22, who was a great Physician, and wrote of Physic: and although he was a great clerk, yet was he nothing expert in governing his charge, so as if he had lived long, he would have showed his imperfections, but in the 8 month of his Papacy (he being in Viterbo) the roof of a chamber fell upon him: and although he was taken out alive, yet he was so bruised, as he died within 7 days. He being dead, Cardinal JOHN CA●…TANUS was chosen and called NICHOLAS the third with whom, and with all the rest, the Emperor held friendship; whom we left making preparation for his wars against the king of Bohemia; which he was constrained to defer for a space, for that L●…WES Count Palatine of the Rhine, and the Marquis of Baden, would not (within the time limited) surrender such lands and towns as they had taken, at what time the Empire was voided: wherefore he went in person to recover them by force with much trouble and danger. This being done, he marched first with his forces to make war against the D. of Baviere, for that he performed not what he had sworn by his Ambassadors and Proctors, but aided and favoured the K. of Bohemia. The Emperor with a mighty Army, entering his country slew many of his people, and by force took and ruined some towns, so as he compelled the Duke to submit himself. The Emperor marching further, entered Austria, which OTHO CARUS had taken, and therein had placed Bohemian garrisons: nevertheless some castles yielded, and others were taken by force; and he afterwards besieged the city of Vienna; to the relief whereof, after the siege had lasted the space of 7 weeks, the King of Bohemia came with a great power, which he had levied in his kingdom, and in Moravia and other countries: and to the Emperor's camp came against him the King of Hungary, who was an enemy to the King of Bohemia, and had taken some towns from him: the two Armies being come, the one near the other; and in a readiness to have fought; certain Monks and Friars become mediators between the King and the Emperor, who used such means, that a peace was concluded: and the Emperor pardoned the King, upon condition that he should presently surrender the estates of Austria, Carinthia, Sciria, and Carniola to the Emperor; and to the King of Hungary, what he had taken from him; and that the Emperor should confirm unto him the Kingdom of Bohemia, and Moravia, for which he should come in person to yield obedience, and to be sworn after the accustomed manner. All which the King (seeing no other remedy) yielded to perform, being at the point to have lost all the rest; but he instantly requested, that he might do his homage in some secret place; for as he was a very haughty minded man, so did it extremely grieve him to kneel to a man to whom he had given pay; and thinking that the Emperor would have performed what he requested, forasmuch as he stayed for him in a close Tent, he came, and kneeling down before the Emperor to do him homage; the Tent was so artificially made, that it fell open, in such manner, as he was seen by the whole Army, wherewith he was much discontented. This agreement being made, and the King returned into his country, he was by his wife the Queen very ill entertained; for being a vain proud woman, she told him that he was not worthy the name of a King, neither to wearea crown, since he had lost so great estates without the hazard of one battle; and had humbled himself disarmed, before him who had been his servant; having an Army of so good men to take his part as he had: and since that he had made so shameful a peace, he should now let her have his Army, and she would by war recover what he had lost by avoiding it. These his wife's speeches, and such like, which she used at other times, added to the sorrow for what he had lost, did so disquiet him, that he repent him of what he had done; and rebelling, meant to wipe away this reproach by Arms: Whereupon he drew his forces to an head, and such places as were not resigned, he repaired, and fortified; and went into Austria to recover what he had already surrendered; which he did with such expedition, that he took many places there. When the Emperor understood of the King of Bohemia's proceed, he with no less expedition raised his forces, and with some Princes of the Empire came against him with a great power; who resolutely stayed in the field to give him battle, which befell upon the six and twentith day of August, in the year of our Lord, 1277: which battle was sharp and cruel, and the king in the midst of the troops, being deadly wounded by one BERTOLD a favourite of the Emperors, fell from his horse: Which sudden accident, A Rattaile between the Emperor and the king of Bohe●…, wherein the Bohemians were overthrown, and their King slain. together with the enemy's force, was the cause of his people's overthrow, and that the Emperor being victorious was master of the field: and the King was afterwards found there, as naked as he was born of his Mother. The Emperor having obtained this notable victory, followed not the same with such rigour and cruelty as he might have done; for the King leaving a son called WENCESLAUS, the Emperor married him to his daughter JUDITH, and invested and confirmed him in the kingdoms of Bohemia and Moravia: and for as much as he was but a child, he gave the government both of his person and estate, to the marquis of Brandenburg: and so had RODULPH the Duchy of Austria, and other estates thereto appertaining; which he afterwards gave to his eldest son ALBERT, who in process of time came to be Emperor. After the war of Bohemia, the Emperor sought to settle justice, and to free he country from the eves and rebels, by reason of the late troubles; amongst which, one was so audacious that he shamed not to say that he was the Emperor FREDERICK the Second, who died in Italy; stoutly maintaining himself to be the same: the cause whereof was, for that the common people never certainly know what passeth; and some reported that the Emperor FREDE●…ICR was not dead but lay hidden. This rumour was so generally diuulged and believed, that this man gathered so many unto him, that he took some Cities, and so much troubled the Emperor, Acounter●…eit Emperor. that he was constrained to levy an Army against him, by which this sergeant FREDERICK was overthrown and taken prisoner; and afterwards burnt by the Emperor's commandment, and the rest of his confederates were severely punished: and so he was generally obeyed. But as for matters of Italy, he took no care to go thither in person, but sought to govern by his Vicars and Lieutenants, ever maintaining peace with the Popes; contenting himself that some Cities in Lombardy, and others which acknowledged the Empire, repaired unto him and paid their customs and tributes, whereof he was very greedy: for in truth, notwithstanding that this Prince was adorned with many great virtues, yet he was much noted and taxed for being covetous and greedy of money, as he afterwards showed. And in regard of peace between him and Pope NICHOLAS, he freely granted to him Ravenna, and the other Towns of that government, which the Pope challenged to be the Church inheritance; uniting thereto the City of Bolonia, which of later time held for the Empire. Pope NICHOLAS having the Emperor's friendship, and for that he was a Roman borne, was of greater power than any of his predecessors had been; and took from CHARLES King of Naples the office of Senator, and made a Law, that from thenceforth no king or King's son should be Senator: he also took from him the Lieutenantship for the Church in Tuscan, alleging that it was not the Emperor's pleasure that he should hold that dignity; and so jealousy and suspicion grew between them: for it was odious to the Pope to see that CHARLES was of such power; wherefore he procured PETER king of Arragon, to make challenge to the Kingdom of Naples The Pope was authoo of all the wars between the French and Spanish for the kingdom of Naples. and Sicilia; affirming that they appertained unto him, by reason of his marriage with CONSTANCE daughter to MANFRED king of Sicilia. All this the Pope durst to do, having the favour and friendship of the Emperor RODULPH, whom they knew to be of great power in Italy, and obeyed in Germany. About this time the Emperor sent one to be his Lieutenant in Italy, whom many Cities received and obeyed, and others would not. At this time also died Pope NICHOLAS, having held the sea four years, saving four months; and upon some occasion, that Sea was void five months; and then was chosen SIMON Cardinal, of S. Sicily, a Frenchman borne, who was called MARTIN the Fourth. In those times, the Popes made their abode in Viterbo, but he would not be sacred there, but went for that purpose to Civita Vechia, whither came to see him CHARLES King of Naples, who (for that they both were Frenchmen) was very joyfully received, and afterwards much favoured: which was in the year of our Lord 1281. In the same year, the Emperor settled WENCESLAUS king of Bohemia (whom he had married with his daughter JUDITH) in the government of his kingdom; free from the tutorship of the marquis of Brandenburg, to whom he had given the same. And the same year he had war with the Governor of a people called Ethni, inhabiting a province in France about Lionois, who rebelled, and would have made himself Lord of Burgundy, and of part of Suevia; whither he went in person, obtained victory, and left the country in subjection. And returning from his journey, he came into the province of Alsatia, where were many factions, and many great men rebelling, disobeyed his commandments: but with his presence all was still and in quiet: so as in all Germany he was both obeyed and feared, and reigned in prosperity. But as in this life no estate high or low is free from disasters and misfortunes, so a son of his whom he much loved whose name was HARMAN, passing the river of Rhine, in a boat, was drowned, together with certain other eminent men, and his wife the Empress also died; and about three years after he married again, with the daughter of the Duke of Burgundy: and so he passed five or six years without any accident worth the writing. In Italy, CHARLES, King of Sicilia and Provence, being rich and of great power, through the favour of Pope MARTIN, had a conceit to have deposed MICHAEL PALEOLOGUS, and to have restored BALDWIN to the Empire of Constantinople; who marrying his daughter, was deprived: and although he pretended this title, yet it was thought that he would have had the Empire for himself. This being done, he thought to have recovered the kingdom of jerusalem, whereof he entitled himself King: whereupon he practised with the Pope, persuading him to excommunicate PALEOLOOUS, for that he had not observed what was decreed in the Council late held at Lions, whither he came to Pope GREGORY the Tenth, concerning the uniting of the Greek Church with the Latin. He had also intelligence with certain Cities in Graecia which rebelled against PALEOLOGUS, and began to provide men and galleys for that enterprise. But all these purposes were frustrate: for whilst he sought to depose another from his Empire, he within few days lost great part of his own: for all the Cities in Sicilia, unable to endure the violence and oppression used by the French, rose and rebelled, and slew all the Frenchmen which were in the Island, in two hours' space: having first had intelligence with PETER King The Frenchmen slain in the I'll of Sicilia. of Arragon, who lay in wait for Sicilia (under this title, that he married the daughter of King MANFRED) and came in great haste with a fleet of fifty galleys and ships, feigning that he had rigged the same, to have passed over into Africa; and so become Lord of the whole Island. Afterwards there were great wars between them both by sea and land, during which, King CHARLES falling sick, of an infirmity and of sorrow, died; leaving his eldest son CHARLES prisoner, in the power of PETER King of Arragon. Pope MARTIN sent his Legate to Naples, to hold that kingdom in subjection to CHARLES who was in prison, whom he proclaimed to be his father's heir and successor: the French King sent also to the same effect. Finally, at this time the Kingdom of Sicilia was divided from the Kingdom of Naples, and the King of Arragon held the same; and afterwards followed other alterations. Returning to my History, I say that the Emperor RODULPH, through the counsel of HONORIUS the Fourth, who succeeded Pope MARTIN, in the year of our Lord 1286, sent for his lieutenant-general, an Italian Earl called PINCINAGLIA di Fisco (a man very private with the Pope) who coming into Tuscan, Florence, and many other Cities which were of the faction of the Guelphs, would not obey him; and there passed many treaties and demands; but in the end, he having made his protestations, and condemned some cities, returned into Germany: and the Emperor sent thither another Lieutenant, who (having commission) gave ear to certain cities, which offered to compound for money; and so by the Emperor's consent, Florence, Luca, Pisa, and some Florence, Luca, & Pisa bought their freedom of the Emperor Rodulph the first others, bought their liberty, whereby the Emperor got little honour; notwithstanding that in all the rest he was a good, a valint, and a prudent Prince: but the greediness of money, and his resolution not to come into Italy, made him to use this baseness. In those days, EBERARD Earl of Wittenberg, being assisted by some other Princes, rebelled: but the Emperor entering his country, besieged him in a strong Castle, and compelling him to sue for mercy; at the entreaty of the Archbishop of Mentz, he pardoned him: and although that he afterwards made some alterations, yet in the end he persevered in his service. At this time died in Rome HONORIUS the Fourth, having been Pope two years and one month, and after his death the chair was voided ten months; and then was chosen the Cardinal of Saint Sabina, a Friar, and General of S. FRANCIS Order, called NICHOLAS. All this while the Emperor RODULPH governed Germany in peace; yet in the province of Turinge, many insolences and robberies were committed, by reason of the factions and controversies, between the Lords of the Castles there: wherefore the Emperor called a Diet to be held in the city of Erfordia; and by the consent of the Princes, made threescore Castles in that province to be thrown down, and laid level with the earth, whereby he brought all Germany into quiet subjection; which continued so, until his death, which was within a little while after. So as it cannot be denied, but that this Emperor was a good Prince, and a prudent governor, both in peace and in war, and in all things (wherein he would intermeddle, which was but in Germany only) desiring as a wise Prince to rule and govern the same well, rather than to seek to subdue Italy, and other countries, and so to loose both the one and the other; and to avoid contention with the Popes, which in Italy he could not eschew. One thing made his reign infortunate, which was the loss of the Holy land; the Christians losing all the cities The loss of the Holy land. which they held in Soria, and Palestina: for the Sovidan of Egypt being Lord of jerusalem, seeing the wars between the cities of Italy, and the Christian Kings of Arragon, and of Naples; and also between the Kings of England and of France; came with a great Army of foot and horse, and besieging the city of Tripoli in Soria, took the same by force: and presently did the like by the cities of Tyre, Sidon, and Brito, with their confines; which he destroying, slew and captivated an infinite number of people. The Christians which escaped, retiring themselves by sea and land to the city of Ptolomaida, whither came the King of Cyprus, the Masters and Knights Templars, of S. JOHN, and of the Dutch order, together with the Patriarch of jerusalem; they fell there at variance amongst themselves, who should be Governor, and have the command: which the Sultan understanding, and a certain truce which he had granted them being expired, he came with 150000 men before the city; and taking and destroying all the country round about it, sent his son with his whole power to besiege the city: who continued the siege, notwithstanding that his father died in the mean season. After sundry accidents which happened, the greatest part of those which were in the city, abandoning the same, fled by sea; and near to the coast of Cyprus were overtaken with such a tempest, that the greatest part of them were cast away and drowned: and the next day, the Sultan entering the city (some few which had no means to departed, being left to defend the same) commanded first all those which he found therein, to be slain; and then the city to be ruined, leaving no house or wall standing: and so the Christians were wholly expelled out of all which GODFREY of Buillon and other Christian Princes had gotten 196 years before: which was in the year of our Lord 1290: for which as soon as it was published in Europe, the Emperor, the Pope, and generally all the Prince's Christian were very sorry; knowing that by reason of the wars between them, those countries could not be relieved. The next year after this, the Emperor falling sore sick, was carried to the city of Spire, accompanied with the Empress and his son in law, the King of Bohemia and his Queen, the Duke of Baviere, and many other Princes: and died the same day that he came to the city. The Emperor Rodulph died in the year 1291. This Prince may well be accounted for one of the most valiant and excellent of the world; for that being but a mean Lord, and finding the Fmpire divided, rend, and tyrannised, without an Emperor, and at liberty, for many years space, he pacified and brought the same fully into subjection and obedience, and maintaining justice and equity therein, left the same in peace. His house and estate he so much increased, that he left to his son ALBERT, the Duchies of Ostrich, and Carniola. He was twice married: first with a Countess of Suevia called ANNE: the second time with the Duke of Burgondies' daughter, called YNES: by the first only he had children. About the number of his children authors vary: but when he died, it seemeth that he had but two sons; the one was ALBERT afore named, and the other RODULPH, whom he made Lord of part of Suevia, who was father to JOHN the parricide, who slew his uncle, as hereafter you shall understand. He had also (as writeth JOHN CUSPINIAN) seven daughters, which he married to mighty Princes: the first was EU●…EMIA, which was a Nun; the second was JUDITH, married to WENCESLAUS King of Bohemia; the third was MAUD, married to the Count Palatine of Rhine; the fourth was YNES, married to the Duke of Saxony; the fift was KATHERINE, married to HARMAN Marquis of Brandenburg; the sixt was ANNE, married with OTHO Duke of Baviere; the seventh and last was called CLEMENCE, and was married to CHARLES the Second, King of Naples: from which issued great Kings and Princes. The same year that the Emperor RODULPH died, MICHAEL PALEOLOGUS Emperor of Constantinople died also, and his son ANDRONICUS had the Empire: and the next year following died Pope NICHOLAS, having been so four years, and through discord between the Cardinals, that Sea was void two years and three months. THE LIFE OF ADULPH, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND THE HUNDRETH AND FOURTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. ALL men thought, after the death of the Emperor Rodulph, that the Electors would have chosen his son Albert: but, through the cunning of the Bishop of Mentz, Adulph Earl of Nassaw was chosen; which, Albert disdaining (with the aid of the French King) bore Arms against him, purposing to depose him. Heerto the Electors consented; and repenting that they had chosen him, deprived him of the Empire, and chose Albert; who, going to be crowned in Aken, came to abattel with Adulph, and slew him. THe Empire, through the death of the Emperor RODULPH, being voided, all men were of opinion that his son ALBERT Duke of Austria should have succeeded him: and (in a manner) all the Prince's Electors desired the same. But GERARD, Archbishop of Mentz (which was one of them) used such policy, that at the Prince's meeting at Frankford, he (cunningly) got their voices, and made ADULPH, Earl of Nassaw, who was his near kinsman to be chosen. The mean which he used A policy used by the Archbishop of Mentz. was this: He having already gotten to this effect the Archbishop of Colens voice, used the fame policy in obtaining the rest of their voices. First, conferring with the Duke of Saxony, he told him that he had some of the Electors voices to choose the Duke of Bruinswick (who was his great enemy) but yet he would forbear to do it, if he would give him his voice. The Duke fearing that this had been true (for, he had heard that the Bishop of Colen, and the marquis of Brandenburg, had granted their voices to the Bishop of Mentz) persuaded him not to consent thereto; for if he did, it would be his ruin if he were chosen: so as whosoever were chosen (were it not the Duke of Bruinswick) he should have his voice presently. The Duke of Saxony being thus deceived, with the like wile he got the voices of the Archbishop of Trevier, and of the Count Palatine of Rhine; propounding in secret, to the Count Palattine, the King of Bohemia, and to the Bishop of Trevier, the Duke of Gueldres; whereto each of them answered him, that if he were not chosen whom he named unto them, they would give him their voices: this they did, supposing that he would have chosen ALBERT the Duke of Austria, for so he made show in outward appearance: so as by this device he got all all their voices, the one not knowing what the other had done: and the Marquis of Brandenburg promised him his voice also, for that he had favoured him in the controversy between the uncle, and the nephew, Marquises, whether of them should be Elector: so as the day of the election being come, they all referring their opinions to the Archbishop of Mentz; by common consent Adulph Earl of Nassaw chosen Emperor. the Earl of Nassaw was chosen; whereat they all marvelled, as well for that they expected that ALBERT should have been chosen, as also for that ADULPH was a man of mean estate, and of too poor a revenue to maintain the imperial dignity; notwithstanding that for his own person he was valiant, greatly esteemed, and held for an excellent man of war: but as his reveneves were small, he presently began to be held in contempt, especially by the Duke of Austria and his adherents. ADULPH being thus chosen, by means of the Bishop of Mentz, and of his other friends and kindred, went to Aken, and there was crowned with great solemnity; and then called a Council to be held in a city in Suevia: and from thence, (for that there were then great wars between the Kings of England and of France) he sent to offer his aid to the king of England against The Emperor Adulph offered to serve the the King of England in his wars against the French. the French King; and the King of England sent him a great sum of money, to the end that with an Army he should in person have come to his aid; wherewith the Princes of the Empire seemed to be much grieved, alleging that it was a great dishonour to the Empire, that the Emperor should take pay of any foreign Prince: and the Duke of Austria said, that seeing the Emperor received pay of the king of England, he might as well take pay of the French king. The Emperor having received this money, and knowing that the Lantzgrave of Turinge sons made war upon their Father, he went in person to aid the Lantzgrave; who to obtain his favour, and for the hatred which he bore against his sons, sold to him the Earldom of Turingia, for part of the money which the King of England had given him. It seems the Author was not truly informed of this history: and therefore (for that it is a memorable action) I will borrow so much liberty as to set it down as I find it in an approved Author. ALBERT Lantzgrave of Turinge, married MARGVERIT daughter to the Emperor FREDERICK the Second, a very virtuous Lady, by whom he had two sons FREDERICK and TICEMAN: ALBERT fell so passionately in love with a strumpet, as he sought his wife's death, who being advised by her wise and faithful friends to fly the fury of her wicked husband, retired by night out of his Castle, and got to Frankford, where spending some years in mourning and devotion in a Nonnerie, she died. Soon after the Mother's escape, DITERIE Marquis of Misnia, brother to ALBERT, a wise and a just Prince, called the two sons to his Court, jest they should be spectators of their father's villainy, and also to free them from danger, breeding them up virtuously in the fear of God. This Marquis had one son who died, and therefore being loath his brother should succeed him, and fearing that he would chase away his children, for that he more respected a base son, as also for that he hated his conditions, he made his will, by the which he adopted his brother's sons, and made them heirs of Misnia: and calling together the principal men of the province, he acquainted them with his testament and the reasons thereof, requiring them to protect his heirs, which they promised, and not to receive any other Lord DITERIE being dead and the heirs in possession and much beloved of their subjects for their virtues, the father ALBERT challenged the estate, as his brother's next heir: but the estates of the country would not accept of him, saying that they had allowed of DITERIE'S piety and the reasons of his last will, and that they would defend them who were recommended to their protection. ALBERT flies to arms, and in the beginning took his eldest son FREDERICK whom he kept in prison a year: but his kepers pitying the young man's estate, assisted him in his escape. The Emperor RODULPH being dead, who had enjoined them to peace, ADOLPH succeeding, ALBERT takes Arms again, and to engage him in this war, he sells him Turinge, to deprive his heirs: so as the wars grew hot in Misnia both during the six years reign of ADULPH, and in the time of ALBERT of Austria his successor, but God protected the brethren and expelled the Emperor's Army both out of Turingia and Misnia. The Emperor ALBERT put FREDERICK in hope of peace, but finding Misnia and Turingia fit for him to make wars against the Bohemian, he deceived FREDERICK and entered the Country with an Army. They writ that FREDERICK was called to a counterfeit treaty: where being invited to a banquet by the Emperor, a soldier stepped forth with his sword drawn to strike FREDERICK; but a Citizen of Friberge, being among the guard, received the blow that he might escape. The Emperor excused himself: yet all men thought that he had suborned the murderer. TICEMAN the younger brother was soon after treacherously wounded in a Church at Lipsic, on Christmas eve at night being at his devotion, and died within two daiesafter; It was thought that PHILIP of Nassau had employed this murderer, of whom FREDERICK vowed to be revenged, and meeting him in a battle, he slew him with his own hand. ALBERT the father a breaker of wedlock, cruel to his wife and children, who furiously drew ruin upon himself and his Country, suffered bitter punishment by the justice of God, dying in extreme want and contempt in the year 1315. The Emperor spent two years in those wars, desiring to advance his house, and to enlarge his possessions, as he did: and this time being expired, he desiring to satisfy the King of England; and being unable to perform the same (for, the Princes were much discontented for that he gave them no part of the gold which the King of England sent him) open enmity broke out between him and the Duke of Austria: and the Duke practised with the other Princes to depose him from the Empire, by the consent of the same Archbishop of Mentz who had chosen him; so as the Emperor ADULPH was of no such power or authority as was his Predecessor: and men began to stand in fear of what afterwards ensued. While these matters passed in Germany, which were of great moment, I will tell you what passed in Italy, touching the Papacy: which was in this manner; At the end of two years and three months after the death of Pope NICHOLAS the Fourth; in all which time he had no successor; in Perugia (whither the Cardinals repaired to make their election) was chosen a very zealous man, who was both a Monk and an Hermit, called PETER MURRON; who thinking himself to have been called of God accepted the Popedom, and was named CELESTINE the Fift: in his beginning (as it was written) he was so highly honoured, that upon the day of his sacring, there came to Perugia (as to see a wonder) 200000. persons: but as this man had wholly secluded himself from the world, and given himself to contemplation and prayer; so the world could not well like of him, nor of his fashions; neither knew he how to deal in the world, for his small understanding, and less experience in worldly matters; which was the occasion that he gave credit to what was told him; by means whereof he did sometimes one thing contrary to another: whereupon some of the Cardinals cunningly counselled and persuaded him to renounce the Papacy; whereto this Pope Celestine the Fift renounced the Papacy. good man willingly agreed, accounting himself incapable of that charge, and so oftentimes protested, and in conclusion (notwithstanding that CHARLES King of Naples would have hindered him, and to that end induced him to come to Naples) did so, and in a solemn act renounced the Popedom; five months after that he had accepted the same: and upon his renunciation, was chosen Cardinal BENEDICT, who was called BONIFACE the Eight, who was the man which chief persuaded CELESTIN to renounce the Papacy: and this devout man being about to return to his hermitage, BONIFACE fearing that the people would again have restored him, made him to be apprehended and detained in prison until he died, which was within short space after: whose successor BONIFACE was fare unlike unto him, for he was ambitious, proud, factious, and a great persecutor of the Gibelins, yet very learned, politic, subtle, and of great experience; whose end was such as hereafter we will tell you. Returning to the Emperor ADULPH, understanding that the Duke of Austria practised against him, and sought to deprive him of the Empire, he made war against him, to whom the French king under hand gave secret aid, to the end that the Emperor should not be able to join with the King of England against him, as he purposed to have done. Upon this occasion all Germany was in combustion, some holding with one party, and some with the other: and ADVLPH'S friends daily forsook him, through his unequal carriage towards them, for in his favours he was partial, a thing which maketh Princes to be hated: by means whereof ALBERT'S party become so strong, that the Prince's Electors (excepting the Archbishop of Trevier, and the Count Palatine of Rhine who would not be there) met in the city of Mentz, where alleging such reasons as they thought good (which in my judgement were very insufficient) they deprived ADULPH of the Empire, and chose his enemy ALBERT; who with the greatest and most flourishing power that he could procure, of his own, and of his friends, went to be crowned in Aken: whom ADULPH (who was not a coward, or any way pusillanimous, notwithstanding that his power was unequal) went to meet: and the two Armies joining near the city of Worms, in the month of july in the year of our Lord 1298, there began between them a most cruel and bloody battle; the despair wherewith ADULPH and those of his party fought, making their inequality equal. The battle continued A battle between the Emperor Adulph and Albert Duke of Ostrich. above six hours, either party fight most cruelly, before that it could be perceived whether Army should have the victory; and each General having lost great part of his people: ADULPH fight with his face against the sun (which did greatly annoyed him) in the midst of the throng where the fight was most cruel, was in a great charge overthrown from his horse, whither (by chance) came his enemy ALBERT, who (before that he could be able to avoid his thrust) with the point of his sword gave him so great a wound in the face, that it bereft him of his senses, so that he was slain in the place. Some writ, that whilst that he was The Emperor Adulph slain. in this fight, ALBERT cried unto him aloud; Here ADULPH shalt thou loose the Empire; whereto he answered, This (OH ALBERT) is in the hand of God. As soon as the Emperor was slain, and being perceived by his soldiers, they (without making any more resistance) were overthrown, and ALBERT remained victor, although it cost him dear, for a great number of his men were slain and wounded. In this manner was this Emperor murdered by the hands of a Prince subject to the Empire; in the seventh year of his reign: whether the cause moving him thereto were right or wrong, I leave to God, who is the righteous judge: but the reasons which they alleged, were that he took pay of the King of England, wherewith he was grown so proud, that he caused a Mass priest to be beheaded, that he had caused false money to be coined, and had degraded certain Ecclesiastical persons: that he had forced certain damsels: and such others which they alleged: which whether they were true or false, it pleased GOD that he died in this manner. Some authors writ that all those which conspired against him, and were accessary to his death, had evil ends: how ALBERT sped, I will tell you hereafter. Of ADVLPH'S sons small mention is made, excepting one who with many Earls was taken prisoner in the Battle; and the Duke of Baviere escaped by flight; other men of great account in this cruel battle were slain. In Constantinople, ANDRONICUS, son to MICHAEL PALEOLOGUS, was Emperor. THE LIFE OF ALBERT, THE FIRST OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDRETH AND FIFT ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. ALbert would not accept of his first election: but Adulph being dead, he caused it to be renewed, and was confirmed by the Pope, who was easily drawn to confirm him, to the end he should make war upon the French King: which he would not do, neither ever come into Italy. Germany then enjoyed peace, and in twelve several battles he ever had the victory, by reason whereof he was called Albertus Triumphans. Many notable matters happened in his tim●…, as the translating of the pontifical seat from Rome to Auinion, the subversion of the Knights called Templars, the beginning of the house of the Ottomans in Turkey, and many other things worth the reading. He died infortunatly through the conspiracy of a nephew of his who slew him near to the Rhine, in the tenth year of his reign. AS the chief right to Kingdoms and Empires many times consisteth in Arms: so ALBERT (who was, as it hath been often recited, son to the Emperor RODULPH, Duke of Austria, and Lord of other estates) remaining Victor; and the Emperor ADULPH (who was his rival) being dead, he finding no man in field to make head against him, remained sole Emperor. But forasmuch as his election was made in the time of the Emperor ADULPH, in discord (many contradicting the same) he sought to legitimate and assure his estate. For which cause (accompanied with many Princes) he went unto the City of Frankford: A●…bert Duke of Austria the second time chosen Emperor. where, in the presence of the Prince's Electors assembled, he renouncing his first election, and holding the Empire for voided, was the second time by common consent chosen Emperor; and from thence went to Aken to be crowned, together with his wife ISABEL, daughter to the Earl of Tirol and of Carinthia, by whom he had many children, whose brother married ALBERT'S sister. Which Coronation was performed with so great solemnity, and so many repaired thither to see the same, that upon the coronation day there was so great a throng and press of people, that the Duke of Saxony (who married another of the Emperor's sisters) and many others were smothered to death, and no man could rescue them; which was a great disgrace to the Feast. After this Coronation, a Diet or Council was held in Norembergh, wherein he took order for such matters as appertained to the Empire: and thence sending his Ambassadors to Pope BONIFACE, he gave him to understand of his election, and entreated him to confirm the same; which the Pope at that time would not grant, but like a proud priest (as it is written) answered, that he was not worthy the Empire who had murdered the Emperor. But he shortly after confirmed him: for, as this Pope was of an high mind and presumptuous, so upon some occasion which happened (which I have no time to relate) he fell at such odds with PHILIP the French King, that the King apprehended a Bishop which was his Ambassador: and such other matters passed between them, that the Pope summoned a Council to proceed against the King of France; who would not permit any his subjects to sue to the Court of Rome, neither to carry or sand any rents or revenues to the same. Whereupon the Pope, meaning to use the Emperor's aid against the French King, very willingly confirmed his election; and persuading him to take upon him the title of King of France, he promised to deprive the King, and to give him the Kingdom: about which matters were many treaties, and in the end the Pope pronounced The Pope deprived the King of France by his censures, and gave his kingdom to the Emperor. Sentence against the French King; whereby he deprived him of his Kingdom, and gave the same to the Emperor. Herein is great difference between the Historiographers: for, they report this after sundry manners. But the truth is, that the Emperor was the King's friend, and had married his eldest son RODULPH, whom he had made Duke of Austria, to the King's daughter BLANCH: for which cause, or for some other (for, many are alleged) he accepted not the title to the Crown of France; but was contented with his confirmation in the Empire, wherein (following his father's counsel) he reigned in prosperity, without any desire to go into Italy; and so never went thither. The hatred betwixt the Pope and the King so much increased, that the King, deadly hating the Pope, practised with a Nobleman of Rome, whose name was SARRA, of the house and family of the COLUMNOIS (who was Lord of many Towns and Castles, and was of the faction of the Gibelins) whom the Pope had banished: for this cause he abode in France, and was highly favoured in the French Court. The conclusion was, that this Lord should apprehended the Pope; which he undertaken, using such means as you shall hear. This Lord SARRA COLUMNA, having many friends of the faction of the Gibelins in Alnania, where the Pope was then resident (for, it was his native Country) departed France disguised, having first agreed with a Captain called NOGAR●…T, to lodge himself with two hundred soldiers in a place which he had appointed; and he himself went into Alnania, where having secret conference with his friends, he shown them the French Kings Letters and favours; and so carried the matter, that one day he assaulted the Pope's Palace, and took him prisoner, and presently took his way with him towards Rome; which he entered with the aid of the Gibelins, and of his own family Pope Boniface appreh●…ded by Sarra Columna. of the COLUMNOIS which lived there. But the Pope within five and thirty days after died, having been Pope the space of eight years and nine months, which was in the year of our Lord 1302. In this manner ended the high designs of Pope BONIFACE, who wrote the sixt book of the Decretals. What the Lord SARRA meant to have done with him, is unknown; yet it is written that he purposed to have carried him into France, which he then could not, or durst not put in execution. After that BONIFACE was dead, NICHOLAS Cardinal of Hostia was chosen, and was called BENEDICT the Eleventh, who was born in Trevigi, and was a Dominican Friar. While these matters passed in Italy and France, ALBERT reigned happily in Germany: but in Hungary were great combustions about the title to that Kingdom: for, ANDREW their King dying without issue, VENCESLAUS, son to the King of Bohemia, aspired to that Kingdom; and afterwards, OTHO Duke of Baviere; and CHARLES, son to the King of Naples: but in the end CHARLES was King; and VENCESLAUS inherited Bohemia, which was his father's inheritance, who was of the same name: but he proved to be so wicked (notwithstanding that he was but a young man) that his subjects, conspiring against him, slew him in a City of Moravia. And forasmuch as he also had no issue, the like controversy arose in Bohemia, as was in Hungary, notwithstanding that he left a sister whose name was ISABEL; which the Emperor ALBERT understanding, he resolved to procure her for his son RODULPH, by reason of a certain covenant and agreement made between the houses of Austria and Bohemia; which was, that the one wanting heirs, the heirs of the other should succeed in the estate. But the greatest part of the Bohemians resolved to choose a Lord of their own nation for their king, whose name was HENRY, who was Earl of Carinthia and of Tirol, and was the Emperor's brother-in-law: nevertheless there was ever some dislike and discord between them; and HENRY, desiring to reign, without any intermission hasted into Bohemia, and there was received and obeyed for King. But the Emperor, presently levying an Army, entered the Country with so great power, that HERRY durst not abide his coming: and he put his son RODULPH in possession (who was a widower, having buried the French Kings daughter); and the better to assure him, and to make him the more acceptable to the Bohemians, he married him to the widow ISABEL, late wife to VENCESLAUS deceased: which took such effect, that he was presently obeyed by all men, and began to reign in peace. But it pleased not God that he should long enjoy that Kingdom: for, within few months after, when he was freed from all his enemies, he died suddenly in the year of our Lord 1306. By reason whereof, the old discord and The death of the King of Bohemia contention was renewed, some desiring to have the deposed HENRY, Earl of Carinthia, and others would have FREDERICK, the Emperor's second son, to be their King. But the Earl HENRY'S party being the stronger, he was received and established in the Kingdom: which the Bohemians did so willingly, that the Emperor (within few days after) coming thither in person with a mighty Army to have preferred his son FREDERICK, they all so resolutely served their new King, that, after much harm done in the Country, the Emperor was forced to return without effecting what he came for, seeing how constantly the Bohemians stood to their defence. In which wars and others, which he first had with the Emperor ADULPH and other Princes, it is written, that he fought in person twelve several times, and in them all had the victory, and therefore was called ALBERTUS Triumphans. In the time of this Emperor ALBERT, Pope CLEMENT the Fift, leaving three Cardinals The Pope 〈◊〉ued his seat 〈◊〉 Rome to Auinion in France. The beginning of the Turkish Empire, anno 1307. to govern Rome, removed his seat from thence to Auinion in France, where he and his successors made their abode for the space of seventy and odd years, whereof ensued many inconveniences. In the beginning of the Emperor ALBERT'S Reign, in Asia the lesse began the Empire and dominion of the great Turk, which is now so mighty and powerful: the head and founder of which Empire was one OTTOMAN, of the same nation; a man of base parentage, but of a great spirit, and very politic; who of a small beginning grew to be so mighty, and brought so many nations to his service and subjection, that he conquered many Countries, and made himself a King, and laid the foundation of that Empire, which his successors have from time to time enlarged, and brought to that estate wherein we see it at this day: and from him is descended in line masculine, to the great Turk now reigning, in the year of our Lord 1604. In the tenth year of the Emperor ALBERT'S Reign, which was in the year 1307, the Knights of the Order of S. JOHN took the I'll of Rhodes from the Infidels, where they made their seat and principal residence, and therefore were afterwards called Knights of the Rhodes; and performed many marvels in Arms both by sea and land, until (in our time) that Island was The Knights of the Rhodes. taken by SOLIMAN the great Turk, who conquered the same. In the time of the Emperor ALBERT, in Lombardy near to Novarra, began a sect of Heretics, which under colour of religion and charity, made all things common: and women in like manner moved men to carnal conjunction, alleging it to be a deed of charity; and did many other things. This error dispersed itself into sundry parts, and many thousands of people followed the same. But the Pope and other Princes used such diligence in punishing these Heretics, that in the end it was suppressed, yet not without great difficulty. In the time of the Emperor ALBERT'S Reign, the Heluecians (now called Swissers) began to be famous: all which joining together, made a league to enfranchise themselves, and to The beginning of the Cantons of the Swissers. defend their liberty, and governed and ruled their state by their Heads or Cantons; which they have maintained until this day, and have done many singular feats of Arms against the Dukes of Austria and other Princes; and from that time hitherto have been accounted for a very valiant Nation. Towards the end of this Emperor's Reign, Pope CLEMENT, by the counsel and consent of the King of France, dissolved the whole Order of the Knight's Templars, and condemning their bodies, confisked their goods; which were of so great value throughout all Christendom, The order of the Knights-templars' dissolved and condemned. The I'll of Sardinia taken by the Moors. that what was taken from them, was sufficient to have enriched many Princes, and the other Orders of Knights whereunto they were applied. In his time also Sardinia was taken by the Moors: which Island Pope CLEMENT bestowed upon the King of Sicilia, to the end that he should recover the same. About the end of the tenth year of this Emperor's Reign, he having levied great forces to have go into Bohemia, with an intent to have made his son FREDERICK King, wherein then reigned HENRY, Earl of Carinthia; a nephew of his, being his brother RODVLPH'S son, whose name was JOHN, through secret hatred which he conceived against him for not giving him any estate (he withholding from him in Suevia, what to him by inheritance from his father appertained) resolved to kill him: and upon this occasion, conspiring with other Barons, which were RODULPH, VLRICH and WALTER, in the month of April, in the year 1308, the Emperor being in Austria, purposing the next day to have passed the River of Rhine; he after dinner for his pleasure taking horse, and riding over the ploughed fields between two little rivers called Rifa and Arula, near to the Rhine, accompanied only by these conspirators, who were his great Familiars; his nephew JOHN with his confederates, and others which followed him for the same purpose, getting before him, RODULPH laid hand upon his horses bridle: his nephew JOHN stabbed him in the throat; and VLRICH with a blow clavae his The death of the Emperor Albert the First, murdered by his nephew. head; and the rest wounded him, some with blows, some with thrusts, so as he was soon slain: and the murderers, setting spurs to their horses, left the miserable Emperor dead in the place; in which, his son the Duke of Austria afterwards built a stately Monastery: his body was carried to Spire. The conspirators were sought out by his sons, and most of them found and put to death. This death was reputed to happen in this manner to him through the just judgement of God, for kill his Predecessor the Emperor ADULPH: the truth is known unto God only, who order all things according to his good pleasure. All that I can say, is, that the highest estates are in lest safety, and most subject to danger both bodily and ghostly. What appertaineth to the soul is hard to be proved, for that it is secret, whereof God only can judge: but, as it appeareth, in great estates liberty to sin maketh it doubtful, and men's weakness is alike as well in the great as in the small; which is an argument of the greater danger, as our Saviour plainly expresseth in the Gospel; wherein he showeth how hardly rich men inherit the Kingdom of heaven: wherefore great Princes aught to be circumspect concerning bodily dangers. I will not weary the Reader with other examples: those shall suffice which I have written of Emperors; on whom (as I have declared) there is no kind of death that hath not befallen. And, to the contrary, in many mean estates we find not any that in many years space have died of a violent death, but that most men of mean fortune have died naturally: but pride and ambition do so blind men's eyes, that what is most hateful is most desired; and we ever seek to attain to that wherein is greatest danger: yet some have been of so good an understanding, that they would not accept, but have refused Empires and dominions when they have been offered them, although the number be but small. But returning to the Emperor ALBERT, he had by ELIZABETH his wife one and twenty children, sons and daughters, whereof ten died in their infancy: and his eldest son RODULPH died in his time King of Bohemia; so as when the Emperor ALBERT died, he left five sons, and as many daughters: his daughter's names were ELIZABETH, ANNE, GUTTA, KATHERINE and INES, all which were married to sundry Princes: his sons names were FREDERICK, LEOPOLD, HENRY, ALBERT and OTHO, which OTHO married the Duchess of Baviere; all which (after the German manner) were called Dukes of Austria, which causeth a great confusion in histories: but the house of Austria rested in ALBERT, who (for that he had the gout) was called the lame; and was the stem & original of the house of Austria, from whom are descended his successors. At what time as the Emperor ALBERT was slain, ANDRONICUS was Emperor of Constantinople: of whom I find little written, and therefore make no particular relation of him. Pope CLEMENT the Fift making his abode in Auinion, governed Rome and his estates of Italy, by his Legates; by reason whereof, and of the Emperor's long absence, many cities in Italy took for their Lords, the heads and leaders of their factions, which they possessed a long time, and to this day some remain, which of tyrants, have in process of time made themselves absolute Lords; as in Verona, those of the house of SCALA, in Ferrara, the house of ESTE, extending itself afterwards to MODENA, whose descendants at this day enjoy that estate; in Padua those of CARRARA; in Mantoa the PASSERINI were expelled by the GONZAGHIS, who afterwards were, and to this day are, great Lords: and others in other parts. THE LIFE OF HENRY, THE SEVENTH OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDRETH AND SIXT ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. HEnry being chosen by the Electors was confirmed by the Pope, with an injunction that he should come into Italy, by reason of much discord which was there: the French King was greatly displeased with his election, for that he pretended to have been Emperor. The first enterprise he took in hand was against the King of Bohemia, and against the Earl of Wittenbergh, against both which he had good success: he came afterwards into Italy, as well to satisfy the Pope, as to visit the Countries under his jurisdiction: having past the Alps he found no great resistance by reason of the factions in Rome, where he was crowned with more sadness than joy, the City being divided between the Colonnesi and the Vrfini, who daily fought together. The Florentines would not yield unto him, nor loose their liberty: and having endured a long siege, in conclusion they defended themselves bravely, so as the Emperor changing his mind went to the conquest of Naples, and while he made preparation for the same he was poisoned, and died in Buon Conuento, leaving Italy in greater combustion than before. He reigned seven years. TRuly I conjecture, that in writing the life of the Emperor ALBERT, I have made too long a digression, by reason of the recital of other matters which happened in his time: but yet nevertheless I did it, for that I was brief in writing his life; holding it necessary, to the end the rest may be the better understood, and to explain what is already said: and also for that the accidents were notable, it was not fit to pass them over in silence. The Emperor ALBERT being slain through the treason of his Nephew JOHN, and his death being generally published, his sons sought revenge, and to get his goods and estates, and some of them to have the Empire. The prince's Electors, to make choice of a new Emperor, retired themselves (according to custom) to the city of Frankford. By the translation of the Pope's seat from Rome to Auignon, the French conceived no small hope to obtain the Empire, as the Counsels of PHILIP the father, the French King, and CHARLES of valois his brother did discover. For, having him in their power, who did arrogate unto himself a right to give the Empire to whom he pleased, they persuaded themselves that they should recover it by him without any opposition: Wherefore, when as they were to go to an Election after the murder of ALBERT, CHARLES of valois by his brother's advice draws an Army together, that he might wrist away the Empire, even in spite of the Pope; who although he were no enemy to the King, yet foreseeing that this alteration would be fatal to Italy, and to the Roman Hierarchy, he would not suffer it, but prevent the French. The Pope being secretly advertised of his purpose (and being, together with the greatest part of his Cardinals, of opinion, that if the French King were Emperor, he would by that mean make himself Lord of all Italy, and so his patrimony should be oppressed, and brought to subjection, and that many other inconveniences would have ensued) by his Letters and Bulls enjoined the Electors presently without any delay to choose an Emperor, such a one as should be most fit for the state and common good: and they knowing his mind (notwithstanding that they were solicited and urged to the contrary by the French King) by common consent chose HENRY Earl of Lutzenburgh, upon the first day of November, in the year of our Lord 1308: Wherein his brother BALDWIN Bishop of Treviere, and one of the Electors did greatly assist Henry Earl of Lutzenburgh chosen Emperor him. When his Election was published, and notice given to the French King, he was much discontented (for he assured himself to have been Emperor) and much more after that he understood that the Pope had hastened the Electors, and had authorised them to make the Election; for which, afterwards grew some discord between them. The new chosen Emperor, well accompanied, went to the city of Aken, where with great solemnity he was crowned; and thence sent his Ambassadors to the Pope, entreating him to confirm his Election: which the Pope gladly performed, enjoining him within the term of two years to come to Rome, there to be crowned by his Legates. This the Pope did to the end that the Emperor should have endeavoured to make peace in Italy, for there were then many factions and tyrannies. HENRY accepting these conditions, resolved to come into Italy, and began to provide for his journey, which neither RODULPH, ADULPH, nor ALBERT, his predecessors would do; and to this effect called a Diet to be held in Spire, whither came (in a manner) all the Princes. At the same time new cares and troubles arose, besides his journey for Italy: the first was, that understanding that HENRY Earl of Carinthia, was king of Bohemia, and that the same Earl was in possession of the kingdom, the new Emperor (wanting none to incite him thereto) resolved to depose the said Earl, and to make one of his own son's King: whereupon he caused the daughter of WENCESLAUS king of Bohemia, and of the Emperor RODVLPH'S sister, to be brought to Spire; and notwithstanding that she was four years elder than his son JOHN, yet he married him unto her, and with this title levied an Army and sent him to the conquest of Bohemia, whither he was solicited to come by many of that Kingdom. At the same time also a second occasion of care was offered, which was, to levy an Army and to sand the same against EBERARD Earl of Wittenberg, who being discontent with HENRIE'S election refused to come to his obedience, and being countenanced by the French King, took many towns in the Empire. The enterprise of Bohemia had good success: for the said Earl having (as writeth HENRICUS MUCIUS) raised a power to fight with the Emperor; and the two armies being encamped the one near to the other, between them many notable skirmishes were maintained; but in the end the Earl of Carinthia, who was called King, was constrained to retire, and the Emperor's son assaulted the City of Prague, which is the head of that kingdom, and taking the same, was therein crowned by PETER the Archbishop of Mentz; and his power presently so much increased, that the Earl of Carinthia abandoning the Kingdom, went home into his own country; and the Emperor's son JOHN remained King of Bohemia. If he sped well in Bohemia, the Army The Emperor Henry made his son john K. of Bohemia. had no less good fortune, which he sent against EBERARD Earl of Wittenberg for the greatest part of his castles were taken, which (as saith NAUCLERUS) were fourscore: and in the end he himself in the best manner that he could, was constrained to compound, not without great loss of his estate; which notwithstanding after the Emperor was dead, he recovered again. During the time of these troubles, the Emperor forgot not within the time limited by the Pope to prepare for his journey into Italy: where, when his coming was certainly known, it caused so great fear, as though it had been a matter the like whereof had never been seen; for threescore years were now expired since that any Emperor had been there, even from the time that FREDERICK the Second died there, who also was King of Naples: that time being spent in contention and discord in the Empire, by reason of the death of the said FREDERICK: and afterwards in the time of the Emperor's ADULPH and ALBERT, neither of them would ever come into Italy. The Emperor HENRY being in a readiness to march with his Army, he first sent his Ambassadors to the Cities in Italy, and to their Governors, giving them to understand of his coming, and of his Army; exhorting them to peace, and to lay down the●… Arms, for to that purpose he principally addressed his journey into that country; and he further required them to receive him and his Army into their Towns and Cities. His Ambassadors were very honourably received, and answered generally by them all: for as there were many factions and partialities, each party desired to win the Emperor's favour: only the Florentines holding themselves for free (having bought their liberty of the Emperor RODULPH, and being then very mighty, having at that time made a league with ROBERT King of Naples, and lying then encamped before Arezzo) answered the Emperor that they marvelled, that so The Florentines answer to the Emperor Henry the 〈◊〉. wise a Prince as he was, would come into Italy with so great a number of barbarous people, as it was said he brought with him, seeing that the Emperor's office and duty was to take care to purge that country of barbarous nations, and not to bring them thither. And whereas he said that they should leave to make war against the Aretine's; they answered, that it also was against his Imperial office, for it was his part to right wrongs, and to redress injuries: and whereas those of Arezzo had banished the Guelphs from their houses, he aught to command them to be restored: and as for receiving him into their City, they would be advised and consider what aught to be done, and in time would answer him accordingly. The Emperor took this answer in very ill part: BLONDUS, PLATINA, and others writ, that DANT●… an excellent learned Poet in that time, understanding of his countrymen's answer in his absence, said, that the Florentines were blind and saw not the present estate, seeing they had given such an answer. The Emperor having past the Alpss, the Earl of Savoy, and the Marquis of Monferrato came to receive him, and went with him to Turin; where he and his wife the Empress were quietly received: with him also came RODULPH Duke of Baviere, and LEOPOLD son to the Emperor ALBERT, who (as were his brethren FREDERICK, ALBERT, and HENRY) was called Duke of Austria: and the Archbishop of Trevier, with other Princes, which was in the year of our Lord 1312. At that time Pope CLEMENT called a general Council to be held in the city of Vienne in France, whither came three hundred Bishops, besides many other prelate's, wherein the Begardes were condemned for heretics. From Turin the Emperor came to Aste, whither came unto him some principal heads and Lords of cities, offering him their service The Emperor Henry's co●…ming into Italy. and to receive him into their governments. And so came to him PHILIP who was called Earl of Pavia; SIMON COLLWIANO of Bercelli; ANTHONY VISERAGO from Lodi; to all which cities, and to Turin and Aste, the Emperor sent his Lieutenants to govern in his name, who were received. From Aste he went to Milan (the head and strength of all Lombardy) wherein were two houses & factions of great power: viz. the Visconti from whom descended the Dukes of Milan; and the Turriones which were of the faction of the Guelphs; and as these two were then of chiefest authority, so they sought to hinder the Emperor's coming into their city: so as there was a great tumult about the matter: but either party fearing that their adversaries would join with the Emperor, they both received him into Milan, and he made many of the Viscounts which were expelled by the Turriones, to come in with him: and the Emperor to content both parties, and to make them friends, to GVIDO TURRIO, he gave the city of Bercelli; and made GALEAZZO Viscount, his Constable of the city; and left LEOPOLD of Austria with certain companies of Germans to keep the city in peace. CARION writes, that before the Emperor came to Milan, he reconciled the jurioni, and the Visconti, enjoining them to live with equal rights in their country which was now restored to their aatient liberty, and to be content with their patrimonies: but when at the Emperors entering into Milan, MATHEW VISCONTI went on the right hand, and GVIDO TURRIONI being commanded to go on the left, he grew discontented; and fearing the loss of his authority, and that his faction would be expelled, he flew to turbulent courses, causing a tumult in the City after the coronation of HENRY, so as the Emperor was in no small danger, but the loss fell upon the Author. The other cities of Lombardy understanding that the Emperor was possessed of Milan, sent their deputies unto him to offer him their obedience, and received such Lieutenants as he sent them: and so did those of the contrary faction, excepting Alexandria and those which were further off, as Padua, Ferrara, and Bolonia, which being of the faction of the Guelphs, and in league with the Florentines, sent not to him. The Emperor within few days after was crowned with the iron Crown in Milan, which was wont to be done in Monza: for which and for other occasions, a certain contribution of money was levied in the city, which (as they thought which paid it) was too excessive: by reason whereof and of the Germans ill behaviour, the people murmuring, took Arms against the Imperialists and fought with them; and the Emperor sending for his soldiers into the city, GALEAZZO Viscount, head of that faction, used a notable (though doubtful and dangerous) stratagem; which was, that he leaving his father in his house, together with the greatest part of his adherents, went to LEOPOLD of Austria (who was with the Imperialists) and told him that GVIDO TURIONI and his adherents had caused that tumult, to make themselves Lords of the city, as they already were: but as for him and his friends, they were still ready to do the Emperor service in aught they should be commanded. It was an easy matter to persuade him, who had all men in suspicion, to give credit hereto: and so LEOPOLD and the Imperialists joining with GALEAZZO, set upon GVIDO and the Turriones, who suspected no such matter, (yet armed and in order, expecting the issue of that tumult) and wounding and kill many of them, they drove them from the place which they had taken: and GVIDO TURRIONI surmising what the matter might be (seeing The Turriones driven out of Milan. the Imperialists joined with his adversaries against him) abandoned the city, and in the best manner he could, with the greatest part of his faction, retired to Bercelli: in this manner were the Turriones (who were of the faction of the Guelphs) driven out of Milan: wherefore as soon as this was known, some other cities which were of that faction, forsook the Emperor's service, amongst which were Crema, and Cremona, which presently by force thrust out the Emperor's Lieutenants, together with the faction of the Gibelins: the like was also done in Brescia and in Parma. The Emperor leaving Milan under the government and guard of the Viscounts, which (as he thought) had done him loyal service, marched with his Army against Crema and Cremona: but as soon as those of Cremona understood that he was entered their confines, without making any resistance they submitted, and yielded themselves and their city, and the Emperor received them to mercy. But those of Crema suffering themselves to be besieged, were taken by force, and had the walls of their city razed and dismantelled, and the Emperor otherwise punished them for an example: whereupon Parma fearing the like, sued to him for pardon. But the Brescians trusting in the strength of their city, chose rather to hazard themselves like those of Crema, then to follow the example of Cremona, and so had the like success: the Emperor besieged them long, and many were slain both of the besiegers and besieged, but in the end the city was yielded to the Emperor; who commanded their gates and the most of their Bulwarks to be thrown down. By these two enterprises the Emperor won so great reputation, that the cities of Verona, Vicenza, Padua and Trevigi, sent their Ambassadors; and entreating for peace, offered him their service, and to receive any garrison that he should sand them. His Ambassadors also which he had sent to Venice, returned, certifying him that the Venetians were willing to do what he required of them, which was, to furnish him with shipping to convey his Army (if he pleased) to Rome. The Emperor having taken order for the affairs of Lombardy, desired to see the city of Genoa, and being there his wife the Empress fell sick and died; and thither came to him Ambassadors from ROBERT King of Naples, and from FREDERICK King of Sicilia; both to desire peace and his friendship: but the request of the King of Naples was held for sergeant for that he maintained three thousand horse in Tuscan, in favour of the Florentines & of Luca, who pleading liberty rebelled against him; and to the end also to relieve Bolonia and Ferrara if need required. The Emperor dispatched them, some with feigned, and others with unfeigned kind speeches of love and good will, according to their ambassages; and within few days after departed from Genoa by sea, and sent his Army by land, which making great spoil in the territory of Luca, came to Pisa, a city at that time very friendly and much devoted to the Emperor's service, wherein he was received with great joy, and continued there above two months. There he was advertised of the estate of Rome, and how that therein were great factions and combustions, some desiring his coming, and others seeking to hinder the same. Those which sought to let his coming were the Lord JOHN, who was brother to the King of Naples, who came thither with some troops, and with him came all the faction of the Vrsins, and were seized of the Castle S. Angelo, the Capitol, the Vatican, and other Holds, and of all Rome beyond Tiber: against whom the Colonois and their faction held the rest of the city; between whom was daily skirmishing and sl●…ghter of either side: for which, Pope CLEMENT, by whose counsel and instigation the Emperor came into Italy, was much blamed: for it appeared that where he thought to have established peace, he kindled war. The Emperor departing from Pisa towards Rome, and (for that he would not be pestered with the Florentines) taking his way near to the sea side, sent the Earl of Savoy before with part of his horse troops: finally, after some days stay in Viterbo he came to Rome, where by the Cardinal's Legates, and the Colonois, he was received with great solemnity; the King's brother of Naples together with the whole faction of the Vrsins having fortified themselves in such places as they had taken. The Emperor being entered Rome, how long he remained there, and what befell him, is not distinctly written: some say that he stayed there three months, in all which time were daily skirmishings, the king of Naples sending galleys and soldiers up the river of Tiber to relieve his brother, who with the Vrsins, held the Vatican, and the Castle S. Angelo: and that the Coronation was deferred until they might sand to the Pope to appoint the place wherein it should be solemnised, for it could not be done in S. PETER'S Church (for that it was held by the enemy) and that the Pope was in doubt to give order for the Emperor's coronation, for that many of his friends and servants were of a contrary opinion. Others set less time, and writ not that the Pope stood in any such doubt: but they all agreed that the Emperor The Emperor crowned in Rome. (for that he could not get into S. PETER'S Church) was crowned by the three Cardinals which were the Pope's Legates in Rome, in S. JOHN de Lateran; and that during the time he continued there, his people fought daily with the Neapolitans and Vrsins, not only in the streets, but even in the houses also wherein they dwelled: during the time of which skirmishings he left Rome. The Emperor being highly displeased with ROBERT King of Naples; leaving Rome went to Arezzo, which being at his devotion was enemy to the Florentines and Lucois; whither all the Gibelins which were expelled Florence, Luca, Sienna, and other cities in Tuscan, repaired unto him, and from thence he went to besiege Florence, in which siege many notable adventures Florence besieged. passed: but the city was with their own people (together with the Sienois and Lucois which came to their aid) so well fortified and manned, that it sufficiently defended itself: whereupon the Emperor having lain six weeks before it, raised his siege, having first built a fortress on a mountain near to the city, wherein, and in other Castles and places of greatest importance, he left munition and garrisons to overrun the Florentines country, and to make war upon them; and so marching up and down their country for the space of two months, in the end he went to Pisa: where using more than ordinary authority of an Emperor, he summoned ROBERT King of Naples to make his appearance before him, as before his Emperor and sovereign Lord, and to answer to such matters as should be objected against him, for that he meant to proceed against him, and to 'cause him, for such matters as he had attempted and The Emperor summoned the king of Naples to appear before him in Pisa. done against him, aswell in Rome, as in other parts of Italy, to be indicted of treason. But King ROBERT making no account of this summons; the Emperor (lying at the siege of Florence) procured FREDERICK King of Sicilia (with whose son he purposed to marry his daughter) to make war against him in Pulia: which FREDERICK putting in execution rigged a fleet, wherein he sent great forces, which began the war. And in the mean time the Emperor left not to prosecute the war against the Florentines and the other cities of their faction; and the Florentines seeing in what distress they were, and fearing that the Emperor would the next Spring in person again return to the war against them, sent to yield themselves subject to the king of Naples (reserving certain preeminences and exemptions) upon condition that he in person, or some other either his son or his brother should come to relieve them. The Emperor having made his abode in Pisa, many days, in the midst of summer (as writeth S. ANTHONY) departed thence very ill at ease; and passing through the territory of Sienna (wherein he did much harm) he went to the city of Arezzo; whither being come, and the time limited to the King of Naples expired, he pronounced sentence against him, whereby he deprived him of his kingdom of Naples, and released his subjects from the homage and allegiance which they aught him; and gave authority to his enemy FREDERICK King of Sicilia, Robert king of Naples condemned by the Emperor. to make a conquest thereof for his son, and son in law, which should be, to the Emperor: which sentence, as soon as Pope CLEMENT understood, he presently protested the same to be of no effect, alleging that the Emperor neither could, or had any authority to condemn King ROBERT; for that kingdom was neither subject nor feudatorie to any but to the Church of Rome; as appeareth in the Clementines, in the chapter, Pastoralis de Sententia & re judicata, and made other protestations contai●… in that chapter. With what levity the Pope did it, and with what impudency he doth make other Kingdoms of the christian world subject to the Roman Hierarchy, the form of the decree doth show. The Emperor departing from Arezzo, with a resolution to have besieged Sienna, imagining that the Florentines seeing themselves on every side oppressed, would have come to some composition: and being by the way advertised, that in Naples and in other parts of that kingdom after the publication of his Sentence pronounced against the King, were some Commotions and Insurrections against him: he thereupon with a desire to have been revenged of king ROBERT, and to have made a conquest of that kingdom, resolved to go thither with all his whole power; and coming within three miles of Sienna, he lodged his Army in a place called Monte aper too: where feeling himself ill at case, (by the advice of his Physicians) he went thence to the Baths of Macerata, and then (feeling no amendment) went to Buonconuento, directing his journey towards Naples, whereon he had settled his thoughts: all which, together with his other designs were made frustrate by his death, which through his infirmity overtook him in the same place; which happened upon the day of the Assumption of our Lady, he having the same day received the holy Sacrament of our Lord's Supper; wherein (as some say) he was poisoned by a Friar of the Order of S. DOMINICK, called BERNARDIN, and died thereof the same The death of the Emperor Henry the Seventh, who was poysonrd in the Host by a Friar. day: which was so wicked and so odious a fact, that a man would think that no Christian would have committed, much less a religious man. The same Historians writ, that the Pope understanding that a religious man was accused thereof, wrote his Letters and Bulls by which he published him for innocent and not guilty. This Emperor died in the year of our Lord 1313. in the seventh year of his reign. Most authors which writ of him, say, that he was a lover of justice and equity, of a pleasing conversation, amiable, valiant, expert in the wars, of an honest life, a devout Christian and one that feared God: yet BLONDUS taxeth him of indiscretion, and covetousness. He had by his wife the Empress one son and three daughters; his son's name was JOHN, whom he had already made King of Bohemia, and was likewise by inheritance from his father, Duke of Lutzenburgh. The eldest of his daughters called BEATRICE was married to CHARLES King of Hungary, brother to ROBERT King of Naples, who within one year died in childbed: the second was MARY, and she was married to CHARLES King of France, who also died in childbed: the third was married to RODULPH Count Palatine of the Rhine. His body was carried to Pisa, and there with great lamentation solemnly entombed. The Emperor being dead there ensued a great alteration in all Italy, his Army was dispersed and came to nothing: and great and cruel wars ensued between the Florentines and Pisans. There is so little written of the Emperors of Constantinople in these times, that it is hard to accord one History with another: what I can gather out of the authors is, that the Emperor ANDRONICUS, of whom we have before made mention, by reason of his great age, made his son MICHAEL his companion in the Empire, who presently died, and left one son called ANDRONICUS, after the name of his Grandfather, who rebelling against the old ANDRONICUS after six year's war bereft him of the Empire; eaving him his life, and the Title of Emperor. This ANDRONICUS was called the younger, and was a great warrior, and very valiant. He that will know more of this Emperor, let him read GEORGE MERULA in his seventh and eighth books of the History of Milan, and LEONARD ARETIN in his fourth book of his History of Florence. THE LIFE OF LEWES, THE FIFT OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDRETH AND SEVENTH Roman Emperor; And of his Competitor, FREDERICK. THE ARGUMENT. HEnry being dead, and much time spent before the Prince's electors did meet, in the end they were divided, and chose two Emperors, and each endeavoured to defend and maintain his party by Arms. They both were Crowned, and all Germany was divided into two factions; Frederick was favoured by the Pope, yet he would not confirm any of them. This division increased the troubles in Italy, wherein were long and cruel wars, and no less in Germany between the two Emperors, which fought a battle continning 12 hours; at the end whereof jews was Victor and Frederick taken prisoner. jews being sole Emperor he warred against the Pope, who excommunicated him: so that he was constrained to set Frederick at liberty; who together with his brother Leopold died shortly after. So as he remained without any rival, and without suspicion; but not without grief, for that he was constrained to come into Italy, called thither by those of his faction, where ensued many Innovations, by reason of the factions of the Guelphs and Gibelins. After many accidents he came to Rome, where he was crowned by Stephen Colonna, having an in't enter to have go to Naples against his enemy Robert. Upon certain occasions he made a new Pope in Rome by whom he was absolved: which the other Pope in France understanding, excommwinicated him again with greater vehemency; and the new Pope after the return of the Emperor into Germany fell into the old Pope's hand, and this Emperor could never agreewith the Popes, neither could be absolved from the Pope's curse, so much were they incensed against him. And so the Electors fearing the Pope's fulminations chose another Emperor, which was the occasion that Germany was again divided. So as this Emperor's reign was in the beginning and ending after one manner: and he in these troubles, overcome with grief, died suddenly, when he had reigned in company and alone thirty three years. AFter the decease of the Emperor HENRY (who died in Buonconuento and was buried in Pisa) the Princes of Germany which were with him, returned home with some part of his Army, for the most of his soldiers remained in Italy to get pay and entertainment in the wars, which were already begun, and as it seemed would never have been ended; the rest were dispersed into sundry parts. But it was one whole year after his decease before the electors chose him any successor, by reason that it was long before they met, and also for that they could not agreed in their election; so as (the Empire being without an head) there was in all things a great confusion, and the worst of all was, that in all their treaties and negociations, they could never agreed (as reason required) but were still divided: at length meeting, it seemeth most of them made choice of FREDERICK Duke of Austria; for HENRY Archb. of Colein. ALBERT duke of Saxony, and VALDEMAR Marq. of Brandenburg, though absent, by his Agent, took his part; all which were his consins-germans, his father's sisters sons and Nephews to the Emperor RODULPH; and RODULPH Duke of Baviere and Count Palatine of Rhine, had promised him his voice: but JOHN King of Bohemia, PETER Archbishop of Mentz, and BALDWIN Archbishop of Treviere, were so contrary unto him, that thinking to get the voice of RODULPH Duke of Baviere & Count Palatine on their side (procuring also the voice of the marquis of Brandeburghs deputy to that effect) they resolved by all means possible to make LEWES Duke of Bavaria, Emperor: and either party was so obstinate in their resolution, that making their election with the accustomed solemnities, upon S. LVKE's day, which was in the year of our Lord 1314, in steed of one Emperor, they chose 2. The K. of Bohemia, the Archb. of Treviere & of Mentz & NICHOLAS de Bo●…c (who was deputy for the marquis of Brandenburg) chose LEWES Duke of Baviere: And the Archbishop of Colen, the Duke of Saxony, and RODULPH Count Palatine of Rhine and Duke of Baviere, to hold his Lewes' Duke of Baviere, and Frederick duke of Ostrich both chosen Emperors by the Electors. word (notwithstanding that LEWES was his own Brother) chose FREDERICK of Austria; and so there was a division in the election; and either party maintained that he whom they had chosen, was and aught to be Emperor. LEWES his party alleged that he was chosen by most voices, for of seven he had four. FREDERICK and his friends pretended that the Marquis of Brandenburghs proctor had falsified his authority, who bringing in writing the hand of the marquis for FREDERICK, razed it out, and wrote LEWES in the place; wherefore he was the man that was chosen: So as all Germany, the Princes and Cities, was divided into two factions, the one holding for the one party, and the other for the other: and from contrariety of opinions, they came to blows; and the war continued between them for the space of eight or nine years, until it ended in such manner as hereafter you shall hear. LEWES departing from Frankford with the aid of those which took his part; went to the City of Aken, where he was crowned by the Archbishop of Colen: but for as much as FREDERICK could not get into it, (which was the right place) he was crowned in another City. The solemnity of the Coronations being ended, they could not sand to the Pope for that the Sea had been void above two years, through the death of CLEMENT the Fift; but either of them sent to the Princes, Cities, and Potentates, Signifying by their Letters and messengers, the equity of their causes, and to justify their election. And some being persuaded by the one party and others by the other, the most part of the Cities of the lower Germany as fare as Colen, held for LEWES; and so did (in a manner) all Suevia, excepting the City of ulme, and some Towns which were of the contrary faction: and in high Germany and in Switzerland, almost all the Cities held FREDERICK for Emperor; and either of the Prince's Electors took his part whom they had chosen, and so they were divided: yet the greatest part favoured LEWES more than FREDBRICK; but his brethren ALBERT and LEOPOLD did so assist him, that levying an Army and taking the field, he besieged Smina in Suevia, and brought it to such extremity that the inhabitants sent to LEWES for relief; who raised his whole power, and with the aid of the King of Bohemia, and the Archbishop of Treviere, came to free the City: FREDERICK being advertised of his coming, went to meet him, and near to the River of Nechar, joined battle, where both the Emperors fought in their own persons: and the battle was so furious that it lasted the greatest part of the day; so as the dark night parted them without any appearance of victory; yet HENRICUS MUCIUS saith, that LEWES A battle between Frederick & jews lost more men than FREDERICK: and so FREDERICK returning to the siege which he had begun, LEWES went to the City of Strausburgh which held for FREDERICK, and was received into it by means of the great privileges and exemptions which he gave and promised them; which FREDERICK'S brother LEOPOLD understanding, he raised a great power of his subjects and friends, and came to make war against such as held for LEWES, and encamped himself before Spire; whereof as soon as LEWES was certified, he departed from Strausburgh and with his greatest forces went to seek LEOPOLD, with a desire to have fought with him before he joined with his brother; but FREDERICK made such speed that he joined with LEOPOLD before they could meet: Whereupon LEWES not daring to fight with them both together retired, with some loss both of his people and reputation, resolving to make war after another manner without hazarding any battle, and so took his way into Baviere, to war against his own brother, for that he having chosen FREDERICK took his part, who, being expelled Germany, fled into England, where after some years he died in banishment. His wife MECHTILDA, daughter to the Emperor ADULPH, remained in Austria with her sons, where she also died. Soon after, LEWES called home his brother's sons, and restored unto them Heidelberg, with some other Towns; so as, according to the custom in civil discords, the beginning of the war was the expulsion of his brother. This happened in the year of our Lord 1316: and in the same year Pope JOHN the three and twentith was chosen at Lions in France, after two years and odd months that the seat had been voided; who, presently coming to Au●…ion, favoured the party of FREDERICK of Austria: but for that time he confirmed neither. The war between these two Emperors (notwithstanding that in the space of four or five years the one sought not to give the other battle) was so cruel and general through all the Country, and between the Cities and some Princes, as the like had not been seen; whereof ensued many violences and robberies by the highways: insomuch that for redress thereof, the Cities of Strausbourgh, Spire, Worms, Ment●…, and others, made a league, and agreed to raise certain companies of foot and horse to guard and assure the ways and passages for merchants and travellers, whithersoever they went. And so was Germany afflicted with combustions and misery, without any battle or exploit of Arms worth the writing between the two Emperors, until the year 1323; in which time what happened in Italy, from the time of the Emperor HENRY the Seventh until then, we will briefly relate, especially in Lombardy, being a matter concerning the Empire. When the Emperor HENRY died, the Viscounts (from whom descended the Dukes of Milan) were so absolute Lords thereof, that they being no longer content with that City, MATHEW Viscount, GALEAZZO and the rest, took Pavia and other cities; which they might easily effect, having the aid of the Germans, which had been left there by the Emperor; they also taking part with the Emperor LEWES: and as the Empire was divided and in strife, LEWES, to have of his side so puissant a people and family, sent him Ambassadors and very kind and friendly Letters. But Pope JOHN being of the contrary faction, as soon as he was chosen, persuaded FREDERICK to sand his brother HENRY into Italy; who, in hope that the Pope would have confirmed his election, did so. But his going was to small effect, for he came but near to the City of Pavia, and from thence returned: for, as the Imperialists ever maintained the faction of the Gibelins, and the Pope the Guelphs; so he, for that he could not hold with both parties, returned into Austria: by reason whereof, the Gibelins prevailed in Lombardy against the Pope, and against King ROBERT of Naples, who were of the contrary faction; insomuch that MATHEW Viscount of Milan, being of the Gibelins, with the aid of CANNIS SCALIGER, Governor of Verona, purposed to have taken Genoa, under colour to have restored the SPINOLAS and the DORIAS, who were banished thence for that they were Gibelins (the Guelphs being of greatest power in that City) and sent his son MARK Viscount thither with an Army, who besieged the City; and aid coming to either side, the war was very sharp, and the siege was one of the most cruel that hath been seen; insomuch that the Genoais, to obtain aid and succour, become subject to the King of Naples for ten years. Before and after which siege there was cruel war between the Pisans and the Florentines; the King of Naples assisting the Florentines; and other Princes and Cities, the Pisans: a matter too long to be related. The power of the Viscounts daily increasing in Lombardy, the Pope, who was their enemy, sought a means to draw the French King to sand his nephew PHILIP with an Army into Italy; which he did: and coming into Lombardy, many things happened which I have no time to relate; but the conclusion is, that he returned again into France, without doing any thing worthy memory. The siege of Genoa continuing, MATHEW Viscount besieged Bercelli, and took it, expelling the Turriones, who were his ancient enemies: so as at this time the Viscounts were Lords and in possession of the Cities of Milan, Pavia, Placencia, Lodi, Cremona, Bergamo, Noüarra, Bercelli, Terdona and Alexandria, besides others which were his confederates; as, Luca, and CASTRUCHO the Governor thereof, the Cities of Pisa and Arezzo, and the marquis of Ferrara, a City belonging to the Church; and SCALIGER of Verona: against whom ROBERT King of Naples, the Florentines, the Pope, and all those which were of the faction of the Guelphs, waged war. The siege of Genoa continued five years; wherein many accidents befell both by sea and land; whither the King of Naples and the Pope sent threescore galleys to the relief thereof: and in the end the City was not taken, but the siege was raised, and many matters befell which I cannot writ, for that I am to return to my history of LEWES and FREDERICK; both which were called, and pretended to be Emperors. The eightth year being now expired since these two made war, and FREDERICK pretending to make a conquest of the Country of Baviere, whereof the Emperor LEWES was called Duke, and was in possession (as Protector to his nephew, through the death of his brother RODULPH) he levied 2200 armed pikes, and a great number of other footmen which were his subjects, and of the King of Hungary, and other his friends: and therewith (being accompanied with his brother HENRY, and other Princes and great men, daily expecting the coming of his brother LEOPOLD out of Suevia to join with him, with eight hundred men at Arms, and a great number of foot) he departed from Austria, and entered Baviere, wherein he took Towns and Castles. Being there for a time master of the field, his enemy LEWES in the mean time was not idle: but of his own forces, the Kings of Bohemia, the Archbishops of Trevier, and other of his friends which being absent sent their aid, he levied an Army containing above thirty thousand foot, and about two thousand men at Arms. With these forces he went to seek his enemy, with a resolution to give him battle before that his brother LEOPOLD should join with him; which FREDERICK purposed to have deferred until his brothers coming: but LEWES came so near him, and gave him so many occasions, that, contrary to the opinion of most of his friends, he resolved to hazard a battle; and so upon a morning, in the month of September, in the year of our Lord 1323, each of these competitors marshalling his squadrons, and both the one and the other assuring himself that in the victory consisted the possession of the Empire, with equal power and courage most valiantly beginning the fight, they maintained A battle betwixt the Emperors jews and Frederick, wherein Frederick was overthrown & taken the same with great fury until it was dark night; that Author which setteth down lest time, saith, that the battle lasted twelve hours: and in the end LEWES having the victory, FREDERICK and his brother HENRY valiantly fight were taken prisoners, and many others of great account were taken and slain. It is written, that in this battle were slain four thousand horsemen, and so great a multitude of foot, that they number them not: so as the victors received no less loss than the vanquished. After this notable victory, the most of the Cities and Princes which held with FREDERICK (conforming themselves with the time) yielded obedience to LEWES: and so he remained sole Emperor, whom all men imagined would have put FREDERICK to death; but he, receiving him to mercy, sent him prisoner to the Castle of Trisnir. FREDERICK'S brother LEOPOLD (who as I said came to join with him) understanding that his brother was overthrown and taken, was wonderfully grieved; and the more, when he knew that if he had forborn to fight until his coming, he might have obtained the victory. This passion continuing in him, he never left to molest the Emperor LEWLS during his life; first procuring his brother's liberty, and afterwards in revenge to execute the wrath and displeasure which he had conceived. In this manner LEWES, by the overthrow and imprisonment of his enemy FREDERICK, remained sole Emperor: but he was not therefore free from troubles and wars; for, as he was chosen in discord and controversy, so his Reign (though of long continuance) was ever unquiet and full of crosses and troubles: wherefore the history of his time will be longer than ordinarily of others. When he had obtained this victory, he sent an Ambassador to Pope JOHN the 23 (who then lay in Auinion) and desiring him to confirm his election, yielded apparent reason for the same. Pope JOHN, who had ever been his adversary, would not grant his request, whereof FREDERICK'S brother LEOPOLD was the principal occasion; who leaving his estate of Austria to his brothers OTHO and ALBERT, came into France to the Pope to incense him against the Emperor LEWES, and to entreat him to command him to resign the Empire, and to release his brother: and thence he went to the French King to procure the like; in both which places he found good entertainment and favour: and they sent their Letters and Ambassadors to the Emperor, requesting and requiring him to release FREDERICK, and presently to set him at liberty: but he, making his excuses, would not perform what they required; and knowing that the Pope was his enemy, he wrote his Letters of favour, and sent authority to MATHEW Viscount, and to his son GALEAZZO, Governors of Milan and of other Cities in Italy, to govern the same for him; and he sent soldiers to them, and to others of the Gibelins. The Pope being hereof advertised (assembling many Bishops in Auinion, together with his Consistory of Cardinals, by the consent of the French King, and through LEOPOLD'S entreaty, which solicited the same) excommunicated the Emperor, and alleged for his reason, that he favoured such as were enemies to his Church in Lombardy and in Italy; and therewith assigned him the term of three months; within which, he renouncing the election which was made of him, should appear before him, to answer to what should be objected; and should recall the forces which he had sent to the Viscounts in Italy, and other enemies to his Church. The Emperor LEWES answered modestly, that he had sworn at his election to maintain justice, and therefore he had assisted Galeace in a just cause. Moreover, by the same oath he was bound, that being chosen he should perform the office of an Emperor. Therefore the election was made, that he should be a true defender of justice, and maintainer of peace in all his dominions; the defence whereof was recommended to the Emperor, and every Power was bound by the word of God to do that which belonged to his office. Neither was the power to carry the sword, given by the Pope, but by God: wherefore he maintained, that he neither could nor would renounce the Empire which was given him from God; and if this answer would not satisfy the Pope, he would appeal to a lawful Council: and then he published his reasons and excuses through all Italy; where at that time were most cruel wars made by the Pope's Legates and Captains, and the King of Naples; against the Viscounts, the Pisans, the Lucois, and other Cities and Princes Gibelins, whom the Emperor LEWIS favoured and assisted; whereof GEORGE MERULA, LEONARD ARETIN, ANTHONY and MACHIA●…L, have written at large. The hatred between the Emperor and the Pope so much increased through the instigation of LEOPOLD of Austria, for that he would not release his brother FREDERICK, that the Pope, meeting the French King, consulted with him how he might depose the Emperor, and give the Empire to the King of France: but the Emperor LEWIS was of so great power in Germany, that this parley took small effect; nevertheless, to pacific LEOPOLD, and FREDERICK'S other kinsmen and friends (taking FREDERICK'S oath, and such other securily as he could give him, that he would no more take upon him the name of Emperor, neither practice The Emperor Frederick set at l●…erty by the Emperor Lewis or procure the same) he released him out of prison, and suffered him to go at liberty into his Country of Austria, where he after for a small space lived in peace and sorrow. Some writ, that after three year's imprisonment he was released upon these conditions, that it should be lawful for him to bear the name of Emperor whilst he lived, but not to usurp any authority or jurisdiction. HENRY his brother, who was taken prisoner with him, freed himself by the restoring of certain Towns and Castles in Moravia, which the Austrians had in this war taken from the Bohemians: and LEOPOLD, notwithstanding that he saw his brother at liberty, never desisted from molesting LEWIS, but yet could do little for the small time he lived; and both of them dying without issue to succeed them, with their death the controversy ceased. LEWES being freed from this quarrel with FREDERICK and LEOPOLD, and Letters coming daily to him from the Gibelins which took his part in Italy (soliciting him to come thither) and from the City of Rome itself, he with a desire to rule and command, and to be crowned there, resolved to go: wherefore, causing a Diet to be held in Spire, he gave the Princes of Germany to understand of his resolution; who, moved with his reasons, consented to his going, and some offered to serve and accompany him; and all, to aid him with men and money. And so levying an Army he departed out of Germany, carrying with him his second wife called MARGARET, daughter to the Earl of Holland, and came to the City of Tr●…nt (in the year of our Lord 1327, and in the thirteenth of his Reign, reckoning from the beginning of him and FREDERICK) where he stayed: for; thither he had appointed all the Cities which were at his devotion to sand their Agents, to treat of what was to be done. Thither came Ambassadors from GALEAZZO Viscount of Milan, and from his brothers, JOHN, MARK, LUCHIN and STEVEN (for, their father MATHEW was dead) and from the marquis of Man●…, and from him of Verona, and the cities of Pisa and Luca, and the rest within Lombardy which were in league with Milan, and from many others; who, making great offers to aid and assist him with men and money, counselled him presently to march forwards; and he did so, and came directly to Brescia, and thence to Milan, and there was crowned with the Crown of iron: where he stayed above thirty days after his coronation. And from thence, as some say, sending to entreat the Pope to confirm his election, and to absolve him of his excommunication, he st●…ied there longer than he thought to h●…ue done, to get money to pay his soldiers: by reason whereof a greater contribution was to belevied in Milan, and in other cities of the league, than they willingly would have paid: and GALEAS Viscount, sometimes by en treaty, and sometimes by counsel, sought to have avoided the tribute which was to be levied upon his country: whereupon the Emperor made him, his sons and brothers, to be apprehended, and deposed them from the government of the City; and, to win the good will of the people, and to show that he gave them liberty, he granted that they should choose among themselves 28 Citizens and one Precedent, which should have the government thereof. With this bait he obtained what he desired, and the tax which he had laid upon them: which deed (although it is written after sundry manners) was the cause of great alterations; and that the Emperor was noted of ingratitude and excessive cruelty, so to deal with those who had called him into the country, although it cannot be denied but that they were Tyrants. Having dispatched his business in Lombardy, he took his way through Tuscan towards Rome, by the procurement of CASTRUCHO, who was one of the most valiant Captains of his time; and commanding in Luca, maintained the war against the Florentines, and against CHARLES the son of ROBERT King of Naples, who with a great garrison defended that City by his father's direction, to whom it was become subject: and he carried with him GALEAZZO Viscount and his brethren, prisoners. The Emperor, being comn to Luca, was by CASTRUCHO received with very great joy and solemnity: and from thence desiring to go to Pisa, the Pisans were in doubt whether they should receive him or no; but in the end he was entertained, and made his abode there about two months. During which time, CHARLES of Naples being with great forces in Florence, the Emperor resolved to hold on his journey without troubling himself with him; and being in Pisa, released GALEAS Viscount of Milan, and his sons, AZZO and MARK, upon their oaths; and at CASTRUCHO his entreaty, whose authority (gotten by his valour in Arms) was then very great: who afterwards were released from all, in such manner as you shall hear. The Emperor going from Pisa, accompanied by CASTRUCHO with 1500 horse of his own, went along the sea coast towards Rome, purposing (as some writ) after his coronation to have go against the King of Naples, who was his great enemy: whereupon, as soon as the Emperor was comn near to Rome, CHARLES departing from Florence towards Naples to the aid of his father, left an excellent Captain called PHILIP CARNOSENSE, in Florence: and within short space after, this CHARLES dying (his father having no more sons) left two daughters. The Emperors coming being known in Rome, caused great dissension and tumults; but as the greatest part was willing to receive him, and the rest to the contrary, in the end he was solemnly received: but his coronation, and who crowned him, where, and upon what day, is diversely written; which often happens among those which are present, much more among Historiographers: the truth is, that LEWES was crowned in Rome by the hands of STEPHEN The Emperor jews the Fis●… crowned in Rome. COLONNA, who at that time was Vicar of Rome (an office and government then newly erected) yet LEONARD ARETIN and ANTHONY say, that his son SARRA COLONNA crowned him, and that he was crowned against the will of the Pope or his Legates, yet with great applause of the people both secular and regular. It is written, that being in Rome, the Emperor would not be crowned before he had delivered unto the Cardinals and Bishops, and then unto the Senate consisting of many worthy men, the injuries which Pope JOHN the 23 had done him, and had understood that they approved his cause and affection to the Common-weal; referring the business to them, and promising to observe whatsoever they should decree. He affirmed, that he did constantly believe the doctrine of the Catholic Church, and did always wish a general peace: whereto both the clergy and Senate answered, that they held that Pope JOHN the 22 had not done rightly, for that he had made decrees in so great a business without a Synod, or knowledge of the cause, and had followed them with excommunications, and therefore (knowing he was free from all false opinions) they would join with him. LEWES being crowned, together with his Empress, he was called Emperor and Semper AVOUSTUS; and the news being dispersed over Italy, there repaired to him many chief men of the Gibelins: and he being very puissant, and accompanied by the valiant CASTRUCHO (of whom next to the Emperor was made chiefest account) to justify his coronation and his other actions in the judgement of the people; maintaining, that Pope JOHN the three and twentith, who then was in Auinion, neither was, neither aught to be held for Pope, he of his own authority created one PETER de Goruaria, a Franciscane Friar, Pope; which Friar (as writeth PLATINA) had been a married man, and in his wife's time took that habit: and, he, accepting the Papacy, was called NLCHOLAS, and made Cardinals and Bishops, and held a pontifical Court; and the Emperor gave him the obedience and honour, as to a Pope; and being absolved of his excommunication, was confirmed in his Empire, and had else what he would desire: which was done against the will of many Priests & other regular persons, who therefore left Rome; yet there were others which, approving the same, took part of the benefit. When these news were brought to Pope JOHN, he aggravating his censures and excommunications, proclaimed him for no Emperor, but a Tyrant and an Usurper of the Empire. The Pope excommunicated the Emperor. The Emperor being in Rome, the Empress bore him a son, called LUDOVICUS ROMANUS; and making preparation to go in person against the King of Naples, he practised with FREDERICK King of Sicilia to do the like: but, staying longer in Rome than was expedient, it happened that the Captain whom CHARLES of Naples had left with the garrison in Florence; together with the Florentines, surprised the City of Pistoia, which was at CASTRUCHO his devotion, and in league with Pisa and Luca: whereof when CASTRUCHO (being then with the Emperor in Rome) was advertised, he for fear to loose the rest, presently departed, and coming thither, found great resistance; but in the end he valiantly recovered the City. CASTRUCHO his departure from the Emperor made him so to altar his resolution, that, giving over the enterprise of Naples, he departed with his Pope from Rome (wherein he left the best order that he could for his purpose, first establishing two Governors, one of the family of the Vrsins, and the other of the Colonnois, which were called the Emperor's Vicars) and then he took his way towards Florence; where when it was known that he was coming, all men were of opinion that he would have taken that City by force, holding it not possible to be defended, since that CASTRUCHO was in his service, against whom alone the Florentines could hardly make their party good: but it pleased God to dispose thereof after another manner; for, CASTRUCHO (in whom he reposed his chiefest trust) died, and his death caused so great an alteration, that the Emperor by his death, and through the loss of many of his people, and also for that others mutined, resolved to return into Germany, first placing his Lieutenants in Pistoia and in Luca, out of which he put the sons and kinsfolks of CASTRUCHO: such are the rewards which ingrateful Princes use to bestow upon the children of those which have done them good and faithful service. At the same time also died in Pisa, GALEAS Viscount (tyrant of Milan) deprived of that dominion; and the Emperor for a great sum of money, gave leave to his son AZZO to return to Milan, which he promised the Emperor towards the payment of his soldiers before his departure, and left his brother MARK in pawn for the same. Coming to Milan, he was received with great affection, into the same place and authority his father held; and recovered in Milan the money promised, and delivered the same to the Germane, sent by the Emperor; who, forgetting to come therewith to Pisa, returned to their houses. The Emperor leaving Pisa, resolving to continued his journey into Germany, left his Pope there behind him; who after, by the practice of one BONIFACE of Pisa, was taken and brought to Auinion, and coming in a private habit before the Pope, died in his power a prisoner. The Emperor passing through Lombardy into Germany, AZZO Viscount would not receive him into the City, nor was the Emperor able to assault it. And so, leaving Italy, he left neither the peace nor the good government which he found there: but the City of Pisa, and others which had held for him, when he was gone, cast out his Lieutenants and Governors; and the former tyrants therein, took more Towns and Cities, most of which were Gibelins: and those of the house of GONZAGA then made themselves absolute lords of Mantova, which they hold till this day. It seems that the long continuance of their possession hath made their title just & lawful, adding thereto the confirmations made afterwards by Emperors & Popes after sundry sorts: and some Captains also had tyrannised: as, GALEOTTO MALATESTA in Arimino; MANFREDO PIO in Carpi; RICHARD MANFREDI in Favencia, and others in many other places. But for all this, the factions of the Guelphs and Gibelins was so rooted in Italy, that all the Gibelins which took his part presently solicited the Emperor for his speedy return: for, by his absence, the Guelphs, with the aid of the Florentines, the K. of Noples and the Pope, warred upon them: but the Emperor, being otherwise busied in Germany, could not return, though he desired the same. But JOHN K. of Bohemia by his direction levied an Army and came into Italy; who past many adventures which for brevity I omit: in fine, he thinking to please both parties, was called Italy's peacemaker: and he procuring many parleys with the Pope's Legates, thereby displeased both the one and other party, as it ordinarily happens to those who seek to pacify two contrary factions, and fell into suspicion with the Emperor, but much more with the Lords of Italy: whereupon, AZZO Viscount Lord of Milan, MASTINO de la Scala, Lord of Verona, PHILIP GONZAGA marquis of Mantoa, VBERTINO di Carrara Lord of Padua, the marquis of Ferrara, and some others, as ROBERT King of Naples, and the Florentines which until then had been their enemies, joined together in a league and confederacy, promising that they would protect and defend the one the other against the whole world: for the which not only the Emperor, but the Pope also was very much discontented; and there ensued great changes & alterations in all matters and affairs in Italy, which I have no time to relate. The Emperor seeing himself excommunicate, and that the Pope desisted not from proceeding against him, persuaded all men that he was unjustly accused; and fearing some alteration, with fair words, large gifts, and good entertainment, satisfied the Lords and Princes of Germany, seeking otherwise to be absolved, and some means of reconciliation, which was a matter almost impossible to be effected: for, the King of France, in whose country and (as we may say) power the Pope and his Cardinals then were, notwithstanding that the Pope would, yet he would not consent thereto; and so the matter continued till the death of Pope JOHN, which was in the year of our Lord one thousand, three hundred, thirty and four, having been Pope 19 years and four months: at which time the States of Carinthia and Tirol came to be united to the house of Austria. Matters being in such confusion as we have declared, and Pope JOHN being dead, the Cardinal of Saint Prisca, whose name was JACOB, born in Tholouse in France, was chosen Pope; who was a Monk of the Order of CISTEAUX, and was called BENEDICT the Twelfth. Being installed, he ratified and renewed the Sentence pronounced by his Predecessor against the Emperor; which he did so speedily, that it was thought to have been done through the instigation of the French King: but within few days after, the King desiring the Pope to make him his Vicar or Lieutenant General in Italy, and to give him the tenth part of the Church revenues and first first-fruits throughout all Christendom (therewith to make a conquest of jerusalem) he so much troubled the Pope with that request, that he made show to be much discontented therewith; and began in secret to give ear to the Emperor's party: whereof he being advertised, sent him a solemn Ambassage, praying and entreating him to absolve him, and to approve his election; whereto the Pope made a pleasing answer, and the matter was at the point to have been concluded: but the Kings of France and of Naples (enemies to the Emperor) so terrified the Pope and his Cardinals, that he durst not perform it; so as the Emperor's Ambassadors returned with good words of no effect: and the like happened to the Ambassadors sent by the Princes and Cities of the Empire, the next year following. Whereupon, forasmuch as at that time there were great wars between EDWARD King of England, and PHILIP the French king, about the succession and right to the Crown of France, the Emperor entered into league with the King of England; so as there was great trouble and dissension betwixt the one & other party: but in the end the French King, seeking the Emperor's friendship, promised to 'cause the Pope to absolve him, to the end that he should stand his friend; so as the Emperor, through the great desire he had to be confirmed in the Empire by the Pope, came to a composition with him. With this confidence in the French King, the Emperor sent his Ambassadors into France; the which, together with the King's Ambassadors, went to Auinion to treat of the matter: but the Pope with divers reasons so prolonged the conclusion, that it plainly appeared that it would take no good effect; which made the Emperor to suspect the King: for, it was held for certain, that the Pope would therein have satisfied the King, as in many other matters he had done, even against his own will; which was so ever as long as the Court of Rome remained in France, and is the reason why the German Historians, treating of the Emperor's affairs, say, that the King of France made show to desire that which he would not have, and the Pope to have that which he desired not. The Emperor despairing to come to any agreement with the Pope, seeing that his Ambassadors returned without any such end or conclusion as he expected, returned to his former rigour: and assembling a general Diet or Council, he sought out learned men to pen his resolution; and finding such as were for his purpose (as Princes never want) after many matters The Emperor's in●…unction made against the pope. treated of, he seeking to get the good will of the Princes, caused an injunction to be dispatched, wherein he affirmed the Sentence pronounced against him by Pope JOHN to be unjust and of none effect, and that his excommunication did no way bind him: wherefore he commanded, upon great penalties, that no man should obey his interdictions and censures in that behalf, alleging other matters contained in the said injunction, which the Pope's friends would not should be revealed in any public history: which injunction (being published, and commanded to be observed) caused great alterations in Germany, especially amongst the Clergy; some holding with the Emperor, others with the Pope. But DANTE, a man at that time, of a most excellent wit and profoundly learned, wrote a Book called The Monarchy, wherein he seemed to favour the Emperor; for which he was afterwards condemned, and his Book held for heresy: and other great men wrote Books and Treatises defending the Pope's supreme authority, alleging the same to be above all principalities and powers; which (besides other reasons) they sought to prove by histories: as, how that Pope ADRIAN translated the Eastern Empire into the West, in the person of CHARLES the Great; and after, in process of time, the Popes removed the same out of France into Germany, in the person of OTHO the First; and how that many Emperors were excommunicated by them, yea and deprived of their Empires; and how that the manner and authority to choose them, was given by the Popes, and from them was derived the power and authority of the Prince's Electers; and that the Emperors were confirmed and crowned by the Popes. Yet there wanted not some which defended the Emperor's cause; and so the Pope's curses and excommunications were contemned and rejected: but he, The Emperor again excommun●…cate, and deprived by the Pope's censures. knowing that the Emperor had published the said Letter against him, renewed the same; and employing his whole power, alleged the Empire to be voided, and that the government thereof belonged unto him until that a new Emperor were chosen, according to the declaration made by CLEMENT the Fift in the Council of Vienne. And understanding that the Emperor purposed to come into Italy, he did one thing which then was held for a point of wisdom, but experience teacheth, that it was very prejudicial to his estate; which was, that he made those Tyrants or Princes which in Italy held the Towns of the Empire, his Vicars or Lieutenants in the same Towns they held; to the end they should be resolute enemies to the Emperor; and, commanding that they should neither receive or obey the Emperor, gave them power and authority to defend and maintain the same, as Lieutenants to the Church: which were, LUCHINO Viscount, Tyrant or Governor of Milan, and other Cities; MASTHINO SCALA in Verona and Vicenza; PHILIP GONZAGA in Mantoa and Reggio; ALBERTINO di Carra in Padua & other places; O●…IZO da Este in Ferrara and Modena: and forasmuch as these were the Church-lands, he enjoined them to pay him yearly ten thousand Ducats of gold; with which title they were the more strongly possessed of those estates. This contention continuing between the Emperor and the Pope, there failed not some who usurped the Pope's Towns: to which, or to the most part of them, in requital of what the Pope had done to him, and to bind them to do him the better service, and the more to incense them against the Pope, the Emperor gave and sent titles and charters, making them Lieutenants for the Empire in the cities and lands appertaining to the Church of Rome: which they accepted and held, and the offspring of many of them have continued therein until this day. Among which was GALEOTTO MALATESTA in Arimino; ANTHONY FER●…TRANO in the City of Urbin; GENTIL VARANO in Camerino; GVIDO POL●…NTA in Ravenna; JOHN MANFREDO in Favencia; ISMADETIO in Sanseverino; and NICHOLAS BOSCARETO in Esio: and in like manner others had the government of, and continued by succession in, other Towns and Cities. These matters passing in this manner in Germany and Italy, Pope BENEDICT being dead (who had held that sea the space of seven years and three months) in his place was chosen in A●…inion, in the month of May, in the year of our Lord 1342, Pope CLEMENT the Sixt, in whose time were great alterations as well in the Cities of Lombardy as of Tuscan. The Emperor sought to come to some composition with the new Pope (as the German Authors writ) but there was no peace to be expected: for, the Pope alleged, that the Emperor sued not for peace in such humble and submissive manner as he aught to have done. But CUSPINIAN, NAUCLERUS and MUCIUS writ, that by means of the French King, who feigned to be a good mediator between them, the Emperor sent his Agents to Pope CLEMENT with full authority, to accept of any condition of peace that he would propound unto them: to which the Pope gave a certain note in writing, wherein they in the name of the Emperor were enjoined to confess the Emperor to have erred, and to have been a schismatic, and disobedient to the Church; and moreover, that the Emperor should presently renounce his right to the Empire, together with the possession thereof; and that he should not intermeddle therein without The intolerable pride of Pope Clement the Sixt. the Pope's permission; and that the Emperor's person, together with his sons, should be at the Pope's disposing: all which Articles the Emperor's Ambassadors accepted and granted in his name; whereat the Pope wondered. These rigorous and terrible Articles and conditions being brought to the Emperor, he holding them for unjust and intolerable, sent the copy of them to the Princes and Cities of the Empire; and therewith summoned a general Diet or Parliament to be held in Frankford, where with a grave speech he complained of the Pope, and shown what his Ambassadors without his knowledge or consent had yielded unto; alleging these demands to be made but only to ruinated the state of the Empire, with other matters which he thought might 'cause greater indignation against the Pope, and move the Princes the more to favour his proceed. And his words wrought such effect, and the Pope's demands seemed so dishonest and intolerable, that they adjudging the same to be rejected and not to be allowed, made great offers to the Emperor for the defence of his person and estate: yet some were of a contrary opinion, who affirmed that the Pope aught to be obeyed, and that the matter aught to be referred to him, as it was sworn and promised. He which held this opinion, was JOHN King of Bohemia, and his son CHARLES, who were discontent with the Emperor for some other causes: but the Council resolved to sand Ambassadors to Pope CLEMENT, to show him that the conditions aught not be performed, and so Ambassadors went: what ensewed we will soon tell you; which was, that the Pope holding himself for deluded, was so enraged, that he again proceeding against the Emperor, sent to all parts copies of the fulminations and censures given by Pope JOHN, with a relation of his offences, including the same within the compass of heresy; and also that he had chosen and installed another Pope, and that he was not according to due order chosen Emperor, but by deceit and bribery; and that he never was Emperor, neither aught to be so called; and that he gave Bishoprics and Prelacies at his pleasure, placing such as pleased him, and displacing such as were preferred by the Pope; and that he making marriages, dispensed like a Pope with such as were married within prohibited degrees of consanguinity, as he had done by his son LEWES and the Countess of Tirol, being allied unto her within an unlawful degree; and she having an husband alive, which was the son of the king of Bohemia: for which cause the Pope, sending his general edicts against him, enjoined the Electors, upon pain of excommunication, to meet and choose a new Emperor; excommunicating all such as followed the Emperor LEWES, or obeyed him. So as the Pope's edicts, and the Emperor's contradictions caused many insolences and combustions in Italy and Germany. As the King of Bohemia and his son were his adversaries, so they procuring the good will of the Duke of Saxony, and of the Archbishop of Colen, by bribes and large promises, sought to procure a meeting, and so to elect and choose an Emperor. At the same time there were two which pretended to be Archbishops of Mentz, the one called HENRY de Vierner (whom the Pope condemned and deprived, for that he defended the Emperor's cause) the other was by name called GERLASSE of Nassaw, whom the Pope had appointed to enjoy the others place. This GERLASSE, to show his authority, and to accomplish the Pope's commandment, summoned the Prince's Electors to meet in the City of Rens, in the year 1346: where met the Duke of Saxony, the King of Bohemia, the Archbishops of Mentz, Trevier, and Colen: and so by reason of the Pope's decree, alleging the Empire to be voided, they chose the King of Bohemia's son CHARLES for Emperor; LEWES being then in Baviere, busy in levying forces to stay the same. The new elect CHARLES would presently have go to have been crowned in Aken, but could not: for, that City held for the Emperor LEWES, and was sufficiently fortified. Pope CLEMENT being advertised of the election of CHARLES (as a thing done by his commandment, and against LEWIS) presently confirmed and approved the same, and procured the French King to aid and assist him, which he promised to do with all his power: but in the mean time befell a strange accident which marred all; which was, that shortly after, EDWARD the Third, King of England, came into France with a mighty Army: and Wars between Philip King of France and Edward the third, king of England, wherein in a battle fought between the two Kings, the King of Bohemia was slain. PHILIP the French King raised his whole power to fight with him; whereof the King of Bohemia and his son CHARLES (newly chosen Emperor) having intelligence, they with more haste than good speed with all their forces came in person to his aid, the more to bind him to perform his promise to them against the Emperor: and they joining in battle against the English (which, as all Writers affirm, was very cruel and bloody, and continued fully six hours) the King of England in the end had the victory, and many great Personages of the vanquished were slain. Among which was JOHN King of Bohemia; and the French King, and the new elect Emperor CHARLES escaped by flight. Through the josse of this battle, the French King had so much to do to defend his own country, that he could yield CHARLES no relief or succour at all against the Emperor LEWES, which made his case the more doubtful: but as he had the Pope's favour and the favour of those which chose him, so was Germany divided; some holding with him, others with the Emperor LEWES: so as LEWES his reign ended as it began, with competencies and factions. But yet he forgot not to raise forces and to seek aid and friends, which with his life lasted but a while: but before we declare his end, I will briefly relate a strange accident that happened in the city of Rome, which shall neither be impertinent, nor unworthy to be related, which was this. Rome at that time being governed in the Pope's absence by two Senators, as the Pope's Vicars or Lieutenants; one of which was of the family of the Colonnois, the other of the Vrsins; a certain man born in Rome of mean parentage, whose name was NICHOLAS RENZO, who being of a great courage and high mind, yet of no greater calling than a Notary public, in such manner won the good will of the people, which repaired unto him, that he perswadeed them to recover the ancient liberty of Rome, which (as a man well read in Histories) he laid open unto them, and was not ashamed to tell them that it was requisite, for the good of the commonwealth, to altar the manner of the government, and to reform and reduce the same to the ancient estate, rule and order: for seeing Rome was a free City and Lady of the whole world, they aught and were bound in duty to recover her liberty. To these speeches together with many other to the like effect, the common people (as light of belief, and desirous of novelties) willingly gave ear: and he found such favour and good liking amongst them, as gathering a head, he seized on the Capitol, and without that any man durst make head against him, he deposed the Pope's Vicars or Lieutenants from the government, and intituling himself NICHOLAUS SEVERUS (the favourable Tribune of peace, liberty and justice, the noble redeemer and restorer of the sacred Roman commonwealth) he made and ordained Senators, and settled the government of Rome in such manner as it was in the time of the ancient Romans, with so great obedience in all men, as if he had come from heaven for the same purpose. And he presently established such peace and justice in the City, and made the same to be observed in such manner, as the like had not been seen in Rome in 500 years before. The fame whereof was presently spread into many parts, and all the Towns near to Rome become obedient unto him, and so did many other that were fare off: and all the tyrants and Princes hearing of so strange an accident, and of the title, and the enterprise which this man undertaken, sent Ambassadors to him; and making great offers, sought his favour and friendship. And the matter was so carried in the beginning, as it seemed that in short space Rome would again have become Lady of a great part of the world. And as the report of such accidents is ever greater than the effect, so these news being carried out of Italy, such fear was generally that many altered their resolutions: And this NICHOLAS as a proud vain man (nothing considering that upon so weak and feeble a foundation he could not possibly build any great edifice) making Rome to be the head and Lady of all the World, he wrote his Letters with the aforesaid proud titles, to the Pope, requiring him to make his residence in Rome; and to the Emperor LEWES and his competitor CHARLES, commanding them within a certain prefixed time to make their appearance before him and the Roman Senate, and to show by what Title they held the Empire: The like he wrote to the Prince's Electors and to other Princes. These Letters being seen and read (notwithstanding that they were held for vain and frivolous) did put the Pope in a great perplexity, seeing that Rome and the territory thereof in his time was usurped. But this vanity continued not above seven or eight months: for as it was grounded but upon the favour of the common people, so it soon waxing cold, and they repenting of what they had done, began to murmur and so to forsake him: whereupon he foreseeing his fall, departed from Rome, and went to CHARLES, the Emperor's competitor: thinkto have found favour, and to have made some league with him; but he caused him to be apprehended, and sent him to Auinion to the Pope, who commanded him to be detained prisoner: what end he had we will tell you, which truly is a pleasant discourse, as you shall see in the end, and so have all the vanities of the world, although some last longer than others. What I have spoken is written by BLONDUS, PLATINA, NAUCLERUS, and all the Historiographers. PETRARCHA, in some of his Epistles affirmeth, that all the time that this man commanded, there was such peace and quietness, and justice was so duly executed in Rome and in part of Italy, that it seemed the Golden-age was come again: whereupon he made that excellent Sonnet which beginneth, Spirto gentle che quella membra reggi. But now to return to our History: Germany being thus divided, some holding for the Emperor LEWES, and others for the new chosen CHARLES, who was already King of Bohemia, this controversy between these two was ended, through the sudden death of LEWES, which happened upon the seven and twentith day of September, in the year of our Lord 1347, in this manner: He riding that day over the fields on hunting, was taken with so cruel an Apoplexy, that he fell from his horse and died suddenly, when he had reigned 33 years, the first nine in contention and competency with FREDERICK, who was called Emperor: it was also suspected that he was poisoned by the widow of ALBERT of Austria, with whom he had been familiar. This Emperor having been twice married, had six sons, and one daughter, which from their father inherited sundry Lordships and estates. At this time the Genoese and the Venetians made most cruel war one against another; the like did the English and the French. The Kings of Spain wholly applied themselves to war against the Moors. In Constantinople reigned JOHN PALEOLOGUS, called CALOIOANNES, son of ANDRONICUS the younger, who had much to do with CATACUZENUS (whom his father left for his tutor) about the Empire; sometime the one prevailing, and sometimes the other: by reason whereof they both are accounted Emperors; but in the end CALOIOANNES PALEOLOGUS was sole Emperor, as hereafter shall be declared. THE LIFE OF CHARLES, THE FOURTH OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDRETH AND EIGHTTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. Charles' having no Competitor, went to subdue those Countries which held with jews. Many were of opinion that the Empire was void: wherefore some of the Electours met at Frankford, and chose successively two Emperors, which would not accept thereof. In the time of this Charles, was that memorable pestilence through all Europe, in Anno Domini, 1348. and the slaughter of aninfinite number of jews. Afterwards the Electors chose one Gunther for Emperor, who coming against Charles died before any battle. Charles having made an accord with the Electors which were his enemies, was freed from all his competitors, and came afterwards into Italy to be crowned; where he behaved himself with such humanity, as there was no Lord or Commonwealth that did not acknowledge him for their Emperor: and contented to pay his Soldiers, he giving privileges to sundry Cities in Italy, he returned into Germany: wherein he maintaining peace and justice, he sued to make his eldest son Wenceslaus King of the Romans, which he obtained for money. After all these things falling sick he died, when he had valiantly reigned two and thirty years. WHen the Emperor LEWES died, his Competitor CHARLES (who in his life-time was called Emperor) was in his kingdom of Bohemia; and as soon as he was certified of his death, with the greatest power he could raise left his kingdom, to make himself Lord of such towns as held for the deceased Emperor LEWES: and coming to Ratisbone he was there without any contradiction received as Emperor; and thence went to Nurembergh, and had there the like reception, and generally in all the other cities whither he came; for he released all the actions which he had against them, and promised to procure the Pope to absolve all those which had continued in the service of LEWES: but he afterwards coming to Basil, they would not receive him, except he first obtained for them the Pope's pardon, and a release from all the curses pronounced against their city, for that it held for the late Emperor: and while as they treated hereof, there came a Legate from the Pope, who hearing that LEWES was dead, sent him to CHARLES with authority to absolve them and all the rest. And although that in this city and in others they was great contention, about the oath and the form of the confession which the Pope had commanded to be made before they should be absolved; yet in the end absolution was given, and the Emperor with great solemnity was received into the city, and into some other places. And notwithstanding that in the beginning he had so good success with some cities and Princes, yet with many of the rest he sped not so well: for those which had continued firm and loyal to the Emperor LEWES, and had been enemies and made war against CHARLES, would not accept him for Emperor; but holding the Empire void, pretended a new election to be made; especially those Electors which consented not to his election; which were HENRY Archbishop of Mentz, (whom the Pope had deprived, and in his place set GERLASSE of Nassaw) LEWES Marquis of Brandenburg, ROBERT Count Palatine of Rhine and Duke of Baviere; all which pretended that CHARLES his election was neither lawful, nor of any validity, for that it was not made in Frankford; and also for that the estates were not assembled by the Count Palatine, neither were they present, or sent their Agents or Proctors: all which things (they said) were requisite in a lawful election: and HENRY the new Duke of Saxony and some cities joining with them, alleged also that those which chose him were corrupted with money by CHARLES and his father JOHN King of Bohemia; and also that he was not crowned in Aken as he aught to have been. For which causes (although in my opinion the greatest was the spleen and hatred which they bore him) in the beginning of the year 1348, the aforesaid Princes met in the city of Frankford (notwithstanding that CHARLES used all his power and policy to have prevented the same) where declaring the Empire to be void (the Bishops of Colen, Trevier and the other Bishop of Mentz being absent) by the common consent of those which were present, they chose the king of England (for that he was descended from the German blood) for Emperor, to whom they presently sent their Ambassadors to the same effect: but after that he had well considered Edward th●… 3 King of England being chosen, refused to be Emperor. of the matter, refusing their offer, he sent to them, desiring to be held excused: And they seeing themselves frustrate of their hope, chose FREDERICK marquis of Misnia, who was a man of great judgement and very valiant; who standing in doubt whether he should accept it or not, and considering well thereof (for CHARLES being thereof advertised, to the end that he should not accept the election, sent him a great sum of gold and silver, and therewith gave him to understand of the inconveniences that would ensue) made the like answer as did the King of England: so as for that time without agreeing upon any other, these Princes still continuing disobedient to the Emperor CHARLES, departed from Frankford not choosing any Emperor at all. The chiefest cause of their departure was the plague in that country; which in that time was General plague through all Europe. so great and so universal through all parts of Europe, that the like thereof before that time had never been seen nor heard of: for Historiographers affirm that it continued above one whole year, beginning in the year one thousand three hundred forty eight, and ending in Ann●… 1350; which raged in such extreme manner, that where it did lest harm, the tenth person escaped not. BLONDUS saith, that he heard his grandfather GASPAR BLONDUS affirm with an oath, that many towns in Italy were therewith so dispeopled, that not any one remained therein alive. During the time of this calamity, there was a general peace, so as not any could or durst make war against other, except a little which was made against the Synagogues of the jews: for the common people took a conceit, and it was firmly believed, that the jews had poisoned the waters, and caused this plague; whereupon (the Princes and governors being no way able to prevent the same) the jews were every where torn in pieces, and an infinite number of them were by the Christians sacked and rob, in France, Italy, Germany and Spain. At this time also the French King got the Country of Dauphin, and the City of Vienne the head thereof; which do now belong to the Princes of France; which was given him by HUM●…RT, Dauphin of Vienne, having no heir to succeed him; upon condition that the eldest son of France should be called Dauphin of Viennois. In the year 1350. our Lord mitigating his ire, and the plague ceasing, Pope CLEMENT this year by the consent of his Cardinals ordained that the jubilee which Pope BONIFAC●… the 8. had granted to be held in Rome every hundredth year, should he held that year; and thenceforth every fiftieth year, considering the shortness of man's life; so as an infinite number of people repaired to Rome to the jubilee. After the danger of the plague was past, men presently being free from the fear thereof, returned to their wars and dessension, principally the aforenamed four Prince's Electors, HENRY Archbishop of Mentz, LEWES Marquis of Brandenbrugh, RODULPH Duke of Baviere and Count Palatine of Rhine, and HENRY Duke of Saxony: all which rebelled against the the Emperor CHARLES, and stood upon their Gunther Earl of Swarzemburgh chosen ●…mperor against Charles King of Bohemia. guard; and the one aiding and assisting the other, they again met at Frankford, and after many consultations, chose GUNTHER Earl of Swarzemburgh, who was an excellent and very valiant man of war. This man with the aid of those that chose him, and of his friends and kinsfolks, with a great number of very good men of war, came to Frankford; where attending his enemies coming, he kept the field the space of six weeks (for so they writ was then the manner of the new chosen Emperors). That time being expired, he was received into the city, and sworn and obeyed for Emperor. And notwithstanding that the Emperor CHARLES had levied a very great power, yet being unwilling to hazard his whole fortune in one battle, he would not fight with GUNTHER: but all the Princes of his faction, meeting in the City of Spire, it was concluded that he should employ his whole power to make head against GUNTHER, and by force of Arms defeat him. With this resolution the Emperor CHARLES with his Army took his way towards Mentz; and the one drawing near the other, the war began between them, which men thought would have proved very terrible and cruel: but through the death of GUNTHER peace ensued: before which time some writ it was concluded; for as soon as GUNTHER fell sick, some unpassionate Princes sought to reconcile them: the conditions of the peace were, that GUNTHER should renounce the Empire to CHARLES, and that CHARLES should give him two walled Cities in Turinge, together with their confines. But in the time of this treaty (as most writers affirm) GUNTHER died, poisoned by his Physician; who being to give him a purging potion, and taking but the assay of it, died together with GUNTHER the next morrow; which made men to think, that without the knowledge of the poor Physician, poison was put into the decoction; so as GUNTHER dying in the time of the parley of peace, CHARLES remained sole Emperor, and in good sort compounded with those which were his adversaries, who being weary of choosing Emperors, the controversy ended, to the contentment of all men. And for as much as the plague was in Aken, he was with great solemnity crowued in another city; and going afterwards in his progress, he visited many Cities, to which he gave sundry privileges. In time of this prosperity he had a son whose name was WENCESLAUS, of whom we shall have cause to speak hereafter: and he applying himself with great care to maintain peace and justice, there yet rested for him to go to be crowned in Italy; whereof Pope CLEMENT the sixt was very desirous: but in his time it could not be, for he died within few days after. At this time the Viscounts having made themseluss Lords of Milan, were of great power in many other Cities, the chiefest of which was JOHN Viscount Archbishop of Milan, a man feared through all Italy; who by the Pope's permission under the title of his Vicar, or Lieutenant, made himself Lord of Bologna, for which he was to pay yearly 12000 ducats of gold. Pope CLEMENT being dead, INNOCENT the sixt was chosen; This Pope sent for Legate into Italy the valiant Cardinal Giles, a Spaniard borne, who was called Don GIL CARILLO ALBORNOZ, who by his great wit and valour, coming twice into Italy recovered all the Cities and lands of the Church which had been usurped by tyrants: in the beginning of whose Papacy was fought the memorable battle by sea between threescore galleys of the Genoese, under the command of PAGAMO DORIA; and fourscore of the Venetians, the Kings of Arragon, and the Emperors of Constantinople, who were in league together against them; which battle was fought in the straight of Constantinople, and lasted from the break of day until the evening, in which the Genoese had the victory, but with loss of many of their people: and the year following which was in the year 1354, the Venetians and Catalonians repairing their fleet, again fought with the Genoese, near to the I'll of Corsica, wherein the A naval battle between the Genoese and the Venetians. Genoese were so pitifully overthrown and with so great loss, that one and forty of their galleys, with all the men in them, were sunk in the sea; by means of which overthrow their power was so much weakened, that they become subject to JOHN Viscount Archbishop of Milan, upon condition that he should protect them; yet there ensuing other alterations, they afterwards committed themselves to the protection of the French King. At this time also was a treaty between the Emperor and the Pope, concerning the Emperor's coming into Italy to be crowned in Rome, he making preparation for the same. There befell in Rome also another great accident, although not so much spoken of as that of NICHOLAS RENZO who would have raised Rome to her ancient state and dignity, and was called the Enfranchiser of Rome: which was, that another Notary called FRANCIS VARONCELLO, imitating the said NICHOLAS, incensed the people, and with the same ti●…le of Roman Tribune, deposed the two Senators, JOHN VRSINO, and PETER de Colonna, who governed as the Pope's Vicars: whereof the Pope being advertised, and fearing that the matter would have grown of importance; to avoid a further inconvenience, he thought it best to release NICHOLAS RENZO, whom his predecessor CLEMENT had left in prison; and thinking (as we say) to drive out one nail with another, sent him to Rome against FRANCIS; who used such means, through the help of the Roman Nobility, that by force he expelled FRANCIS VARONCELLO out of the Capitol and slew him in fight●… but after this victory, the said NICHOLAS with a desire to usurp, 〈◊〉 the Colonnois fell at variance with the principal men of Rome, and in the end was slain; and so Rome was delivered from both the one and the other: and then one GVIDO JORDAN (by the Pope's consent) was made Governor, and afterwards there were two. While these matters were in hand, it was agreed between the Pope and the Emperor (as writ the Italian authors) that as soon as the Emperor should be crowned in Rome by Cardinals, without making any longer stay, he should return into Germany. The Emperor and Empress accompanied with many Princes and a great Army, in the year 1355 came into Italy, The Emperor Charles came into Italy. with intent only to be crowned, and to favour and further the Pope's proceed, which he did accordingly, which made his journey easy: for being come into Italy and seen to use no violence, or to oppress any man, neither to deprive or dispossess any man of his goods or lands, he was very honourably received by the Lords of CARRARA in Padua, and afterwards by the GONZAGAS in Montoa, and by those of the house of ESTE in Ferrara▪ and by the Viscounts in Milan, and by the most of the Lords of Italy, which did him homage, and acknowledged him for their Emperor; and he left them in their lands and estates: and coming to the city of Milan he was crowned there with the Iron Crown, and from Milan went to Pisa▪ whither came Commissioners to him from Florence, and from many other cities, who acknowledging him for their Emperor, and suing for peace and his favour, furnished him with money for the payment of his soldiers; and so departing from Pisa, he went peaceably to Rome, where they attended his coming, and was solemnly received by the Cardinal's Legates which came to crown him, together with the Senators, the Pope's Vicars, and with all the Clergy and Roman people: and on Easter day, which was the morrow after his coming, he together with his wife the Empress, was after the accustomed manner by the aforesaid Cardinals crowned with great pomp. His coronation being ended, as he came in peace and quietly, without offending or gri●…uing any man, so he departed from Rome, contenting himself with their service and the money which they had given him, which (some writ) amounted to a very great sum; and so he returned into his country, more peaceably and with less tumult, than ever any Emperor that came into Italy before him had done. Being in Italy he favoured Don Giles Cardinal of Albornoz who recovered the patrimony of the Church. At this time King JOHN of France being in a battle taken prisoner by the King of England; after four years imprisonment, was upon certain conditions of peace set at liberty. This King had by inheritance the Duchy and County of Burgundy, which after his decease he gave to his second son PHILIP, whose of spring enjoyed the same; from whom lineally descended the Emperor CHARLES the Fift, by his grandmother, who was Lady of that estate. What ensued after the Emperor's return into Germany is briefly and confusedly written, and the Annals of Germany treat of some matters of small importance, and that very preposterously; wherefore I will writ only what shall seem most agreeable, until we come to the end of his life. First, this Prince is commended for his wit and humanity, and to have been discreet and just in administering justice, and to have been learned in the tongues, and well seen in history, and indifferently well in other Arts and Sciences, whereof he made no small benefit in his actions. CARION writes, that after the Emperors return out of Italy, he called a famous assembly of Princes in the Cities of Mentz; where the matter being wisely discussed with the chief orders of the Empire, for the contracting into one, and reducing into order, the ancient and modern institutions concerning the Majesty and honour of the Empire, and of every one The golden Bull made by Charles. in particular, he made a law which is famous by the name of the golden Bull, comprehending certain orders to be observed in the Emperor's election, and providing for the power, authority, and dignity of all orders: which work of his was very commendable; for that hath been a firm bond of public peace. By this law he did strengthen the Majesty of the Empire, and did cut off all occasions of dissension in the election; by this he did so bind the Emperor and Princes, as no man durst attempt any thing to the prejudice of the Commonwealth or Emperor. And as he was much affected to his country of Bohemia, so (as Pope PIUS QVINTUS and other authors writ) in prague he erected sundry stately edifices; and made the Church and Archbishopric of that city a Metropolitan, exempting it from the Church of Mentz, and erected an University in that city, wherein Arts and Sciences were read; and all his whole life time he had so great a care to adorn that city and kingdom, that the rest of Germany murmured against him for it, and so do the Historiographers which writ thereof. In those days some sedition and tumults arose in the city of Nuremburgh, which in the end he pacified, although with some difficulty. It happened also that EBERARD Earl of Wittenberg made an Insurrection against this Emperor, and had a great Army and many followers; but all was pacified, and CHARLES reigned peaceably. In the year following, which was in the year 1362, died Pope INNOCENT the Sixt, and in his place was chosen Cardinal WILLIAM of S. Victor, a Monk of S. BENNETS order, and was called VRBANE the Fift. This Pope having resolved to come into Italy, the better to secure and settle his estate he sent to entreat the Emperor to do the like: which he chief did, for fear of the Viscounti Lords of Milan, and of the greatest part of Lombardy; which the Emperor at his entreaty performed: at which his coming I find it not written that he came by Milan, for that BARNABY and GALEAS Visconti were not his friends; but he took his way by Padua, and from Padua to Bologna, and thence to Pisa, and so to Rome, where he found the Pope: what they did there, I find not written, either through negligence or for that it little imported; one thing BLONDUS, PLATINA, and others report, that it was unknown what was become of the heads of S. PETER and S. PAUL, and that the Pope and the Emperor made great search for them, and at last found them and set them where they stand (as they say) this day. After this, the Emperor having been but three months in Italy, returned into Germany; and after his departure the Pope went to Marselles in Provence in France, and thence to Auinion where he died; after whose decease PETER de Belfort Cardinal of S. MARY the new was chosen, and called GREGORY the Eleventh. The Emperor in the same year summoned a Diet to be held in the city of Frankford, where after many practices, he entreated the Prince's Electors to make his son WENCESLAUS, King of the Romans, and his successor; which was not only solicited by entreaty, but by great gifts and large promises; which were so excessive, that (as PIUS QVINTUS writeth) he promised an hundred thousand Ducats to every Elector: and as the sum was greater than he was able to pay, he gave in pawn for the same many towns and lands of the Empire, which they hold until this day. This they writ to be the cause of the weakening of the Emperor's power which were his successors; which ALBERT CRANTZ also confirmeth in his History of Saxony, alleging that this Emperor mortgaged sixteen Imperial towns in Suevia to the neighbour Princes, which, together with the imbecility and baseness of his son WENCESLAUS who succeeded him in the Empire, so decayed and weakened the power of the Emperors in Germany, that they never recovered their former vigour: this was imputed to have been a great oversight in so wise a Prince, notwithstanding that in all his other actions he governed with great policy and wisdom. Yet many imperial cities, through sundry accidents which happened, without his commandment or leave, made war upon the Earl of Wittenberg, which war continued many days, and many were slain of either party: wherewith the Emperor being much displeased, and favouring and assisting the Earl, he besieged the city of ulme, where he punished some for examples sake. In this mean time, some cities in Italy belonging to the Church of Rome, discontent with the government of the Pope's Vicars or Lieutenants, rebelled against him: Whereupon, the Pope knowing the great prejudice which his Church received through his absence, resolved to return with his court to Rome: for which purpose (under another pretext) in the year one thousand three hundred seventy six, he caused certain galleys to be rigged and armed in the river Rodanus, wherein embarking himself he sailed into Italy: and so the Papal court after it had continued in France the space of threescore and ten years and some what more, and the most part of that time in the city of Auinion, returned to Rome. The Emperor having reigned now 32 years, and being busy in pacifying the cities in Germany which warred against the Earl of Wittenberg, was in the year of our Lord, one thousand three hundred seventy eight, taken with an infirmity, whereof he dying, left two sons legitimate; the eldest of which was called WENCESLAUS, who was already King of the Romans, and succeeded his father in the kingdom of Bohemia by inheritance, and in the Empire by election: the others name was SIGISMOND, who afterwards by the right of his wife was king of Hungary, and in process of time came to be Emperor. Some Authors writ of the Emperor CHARLES, that he had been worthy of praise, if he had not more affected Bohemia and France then the Empire, if he had not been more careful of his own private interest then of the public; and to advance his posterity, then to enlarge the Empire; if he had not been more greedy of money, then to do what was right and just, and if he had not both in Germany and Italy, diminished the dignity and wealth of the Empire, alienating kingdoms and the public revenues, selling Immunities, and granting liberties: wherefore the Empire being spoiled of many ornaments, his posterity did not reign long, but was unfortunate, and in the end fell; but yet he may not be deprived of his due commendation, for the constitution which he made, which was very beneficial to the commonwealth. Touching the Emperors of Constantinople (of whom I am bound to make some mention) I find so great confusion in the Histories of those times, as there was in that Empire; wherein were factions and wars: but in sum, in the time of CHARLES the Fourth in Germany, the discord in Constantinople between JOHN PALEOLOGUS CALOIOANNES, and his father in law JOHN CATACUZENUS (both which were called Emperors) was the cause that AMURATH King of the Turks (having taken all that the Christians held in Asia) under colour to help and succour CATACUZENUS, passing Hellespont, came into Europe, and took Gallipoli, The first coming of the Turks into Graecia. and other cities in that coast, and afterwards the city of Adrianople: and he passing forewards, there came against him LAZARUS DISPOTE of Servia (which in ancient time was called the upper Misia) and MARK DISPOTE of Bulgaria (which is part of the ancient lower Misia) and many other Princes; which in a battle about the year of our Lord 1363 being overthrown, AMURATH become Lord of a great part of the Christians lands in Europe; and his son BAJAZETH succeeding him conquered more; and so the Empire of Constantinople daily decreased. And afterwards in the time of the Emperor WENCESLAUS, CALOIOANNES being now old, and having dispossessed CATACUZENUS; dying, a son of his called EMANVEL PALEOLOGUS succeeded him. THE LIFE OF WENCESLAUS, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDRETH AND NINTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. IT seldom happeneth that the sons imitate their father's goodness, chief among Princes. But Wenceslaus would verify this rule in himself: for being without any contradiction chosen Emperor, he proved so unlike his father in goodness, that he left of himself as much infamy, as his father did glory: Neither did he pacify the wars which in Germany were kindled in his father's time, but suffered them to proceed; which was the cause of much misery in that country. In his time began the great schism which continued forty years. The Turks in his time made great conquests upon the Christians: and john Galeas made himself in his time Lord of Lombardy. The Electors seeing the small care that this Emperor took to becrowned; for the defence of Christendom, to set his hand to the good government of the Empire, especially in the affairs of Germany, and that he led a base and a licentious life, deposed him, as unprofitable and of no worth. When he had unworthily reigned Emperor two and twenty years, he afterwards died a private Lord ALthough that the desire to come to an end of this History (being near thereunto) doth incite me to make haste; yet there are so many matters to be written of, and modern Historiographers have so copiously set down the same, as I am constrained (even against my will) to prosecute the remainder more at large; wherein I presume to be held excused, for the pleasure and profit which the Reader shall receive thereby: wherefore to avoid prolixity, I say, that WENCESLAUS King of Bohemia, and eldest son to the Emperor CHARLES the Fourth, succeeded his father in the Empire; who proved very unlike to his father; for he grew to be vicious, and of little worth. It is written of him, that he had nothing in him like unto a man, but the form; and that was crooked and deformed, more like to THERSITES then a Prince. He was dull witted, basely inclined, affecting nothing but pleasures, not caring for the Commonweal nor any honesty; A coward and very cruel; Of a lazy body, fit for nothing but the pleasures of gluttony and filthy lusts, if they may be called pleasures: But yet in the beginning, as he was young, and men were in good hope of him; being chosen in his father's time King of the Romans, he was presently without any great contradiction obeyed for Emperor, and was so two and twenty years, and in the end lost it, as you shall hear. His brother SIGISMOND being of more spirit, and fifteen years younger than WENCESLAUS, LEWES king of Hungary married him to his daughter (who was also by his mother King of Poland) and thereby SIGILMUND came afterwards to be King of Hungary, as we will declare, of whom in the History of WENCESLAUS we shall make especial mention, for in process of time he came to be Emperor; for by reason of the insufficiency of WENCESLAUS, little is to be written of him: so as of these two and twenty years that he held the name of Emperor, the lest that is to be said, is of him; but yet nevertheless passing it under his name, we will briefly relate what passed in the country's subject to the Empire in his time, wherein he should have borne the greatest sway, if he had not been so base and negligent; for although it seem little to the purpose, yet it shall be expedieut for the knowledge of such matters as follow. First, for the war between the cities of Germany, and the Earl of Wittenberg, which his father before his decease sought to have extinguished, his son had no such care: for in his time it increased; and Germany from the beginning of his reign, until the end thereof, endured want both of peace and justice. In his time also happened a schism in the Church of Rome: for in the same year that the Emperor CHARLES the Fourth died in Germany, in Rome died Pope GREGORY the eleventh, who as I said returned the Papal court to Rome: and after his decease the Cardinals assembling themselves in the Conclave to choose a successor, of which, thirteen were Frenchmen, and four Italians, whither all the Roman people running, desired them to choose an Italian, and no Frenchman; and the French Cardinals used all means to have had a Frenchman; and the rest an Italian: And notwithstanding that the greatest number were French, yet disagreeing amongst themselves, one BARTHOLOMEW a Neapolitan, and Archbishop of Barri was chosen Pope, who took for his name VRBANE the sixt. The French Cardinals presently repenting, alleged that what they had done was for fear of the Roman people; whereupon some of them departed from Rome: yet VRBANE notwithstanding was consecrated, and generally obeyed; and those which had absented themselves returned, and so they continued three months: which being expired, through some discontentments which they conceived against him (and as PLATINA writeth; for that he shown himself severe and rigorous against the abuses and pride of the Clergy) eight of the French Cardinals, feigning that they left Rome by reason of the heat, went to Fundi,; where being favoured by Queen JOAN of Naples which sold the City of Auinion to the Pope, they pretending and publishing the election of VRBANE to have been made by violence, that he was no Pope, and that the Sea was void; they amongst themselves in Fundi chose a new Pope and called him CLEMENT the seventh; whom Queen JOAN and all the kingdom of Naples obeyed and held for Pope; and so began the schism, which lasted forty years. Through the wars and dissension between Princes, Christendom was divided into two factions; for besides Queen JOAN and her kingdom of Naples, the French king favoured Pope CLEMENT, and persuaded the King of Castille to do the like. All Italy (excepting Naples) obeyed Pope VRBANE; so did the Emperor WENCESLAUS, Germany England and Portugal; and the one and the other alleged such reaasons, and so great and so worthy personages took part with the one and the other, as it made the matter very doubtful. This schism (as I say) continued long, notwithstanding that those which were chosen died, for the Cardinals of either party chose a successor, and held the chair for void, as hereafter shall appear. Pope CLEMENT went into France, where with the aid of the French King, and of the Queen of Naples and of Provence, he held his court in Auinion, and VRBANE remained in Rome; and they two making war, either of them by all means possible sought the others destruction. Pope VRBANE sent his Ambassadors to complain to the Emperor WENCESLAUS, of what had happened, and to persuade him to come into Italy in favour of him, against the Queen of Naples, who then was the widow of LEWES Duke of Tarent, after that she had murdered her first husband: But he giving them good words took little care for the matter, but yet he and his brother SIGISMOND sent to Pope CLEMENT at Auinion, admonishing him to leave the name of Pope, and to submit himself to Pope VRBANE. Pope VRBAN finding himself much grieved against queen JOAN, for that through her assistance the schism began (that Kingdom being subject and held of the Church of Rome) sent to treat with CHARLES, Nephew to LEWES King of Hungary (who as some say) was the son of her husband ANDREW King of Naples, whom she had made away) to come into Italy with an Army; promising him (as a schismatic and disobedient to his Church) to deprive Queen JOAN, and to make him King of Naples, whereto CHARLES and his Uncle LEWES King of Hungary willingly gave ear, which LEWES was father-in-law to SIGISMOND the Emperor's brother; who, being very glad thereof, gave him his aid and counsel. CHARLES, when as he was called to the Kingdom of Naples, made war against the Venetians: for he and his Uncle, the King of Hungary and Poland, favoured the Genoese; between which and the Venetians in those days were very great and cruel wars, many Princes assisting both the one and the other party: in which war many great exploits were performed, chief by sea; sometimes the one party prevailing, and sometimes the other. But at this time the Genoese had the Venetians at such an advantage, that with a mighty fleet of Galleys by sea they besieged the City of Venice, and their partakers and friends made very sharp war against them by land; so as the City was in danger to have been taken and ruined. We may say, this was the most cruel war that until that time ever was seen in the world: for, therein was artillery first of all used by the Venetians; which was about the year of our Lord one thousand Artillery first used in the wars. three hundred, eighty two, or a little while after. The invention of this pestilent scourge of mankind was attributed to the Germans: some say that a Monk, who was a great Philosopher, found out the same; not to that purpose to have killed and slain men therewith, but with a desire to have experimented the quality and natural force of things. Others are of opinion, that it was one PETER, a great Magician: but it importeth little to know who it was; for, besides the ordinary Historiographers which I follow in this place, there be many others writ thereof. Venice scaping from being taken in this war, and many other matters succeeding; the Duke of Savoy treated, and set down articles of peace between those two Commonwealths, which peace was concluded. So as to return to my discourse, CHARLES being called to the kingdom of Naples, he went into Hungary: where being furnished with men and other favours by his Uncle King LEWES, and the Emperor WENCESLAUS, he came into Italy, and to be brief (leaving what befell him upon the way) he went to Rome, and was very honourably received by the Pope, and thence took his way towards the kingdom of Naples; and coming to blows with Queen JOANS Army, he overthrew and scattered the same; and then marching to the City of Naples took it: and the Queen retiring to castle novo was therein besieged, and so CHARLES in short space made himself Lord of the whole kingdom, which was in the year of our Lord one thousand, three hundred, eighty two. Queen JOAN, being besieged, sent to the French King, to her Country of Provence, and to Pope CLEMENT, for relief; and for as much as she had no issue, she adopted LEWES Duke of Anjou, Uncle to the French King, for her heir: which LEWES, with a puissant Army of Frenchmen, and with all the favour that Pope CLEMENT and the Country of Provence could yield him, went to relieve her; which was so great, that what is written thereof seems incredible: for they writ, that he came with above thirty thousand horse. Being comn into the Territory of Bologna in Italy, warring upon such as were his adversaries, and giving it out that he came to set Queen JOAN at liberty, to supplant Pope VRBAN, and to place Pope CLEMENT (of which, both the one & the other in any man's judgement was easy to have been done) in the midst of his journey (which was very long by reason of the great number of people which came with him, and being hindered by King CHARLES of Naples, and Pope VRBAN) he was taken with so vehement a The death of jews Duke of Anjou. sickness, that within very few days it deprived him of life; and his Army, without a Leader being divided and dispersed, returned to their Country: and so was King CHARLES freed from this fear; who, having by sundry practices gotten Queen JOAN into his power, commanded her secretly to be drowned: and so she dying, suffered punishment for the death of her husband; and CHARLES remained King and absolute Lord of Naples, with whom the Pope joan queen of Naples drowned fell at variance, and other matters followed. While these things passed in Italy, there was neither peace nor quietness in Germany, through the negligence and little care of the Emperor WENCESLAUS; who, making his abode in his Kingdom of Bohemia, gave himself wholly over to his pleasure. About this time died the Earl of Flanders; and PHILIP Duke of Burgundy, son to King JOHN of France, inheriting The uniting of the County of Flanders to the duchy of Burgundy. his estate, the houses of Flanders and Burgundy were united. It happened at that time also, which was in the year of our Lord one thousand, three hundred, eighty three, that LEWES King of Hungary and Poland dying, left only two daughters; of which, one who was called MARY was married to the Emperor's brother SIGISMOND, who by her inherited the Kingdom of Hungary: and the other was married to the Duke of Austria, with the title of the Kingdom of Poland. King LEWES being dead, and SIGISMOND being but fifteen years old, after that he and his wife were crowned, his mother in law Queen ISABEL had the government of the kingdom: who following the counsel of the Earl of Gara (a favourite of hers) governed with such rigour and severity, that the greatest part of the subjects murmuring against her, rose and rebelled; and as SIGISMOND was but a child, and she a woman, and the Emperor unable to relieve them, the rebellion could not be pacified: whereupon the principal men of that kingdom, sent for CHARLES king of Naples, alleging that the inheritance of the kingdom of Hungary appertained unto him, and to no other; for that he was a man, and nearest of blood unto King LEWES deceased. King CHARLES thirsting after another kingdom, and hoping of the like good success in Hungary as he had in Naples, accepted the offer; and making preparation for his journey, leaving the government of Naples to his wife; with the greatest provision of men and money that he could make (for that he would not compass Italy about) sailed along by the Adriatic Sea (now called the Gulf of Venice) and landing at a place in Slavonia, subject to the kingdom of Hungary, was there so well received, and in like manner by all those of that kingdom, that the young King SIGISMOND, doubting of the power of his friends which held with him, leaving his wife and his mother in law the widow Queen in Hungary, fled to his brother the Emperor, who then was in Bohemia: and the Queen mother being a subtle woman, sent a messenger to welcome king CHARLES into the country, and to tell him that she reposing her trust in his goodness, would yield herself and her daughter into his power, for that she assured herself his coming to be for the good of that Kingdom. King CHARLES gave such credit to her speeches, that he came to the place where she was; and holding himself for absolute Lord, and taking upon him the government of the kingdom, was not so careful for the safety of his person, as reason required; for one day coming to the Queen's lodging, he was KING Charles of Naples murdered in Hungary. there by the Queen's direction and some of her favourites traitorously slain by the hands of one BLASH de Forback: so as this King, not contented with the kingdom of Naples, came to loose his life for the kingdom of Hungary: and the two Queens, mother and daughter having made away their enemy, wrote to the Emperor, to sand his brother SIGISMOND into that Kingdom; and they in the mean time had the government; for as it seemeth, there was then no open contradiction. The Queen being more confident than she aught to have been considering what she had done, went from the place where she made her abode, to go in progress into the country, carrying her daughter with her; and passing one day carelessly with a small guard; a great Lord of Hungary, called JOHN BAN de Horubach (who had been of the adverse party) meeting her upon the way, apprehended the two Queens, mother and daughter, and so many as were with them; and there in her presence slew BLAZE FORBAC, who murdered King CHARLES; The Queen of Hungary drowned. and made the old Queen and others of her company to be drowned in a lake of water which w●…s thereby: and having thus cruelly revenged the death of king CHARLES, he carried the sorrowful young Queen MARY prisoner to a Castle. When King SIGISMOND was certified of this great and strange disaster, moved with just sorrow for his mother in law and his wife, with the aid of his brother the Emperor, he entered Hungary, where, by the most part he was received and obeyed; moved thereto with compassion to see his wife imprisoned: which when JOHN HORUBACH, the cruel revenger of King CHARLES his death understood; repenting of what he had done, or fearing to be brought to ruin for the same, he so practised with the Queen, whom he held prisoner, that she promised and swore to obtain his pardon of her husband, whereupon she being set at liberty went presently to Buda, where her husband was, and there they both were again crowned, and received for King and Queen, which happened in the year of our Lord, one thousand three hundred eighty and six. But SIGISMOND notwithstanding his wife's oaths and promises, in such manner persecuted JOHN de Horubach, that after many conflicts having gotten him into his power, he commanded him to be slain: and so he remained King of Hungary, wherein he reigned many years after the chances and changes of fortune before recited, in that Kingdom, and in Naples; such as if they have been read with attention, are as strange as most that have passed in the world; yet afterwards ensued other as great or greater, as shall appear. SIGISMOND having brought that kingdom to subjection, and throughly seated himself therein; in revenge of matters past, he at a Parliament held at Buda (as writeth PIUS QVINTUS, who before was called AENEAS SILVIUS) who beheaded two and thirty of the chiefest Lords of that Kingdom, who had been his enemies and made war against him: which truly was cruel and severe justice, notwithstanding that they had deserved it: for which cause, the kinsfolk and friends of those which were executed did ever after so much hate him, that they brought him into many difficulties and extremities; for it is a fare more safe course to pardon, and to use moderate justice, with clemency: then to extend the rigour and Summum ius, summa iniuria extremity of the laws. In the kingdom of Naples reigned LADISLAUS son to king CHAALS', although not without trouble by those which held for LEWES Duke of Anjou (son to that LEWES which died in that action as is before declared) who challenged the kingdom of Naples, and Queen IOANE'S other dominions. JOHA GAL●…AS Viscount, son to GALEAS, in those days made himself Lord of all Lombardy, by putting his Uncle BARNABY to death by treason, with whom he had in his father's time divided the Country, in this manner. BARNABY held Placencia, Cremona, Parma, Lodi, Brescia, Bergamo and other places thereto appertaining: and his Nephew JOHN held Pavia, Vercelli, Novarra, Tortona, and the rest between that and the Alpss; the City of Milan was for them both, conditionally that they should peaceably govern the same. But as sovereignty can endure no company or equality: so JOHN GALEAS, to make himself Lord of the whole, found a means in a Castle to seize upon his Uncle, and father in law, who trusted him as his own son, wherein either of poison or other infirmity he died prisoner: and he made himself Lord of Milan, and the other cities, notwithstanding that BARNABY had one son called ASTROGIO, and another called CHARLES Viscount, who afterwards troubled his kinsman all that he might. But the ambition and power of JOHN GALEAS rested not here; for as at that time there were wars between ANTHONY de la Scala Lord of Verona and Vicenza, and FRANCIS CARRARA, Lord of Padua and other towns; he in such manner favoured the party of FRANCIS CARRARA, that expelling ANTHONY de la Scala, GAL●…AS took those Towns to himself, and possessed the same: and after that he had subverted the enemy, he bent his Arms against his friend, and besieged FRANCIS CARRARA in Podoa: and entering it by force, he took the poor old man prisoner; and so for that time made himself Lord of those Cities, and was the most mighty and redoubted man in all Italy: so as this was the right and title of the first Dukes of Milan: yet until that time they were not called Dukes, for this GALEAS was called Earl of Virtues, until that the Emperor WENCESLAUS gave him the title of Duke, as hereafter we will declare. The Lords which were thus deposed, left sons behind them, with whom he afterwards had wars, and many accidents happened, which I must of force relate, for the better understanding of my principal intent: but this for the present shall suffice, to bring that to light whereof we purpose to discourse, which is of the reign of the Emperor WENCESLAUS, for that it concerneth the state of the Imperial towns and lands of the Empire in Germany, and Italy, whereof the Emperor took not such care as he aught to have done, and cared not to be crowned in Rome, neither to come into Italy. And as for Germany, he governed it with so little order, that the wars between the cities of the Empire, and the Dukes of Wittenberg ceased not; sundry Princes favouring both the one and the other party, and all the rest was out of order: whereupon they began to consult of deposing him from the Empire, which was afterwards effected; and the Bohemians, which were his own subjects being much discontented with his government, held him for the space of seventeen week's prisoner; and he being afterwards upon certain conditions released, fell to his old manner of living; at the end whereof, viz. in the year of our Lord, one thousand, three hundred, eighty and nine, Pope VRBANE the Sixt died in Rome, having been so eleven years, and Cardinal PETER TONAC●…LLO a Neapolitan, was by the Roman Cardinals chosen for his successor, and called BONIFACE the ninth: yet in Auinion, CLEMENT the seventh was held and obeyed for Pope in all France. This BONIFACE used such policy, that getting the absolute government of Rome, he suppressed the power and liberty of the people; and making officers at his pleasure, fortified the Castle Saint Angelo with a garrison, which of long time had lain desert, an habitacle for Goats and other beasts: otherwise he was not greatly commended, for the contention between these two Popes opened the gate to Simony and many other abuses. And Pope BONIFACE afterwards sent a Cardinal Legate to crown LADISLAUS, King of Naples, son to King CHARLES who was slain in Hungary: and Pope CLEMENT in Auinion a little before gave the same title to LEWES Duke of Anjou, son to the other LEWES his father's rival; so as many things passed between these two Princes, which I omit: but King LADISLAUS prevailing in the year following Pope BONIFACE his election, Pope CLEMENT died in Auinion: and the Cardinals which followed him, chose one PETER de Luna a Spaniard to be his successor, a very excellent learned man, if he could have been restrained from the ambition to have been Pope, who was called BENEDICT the thirteenth. JOHN GALEAS Viscount being of great power, sent the Archbishop of Milan for his Ambassador, to entreat the Emperor to give him the title of Duke of Milan, and to approve his right thereto: which the Emperor without the consent of the Princes of the Empire granted, more for the desire of the money, which was presented him, then for any right or reason that might induce him thereto: and all things happened to JOHN GALEAS so well according to his desire, that he came to be one of the most puissant and redoubted Princes in Christendom. The schism between the two Popes, and the wars in Italy and Germany in those days, together with the Emperor's baseness and insufficiency, were the cause why the Emperor and Empire of Constantinople could not be relieved or succoured, which at that time were mightily oppressed by BAJAZETH the fourth King of the Turks; who with a puissant Army coming into Europe, overcame and slew in battle MARK DESPOTE of Bulgaria, and overrun Bajazeth king of the Turks came into Europe. all his country: and within three years after, returning into the provinces of Graecia, took and conquered cities and provinces: and passing forwards marched through all Walachia, which in ancient time was called Dacia; and so came into Hungary, whence he returned with great spoil, remaining Lord (besides what he held before) of the provinces of Macedonia, of the greatest part of Thracia, of Thessalia, of the province of the ancient Athens and other countries; and coming victorious he besieged the Impeiall city of Constantinople: whereupon SIGISMOND King of Hungary, with the aid of his brother the Emperor (but with much more and fare better from sundry other Christian Princes; chief from England, and France▪ whither he sent to sue for the same, and also from the Emperor of Constantinople) came to seek the great Turk, with 100000. men, whereof twenty thousand were horsemen: whereof BAJAZETH being advertised, raised his siege from before Constantinople, and with three hundred thousand men came to meet him; and the two Armies upon Michaelmas day in the year of our Lord, one thousand, three hundred, ninety and seven, fought a bloody and cruel battle, wherein the King of Hungary, and the other Princes and Nobles which were with him were A battle between the King of Hungary and the Turk, wherein the Christians were overthrown. overthrown, and as it is written a very great slaughter was made of the Christians, through the fault of the French, which charged before their time; and the King of Hungary, and the Master of the Order of the Knights of the Rhodes escaping by flight, the greatest part of the French were either slain or taken prisoners. After this victory, BAJAZETH returned to the siege of Constantinople: at which time if the great TAMORLAN (who was one of the most mighty and most victorious Captains that ever was in the world) had not risen in Asia, he had taken the city, and at that time had wholly subdued the Empire: wherefore he leaving in Europe the best The great Turk overthrown and taken by the mighty Tamorl●…. garrisons he could, went to the defence of Asia, wherein he was in a battle overthrown and taken, and in TAMORLANS power died prisoner; which (for that time) brought some rest to Christendom. King SIGISMOND, escaping from this infortunate battle, came unto Constantinople; and from thence sailing unto the I'll of Rhodes, he came into Dalmacia or Slavonia. In the time of this his peregrination, many of his kingdom of Hungary publishing him to be either dead or taken prisoner, advanced the Colours of LADISLAUS king of Naples, proclaiming him king by the right of his father CHARLES, of whom we made mention, and of his death being slain after his coming into Hungary, for which purpose his son was now sent for: but SIGISMOND afterwards appearing, with the aid of the Archbishop of Strigonium, and other his friends, recovered his Kingdom; although that afterwards he was again imprisoned, and fell into great troubles; the occasion whereof was the malice and hatred which many of his Kingdom bore him, for the cruel execution done in the beginning of his reign, as then was expressed. These matters being past, and other which for that they concern not the history of the Emperors, I overpass; the Prince's Electors of the Empire, and the rest, seeing the insufficiency and little care the Emperor took to suppress and pacify the wars and controversies between the cities amongst themselves, and among the Princes; and that he gave himself to his pleasure and vain delights, by reason whereof he was little regarded; resolved to meet▪ and to depose him, as dangerous, and unprofitable for the Empire; and to choose another Emperor; alleging him to be altogether unfit for the government; that he desired not, neither sought to be crowned; that he had without reason, order, or equity given the title of Duke to JOHN GALEAS the tyrant of Milan; that he had put many men of Sacerdotal order to death, and some prelate's; that he was vicious, and no good Christian; that he took no care to resist But the chiefest cause was for that he favoured the doctrine of john Husse and Jerome of prague, which then began to ●…ke root in Bohemia. the Turks; and finally, that he was a man unprofitable for the Christian Commonwealth; with many other matters which they laid to his charge; and putting their resolution in effect, they met for that purpose in the city of Frankford, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, four hundred, Pope BONIFACE being the chiefest author thereof, who published him for deprived and unworthy of the Empire, in the 22. year of his reign. During the reign of this Emperor WENCESLAUS, they began to dispute against the vanity of the Pope's indulgences in the University of Prague which then flourished. JOHN HUS a Bohemian, who then was very famous for his learning and piety, did much oppugn them, saying, that they were mere Impostures. He inveighed against the Pope's tyranny, as the chief cause thereof, and blamed the avarice, luxury and pride of the Clergy, rejecting their vows, impure Celibate superstitions, fictions and all their monastical life, and whatsoever did not agreed with the Analogy of faith. These matters were formerly brought in question in England by WICKLIFF about the year of our Lord 1372. Here is some difference between the authors: for some writ that ROBERT whom some call RUPERT, Count Palatine of Rhine and Duke of Baviere, was chosen in his place; without making mention of JODOCUS Marquis of Moravia cousin german to the Emperor WENCESLAUS (being his father's brother's son) who some say, was chosen before ROBERT, and lived but a little while after: others (which I rather believe) say that there was controversy between the Electors; some choosing JODOCUS, and others ROBERT, and that JODOCUS dying, the contention ended. Howsoever it was, it is true that JODOCUS lived but six months after this election; and of him nothing is written worthy to be recited. So as (according to all writers) ROBERT by common consent, after the decease of JODOCUS, remained sole Emperor; and his election was ratified by Pope BONIFACE. CARION writes, that JODOCUS soon after his election to the Empire, went to visit WENCESLAUS King of Bohemia, his cousin german; who bringing him into a private Chamber said unto him: Although I know that it is not for my dignity that the Electors have degraded me, yet it is my comfort that our family hath not lost this honour. I willingly and gladly accept you for my successor. And when as JODOCUS amazed with these words kneeled unto the King, desiring him not to impute any thing unto him; Fear not saith he, for neither do I unwillingly leave the Empire, neither would I violate the rights of blood and consanguinity, if I had a desire to hold it. Be therefore of good cheer and enjoy the Empire which is given thee; Bohemia is sufficient for me; make use of the power, Arms and wealth of my Kingdom as thine own, and so he dismissed his cousin with joy. CUSPINIAN in this place maketh mention of one FREDERICK Duke of Bruinswick, who (as he saith) was also chosen before ROBERT, and was slain before that he could be crowned, through the treason of a certain Earl, by the counsel and procurement of the Archbishop of Mentz; and that ROBERT was chosen afterwards. I know not what authors he followed therein, for I find it written by him only. It sufficeth, that ROBERT, whom the Germans call RUPERT (WENCESLAUS being deposed) The Emperor Wenceslaus deposed from the Empire. remained Emperor: whereof WENCESLAUS made no great account, for in truth he that took small care to preserve it, it is no marvel though it grieved him little to loose it; for he contented himself with his Kingdom of Bohemia, which he enjoyed a long time after, and governed the same so recklessly, that his brother SIGISMOND King of Hungary, by the consent of his subjects took him once, and another time, and they themselves apprehending him, delivered him to the custody of ALBERT Duke of Austria, who held him for a space prisoner in Vienna: whence being afterwards released, he returned to his Kingdom, in possession whereof he afterwards lived nineteen years, and died being of the age of seven and fifty (as writeth Pope PIUS QVINTUS, otherwise called AENEAS SILVIUS) without leaving either son or daughter by two wives to which he was married. And he reigning in Bohemia, the religion began to spring, whereof hereafter mention shall be made, which was the ground of that which at this day is professed in Germany, and in the greatest part of Christendom, which (as it seemeth) this King favoured. This was the end of the Emperor WENCESLAUS his Empire. All this while JOHN PALHOLOGUS reigned in Constantinople, who was also called CALOIOANNES; yet BLONDUS is of opinion, that ANDRONICUS, the son of this CALOIOANNES, reigned at this time; wherein (as I conjecture) he is deceived: for the authors which particularly writ the lives of the Greek Emperors, make no mention of ANDRONICUS in this place, but of JOHN CATACUZENUS, with whom CALOIOANNES contended for the Empire. A little after the depriving of WENCESLAUS, EMANVEL PALEOLOGUS succeeding his father CALOIOANNES, the Empire of Constantinople decayed & came to ruin; for BAJAZETH the great Turk took many provinces and countries thereof, as we have already declared: yet it had some rest in those days, by reason of the calamity brought upon the Turks by the great TAMORLAN; but it continued not long; for TAMORLAN being dead, CALAPIN the son of BAJAZETH, recovered and reform the Kingdom and Empire of the Turks, and again molested and persecuted the Empire of Greece, and the Kings of Hungary. THE LIFE OF ROBERT, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDRETH AND TENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. RObert, being in the time of Wenceslaus made Emperor, took speedy order to make it known to the world, that the dignity was not given him for naught, and therefore he caused himself to be crowned: and having suppressed the troubles of Girmany, he went to be crowned in Italy, and to protect the Florentines against the Duke of Mitan; but his coming was no less dishonourable than unprofitable, neither were the Florentine wars with the Duke of Milan ended, but through the death of the said Duke: for, the Emperor departing without having defended them, or without putting their adversa●… in any fear, applied himself to the affairs of Germany, wherein he was much troubled about the ●…ohisme in the Church of Rome; and desiring to assemble a Council, the Popes not consenting thereto, he was a long time in doubt: but in the end, resolving to have a Council held in such a place whither both the Popes without suspicion might come, he fell sick and died, in the tenth year of his Reign. THe Emperor WENCESLAUS being in such manner as I said deprived, ROBERT Duke of Baviere, and Count Palatine, was chosen in his place. He was a man of a quick apprehension, little of stature, but of a great spirit, very careful and studious of the Majesty of the Empire and of the public affairs, famous for his integrity and justice, and well practised in Arms. Coming to Aix to be crowned, they would not receive him into the City, pretending that they were yet bound by their oath to WENCESLAUS: wherefore the new Emperor elect, accompanied by the Electors and some other Princes, went to the City of Colen, and there was crowned by the Archbishop thereof; and his election and coronation was confirmed and ratified by Pope BONIPACE: and so through all Germany he was held and obeyed for Emperor, but not with such obedience and reverence as some of his Predecessors had been: for, the remiss behaviour and little worth of WENCESLAUS, and the mortgages and sales made by his father CHARLES, had given such liberty and exemptions in the territories of the Empire, that the Empire scarcely retained the authority and reputation in the Imperial countries, and with the Princes of Germany, which aught to have been given it. But as ROBERT was a wise and prudent Prince, and of himself very mighty and of great power, so in the ten years which he reigned, he made a great reformation in all matters, and settled the best order that was possible, aswell in the controversies and wars which were in Germany, as in the execution of justice and good government. Italy was then on fire with war and factions; in the kingdom of Naples LADISLAUS the son of CHARLES before named, with the aid of Pope BONIFACE, warred against those which held for LEWES Duke of Anjou, soon to the other LEWES who held some Cities and Towns in that kingdom, with the title which he inherited from his father, and from Queen JOAN, being invested in that kingdom by CLEMENT 7, who in Auinion was called Pope: And LADISLAUS his power increasing, he in the end prevailed. The most powerful man in all the rest of Italy, was JOHN GALEAS Viscount Duke of Milan, who (as I said) was an haughty minded man; who not contented to be Duke and Lord of so great estates, and of so many Cities as he was, thought to have been a King, yea an Emperor and Lord of all Italy; and at that time made cruel war against the Florentines, who only durst and were able to make head against him, they being assisted by the sons of BARNABY who had been tyrant of Milan; and by the sons of those which had been tyrant's or Governors' of Padua, whom he had deposed, and others which he had wronged and dispossessed; and by many others which did stand in fear to be dealt withal in the like manner. Matters standing in these terms, and the Election and Coronation of the Emperor ROBERT being published, the Florentines sent Ambassadors to entreat and to persuade him (for seeing he was Emperor he was bound thereto) to come into Italy, to free the Country from so cruel and pernicious a tyrant, as was Duke JOHN of Milan (who had usurped so many towns of the Empire, and of the Church) and therewith offered to give him towards his charges the sum of two hundred thousand Florines, whereof one hundred thousand presently in hand, and the rest the first day that he should enter into the Tyrant Duke's country with his Army; wherein they would assist him with the greatest power they were able to make both of foot and horse. These Ambassadors being arrived in Germany, they were very well entertained by the Emperor, who presently accepting their offer and service, promised to come into Italy, aswel for the enterprise of Milan, as to be crowned in Rome: and he thereupon presently began to provide all things necessary for his journey. The Duke of Milan having intelligence hereof, little regarded the devices and policies which his predecessors had used with former Emperors, seeking by their Ambassadors to procure peace with them, and to obtain their grace and favour, to bear themselves as their vassals and subjects; but he as a mighty absolute Lord, with great resolution mustered up his men, and provided armour and Artillery (which then was in use) and all things else needful for the wars: so that great preparation was made of both sides; and all Italy and Germany were very attentive to see the event of this great action. The Emperor stayed longer than he, or those which expected his coming, thought he would have done: for having resolved to come in the beginning of the year 1401, he came to Trent (which is at the entry into Italy) in the end of harvest following, accompanied by the Duke of Austria, the Archbishop of Colein, and some other Princes, with many Captains of Germany and Italy. And to perform the conditions made with the Florentines, he came with his Army within sight of Brescia, which held for the Duke of Milan: but the Duke had in that City, and the marches thereof, so many good men of war to make head against him, that they feared not to offer him battle; and the Duke's Cavallerie were such excellent good horsemen, that in all skirmishes and encounters wheresoever they met, they had the advantage of the Germans, and slew many of them: and they one day coming to join with their whole forces in a battle, the Emperor and his Army were overthrown, near to the Lake of Benaco, now called Garda: and being thus broken, he retired to The Emperor Robert overthrown in Italy by the Duke of Milan. Trent, where he stood in great doubt and perplexity, to think whither he should return into Germany, or reinforce his Army to return into Italy; where the Duke of Austria and the Archbishop of Colein leaving him returned home, wherewith the Emperor was so grieved as he was ready to have done the like; but persuaded by FRANCIS CARRARA, the son of CARRARA the tyrant of Padua, and by other Italian Captains: and thinking it a shame for him to return without further trial of his fortune, he went with his Army (which he had reinforced) as fare as Trivigi, and thence to Padua; where by means of CARRARA he was received; whither came to him four Ambassadors from the Florentines, being of the chief of the City: who also sent two Captains with certain troops of horse and foot; one of which (as saith BLONDUS) was SFORZA ATENDULO, who afterwards was an excellent and very famous captain, and was father to that FRANCIS SFORZA which was one of the best captains in the world, and afterwards duke of Milan. This SSORZA ATENDULO was borne in a village called Catiniola, of mean parentage and very poor. With these Ambassadors ROBERT had long treaties, concluding that the Duke of Milan was of such power, that neither he nor they had forces sufficient to ruin him, or to expel him out of his estate: wherefore he held it best for him to return, and that they should seek new aid and relief: besides this he demanded so great a sum of money for the payment of his soldiers, that it seemed not to be raised. The Florentines fearing their ruin if the Emperor should abandon them and return, they left no means to detain him: wherefore two of the Ambassadors returned in post to Florence, to confer with their citizens about this matter; and the other two remained with the Emperor: who for that it was winter, and no fit time to make war (having a great desire to see that city) went to Venice, where he was most sumptuously entertained. The Florentines in the mean time having heard their Ambassadors, resolving what answer they would make to the Emperor, determined to procure the friendship of the Venetians, and to make a league with them, and with the Pope, and to give the Emperor great aid of men and money: herewith the Ambassadors returned to Venice, relating to him the resolution of their citizens. The Emperor complained of them to the Venetians, for that they had not given him that money which they had promised: and they excusing themselves, alleged that he came not with such power as was requisite, neither had entered the territory of Milan. Finally, many treaties and speeches passed, as well with the Emperor as the Duke of Milan's Ambassadors, who came thither to defend their cause before the Venetians; the Florentines still insisting to stay the Emperor in Italy; who giving them sometimes hope, and sometimes making the matter doubtful, came from Venice to Padua, where he lay all the rest of the winter: and the month of April being come, in the year of our Lord 1402, in the third year of his reign, he perceiving that the Venetians would be but lookets on, and newters, and would not help the Florentines; and that LADISLAUS King of Naples had enough to do with LEWES of Anjou, and that Pope BONIFACE (notwithstanding that the Duke of Milan had taken many towns from him) durst not attempt aught against him; he resolved with himself to return into Germany, and did so, although with loss of reputation: whereby it appeared that the Empire was not of such power as in former times; whereat the Florentines were much grieved, and used all possible means to have stayed him. And although I shall make some digression, yet I will declare what end the war between the Duke of Milan and the Florentines had, and how it was interrupted by the death of the said Duke. The Emperor being departed out of Italy; the Duke of Milan resolved presently to effect his desires, and to make himself Lord of Florence; sending his General, called ALBERICO Earl of Cuno, with all the force which he had levied to make head against the Emperor, to assault Bologna, which was governed by JOHN BENTIVOGLIO, a friend and confederate with the Florentines. And with the Duke's Army went the Marquis of Montoa, his friend and confederate, and PANDOLPHO MALATESTA Lord of Arimino. The Florentines to the relief of BENTIVOGLIO, sent their best Captains and men of war, amongst which was FRANCIS CARRARA the son of FRANCIS CARRARA Lord of Padua. BENTIVOGLIO herewith and with his own forces took the field, with a resolution to fight with the Duke of Milan's power, which refused not the same: wherein, JOHN BENTIVOGLIO and his partakers being overthrown, he escaped by flight, and the CARRARI were taken prisoners: and ALBERICO presently besieging the city of Bologna, and battering it in many parts, by one of which some of his men, by the permission of some within the city began to enter; but BENTIVOGLIO resolving to die honourably Lord of Bologna, charged those which were entered, and fought with such obstinacy, that being unknown he was there slain, and cut in pieces. Being known that he was dead, the city without any more resistance was entered, Bologna taken by the Duke of Milan. and so the Duke of Milan had that city. This victory strake such a fear into the Florentines, that they holding themselves for lost, would have accepted any conditions of peace, had they been never so hard; and sent to desire the Venetians to purchase the same for them: but the Duke of Milan, which now assured himself to be Lord of Florence, refusing to hear them, commanded his Army to march forwards: and being in the height of his greatness, that God which only is able, and useth to abate men's pride, measured his ambitious thoughts; for, he was suddenly taken with a pestilent Fever, whereof within few days after he died: and notwithstanding that his death was kept secret, yet it was soon discovered, and the Florentines were freed from the great fear of the servitude which they expected. I know well that I have spent much time about this man: but I do it for that it is a notable matter to see to what great power this Duke tyrannically, in despite of Kings and Emperors which were his adversaries, attained; and for as much as he was a subject of the Empire, whereof this History is, it may be said to be of the substance of the same History. This Prince JOHN GALEAS Viscount, Duke of Milan, was tall of stature, of a fair and comely aspect, indifferently well seen in the liberal Arts and Sciences, very well spoken, of a quick and sharp wit, hardy and valiant in Arms, and therewith very politic and subtle in his actions: but he was so ambitious and desirous to reign and command, that to attain thereto, he setting aside the fear of God, made no question to attempt any means, just or unjust whatsoever, so he might obtain his purposes; which were so many and such, that I cannot describe them. It is certain that he acquired much of what he desired: for, before his death he was Lord of nine and twenty Cities in Italy; which were, Milan, Pavia, Monfrigal, Novarra, Bercelli, Alba, Aqui, City's subject to the Duke of Milan. Alexandria, Tortona, Drobio, Placencia, Parma, Rezzo, Bologna, Pisa, Sienna, Massa, Grosseto, Clusio, Perugia, Asti, Nocera, Lodi, Feltro, Vicenza, Verona, Brescia, Bergamo, Como, Cremona and Crema, besides the Towns and Castles subject and appertaining to these Cities, which were very many. He died in the month of November, in the year of our Lord one thousand, four hundred The death of john Galeas Visconti, duke of Milan. and two. This mighty Duke left two sons behind him, the eldest of which was called JOHN MARIA Viscount; and the other, PHILIP MARIA Viscount: to the elder he left by his Testament the title of Duke, and the City of Milan, with all the Towns and Cities within the jurisdiction thereof; and out of it the Cities of Bologna, Sienna, Perugia and Asti. To his second son PHILIP he left the Cities of Pavia, Verona, Vicenza, and other places: and to a bastard son, whose name was GABRIEL, he left the City of Pisa. Which division made to his sons was imputed unto him for a great oversight, and was after very prejudicial to that estate: for, the two brothers disagreeing, it came to decay and ruin; for they were so young, that the eldest of them was but fifteen years old; so as there presently began factions and partake between them and the widow Duchess their mother-in-law, and their kindred and favourites, about the government and command. Finally (for that it would be long to relate) the matter grew to that issue, that as soon as the discord was known to be between the heads, all the members become so out of order, as the greatest part of the City's rose and rebelled against the Duke; some with those which first held them, and others with the new Captains and Tyrants: so as what in the time of the Duke was held for the greatest evil (which was, To be subject to one) seemed afterwards to be the lest, by reason of the multitude of Tyrants, and the war and great discord which ensued: for, in Cremona arose V●…OLINO CAVALCABO, and PANDULPHO MALATESTA with Brescia and Berga; PHILIP ARCELLANO in Placencia; PAULO GVITTIGI with Luca; FACINO CANE with Vercelli, Alexandria, and other places; the SVARDI in Bergamo; FOGLIANO RISCONE ●…n Como; GIANINO VENATESE in Lodi; GEORGE BENZONE in Crema; OTHO VITALE in Parma: and others sought to do the like in other places; as, the CARRAR●…SI & those of Scala sought to make themselves Lords of Verona and Padua: in such sort, that the state of JOHN MARIA, the new Duke of Milan, was in great combustion and danger; and what did most hurt, was his own tyrannical condition: for he (as a proud cruel boy) beheaded sundry of the chief men of that Country. He also apprehended his mother, and committed many other insolences, which in the end cost him his life: whereof being reprehended by a servant and favourite of his, which told him that he was unlike to his Ancestors, he yielded a reason answerable to his actions, willing him to let him alone; for, that house or family could not be accounted excellent or famous which produced not men of all conditions. Thus, what the father had gotten by his valour and policy, the son lost by his weakness and cruelty: for, besides the abovenamed Towns which were usurped by other Lords, the Pope recovered Bolonia, Assisia and Perugia: the Florentines bought Pisa. They of Sienna having slain CORREGIO their Governor, recovered their liberty, being subject to cruel seditions. Neither did the Venetians forget themselves in these combustions, but extended their power as fare as Friuli and Istria. NOWELL CARARIUS the son of FRANCIS who had fled into Bavaria when his father was taken, having now recovered Padova with the assistance of the Venetians; being unmindful of their favours, he sought to supplant them: and having persuaded WILLIAM SCALIGER to seize upon Verona, being his familiar friend, and one who had assisted him both with counsel and Arms, he poisoned him to get Verona, and afterwards caused his sons ANTHONY and BRUNO to be treacherously murdered. He also attempted Vincentia: but they hating his tyranny craved protection from the Venetians, who embracing this occasion, took Arms against him, besieged him in Padova, and in the end forced him to yield; so as he with two of his sons were strangled by the Venetians. By this victory they got Padova, Verona, Vincentia, with other Towns. But PHILIP, his successor, revenged his brother's death and expelled some of the tyrants, he recovered Bergamo and Brescia; having chased away MALATESTA, and Lodi, by the taking and hanging of VENATESE. He got Placentia and slew some of the ARC●…LANI and banished the rest. He cast FRANCHINO RUSCA out of Como: with a promise of reward, he got Cremona having taken GAB. FUNDULI, neglecting those which lay farther off. Let this sufficef or his estate, and now to our purpose. The Emperor ROBERT going into Germany (as is before said) applied himself to the pacifying thereof: for besides the ancient controversies between the cities (as before is specified) in those days many great men in Hungary through the old hatred which they long before had conceived against SIGISMOND their King, for the cruel execution which he caused to be done in the beginning of his reign, rebelled against him, and they apprehending him committed him in a Castle to the custody of a widow and her two sons, whose father he had put to death. SIGISMOND being thus prisoner, they sent to LADISLAUS King of Naples to come and take possession of that Kingdom, to whom it belonged: who although he was not throughly confirmed in the Kingdom of Naples, yet moved with an ambitious desire to reign and to command, he made the greatest haste thither that he could; and leaving Naples he came into Slavonia, where, in a city subject to the Kingdom of Hungary, he was crowned and proclaimed King: but in the mean time SIGISMOND used such means with the widow and her sons, that they released him out of prison; and being at liberty, with the aid of his friends and many others which he reduced to his service, he recovered his Kingdom: and LADISLAUS being thereof advertised, without proceeding any further (his hope and purpose failing him) returned to his Kingdom of Naples: but before his departure, in requital of his good entertainment, he sold to the Venetians that city wherein he was harboured. For all these matters (as it appeareth by the histories) his brother WENCESLAUS King of Bohemia and deposed Emperor, took little care; for he had enough to do to hold himself in his Kingdom; and as little is written of what the Emperor ROBERT did herein, or in the cruel wars between the Swissers and the Duke of Austria, the original and issue whereof were long to be related. It seems he was otherwise busied in the Empire's affairs; whereof, seeing it was in peace, no notable matter is written; and matters of small importance are not worth reading: for certainly although it be the blessing of God to live in peaceable times, and under the rule of good kings and princes for the time present; yet the histories of them after their death are nothing delightful: and commonly men take more pleasure in reading of battles, alterations of kingdoms, the falls of Kings and their estates, then in histories of peace, justice, and quiet times: and this is the reason why books of lies and fables are read with such delight, for that they are full of such feigned accidents and adventures. True it is that those times were not without matters worthy to be related: but forasmuch as they concern not the Emperor, I am not to writ them in this history. The Emperor ROBERT reigning in peace in Germany, in the fift year of his reign Pope BONIFACE died in Rome, in the year of our Lord 1404: and he being dead the Cardinal of S. Cross was chosen & called INNOCENT the Seventh, who before was called COSMO; BENEDICT the Thirteenth living still in Auinion. Before that INNOCENT was chosen, all the Cardinals swore and promised, that whether soever of them should happen to be made Pope, he should do his best endeavour to end the schism in the Church; and this INNOCENTIUS swore the same: but after that he was Pope, he used no such care therein as was expected. The Emperor ROBERT, for that he was otherwise busied in Germany, or else through want of men or money, or both, could not or would not come into Italy at that time: whereto if he had had means, occasion was offered him to have recovered to the Empire the Cities which the Duke of Milan and others had usurped, by reason of the wars and great troubles which were among them in those days: but (as I have already said) the power and authority of the Emperors (for the causes before mentioned) was so much weakened, that they could not provide for all parts; but the Venetians, taking the benefit of the time, made themselves Lords of Padua, Verona and Vicenza, with their confines; who before that time held not any City of importance in the main Land of Italy: and so they wholly extinguished the houses and estates of the CARRARI and of Scala, which of long time had been Lords of Padua, Verona, and other Towns. The Florentines at this time bought the City of Pisa, of GABRIEL the base son of Duke GALEAS of Milan; who, after that he had been Lord thereof the space of three years, being unable to hold it, sold the same: and the Pisans to defend their liberty, and for the hatred which they bore to the Florentines, resolved (although in vain) to shake off the yoke of subjection. Whereupon, the Florentines besieging them, through famine, and by the treason of one JOHN SHORTLEG, took the City, which in former time had been of very great power, and Pisa taken by the Florentines. was now made a slave and subject to the Florentines, as it is at this day: such is the weakness and instability of the power and estates of this world. Pope INNOCENT the Seventh being dead, all the Cardinals, before the election of a new Pope, made a solemn vow, that he which should be chosen should endeavour to cause BENEDICT the Thirteenth, who was in Auinion, to renounce the Papacy; and that BDNEDICT doing so, he that was chosen should do the like, to the end that the schism in the Church might cease, and that another should be chosen: this was held the fittest mean to end the schism. After this solemn oath, one ANGELO CORARIA, Cardinal of Saint MARK, a Venetian, was chosen, and called GREGORY the Twelfth; who, as soon as he was chosen, confirmed the oath which he before had made: whereupon a meeting was procured to be had between these two Popes, to the end that they both together should have renounced the Papacy, and that another might be chosen; and many Letters & messengers were sent, and they both made show to be willing thereto. But they could not agreed upon the place of meeting: yet in the end Savona was appointed; and one Pope came from Rome to Luca, and the other from Auinion to Genoa: but they alleging many frivolous reasons, neither of them came to Savona; whereby it plainly appeared that they had no meaning by their reconciliation to end the schism. The Cardinals of either side lying near together, and perceiving that neither of these two Popes had any meaning to renounce the Papacy, or to perform what they both had sworn, by Letters and messages passing between them agreed to meet together, to call a general Council, to deny obedience to them both, and to choose a new Pope. The affairs of the Church being in this confusion, the power and authority of both Popes decreased, especially of BENEDICT the Antipope, France denying him obedience; who, finding no safety in Auignon, went into Arragon, where he was obeyed: and afterwards he retired himself unto Buiscaie, where he continued in his hardness of heart until he died; GREGORY also going from Rome, and the Cardinals repairing to the Council. LADISLAUS king of Naples had an intent during this discord to make himself Lord of Rome; and with such forces as he could draw together, he went thither and seized thereon, with the help and favour of the Colonnesi; the which he held certain days: during the which there were skirmishes and murders; but the Ursini being in the end the stronger, he retired into his Kingdom. 27 Cardinals meeting altogether in Pisa, after many disputations a Council was assembled, wherein met three Patriarches and 180. Archbishops and Bishops: the conclusion was, that A council held at Pisa. the two Popes were cited to come to this Council: whereto BENEDICT who was in Auinion, answered, that the question was between him and Pope GREGORY, whether of them two should be Pope: wherefore they could not, neither did it appertain to them to determine the cause; and that he marvelled at their presumption in attempting the same. Pope GREGORY also sent them word that they well knew him to be right Pope and canonically chosen; and therefore they neither could nor aught to call a Council without his authority, for it appertained unto him, and that he would not have it held in Pisa, but in some other place; and that they were bound to go to that place which he should appoint, which was to Aquileia, whither he went. About this controversy the Emperor ROBERT summoned a Diet to be held in Frankford; whither came a Cardinal from Pope GREGORY, and another from the Council held in Pisa, each defending his cause; and Pope GREGORY desired that some other place might be appointed, but not Pisa. Finally, after many contestations, the Emperor yielding to the opinion of many learned men, and holding with Pope GREGORY, affirmed that he only had authority to call the Council, and to appoint the place: But notwithstanding the Emperor's opinion, the Council of Pisa, holding neither GREGORY nor BENEDICT for Popes, chose a Franciscan Friar called PETER, Cardinal and Archbishop of Milan, who took to name ALEXANDER the Fift. This being done, thither came LEWES Duke of Anjou and Earl of Provence (rival and competitor with LADISLAUS King of Naples) who acknowledging ALEXANDER for Pope, was by him invested: and ALEXANDER gave him the title to the Kingdom of Naples against LADISLAUS, who took Pope GREGORIE'S part. The schism for all this ceased not, but increased: for in lieu of two Popes now there were three, and each of them held his court apart, and had Cardinals, and many followers; but the new chosen Pope had the greatest and strongest party: and Pope GREGORY wand'ring up and down remained for a space in Gaeta, (for LADISLAUS King of Naples was his friend) but in the end he came to Arimino, where CHARLES MALATESTA Lord of that city harboured him; he there continuing until the Council of Constance. Pope ALEXANDER went to Bologna; but within eight months after his election he died in the same city; and the Cardinals which were with him assembling in their Conclave in the same city, chose BALTHASAR COSSA, a Neapolitan and Cardinal of S. Eustace, who was called JOHN the 24. which Election was by some held for violent and forced; for this BALTHASAR being a Captain in the wars, and Governor of Bologna, had the command of men of war and was of great power: but yet in the end he was by the greatest part of Italy held for Pope; and so were GREGORY and BENEDICT also in the places where they lived; by reason whereof all Christendom was divided into three factions. The Emperor ROBERT being herewith discontent, and desiring a redress, procured that a general Council might be held by the consent and authority of all those three which were called Popes; which afterwards in the time of his successor SIGISMOND was accomplished. But he having begun this work was within few days after surprised by death, in the tenth year of his reign, in the year of our Lord 1410, leaving the The death of the Emperor Robert. schism and division in the Church as before. This Emperor had six sons, the eldest of which, ROBERT and FREDERICK died before their father, so as when he died there remained JOHN, LEWES, STEPHEN, and OTHO, which had diverse titles, and possessed sundry estates. EMANVEL held the Empire of Coustantinople in little prosperity, aswell by means of the wars with the Turks, as other troubles and disorders in that Empire. In his time MAHUM●…T son of CALAPIN was king of the Turks: who in the beginning, and before that EMANVEL was Emperor, came into Europe and warred in Walachia; but the rest of his time he spent in Asia in recovering that which TAMORLAN had taken from his grandfather BAJAZETH. In his time JOHN HUSSE began to be of such credit and reputation in Bohemia, that he drawing many to be of his opinion, threw down the Images in Churches, denied Purgatory, the sacrament of Confession, the Pope's power, his Indulgences and pardons, Dirges and praying for the dead; praying to our Lady and to Saints; and held many other opinions which at this day are maintained in the greatest part of Christendom. THE LIFE OF SIGISMOND, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDRETH AND ELEVENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. SIgismund King of Hungary, after the decease of the Emperor Robert, was chosen Emperor, whose election was very grateful, for that he was a man of great expectation. He being confirmed, procured a Council to be held in Constance, to cease the Schism which had continued many years: but it behoved him to defer it for a time, by reason of the wars between the Pope and the King of Naples, who had taken Rome. But Ladislaus being dead, the Council was assembled, whither the Emperor himself came in person: i●… which Council john Husse and Jerome of Prague were condemned and burned. The two Popes Gregory and john renounced the Papacy, but the third (which was Benedict) would not, so as the Emperor going in person to procure him to renounce it, could not prevail; for Benedict was resolved to dye with that title, notwithstandin●… that he●… was deprived by the Council; and that all the Prince's Christian, together with his best friend the King of Arragon (seeing his obstinacy) rejected him. The Council being dissolved, the Emperor went to pacific the troubles in Bohemia, and to suppress the followers of john Husse; but he neither by peace nor war could effect the same: and the Papists being seu●…rall times memorably overthrown, the Bohemians could never be subdued by force of Arms. But in the end Sigismond was received as King of Bohemia: and the Council of Basil having decreed, concerning the opinions of the Bohemians, the Emperor upon the way going into Hungary died in Zenona, when he had reigned 37. years. THe Emperor ROBERT being dead and buried, the Prince's Electors (according to their custom) met to choose a new Emperor in the city of Frankford: which being made known to Pope JOHN, he (with a desire to show the authority of a Pope, to corie favour, and to get aid against king LADISLAUS, who would have made himself Lord of Rome) sent his Legate to entreat them to make choice of SIGISMOND king of Hungary: truly his request was reasonable, for he was a prince in that time, for his wisdom and valour besides his other gifts of nature much esteemed: for he was tall of stature, very well proportioned, of a mild aspect, very discreet and advised, of a pleasing conversation, and above all most bountiful: and in conclusion such a one as was needful for the present time. The Ambassadors from JOHN who was called Pope, were joyfully heard by the Electors; and all Germany fixed their eyes upon SIGISMOND, as well for his merits, as for that he was a mighty King, and son to the Emperor CHARLES the Fourth; so as by common consent he was chosen Emperor; and coming from Hungary to Aken, he was there crowned with the accustomed solemnity: and Sigismond chosen Emptrour. his reign was afterwards very long, and so shall I be in writing his history. When Pope GREGORY in Arimino, and Pope JOHN in Bologna were advertised of his Election, they sent him their Ambassages and approbations, either of them attributing the authority to himself: but SIGISMOND by reason of particular former friendship, seeming to incline to Pope JOHN more than to any of the others, presently began by messengers to treat with him concerning the calling of a general Council, for the suppressing of the schism: touching the appointing of the place, there was some question, but the Emperor appointed the city of Constance, whither (as all men thought) all those which were called Popes, were bound to go, there to make their renunciations. And for as much as the most of the Towns and Cities in Italy held JOHN for Pope; and also for that LADISLAUS King of Naples sought to have usurped Rome, and all the Church lands and goods, and in effect, though not in name, under colour of taking Pope GREGORY'S part, to make himself Emperor; Pope JOHN departing from Rome, sent against him LEWES Duke of Anjou, called king of Naples, PAUL VRSIM, SFORZA, and other Captains and soldiers, with the aid of the Florentines which were his friends. These joining in battle with LADISLAUS, overthrew him: but they following not the victory, LADISLAUS gathered his men together, and levied so many others, that Pope JOHN (being then in Rome) was glad to make peace with him; and LADISLAUS sent to yield him obedience: but as it appeareth feignedly, for within few days after he came under colour of other occasions with an Army into the territory of Rome, and entered the City by force; and Pope JOHN having no power to make head against him, fled to Florence; so as the King was lodged in Rome with as great state as if he had been Lord thereof; which strake a great fear into the Florentines and their confederates. To Pope JOHN being then in Florence, the Emperor sent another Ambassage about the general Council; and the Pope sent two Cardinals Legates to the Emperor, concluding the Council should be held in Constance, and begin the first of November, An. 1402: which for some occasion was deferred, but yet the Emperor never left to procure the same. The State of Milan and Lombardy was not in peace in those days, for there were great wars between the tyrants which were therein, of which I have named some; but FACINO CANE was of greatest power, for he held Alexandria, Bercelli, Tortona, and Novarra, and found the means under the title and name of Governor to PHILIP Viscount brother to the Duke of Milan, to get into Pavia; and being possessed of that City, he kept young PHILIP in poor estate in the Fortress: under the same pretext he afterwards made cruel wars against the other tyrants and cities which were his adversaries. At the same time the Emperor SIGISMOND sent a Captain with a good number of soldiers to make war upon the Venetians, wherein (as saith SABELLICUS) happened many notable adventures: but for as much as he showeth not the cause of this war, I hold it fit to come to matters of greater importance, concerning the Emperors coming into Italy; before which, in the year 1412, FACINO CANE dying, he left neither son nor daughter to succeed him but his wife, who was his heir. At that time, JOHN MARIA Duke of Milan, by reason of his cruelties and bad conditions was slain by his own servants and familiars: and those which slew him taking the City, made ASTROGIO Viscount, son to BARNABY Viscount, whom the mighty JOHN GALEAS father of this john Maria Duke of Milan slaine. JOHN MARIA, to have the dominion of Milan, put to death by treason (being his Uncle) as is before declared: which the other brother PHILIP (who was in Pavia, and now of age and of power to execute any great attempt) understanding, he by the counsel of his friends took the widow of FACINO CANE to wife, notwithstanding that she was much older than himself: by which marriage, besides Pavia which was his own, he made himself Lord of those Towns which FACINO CANE had possessed. His power and courage herewith increasing, he resolved to see if he could get Milan and the rest, which his father and his brother had enjoyed, and thereupon went presently thither; ASTROGIO not having yet gotten the Fortress, for it defended itself against him: so as having intelligence with some within the City, and assisted by certain captains which had served FACINO CANE, he entered Milan, and expelling ASTROGIO, suddenly made himself Duke; and in process of time having good success was a great and very redoubted prince, of whom we will sometimes make mention. These matters before spoken of, together with the tyranny & power of king LADISLAUS of Naples (Italy being out of order) were the causes why the Council appointed to be held in Constance took not such effect as the Emperor SIGISMOND desired: for Pope JOHN, who had appointed the same, durst not go out of Italy, leaving his competitor GREGORY and the King of Naples with such power behind him: wherefore the Emperor resolved to come thither, to make some conclusion with Pope JOHN concerning the Council, and to assist him against the king of Naples, to the end that the Council might be the more commodiously held, which he presently put in execution: and as the country was divided into factions and partialities, some were glad of his coming, and some were sorry. The Pope being certified thereof came from Florence to Bologna, and thence to Placencia, whither came the Emperor, where they two met and stayed a month. But what forces the Emperor brought with him, in what manner they were received into those cities, or what happened in peace or war, is not distinctly written, but that he was in Lodi and in Cremona, and afterwards in Mantoa; where the Marquis gave him most sumptuous entertainment. In these places they treated of the recovery Aparle betwixt the Pope and the Emperor. of the city of Rome, and other places which were usurped by the King of Naples; which seemed very expedient to be done, to the end the Council might be held: and on the other side it seemed that the matter aught to be deferred, considering the King's great power, with whom the Florentines at that time (more for fear then for any good will) had made peace, and (to the end that he should draw his forces out of their frontiers) were to give him a great sum of money: for which Pope JOHN was very sorry, for this made his war more doubtful. But that fear was soon overpassed: for LADISLAUS feeling himself sick, went to Naples, and there died Lord of Rome and of all the territory thereof, besides his kingdom of Naples. When he died, he left neither son nor daughter, and but one sister whose name was JOAN, which presently succeeded him in his Kingdom: in whose little time, and after her death in that kingdom, were great wars and combustions about the succession. LADISLAUS being dead, the citizens of Rome, crying Liberty, submitted themselves to Pope JOHN, and so did the most part of the other towns; and he sent his Legates to them; for Pope GREGORY although he had a better title, yet he had not so great power to do it: for he with his Cardinals lived poorly in Arimino: yet some Princes and people acknowledged him. Pope JOHN, having taken the best order for his business that he could in Italy, resolved to go to the Council in Germany, whither the Emperor to make provision of all things necessary (having already proclaimed the Council in all parts of Christendom) was already go: so as after the coming of Pope JOHN and the Bishops, Prelates, and Ambassadors from Christian Princes, into Germany, the general Council (according to the appointment) began in Constance, upon the fift day of November in the year 1414. Yet in the beginning of the Council there came no Ambassadors from JOHN King of Castille nor from FERDINAND king of Arragon, for that they obeyed BENEDICT, who was go from Auignon into Arragon: yet afterwards they sent their Ambassadors. The first Session thereof was upon the sixteenth day of November the same year: and so began this Council, which continued three years, and was one of the greatest and most solemn, and wherein were the greatest number of Princes, Ambassadors and Prelates, that ever was held by the Church of Rome: for writers affirm that with the Emperor, and with the other Princes, Prelates, and Ambassadors, there came 40000. persons. What matters passed, and what was decreed and done in that Council, plainly appeareth in an Instrument which at this day is extant; the sum of that (which is to our purpose) is this; That upon Christmas even ensuing after the Council began, the Emperor accompanied by the Dukes of Saxony and of Wittenberg, and other Princes, came to Constance, where he was solemnly received; and afterwards in Imperial pomp and habit was present at the Sessions of The Council of Constance. the Council. After Newyears day came the Duke of Baviere, and then the County Palatine of Rhine, and the Duke of Silesia. Thither also came Cardinal's Ambassadors from Pope GREGORY in Arimino, who with authority from him approved the Council: but BENEDICT who was in Arragon, would neither come nor sand. The Council being solemnised and ordained in this manner, Pope JOHN in the second Session, which was the second of March the same year, promised and solemnly swore to renounce the Papacy, in case that GREGORY and BENEDICT would do the like: this he did to purchase grace and favour with the Emperor, to the end that he might continued Pope still; whereof (as all writers affirm) he was unworthy, for his great vices and Insolences, which were made manifest to the whole Council. And he standing in fear of what after ensued (his own conscience accusing him) fled in disguised attire into the Duke of Austria's Country who favoured him & took his part. Whereupon many Ambassadors were sent from the Emperor and the Council to Pope JOHN, and from him to them. The Emperor and the Council proceeded against the Duke of Austria, for that he was of counsel with the Pope's flight, and had (notwithstanding their prohibitions and warnings to the contrary) harboured and protected him: and the Emperor confisking his goods, the Swissers took certain places from him. Whereupon the same Duke which had assisted him, now persuaded Pope JOHN to departed and to return to the Council; whereafter many Citations made and signified unto him, he submitting himself to the Council, and approving what by them was or should be determined, as it appeareth in the twelfth Session, was by their Sentence pronounced non Pontifex: and the Duke conducted him to Constance: where he voluntarily renouncing the Papacy, was apprehended, and committed to the Count Palatine, in whose custody he lived miserably the space of three years; what befell him afterwards you shall understand. After this, CHARLES MALATESTA Lord of Arimino, where Pope GREGORY lay, came to the Council with sufficient authority from him to renounce his right to the Papacy: by virtue whereof he publicly renounced the same in the 14. Session, saying, that Pope GREGORY in the commission which he gave him said, that for the union and universal reformation of the Church, and for redress of the schism, it was requisite and expedient that he and the rest which pretended to be Popes, should renounce the Popedom, and that the Council there assembled should choose such a one as might be for the good of the Christian commonwealth: and notwithstanding that he was the right Pope and canonically chosen, yet he now, as he ever before had offered to do; did renounce and there resign the Papacy into the hands of the Council, approving what therein by them should be done, or what they had done already. Pope GREGORIE'S renunciation was highly esteemed, and he therefore much commended: whereupon the Council holding the Papal seat for void, made him a Legate and governor of the Marca de Ancona; which office he enjoyed but a little while, for he shortly after died, as some say of sorrow, to see himself deposed from his pontifical seat; and the Council admitted and received those Cardinals which had served him, and were made by him, and had confirmed to them the revenues which he had given them. What appertained to Pope JOHN and Pope GREGORY being ended; it yet rested to deal with BENEDICT who was in Arragon, to whom many ambassages and admonitions had been sent, that he should either come or sand to the Council, for that no Pope should be chosen until the schism were throughly ended: what was done therein we will presently declare. But first I will show you that amongst other matters which in this Council were decreed and determined, a famous Bohemian whose name was JOHN HUSSE, was therein for certain opinions which he held, condemned and burnt by the decree and Sentence of the Council; and after him JEROME of Prague, who was The burning of john hus and Jerome of Prague. a follower of his. Sentence being given against JOHN HUSSE, being deprived of his priestly Orders, he was delivered to the Civil Magistrate to be burnt, and was brought to the place of execution with a Bishop's mitre of paper on his head, whereon were devils painted with this Inscription, This is an Arch-heretik. It is said, that before his death he did presage, with a prophetical spirit, the declining of the Pope's Kingdom, saying that there would a goose rise out of his ashes which they should not be able to burn, for in the Bohemian tongue HUSSE signifies a goose. He also uttered these words, After a hundred years you shall make answer to God and to me. And the event afterwards did verify and make good the truth of that his prophecy. This being past, the Council sent to BENEDICT in Arragon and to the King thereof, to treat with them, to the end that BENEDICT should renounce the Papacy; and besides this, to treat of a meeting to be had at Nizza between the Emperor and the King, where they might confer of the matter: in the end, in the sixteenth and seventeenth Session it was concluded that the Emperor in person should with the Ambassadors, from the Council, take the pains to go to Pope BENEDICT, to the end to procure him to renounce the Papacy. Whereupon he resolving to put their determination in effect, departed from Constance in the month of july, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, four hundred, and fifteen. And forasmuch as at that time there were very great wars between the kings of England and of France, the Emperor going in person to each of them, sought to have reconciled them: but he failing of his purpose, concluded with them, to request and require Pope BENEDICT in Arragon to renounce the Papacy; which if he refused to do, that then through all their dominions they should command that none of their Subjects should obey him. And passing forward (for that the King of Arragon, by reason of his infirmity, could not go out of his Kingdom to meet him in Nizza, or in Narbone) he was content to go to Perpinian, whither the King of Arragon and Pope BENEDICT were already come, where he and the Ambassadors which came from the Council were by the King very honourably received: and after that the Emperor had visited the King and conferred with him about the matter, he went to see Pope BENEDICT, whom with the best speeches and reasons he could device, he persuaded to yield to the Counsels determination. To the first, BENEDICT gave very good words, but general without any conclusion, and did the like to what the Counsels Ambassadors propounded. Afterwards there were other meetings between these Princes and this Pope about the same matter, but to no effect; for BENEDICT notwithstanding the King of Arragon's entreaty, and the Ambassadors from the King of France, for the same purpose deferring the conclusion with delays, departing from Perpinian, went to Colibre: where embarking himself in a Galley, without any stay (notwithstanding that the King and the Emperor by their Letters desired the contrary) he went thence by Sea to Peniscola, which is a little Town (but very strong) in the country of Valencia in Spain, upon the Sea coast; whither both the Emperor and king of Arragon sent unto him: but he persisting obstinate, the king upon the fift of january, in the year of our Lord, 1416, rejecting him, denied him to be Pope. This being published, the Emperor and the Ambassadors took their way towards Constance: and in his return (as I guess) was his journey to the Kings of England and of France, concerning Pope BENEDICT: for by the Histories it appeareth not when it was, but it seemeth to be at his return, for he came not to Constance until the beginning of the year of our Lord, one thousand four hundred and seventeen, having spent one whole year upon the way between Spain and Constance; being one year and a half after his departure from the Council to go this journey. Those which writ that he spent three years therein are to be excused, for he took part of all three years, to wit, 1415, 1416, and 1417. The Emperor and the Ambassadors being returned, and the Council having at large heard their relation, they resolved to proceed against Pope BENEDICT, as against a rebel, and one whom they never had held for Pope; and his accusation was signified unto him, with a new charge to renounce: but he (persisting in his obstinacy) was denounced for no Pope, but an Heretic, a schismatic, and a scandalous perturber of the unity and universal peace of the Christian Church and Commonwealth: And the Kingdoms of Castille, Navarre, and Portugal, which until then had been at his devotion, rejected him. The Council (by reason of the renunciations made by JOHN and GREGORY, and BENEDICT being deprived) holding the Papacy for void, determined to choose a new Pope: and appointing five Prelates of five several nations, to wit, French, English, Spanish, Italian and Dutch, to these, together with the Patriarch of Constantinople, and to the Cardinals which had chosen the other Popes, the Council gave order to choose a Pope; all which agreeing together, chose Cardinal OTHO de Colunna, and he was called MARTIN the fift. This MARTIN being chosen (to avoid all occasion of scruple) ordained that every tenth year a Council should be held, and that the first should begin at the end of five years, and that all the benefices given by the three Popes before that JOHN and GREGORY renounced, and BENEDICT was deprived, should be confirmed. After this, in the five and fortith Session, in the month of April, in the year of our Lord, one thousand four hundred and eighteen, three years and a half after the beginning of this Council, it was dissolved, and the Pope took his way towards Rome, and all the rest towards their Countries. At this time the Emperor made the Earls of Cleves and of Savoy, Dukes, and so have their successors continued ever since. The Emperor having newly redeemed the Marquisate of Brandenburg, from WILLIAM Lantzgrave of Turinge; to whom JODOCUS, marquis of Moravia, his cousin german, had pawned it when he aspired to the Empire, the same with the Electoral dignity he sold to FREDERICK Burgrave of Norembergh, a Prince of known wisdom, magnanimity, loyalty and authority, having deserved well both of the Emperor and Commonwealth, for four hundred thousand Crowns; with this condition, that if the Emperor should have a son, it should then be lawful for him to redeem it. And yet in this sale the price was not so much regarded, as the reward of FREDERICK'S virtues and merits, who had done SIGISMOND great services, and undergone many dangers for him. There is one memorable thing written of this FREDERICK; who, making his Will, called his four sons unto him, speaking to JOHN the eldest after this manner: I first got this septentrional dignity when I was familiar with the Emperor SIGISMOND; and now that I am called out of this life, my care is, that such an honour should not grow contemptible in our family; Thou I see art wholly inclined to a quiet and contemplative course of life: In this Septentrional charge thou shalt find nothing but cares and continual toil; wherefore if I might, with your liking, I would give this charge by my will to FREDERICK your second brother, who seems to be more fit for action: To whom JOHN answered, I did always think that FREDERICK had been more dear unto you then myself, which did somewhat grieve me; but now dear father, I will change my opinion, and will honour and love you, who by your last will be queath rest to me and cares to him. A notable example in old FREDERICK, not of fatherly affection, but of wisdom, providing for the public: and of modesty in JOHN the son, yielding to his father's judgement touching the succession, without any froward opposition. This being ended, the Emperor went to pacify the troubles in Bohemia, where the followers of JOHN HUSSE and IEROM of Prague which were burnt at the Council of Constance, were of such power that they pulled down some Churches and Monasteries, which did more abound in Bohemia then in any kingdom in all Christendom; the King having little means to redress the same. I say King, for WENCESLAUS who had been Emperor, lived until this time, who holding not himself to be in safety in the City of Prague, retired himself to a most strong Castle, about five miles from thence, and being there the Hussites rose and committed many insolences: Which King WENCESLAUS perceiving, he sent to his brother the Emperor (as at other times he had done) for aid, about the time that the Council broke up at Constance: but he was so resolved to go to the wars against the Turks which annoyed him in Hungary, or peradventure in hope to be revenged for the battle which he lost against them before that he was Emperor, which I writ not for that it maketh nothing to my purpose: the which he did contrary to his duty, and therein had ill success, and in Bohemia worse, for presently after this, King WENCESLAUS dying without leaving any successoor but his wife the Queen, the Emperor was sent for to take possession of that Kingdom: but desirous to renew the war against the Turks, wherein most commonly he had ill success, he would not come; thinking to entertain the matter by Governors which he sent thither: wherein he erred, for that occasion being lost, the troubles increased; and there arose one JOHN CISCA, Cisca Captain of the Hussites in Bohemia. a man of a noble house and very expert in the wars, whom the Hussites made their Captain, to whom out of Prague and other parts thereto adjoining, came 40000 of the Hussites; who not content with the subverting of Monasteries and pulling down of Images, possessed themselves of the fortresses of that City, and being masters of the field, took the town of Relezina, and other towns and castles. CISCA before the coming of the Emperor's Governors, was grown so mighty, that they were constrained to make peace with him and with the Hussites, to the end that they should give up Prague and other Castles, which they desired to have until the Emperor's coming, which was shortly after; wherewith far greater accidents ensued, when peace and quietness was hoped for; as we will declare after that we have made some relation of the state of the Empire in Italy, wherein they now knew no Emperor but in name only; and likewise of the coming, and success of the new Pope. The Council being dissolved, Pope MARTIN notwithstanding that he was diversely counselled, (by some, that he should continued in Germany, and by others, in France) remained firm in his resolution to go into Italy and to Rome, alleging that he which governeth the ship, aught to sit at the Helm, and not in the Prow, neither in the mid-ship. In conclusion, he departed from Germany the same year that he was chosen, and came directly to Milan; for Duke PHILIP (who by his policy and valour was grown very mighty) was his friend. At that time PHILIP was busied in the wars against PANDULPH MALATESTA, who withheld Bergamo and Brescia from him, and against GAERINO FONDULO, who held Cremona, and against other Lords which held other places which had been his fathers, the mighty JOHN GALEAS, and were lost in the time of his brother JOHN MARIA; in which wars PHILIP had so good success, that he recovered all those estates, and was afterwards one of the most puissant princes of the world, and was Lord also of Genoa. He possessed the state of Milan until he died, which were two and thirty years, in which time he had great wars with the Venetians and Florentines, and with other Princes; wherefore of necessity we must sometimes make mention of him. From Milan the Pope came to Florence, but could not go to Rome, for that one BRACCIO MONTONIO (an excellent Captain, and of very great power) in the time of Sede vacan●…e, and of the Council, had taken the City of Perugia, and the Territory thereof, and many other Towns in the jurisdiction of Rome: and many others of his condition joined with him; so as there was no safe passage for the Pope to Rome, wherein the said BRACCIO MONTONIO had a strong party. But at the intercession of the Florentines, which were mediators between them, BRACCIO MONTONIO afterwards submitted himself to the Pope, and rendered some Towns which he had taken; and the Pope made him his General against Bologna which rebelled: which by him, and by GABRIEL Cardinal of Saint CLEMENT, was reduced to the Pope's obedience. In those days (but somewhat before this time) BALTHASAR COSSA, which had bee●… Pope JOHN (who renounced his Papacy in the Council of C●…nstance, of whom Pope MARTIN stood in no small fear that he would have attempted some alteration by taking upon him as Pope, and would have renewed the schism) came into Italy, and finding favour and entertainment among some of his friends, would not intermeddle in any matter; but of his own accord without any safe conduct or other agreement, at such time as no man thought thereof, came voluntarily to Florence where the Pope lay; and coming into his Palace, kissed his foot, and acknowledged him for Pope, Saint PETER'S Successor, and CHRIST'S Vicar; whereupon, Pope MARTIN made him a Bishop and a Cardinal: but he, within few months after dying, was in Florence most solemnly buried, by the procurement (principally) of COSMO de Medicis, a rich and noble Citizen thereof, and chief of the house and family of the Medici's, whose beginning (as it is written) was through the treasure and riches which he inherited from this BALTHASAR COSSA, otherwise called Pope JOHN. Pope MARTIN, knowing that troubles were in the Kingdom of Bohemia, sought by his Bulls to have pacified the matter: but seeing it was comn to blows, the friendship betwixt him and the Emperor SIGISMOND was soon after broken. In those days came to Rome LEWES, Duke of Anjou and Earl of Provence, son to the other LEWES deceased, to receive from the Pope the title and investit●…re of the Kingdom of Naples, against Queen JOAN, sister and heir to King LADISLAUS; being called thither by the Pope for the same purpose, through her ill government and tyranny, but chief for that she joined with BRACCIO MONTONIO, and made war upon him, and for other matters too long to relate. The Pope proceeding against her, and holding her unworthy to enjoy the feudatory lands of the Church, sent for Duke LEWES, offering him the Kingdom of Naples: but Queen JOAN, being thereof advertised, adopted ALONZO King of Arragon (who was also King of Sicilia) whom she called to her aid, and to the succession in that Kingdom; who came accordingly. The Queen afterwards (according to her natural condition) falling at odds with him, and revoking the adoption which she had made of ALONZO, adopted the same LEWES whom the Pope had called. Hereof grew the wars between LEWES and ALONZO for the Kingdom of Naples; and, after the decease of LEWES, with his brother RENE, which wars continued Wars for the Kingdom of Naples. many years: but in the end, ALONZO having the victory, obtained the sovereignty of that Kingdom. These things passed in Italy, where the Emperors were now of small power: and in Germany, the wars which the Turk made in Hungary being assuaged, the Emperor resolved (though late) to come into Bohemia, to take possession of that Kingdom; whither if he had presently comn, it is very likely that the troubles there had been pacified: for, at his coming to Bruna, which is in Moravia, Ambassadors came to him from Prague to submit themselves, and to sue for pardon; which he entertained and heard; and proponing certain tolerable conditions, granted them a general pardon: the news whereof were very joyful to the Inhabitants of that City and Kingdom; to the Hussites, to see themselves pardoned of their offences; and to the rest, in hope to live in peace. But all this was crossed, for that the King came not presently to take possession of that City which is the head of that Kingdom, where they peaceably attended his coming; but he would first go to Vratislave, the chief City of Silesia, a province to the East of ●…ohemia. There, as well as in Prague (in time of the insurrection of the people) the Governors which were left there by WENCESLAUS were slain; and the Emperor, to punish the offence, did justice upon the principal heads of that rebellion. As the news thereof was published in Prague, and as their offences were equal or greater, this unseasonable punishment strake such a terror into the people, that they fearing the like rigour, without any further consideration rose up in Arms; and resolving to refuse him for their King, wrote their Letters, thereby inciting the rest through all the kingdom to do the like; publishing that he had resolved to commit great cruelty amongst them. This took such effect, that in the greatest and best part of the kingdom, the people took Arms: and as the greatest part of those of Prague were Hussites (the rest joining with them) they altogether sent for a Captain of the Hussites, a man of great power, whose name was CISCA, whom they put into Prague for defence thereof against the Emperor, who was coming against it. Hereof ensued in that City and Kingdom many encounters, skirmishes, battles and bloodshed by fire and sword, such as never was seen or heard of, and such as I am not able to relate: the most effectual whereof may be seen in the third book of AENEAS SILVIUS, afterwards called P. PIUS QVINTUS, in his History of Bohemia: for my part I will rest satisfied, briefly mentioning the most notable accidents which happened. The Emperor accompanied by the Duke of Saxony, the marquis of Brandenburg, and the Duke of Austria, with many other soldiers both of Foot and Horse, came near to the City of Prague: Whereof the Fortress called Vicengrade was at his devotion. CISCA and his people very resolutely battered the same, but their chiefest hope was to take it by famine. The Emperor coming thither relleved the Fortress, and entering it, was therein crowned King of Bohemia: the Fortress being victualled and garrisoned, he presently besieged the City; which siege continued six weeks; in which time in all the skirmishes and encounters which happened, it pleased God that CISCA and his followershad still the better: The Emperor making war against the Hus●…tes besieg●… the City of prague the like issue befell in a manner in all parts of the kingdom, between the Hussites and the Imperialists. Where●…pon the Emperor raising his siege from before Prague, came to 〈◊〉: and CISSA leaving the City, joined with the Taborites, so called after the name of a City founded by them and so called: And being victorious and not co●…nted to make defensive wars only, taking the field, he likewise took some Towns and Castles from his adversaries. Many other conflicts after this ensued, which I omit: and the matter came to this issue, that the Emperor with his whole power came to a strong Monastery which held for CISCA, with a resolution to batter and to take it; and if CISCA came to the relief thereof, to fight with him: for his army was such, that he doub●…ed nothing of the victory. But there befell a strange accident: which was, that CISCA resolving to come to the ●…eliefe of that Castle, and so to fight with the Emperor, and being come to the point to have joined, the Emperor's troops but The Emp. coming to fight with the Hussites at the fight of them, his people fled without blow stricken. at sight of their enemies, making no resistance, or showing the minds or courage of men, suddenly ran away, and the Emperor was driven to do the like, not daring to stay in any part of all Bohemia: So as CISCA and his people being masters of the field, besieged many strong holds and Castles, which he took by force▪ At the assault of one of which; as he had but one eye, that one was shot out with an arrow; but his credit and reputation was so great, that he continued in the government and command of the Army, which was led by a blind Christian: a thing never seen nor read in any History; for notwithstanding that he was blind, yet he still prosecuted the wars. The Emperor (notwithstanding these disasters) was not dismayed: but levying his whole power he sent for the Princes of the Empire, whom he appointed to enter Bohemia by the West; and he with his Hungars would enter it by the East. Thither came with great troops the Duke of Saxony, the Count Palatine of Rhine, the marquis of Brandenburg, the Archbishop of Mentz, and some other Princes and Prelates, who began the wa●…re, and be●…eged and took some towns. The Emperor stayed longer than he had appointed, but coming with his Army, he The Emp. overthrown the 2 time by the Huss●…, and their blind▪ Captain Cisca. began on his side, and notwithstanding that CISCA was blind yet he took the field against him; and coming to join in battle, the Emperor's men were stricken with such ●…eare of CISCA and of the Hussites, that they were presently overthrown, and many principal men of them were slain; and the Emperor infortunate in the wars, being driven to fly, CISCA followed the execution of the victory. Matters standing in this estate, the Nobles and principals of Prague and of all Boh●… (●…esiring to have a King, that might oppose himself against SIOISMUND) sent to yield themselves and their kingdom to VITOLD Duke of Lituania; for which CISCA was sorry. The Duke desirous to be a King, accepting their offer, sent a Captain called TOR●…BUT with his power; who being gladly received into the City, began to show the power of a new King, and to b●…ter such castles and Fortresses as were his adversaries. But this Duke within short space after, at the entreaty of the King of Poland, coming to a composition with the Emperor, gave over his enterprise and title to the Crown of Bohemia. It followed, that the Emperor gave the Province of Moravia to ALBERT his son-in-law, one of the Dukes of Austria, to the end that he should defend the same: and he returning to the war against the Hussites, there happened betwixt CISCA and the Imperialists another great battle; wherein CISCA having the victory, nine thousand of the Imperialists were slain. A third battle wherein the asniperor was overthrown, and 9000 of his people slain by the Hussites. The Emperor, seeing the power of CISCA to be so great, that without his good will he could not be King of Bohemia, sought to be at peace with him; and to that end made him many large promises and offers: at the time of the parley, being at a point to have made a conclusion, CISCA died of the plague; after whose death the Hussites were divided into several factions, of which some were called Hussites, and some Taborites; so as they were at variance and contention amongst themselves: but warring against the Imperialists, they ever joined and were friends. After many other accidents, Pope MARTIN sending his Legate into Germany, commanded the Emperor to renew the war against the Bohemians: and the Duke of Saxony entering the Country upon the one side, and the marquis of Brandenburg upon another side, and at another place the Archbishop of Trevier, either of them with the greatest power they were able to levy, all which, meeting together in Bohemia, and beginning the war, and knowing that the Hussites came to fight with them (a matter seeming incredible, yet true although strange and shameful) they were stricken with such fear, that without seeing or hearing any enemy, both Captains and Soldiers setting all shame apart, abandoning the field, ran away in such manner, that neither entreaty nor authority was able to stay them; and the Hussites, pursuing At a fourth invasion the Imperialists raw before they saw any enemy. them, took all their baggage and ar●…illery; and not content therewith, sallying forth of their Kingdom, warred in other parts; out of which, in consideration of a great sum of money, they returned home again. The Pope, understanding in what estate the affairs of Bohemia stood, resolved to give a Crusade, and to sand a new Legate against the Bohemians, notwithstanding that in Italy there was as little quietness; but great wars, as well in the Kingdom of Naples, as in Lombardy and in other parts. And to that effect he sent JULIAN, Cardinal of S. Angelo, to be his Legate against the Hussites, and that (the time being expired) he might sit in his place in the Council appointed to be held in Basil. This Cardinal coming to the Emperor, it was decreed, that a new Army, and new forces, to a greater number than before, should be levied against the Hussites; whither came FREDERICK, marquis of Brandenburg (who was chosen General) and the Dukes of Bavier and of Saxony, the Archbishops of Mentz, Trevier and Colen, and many Bishops, Prelates and Princes, together with the companies of the Cities; and so many others, that they amounted to the number of forty thousand horse, but not so many foot (for, it seems they were not so requisite for that war); who with this power entered the Kingdom of Bohemia, the Cardinal Legate going with the Army. But the Hussites were so accustomed to the bearing of Arms, and were therewith so courageous, that they drew themselves to one head, with a resolution to fight with the Imperialists: and the one Army being opposite to the other, so as no man doubted but that the Imperialists (considering their multitude, and the goodness of their Captains and Soldiers) would have had the victory; there happened the strangest accident that ever was seen, whether through treason or practice in the Army, or through some vain & cowardly 〈◊〉 or imagination, or through the secret judgement of God who was not pleased that the matter should be decided by Arms, there fell a sudden fear in the Camp, and a rumour that they w●…re not to stay there: whereupon they all began presently to march, leaving behind them all they brought; and many, their Arms and furnitures: and the whole Army (no admonition, threatening or entreaty, made by the Princes and Commanders, being able to prevail with them) fled; and they did the like, without seeing or fight with any enemy: and so they A wonderful 〈◊〉. fleeing out of the Country, the Hussites made great booty of what their enemies left, and could not carry with them. So great an Army being so shamefully overthrown, the Emperor intended not (for that time) to raise any other: but the time being expired that the Council should begin, the Cardinal Legate went to Basil; and the Emperor, by reason of the aid and assistance promised him by PHILIP Duke of Milan, resolved to go into Italy to be crowned in Rome. At this time died Pope MARTIN; and after his decease, a Cardinal called GABRIEL CONDULMERO, a Gentleman of Venice, was in March in the year 1431 chosen, and called EUCENIUS the Fourth: in the beginning of whose Papacy many insolences (as saith PLATINA and other Writers) were committed in Rome between the Pope and the Colonnois. EUGENIUS, approving the Council appointed by Pope MARTIN, commanded it to be begun in Basil; where, the Cardinal of Saint Angelo being Precedent, the first Session was held upon Friday, the seventh of December: whereof before that we make any relation, which shall be but little (notwithstanding that it continued long, and that therein was much controversy and contention with the Pope) we will describe the journey SIGISMOND made to his coronation, which was in this manner: Upon assurance of the promises and offers made by the Duke of Milan, SIGISMOND with small troops of Germane and Hungars came into Italy; and coming to Milan, the Duke being not there, he was by the Duke's commandment very honourably received by a Captain of his called NICHOLAS PICHININO, and other principal men, and there according to the custom was crowned with the Crown of Iron: but the Duke came not to see him; yet he afterwards by Letters and delays temporised with him many days in Parma and in Placencia, yet not furnishing him with such things as he had promised against the Florentines; who, as enemies to the Duke, stopped his passage to Rome, and to that effect maintained an Army in field: and moreover they persuaded the Pope to prohibit his coming to Rome, assuring him, that by the instigation of Duke PHILIP he came against him. The Emperor, without speaking with the Duke, in the best manner that he could came to Luca; and notwithstanding that the Pope and the Florentines sought to stay him, yet he, after some accidents which happened between the soldiers of the one and other side, came to Sienna, where he stayed six months: in which time he came to a composition with the Pope, many ambassages passing between them in the mean season; so as he peaceably departing towards Rome, was therein solemnly received, and with great solemnity crowned by the hands of the Pope, upon the last day of May in the year of our The Emperor Sigismond crowned in Rome by the Pope. Lord 1432; and after some treaties he took his leave to return into Germany. By the way he was entertained in Ferrara and Mantoa, by their Lords and Dukes (the wars continuing in Italy, as before) wherein passed many great matters: the principals were the Florentines and Venetians which made war against the Duke of Milan, who now was become Lord of Genoa, the which he took by means of the dissension and discord that grew between the I●…habitantss. Whilst the Emperor was in Italy, in the Council at Basil many matters were treated of, but had not yet taken such effect as they desired: for, the Hussites persisting constant in their opinions, the Council sent thither certain learned men, such as well knew the Country, who by flattery and fair means sought to have seduced the Bohemians; in whom they sometimes found hope of peace, and at other times signs of war: and so the case continuing as doubtful as before, it pleased God that by secret means unknown to man, there grew some suspicion & jealousy between the Nobility of that Kingdom (whereof one MENANDER was the chief) and the Taborites and the Hussites (notwithstanding that some of the Nobles were Hussites); but in the end it grieved them all to be governed by PROCOPIUS, a man of base parentage, who being General of the Taborites, commanded all; and by another PROCOPIUS called the younger, Captain of the Hussites. After that they had long murmured at the matter, they summoned a Parliament to be held by all the estates of the Realm, under pretext to set some order in the government: for they were discontented with the violences and insolences daily committed. Finally, the Parliament was assembled, and a Nobleman and nobly descended, although of mean estate, whose name was ALTION, was nominated and made their Governor, and he presently undertaken the government. And although he had the title and outward show, yet all was done by the order and direction of MENANDER the chief of the Nobility. Heerwith the Hussites and the Procopii were so much discontent, that the matter came to blows. I cannot describe all that passed; for there were many notable accidents: but I will tell you the event thereof. When the Emperor, coming out of Italy into Germany, was upon his way towards Basil, he understood that between the Pope and the Council there was great discord: for, the Pope Dissension betwixt the Pope and the Council of Basil. perceiving that the Council began to treat of many matters against his authority and dignity, commanded it to be dissolved, and to be transferred to Bologna; and the Council, rejecting his commandments, would not accomplish what he required, but made other acts and statutes to his disgrace. Whereupon many matters passed, and the Emperor came to the Council, and there hearing the matter debated, made a reconciliation between them: and the Pope again ratified the Council; yet they afterwards fell further at variance, as you shall hear: for, those of the Council, refusing to make an end, continued the Council a long time in despite of the Pope: but the Emperor by his authority in the best manner that he could took up the matter; and understanding of the wars between the Nobility and the Hussites in Bohemia, holding the same for the most assured mean for him to recover that Kingdom, went from Basil to ulm, where he was advertised of a battle fought between them, wherein the Lords had the victory; and therein were both the Procopii (Captains of the Hussites and Taborites) slain, with many thousands of others; and a great number were taken prisoners: and they found the means afterwards to kill or burn all those which were taken, or escaped from the battle. The Emperor, understanding hereof, sent his Ambassadors into Bohemia, to persuade the Nobility to obey and receive him for their King, for that of right it appertained to him, as to the son and brother to the Kings of Bohemia. And it pleased God to work such an alteration in the hearts of the Bohemians, that they sent their Ambassadors to Ratisbone, whither the Emperor was gone from ulme, to whom they gave order to receive him for their King and sovereign Lord: and they agreed with him concerning his coming into Bohemia; and he there ratified the conditions concluded by those of the Council with the Bohemians, concerning points of religion; which in sum was, that that the Bohemians wholly submitted themselves to the Church of Rome, and that they, believing as it did, forsook all matters in question, except communicating under both kinds of bread and wine; which was granted them upon this condition, that the matter should be referred to the determination of the Council: and all other matters concerning Church-rents and goods, and other ecclesiastical benefices, were concluded and agreed upon. These matters being ended, the Emperor within few days after peaceably entering Bohemia, was with feasting and great solemnity, upon the fourth day of August, in the year of our Lord 1436, received into the City of Prague: he had been there but a few day's space, but there was so great an alteration, that it seemed a new world, and another kind of people: for, notwithstanding that there remained some of the sect of the Hussites, yet the greatest and most common were Papists. The Temples which had been spoiled and ruinated were new built, and those which were defaced were repaired, and the Altars were decked with Images and Relics, and the Monks and Friars terurned to their Covents and Cloisters: finally, all was restored to the former order. Of the pretended Heretics, which would not be converted, some fled for fear of imprisonment, and to others a time was limited wherein they should recant; and against such as persisted constant, the Emperor proceeded: for his success heerin, Pope EUGENIUS sent him a Rose of gold, who at that time commanded the Council at Basil to be dissolved, and a general Council to be held at Ferrara; where they expected the Emperor of Constantinople: but the Council of Basil, holding themselves to be above the Pope, would not obey him, neither be dissolved. The Emperor being now threescore and ten years old, and tired with wars and troubles both before and after he was Emperor (which were more than I have written) began to wax feeble and sickly; and perceiving death to approach, he was advertised that his wife (considering that he was old, and could not live long, and that he had but one daughter which was married to ALBERT of Austria) sought, as soon as he should be dead, to marry with the King of Poland; and that the Bohemians should take him and her for King and Queen. For redress hereof, and being somewhat jealous of the Bohemians for matters past, he sent for the Noblemen of Hungary which came with him into Bohemia; to whom in secret (advertising them of what passed) he recommended his daughter and son-in-law, and made them to promise' to take them for their King and Queen after his decease. And notwithstanding that he was very sick, yet he caused himself to be carried out of Prague towards Hungary, where he desired to die: but being unable to reach thither, he was carried to his daughter and son-in-law in Moravia, who by his gift possessed that Province, which came to meet him in the City of Zenomia; whither also came his wife the Empress, who there by his commandment was apprehended. The Emperor within few days after, in the 37 year of his Reign, upon the day of the conception of our Lady, in the year of our Lord 1437, died. And so ended this Prince both his life and troubles; who although he had unfortunate success, especially in Arms and wars, yet he failed in nothing The death of the Emperor Sigismond. that belonged to a wise and valiant Knight. This Emperor might well be paralleled with the ancient OTHOES and CHARLES, for the excellency of his wit, piety, wisdom, greatness of mind, industry, dexterity of counsel, and patience in labour, if fortune had been answerable to his wise resolutions and commendable attempts, and that God had not denied success to his just and necessary Arms against the Turk. He returned no more to these Turkish wars, being hindered with intestine combustions, and terrified (as I conceive) with the remembrance of two overthrows: and although he desired to be revenged of these cruel and barbarous enemies, yet he durst not make trial of a third battle. He delighted much in the reading of Histories. He had always this Saying in his mouth, He knows not how to reign, that cannot dissemble; meaning, that he must not do all things according to his own will. He hated a flatterer as the plague: but when as a slander by did blame the Emperor, saying that he was governed by flatterers; he answered, So it falls out in Courts: those whom we hate most and seek to shun, we are forced to obey. Speaking of government, he was wont to say, that all men refused to practise any Art which they had not learnt; but no man refused to command, which is the most difficult of all Arts. Blessed were Kings on earth, if having excluded proud men from all government, they drew into their Courts such as are mild and grave. And when-as his Courtiers did blame the railing of the Germane multitude, who commonly spoke ill of their Princes; smiling he answered, Do you think it strange that they speak ill, when as we do ill? In his youth he was vindicative; but age and experience tempered this heat: wherefore one expostulating with him, that he not only pardoned his enemies, but also favoured and advanced them; Thou, said he, thinkest it a benefit to kill an enemy, for that there is not any danger in a dead man: but I kill an enemy when I spare him; and I make him my friend when I advance him. He was twice married, first to MARY daughter to the King of Hungary, by whom he had that Kingdom; the second time with BARBARA, daughter to the Earl of Cilia, by whom he had his daughter ISABEL which was his heir, and married to ALBERT one of the Dukes of Austria, who then was Lord and marquis of Moravia. His wife after his death was set at liberty: but spending her days infamously, in the end she died of the plague. The state of Italy when SIGISMOND died was so confused and out of order, that except I should relate the whole, I cannot express the same in such sort as it may be understood. Duke PHILIP of Milan, being an enemy to Pope EUGENIUS, favoured the Council of Basil: and the Florentines and Venetians supported the Pope against him. There were other wars among them; wherein the most famous Captains were, FRANCIS SPORCE before named, and NICHOLAS PICHININO. ALONSO King of Arragon (Queen JOAN and LEWES being dead) contended with RENE, LEWES his brother, about the Kingdom of Naples. A little before that LEWES died, K. ALONSO and his brother the King of Navarre being taken in a battle by sea, and with them many other Lords by the fleet of the Genoais, were carried prisoners to Duke PHILIP of Milan, who then was Lord of Genoa; who, showing his magnificence, released them, and set them at liberty: which the Genoais took in so ill part, that they revolting made themselves free from the Duke. In those days were cruel wars between the Kings of England and France; and amongst the French was a woman which bore Arms like a soldier, and afterwards (as a Captain) wrought wonders, and defended and recovered many Castles for the French: this woman was called JEANNE la Pucelle. After the decease of EMANVEL Emperor of Constantinople, his son JOHN PALEOLOGUS reigned, who was already upon the way to come to the Council in Italy. THE LIFE OF ALBERT, SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDRETH AND TWELFTH ROmane Emperor; And of john Paleologus in CONSTANTINOPLE. THE ARGUMENT. SIgismund being dead, his son-in law Albert was peaceably chosen; who was in some doubt to accept the Empire, by reason of the Kingdom of Hungary: which being passed, he accepted the government. For that he lived not long, he could not effect so great matters as he projected. He had wars with some rebels, which he luckily ended. But he could not make any peace or union between the Counsels which were held in his time, one in Basil without the Pope, the other in Ferrara where the Pope was in person; which Council was afterwards ended in Florence. He took Arms against Amurath King of the Turks, in the behalf of the Dispote of Servia: but, being in a little village upon his way, he died of Dysenteria, having reigned but a small time. His death was much lamented, by reason of the great hope conceived of his virtue. THE same day that the Emperor SIGISMOND died, his son-in-law ALBERT Duke of Austria was by all the principal Lords of both those Kingdoms which were there with him, together with his wife SIGISMVND'S daughter, to whom in right those Kingdoms appertained, hailed King of Hungary and Bohemia; who from that City of Zenomia which is in Moravia, sent Ambassadors into Bohemia, with SIGISMVND'S Will and Testament, and by his authority to take possession of that Kingdom: and he with his wife, carrying with them the dead body of the Emperor, and the widow Empress prisoner, departed towards Hungary; where they were without any contradiction received and obeyed, and afterwards with great solemnity, upon the first day of january, in the year of our Lord 1438, crowned; having first performed the Imperial funerals and obsequies. In the mean time, his Ambassadors which were in Bohemia, assembling the principal Lords of that Realm in the City of Prague, shown the Testament of the deceased Emperor and their King; and all eaging many effectual reasons, persuaded them to choose ALBERT, as well for that he had married the only daughter and heir of their King, as also for that he was of the house of Austria; between which and Bohemia there was an ancient covenant, that whensoever there failed an heir in any one of these houses, one should be chosen out of the other. Finally, the Ambassadors used so good means, that the Assembly concluded, that ALBERT and his wife should be their King and Queen; and so in their absence they were sworn unto, and received for such, notwithstanding that some of the principal Barons were against the same: among which many were the Empress kinsmen; of which the chiefest were TASCON and ALCIOSTEREMBERGH, which were consenting to the practice which we spoke of when the Emperor died. These men, requiring certain conditions which might not be granted, departed from ALBERT'S service and obedience: which, calling and inviting others to join with them, chose for their King, CASIMIRE brother to the King of Poland; and they sending for him to come and take possession of the Kingdom, offered him their aid and service in the action. In this mean time, the Electors of the Empire being certified of the death of the Emperor SIGISMOND, met in Frankford to choose a new Emperor; where ALBERT, King of Hungary and Bohemia, and Duke of Austria, was upon the twentith day of March, in the year 1438, Albert Duke of Austria chosen Emperor. chosen; and being by the same Princes advertised of his election, very gladly gave ear to their Ambassage, but yet could not presently accept the government, for that when he was sworn in Hungary, he promised the Hungars, notwithstanding he were chosen, he would not accept the Empire, because it was not held expedient for that Kingdom, that the King thereof should be Lord of any other Countries, but should make his abode in Hungary only; producing the Emperor SIGISMOND for example, whose absence was the occasion of many inconveniences in that Country. But notwithstanding all this, new Ambassages daily arriving, he caused the principal Lords and the Burgesses of Cities in Hungary to meet in the City of Viena in Austria, wherein he found some contradiction: but in the end the Hungars being entreated and persuaded by FREDERICK, Duke also of Austria, they consented to his election, and ALBERT accepted thereof; and presently went to be crowned at Aken, which was acceptable to all Germany: for, he was held for a wise and valorous Prince, and shown the same in the small time Albert crowned Emperor in Aken. that he enjoyed the Empire. ALBERT, knowing that CASIMIRE brother to the King of Poland had accepted the Kingdom of Bohemia, and that with the aid of his brother he levied forces for that enterprise, sent his Ambassadors to the King, desiring him, that si●…h he well knew him to be the right King of Bohemia, he would not suffer their just friendship for any unjust cause to be broken: whereto the King of Poland answered, that he could not let his brother to accept that Kingdom which by the natural subjects thereof was offered him, together with other excuses such as he thought good. Within few days after, the Emperor entered Bohemia, notwithstanding that TASCON and the rest of his faction sent (with certain protestations) to require him that he should not do it: but he, holding on his journey, was in the month of May, in the year 1438, crowned in the City of Prague. And TASCON, and such others as took CASIMIRE'S part, joining themselves with the men of war which came out of Poland, raised an Army; and taking the field, and fortifying such Towns as were at their devotion, warred upon the rest: and the Emperor with the Troops which he brought with him, and others which came to his aid, did the like. And notwithstanding that others were expected to come to him out of Austria and from other parts, yet he would not stay, but went to seek his enemies and to fight with them: but TASCON and the Polacres not daring to give him battle, returning, encamped themselves near to the City of Tabor, which was inhabited by pretended Heretics; whither the Emperor pursuing them, had in his Army CHRISTOFER Duke of Baviere, FREDERICK Duke of Saxony, and ALBERT marquis of Brandenburg: which there pitching their Tents, daily skirmishes passed between them; wherein the Polacres and Bohemians were so hardly bestead, that they disbanding, part of them put themselves into Tabor, which is a most strong impregnable Town; and ALBERT, knowing it to be such, returned to Prague: and the Polacres (fewer in number than they came into that Country) returned to their houses; so as the Emperor, finding no resistance, discharged his soldiers which were strangers: and some Princes which came to his aid, returned to their Countries; yet between the one and the other Kingdoms some roads and incursions continued: but shortly after a truce was taken between them. And forasmuch as there came tidings of the coming of AMURATH the great Turk with a great power into Hungary, ALBERT was constrained to leave Governors in Bohemia, and to take his way thitherward, with a determination to levy forces and to fight with the Turks, notwithstanding that he was counselled by many to the contrary, being feared with the infortunate battle fought by the Emperor SIGISMOND. But notwithstanding all their admonitions and persuasions, nothing could divert the Emperor, so great a desire had he to fight: and that which more increased his resolution, was, that the Dispote of Servia, fleeing from AMURATH, came into Hungary to implore aid and succour to relieve and vnset his son which was besieged in the City of Sinderovia, situate upon the side of the river Danubius, which the Turk held besieged, and put it to great distress: wherefore the Emperor resolved to raise his forces for that journey, which was in the year of our Lord 1439. At this time the discord and contention between the Council of Basil and the Pope grew more violent: for, notwithstanding the Pope's commandments to dissolve (it having now continued eight or nine years since it first began) they held, and refusing to be dissolved, cited the Pope to make his personal appearance before them. In this Council they disputed long of the authority and power of the Pope: and in the end they decreed that the authority of the Council was above the Pope, and that they might displace the Pope; and that not only Bishops, but other learned and godly men should have their voices. Hereupon EUGENIUS finding that this Decree would shake the Pope's authority, and that the Council would arrogate more liberty than he thought fit, he resolved to dissolve it. The Pope hereupon summoned a general Council to be held in Ferrara, which was the year before (by his commandment) begun by the Cardinal S. Cross, whither the Pope himself came in person. Here was that which had never been seen (a schism of Counsels) for those of Basil would not give over, yet many which had been there came to Ferrara. In the Council of Basil were many disputations and arguments concerning this matter. To the Council of Ferrara came JOHN PALEOLOGUS, Emperor of Constantinople, with a great number of Greek Prelates, notwithstanding that those of Basil sought to have induced him to come thither: but a great plague falling amongst them at Ferrara, the Pope removed the Council to Florence; where the Greeks and their Emperor submitted themselves to the Latins, touching the proceeding of the Holy Ghost, the third person of the Trinity, which they held to have proceeded but from the Father only: and other matters were there handled, which ANTONINUS Archbishop of Florence in his histories, and PLATINA and others writ at large. But this notwithstanding, those of Basil proceeded in their Council against the Pope; and although the Emperor sought to bring them to unity, yet his other affairs were so great (considering the small time he ragined) that he could not effect it; and now worst of all, for he had raised his whole power, and was marching with his Army against the Turk, to free the city of Sinderonia. Being past Buda, and encamped between the rivers Ticius and Danubius, he was certified that the Turk had taken the said city & had put out the DISPOTES sons eyes: and AMURATH being advertised of his coming, retiring with his Army towards Thessalonica, a famous city in Macedonia, took afterwards many cities in Epire and Thessalia. The Emperor seeing that he could not recover the city, and that the Turk was retired, returned to Buda, where he discharged his Army: and being come thither, what with the scorching of the Sun, and with the heat of Summer (and as some say, by eating of more Cucumbers than did him good) he was taken with a flux; wherewith growing very weak, departing from Buda with a desire to go to Viena, The death of the ●…mperor Albert the second. he died by the way, in a little village called Langstraet, upon the 27. day of October, in the year of our Lord 1439, before that two years were fully expired, since that he was first chosen Emperor: his death was much lamented for the great hope conceived of him, that he would have proved a good Prince. The Emperor ALBERT left two daughters, one of which was married to the Duke of Saxony, and the other afterwards to the king of Poland; and his wife the Empress he left great with child of a son, which in time came to be king of Hungary, and of Bohemia: but first there ensued much discord between the two kingdoms, as hereafter shall be declared. The schism & contention between the Pope and the Council of Basil grew to be so great, at what time the Emperor ALBERT died, that they chose for Pope AMADEUS, whom many called BASILISK●…, for that he was chosen at Basil, who was now called FELIX: he had been Duke of Savoy, and married and had children, he took religious orders (as many writ) to the end to be made Pope: he was father in law to PHILIP Duke of Milan, to whom was imputed the principal cause of his election: for he being the Pope's enemy, procured that the Council in Basil should make choice of him, and he himself made cruel war against the Pope, against the Florentines, and the Venetians, PICHININO being General of his Army. And FRANCIS SFORCE (PICHININO'S competitor) was General for them, so as there was a greater division in the Church of Rome then ever had been seen before, for there were now two Popes, and two Counsels; and some Princes favoured the one, and others the other: amongst which ALONSO King of Arragon being an enemy to EUGENIUS, favoured Pope FELIX: but as it seemed that EUGENIUS had the better title, Pope FELIX his credit daily impaired, yet he held the name of Pope the space of nine years; and afterward Pope EUGENIUS being dead, in the time of Pope NICHOLAS he renounced the Papacy. In Constantinople reigned JOHN PALEOLOGUS, who in those times came to the Council at Florence; who having ended such matters as he came for, concerning the union of the Greek and Latin Churches, returned to Constantinople; where, within a little after he died, and CONSTANTINE succeeded him in the Empire. THE LIFE OF FREDERICK, THE THIRD OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDRETH AND THIRTEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. ALl the Electors jointly agreeing in the election of Frederick Duke of Austria, a young man of the age of five and twenty years, he accepted the Empire; and coming to be crowned in Aken, was con●…irmed by the Pope. He was a lover of peace, and a faithful observer thereof in all his actions. He supplanted the schism, and shown himself a perfect friend to the Pope; and coming into Italy was crowned in Rome, to the great contentment of all the Country: Wh●…reinwere made most sumptuous feasts by all the cities which received him. He afterwards returning into Germany, was much troubled with the combustions he found there, by reason of the King of Bohemia; which could not be pacified but by the restitution of the King to the Bohemians. In time of this Emperor, Constantinople to the great shame and dishonour of all Christendom was lost, and greater harms were threatened by the Turk: but a Croysade being made, the Turk had a very great overthrow, so as he was constrained to aleer his resolution. This Emperor had some controversy with his brother about the Duchy of Austria, but in the end the title rested in the Emperor: who to his son Maximilian gave the title of Archduke of Austria and made him King of the Romans. He ever sought to maintain peace, by reason whereof he was called the peaceable Emperor. And being now old, and his son Maximilian swaying the government, it pleased God to take him out of this world, when he had ruled the Empire three and fifty years. THose which have traveled a long journey, and being come near to their journeys end; through the desire they have to attain thereto, and to rest their weary bones, make commonly greater haste than before: so I desiring to do the like, and to make a quick dispatch in writing the history of the Emperors remaining yet behind; being tired with the long journey which I have traveled, and to obtain rest, after so long watching and so much pains taken in that which is past; in the end of my journey the Emperor FREDERICK presenteth himself, and after him his son MAXIMILIAN; whose lives were such and so long, that all the time and paper which I have spent might have been employed in writing the lives of them two: of FREDERICK, for that he was naturally more inclined to peace, and procured the same, and reigned fifty and odd years; in which time so many accidents passed, that they require a long discourse: and of MAXIMILIAN, for that his acts were so great, and so many accidents happened in his time, that if they all should be written, this volume would hardly contain his history. Whereof (when I had well considered) it did put me in a great perplexity, fearing to be tired or foundered before I should attain to the end of my journey: but setting all fear apart I will proceed, and thus it was: As soon as the death of the Emperor ALBERT was published, the Prince's Electors of the Empire assembling in the city of Frankford; about two or three days before the new year 1440. chose for Emperor FREDERICK Duke of Austria, a young man of the age of five and twenty years, who a little before came from jerusalem where he had been in Pilgrimage. This FREDE●…ICK was the son of Duke ERNESTUS of Austria, descended in line masculine Frederick Duke of Ostrich chosen Emperor. from the Emperor ARNULPH, above named. When as he understood of his election, accepting the same, he prepared himself to go to Aken to be crowned; before which I hold it expedient to relate in few words what happened in the Kingdoms of Hungary and Bohemia, after the death of the Emperor ALBERT; since they were provinces of the Empire: and forasmuch as they serve for our purpose, for the clearing and better understanding of that which followeth. The widow Empress (as before is said) at the time of her husband's decease was with child: and as soon as he was dead, the Lords of Hungary assembling together consulted about the choosing of a new King: for sith the Empress before had already two daughters, they thought not that she now would have had a son: whereupon after many doubts they choosing VLADISLAUS King of Poland for their King (yet some say it was the King's brother) sent to The King of Poland chosen King of Hung●…y. advertise him thereof. In the mean time that the Ambassadors were upon their way, the Empress was delivered of a son, who was named LADISLAUS; which when they saw, they then wished they had not sent to the King of Poland: yet they held it more expedient for the good of the Kingdom to have him for their King, for that he was of age and power to protect their country, and to govern the same, which would be wanting in the infant; and they in like manner were of opinion that the Bohemians would have made him their King also. Standing in this doubt, the King of Poland (to take benefit of the time) in the greatest haste he could, came into Hungary, and was in Buda by those which desired to have him so received for their King. In the mean time, the widow Queen with her new born son, together with the Earl of Cilia and great part of the nobility, went to Alba Regalis, where upon Whitsonday the young child was crowned King by the Archbishop of Strigonium. This solemnity being ended, and fealty sworn to him by those which were present, as to their Lord and King, the Queen with her son fearing the inconstancy of the Hungars, by the counsel of some her friends presently took her way towards Viena, and committing him to the protection of his Uncle the new Emperor, together with the crown of that Kingdom, which she had in her power (which is there held for the best right to have the possession thereof) she returned into Hungary, to see if she might have the government thereof, during her son's minority. Some say that she sent the young King to the Emperor: but howsoever it was, the Emperor as his Uncle had the wardship of the child, for to him appertained the protection of the house of Austria. In Hungary was great contention who should be King: but those which took part with VLADISLAUS King of Poland being assisted by JOHN HUNIADES VAIVODA (a very famous Captain for the great victories which he had obtained against the Turks) for that time prevailed: and the young LADISLAUS, although crowned, remained a long time dispossessed in the Emperors keeping. In the Kingdom of Bohemia was no less combustions: for the Emperor ALBERT being dead, they in like manner treated of the choosing a new King; and they having appointed a day for that purpose; before the time came, the widow Empress was delivered of her son LADISLAUS, and she presently upon her delivery sent into Bohemia, to inform the Bohemians of the equity of her cause, and to put them in mind that she was the daughter of the Emperor SIGISMOND, King of Bohemia; and that she and her husband ALBERT had enjoyed the same, wherefore they should not now deprive her son of his right. The Ambassadors doing what in them lay, found favour and assistants; but TASCON and the rest which had been ALBERTED enemies, were of such authority, that notwithstanding they confessed that the child LADISLAUS had right to the Crown, yet they alleged that he aught not to be King before he was four and twenty years of age: and their sentence prevailing, they chose ALBERT Duke of Baviere for their King, who showing the greatness of his mind, would not accept it: a rare example of magnanimity, and seldom seen. The Bohemians meeting again agreed to sand to entreat the Emperor FREDERICK; that seeing he had charged himself with the protection of the person of the young King, that he would also be pleased to take upon him the government of the kingdom of Bohemia: and TASCON who was one of the Ambassadors, counselled him to have made himself King thereof, which was a matter easy to effect. This Ambassage was delivered to the Emperor at such time as he was going towards Aken to be crowned (for he was but newly chosen) his answer he referred until his return; which then was, that whereas they had offered him the kingdom of Bohemia, he would not show himself so unjust a tutor, as to bereave the pupil of his right: and that he could as ill take upon him the government of the country, for he had otherwise enough to answer for before GOD, for that which he held, and for that cause he would undertake no other charge: Wherhfore amongst themselves they might find men sufficient to have the Rule and Government. Those which came with this Ambassage being returned, the Lords of Bohemia appointed a new meeting; and chose for Governors until that LADISLAUS should come to age, TASCON and MENANDER; who were heads and leaders of the contrary faction: To TASCON repaired all the reputed heretics of time past. Within a little while after, TASCON dying GEORGE POGIABRACCIO succeeded him, who after the decease of MENANDER, had the sole government; and many other matters befell in the time that LADISLAUS, by reason of his nonage was in the Emperor FREDERICK'S protection: And the Hungars and Bohemians oftentimes sought to have the keeping of him until he came to full age. This for the present may suffice, to understand the success of the kingdoms of Hungary and Bohemia. The Emperor FREDERICK spent the time from january until july, in providing for the affairs of Hungary and Bohemia, and to make provision for his Coronation, which should be solemnised in the month of August, in the City of Aken, at which time Cardinal LEWES being sent by the Council at Basil, came thither to approve and authorize his Election. About whose coming, there were great alterations; for the Bishop of Liege who was an enemy to the Council of Basil, and to Pope FELIX, holding with EUGENIUS, put him out of the town: but THEODORICUS Archbishop of Colen (who held with those of Basil) made him to be received in again, whereupon Pope EUGENIUS deposed him from his Prelacy, until that afterwards he was through the Emperor's entreaty by his Ambassadors restored. The Coronation being ended, the Emperor returned into Austria where he was at great controversy with his brother ALBERT about the division of the estates thereof; with whom FREDERICK The Em●…ror Frederick crowned in Aken. seeking to come to an agreement, procured peace and concord through all Germany; for he was ever inclined to peace and a lover thereof. Whilst the Emperor applied himself hereto, in Italy in those days (or a little before) after great war and infinite combustions, a peace was concluded between Duke PHILIP of Milan of the one side, and the Venetians and the Florentines of the other. And FRANCIS SFORZA who was General of their Army marrying the Duke of Milanes base daughter, had Cremona and other places with her for her dowry: this peace was made in the year 1442. A little before this, in the same year, ALONSO king of Arragon wholly expelling his competitor RENE out of the kingdom of Naples, remained in full possession thereof. About this time, VLADISLAUS King of Poland (who was also in possession of Hungary) after many adventures passed in the wars against the Turks fight a battle with them, was therein unfortunately slain; having been King of Hungary but four years. King VLADISLAUS being slain in this manner, the Noblemen and Burgesses of Cities assembling, chose the child LADISLAUS their right Sovereign, for their King; who (as I said) at the age of four months was crowned in Alba Regalis; and they having proclaimed him for their King, sent a solemn Ambassage to entreat the Emperor to permit them to have the custody of him, to the end that they might crown him: whereto the Emperor (commending their doings) answered, that there needed no election, sith he was their natural Lord; neither was there any need to crown him, sith he was already crowned. And seeing that he was but an infant, and wanted a tutor, until that he should come to age, he willed them to choose them Governors; and he would take care for his person until he should be of years fit to govern. With this answer the Hungars being greatly discontented, resolved to have that by force which by fair means they could not obtain: And JOHN HUNIADES being chosen for their Governor, came into Austria to war upon the Emperor, for that he gave them not their King; but finding sufficient resistance, missed of his purpose. About the same time, the Bohemians in like manner did sue to have him; to whom the Emperor gave the self same or the like reasons and excuses as he had done to the Hungares, and so he dispatched them for that time. Whilst these matters passed, after most cruel wars, between England and France, a truce for a time was taken between them, and the Dauphin of France whose name was LEWES, in the time of this truce, without any reason o●… occasion that might move him thereto▪ levied a very mighty Army; and entering Germany, besieged and took the City and state of W●…embergh, and other Towns of less quality, no man knowing thereof: yet Historians set down sundry. Some say, that he came by the Emperor's pr●…urement against the Swissers, who at that time were enemies to the house of Austria. NAUCLERUS writeth, that he published, that he came to recover those lands which in ancient time appertained to the house of France. PLATIN●… and other Italians writ, that the Dolphin's coming was by the Pope's instigation, to overth Tow the Council at Basil; which in my opinion is most likely to be true: for, he presently marched against Basil; and the Swissers (who were in league with that City) sent 4000 chos●…mens to the relief thereof; but they could not enter it without meeting with the Dolphin, A memorable battle fought by the Swissers against the Frech near to Basil. who within sight of the City fight with his whole Army, were all slain, not one escaping: but they sold their lives very dear; for, they fight in a manner a whole day from the morning till night, were not broken until they had slain twice so many of their enemies as they were. After this battle the Emperor sent to require the Dolphin to make no wars in the Territories of the Empire, and began to provide for the defence thereof. Some report it after this manner, and others after another: the conclusion was, that the Dolphin having done much harm in many places, returned to his father's Kingdom. At this time died JOHN PALEOLOGUS Emperor of Constantinople; and for that he had no son, his brother CONSTANTINE PAL●…OLOGUS succeeded him. Many matters The death of john Paleologus, Emperor of Constantinople. passed in those days in Italy, which I have not time to relate. King ALONSO of Arragon, possessing the Kingdom of Napies, and defending the cause of Pope EUGENIUS (with whom he was in great grace) was by him invested, and confirmed in his Kingdom. Pope EUGHNIUS being dead, Cardinal THOMAS SARZANO (who lately was Legate The death of Pope Eugenius, whom Nicholas the Fift succeeded. in Germany) was chosen, and called NICHOLAS the Fift; to whom (as soon as he was consecrated) the Emperor sent to acknowledge obedience, and he sought to have established a general peace through all Italy: but the treaty of peace and the conclusion thereof was interrupted by the death of the great and puissant P●…ILIP, Duke of Milan; who might justly be called The death of the mighty Philip, Duke of Milan. great: for, he was great of mind, of body, of power, of estate, and of fare greater wit and understanding than any of his Ancestors: which PHILIP died the thirteenth day of August, in the year of our Lord 1447, in the two and fiftieth, of his age, and the two & thirtieth of his reign. When he died he left never a son, and but one base daughter called BLANCH, who (as I said) was married to FRANCIS SFORC●…. The Duke being dead, the City of Milan, crying Liberty and Empire, made choice of twelve men to govern it; but there was a sudden alteration: for, many sought to have been Lords thereof. The Milanois (as I said) desired their liberty; and King ALONSO of Naples and Arragon Titles to the duchy of Milan. pretended a title of inheritance: for, Duke PHILIP by his Will and Testament made him heir to all his dominions. The Emperor with better right pretended that estate to appertain to the Empire (for default of heirs) and therefore it was to return to the Empire: but he had not time to come into Italy, by reason of the great fear and danger of the coming of the Turks into Hungary; which, as Emperor, and Tutor to the young King, he was to defend. FRANCIS SFORC●…, having married the base daughter of Duke PHILIP, pretended title to the duchy of Milan by the right of his wife. CHARLES Duke of Orleans would have it, for that he was the son of VALENTINA, sister to Duke PHILIP'S father; which VALENTINA was married to LEWES Duke of Orleans, brother to CHARLES the sixt King of France: wherefore CHARLES pretended that Duchy to appertain unto him. The Venetians, taking for their right the occasion which was offered, presently seized sundry, Towns into their hands; as, Cremona, Placencia and Lodi. All those which pretended title to the Duchy of Milau, sent their Ambassadors to the Milanois; not that they all did absolutely make claim thereunto, but with certain compliments and offers to assist them against the Venetians which took their Towns. The Milanois would accept no Sovereign but the Emperor: whom they entreated to permit them to enjoy their liberty, upon condition whereof they would yearly give him a cup of gold in token of their vassalage and subjection; and to that effect they dis●…atched their Ambassadors unto him: but God in his secret judgement had reserved that estate for FRANCIS SFORC●…; which happened after this manner: FRANCIS SFORCE being certified of the death of his father in law PHILIP, and that the Venetians made themselves Lords of the country; hasted him to Cremona, which was his own town, given him for his wife's dowry; and fortifying, garrisoning, and furnishing the same with all things needful, he went to Pavia, whither being called by the inhabitants, he become Lord thereof. The Milanois made him General of their Army against the Venetians; and he accepting the charge, having good success, overthrew them in battle: and being victorious (imitating OCTAVIUS CAESAR) made peace with them, which they gladly accepted, and in their agreement they bond themselves to assist him with certain troops of men of war: and he resolving to put in execution what he had intended (which was to make himself Lord of Milan) bend his forces against the Towns and Cities of Lombardy; some of which he took by force, and other by fair means, and in the end besieged the city of Milan itself: and after many accidents, was received into it; and so with the title and by right of Arms, was called Duke of Milan; and afterwards coming to be Lord of the whole estate, was a mighty and a valiant Prince, and lived many years Lord thereof. At the same time when these matters passed in Milan and Italy, the Emperor FR●…DERICK, after the dissolution of the Council of Basil, sought by all means to root out the schism betwixt the Popes, for FELIX was still called Pope and obeyed by the Savoisns: but the Emperor's Counsel and Authority so much prevailed with him, as he was forced to come to obedience, and renouncing the Papacy, was by Pope NICHOLAS made a Cardinal, and his Legate in Savoy, and in certain other Provinces. Shortly after ensued great wars in Germany, between many of the Imperial cities, and the marquis of Bra●…denburgh, who was assisted by the Earl of Wittenberg: the war was such, as in the space of two years that it lasted, they fought nine several times, and fortune favouring sometime one, and sometime the other, much harm was done before that the Emperor could pacify the same: until at length; by his intercession and commandment, a peace was concluded between these Princes and the cities. And he having settled this concord, resolved to come into Italy, for the great desire he had to be crowned, wherein ALONSO King of Naples and Arragon was his ally and great friend; the Venetians were also his friends, for as he loved peace, so he ever sought to maintain the same. He having resolved to go his journey, and agreed to marry with the Lady ELINOR daughter to the King of Portugal, it was decreed that she (he being there) should come into Italy by Sea, and that the nuptials should there be solemnised. Whereupon he levied an indifferent Army of foot and horse, and provided all things necessary for his journey: and departing from Germany, carried with him LADISLAUS the young king of Hungary and Bohemia, not without grief to both those kingdoms, who very instantly desired to have had the guard of him: by reason whereof, a great number of the Nobles of both those Kingdoms, together with many Lords of Su●…uia and Austria accompanied him: with which (although in warlike manner) in the beginning of The E●…r going into Italy january in the year of our Lord one thousand four hundred fifty two, he entered Italy: and coming into the country's subject to the Venetians, Ambassadors with show of singular love and affection came to entertain him, who freely furnished his whole Army with victuals whilst he was in their jurisdiction. Keeping on his way by Trevigi and by Padua to Ferrara, he was thereby BORSIO their Duke sumptuously feasted; and in all parts was entertained with great love and good will From Ferrara he came to Bologna (notwithstanding that FRANCIS 〈◊〉 invited him to come to Milan, there to be crowned with the crown of Iron) and following his way towards Rome, accompanied with the Cardinal which came to receive him there) he went to Flor●…ce, and was there most sum●…ously entertained, and had the like in Si●…na, whither he presently went: at his being there, he was certified that the King of Portugal's daughter, to whom he was to be married, being but sixteen years old, was arrived by Sea in the city of 〈◊〉 and he staying for her there, she, with many gallants in her train was brought to Stena; where the Emperor, accompanied with the King of Bohemia and other Princes and men of account, went to meet her. The Emperor was already by his deputy betrothed to her, but he deferred the Nuptials until he might receive her at the hands of the Pope. The Emperor being com●… to Rome, was sumptuously entertained and feasted by Pope NICHOLAS, who upon the steps coming into Saint PETER'S Church clad in his pontificalibus, attending his coming, received Henricus Mucius lib. 29. him; the Empress and the King of Bohemia, kissing his foot he gave them his hand coming into the Church, and having made their prayers, and other ceremonies accustomed, they went The Emperor Frederick crowned and married in Rome by Pope Nicholas. to their lodgings; and upon the fifteenth day of March in the year one thousand four hundred fifty two, the Emperor was married to the Empress, and was the same day with the Iron crown, which should have been done in Milan, crowned king of Lombardy: And three days after in the same Church, with the ceremonies and solemnities accustomed, was crowned Emperor of Rome, and the Empress in like manner. The feasts at the coronation being ended, the Emperor leaving King LADISLAUS in Rome went to Naples, whither afterwards came his wife the Empress, to see King ALONSO who was her uncle, where they were continually for the space of fifteen days sumptuously feasted. From Naples the Emperor by sea, and up the river Tiber, returned to Rome, thence to take his journey towards Germany; where he was advertised, that the Hungars and Bohemians had caused some alterations for that the Emperor detained their King from them; the chief motors were VLRICH Earl of Cilia, and another VLRICH a man of great power. The Empress tarrying 8. days longer in Naples then the Emperor, went by land to Manfredonia, and from thence by sea to Venice, for she knew that the Emperor would go to see that city before his return into Germany. The Emperor in his journey took Ferrara in his way; where in reward of the service done him by BORSIO Duke of Ferrara at his coming and going, he made him Duke of Modena and Reggi●…, and gave him the title and sovereignty of those cities: and being there, GALEAS SFORCE Viscount, son to FRANCIS SFORCE Duke of Milan came to see him, and brought him gifts and presents from his father. The Emperor friendly entertaining him dubbed him Knight, for the good conceit he had of his person. And from Ferrara the Emperor sending his people by land, went down the river of Po to the city of Venice, where he was received with infinite sorts of triumphs, whither the Empress was already come, and was received with no less solemnity: in such feasting and pastimes he spent there other ten days: and then departed, accompanied with the Duke and Senate of Venice to the sea side, who sent Pouruoiers before with order, that in all their dominion, his whole court should be furnished with all things necessary gratis. And so this peaceable Prince passed through Italy in peace, and with every man's love and applause, which he could not have done if he had been ambitious and desirous of war: and if he could have done it, it would have been to the greater loss of his people and expense of money, and with the peril of his life and burden to his conscience, as by the histories of other Emperors which came into Italy to other intents, it may appear. The Emperor being departed out of Italy, it seemed that peace and quietness went away with him: for the wars presently began between those which formerly had been enemies, who as Wars between the 〈◊〉 of Italy. long as he was there were in some sort pacified. The Venetians being in league with King ALONSO, with the Duke of Savoy, and with the marquis of Monferrato, against FRANCIS SFORCE Duke of Milan, made cruel war against him, whom the Florentines and LEWES GONZAGA marquis of Montoa assisted and aided. And King ALONSO, enemy to the Florentines, sent his son FERDINAND with 8000 horse as some writ and 4000 foot to make war in Tuscan. The King of France dealt with RENE Earl of Provence, to pass into Italy with 2000 horse, in the behalf of the Duke of Milan and the Florentines, in hope of the enterprise of Naples. So as there was most cruel war through all Italy, the issue whereof I have no time to declare. The Pope using all means to have pacified the same, desired they all should have joined together, to have helped the Emperor of Constantinople against the great Turk, knowing that he purposed to besiege the city of Constantinople: but he could not then effect the same, and so Constantinople was not relieved, when it stood in mostneed. The Emperor FREDERICK coming into Germany, found it in no better quiet, than 〈◊〉 his departure he left Italy; for a great part of his country of Austria was in Arms against him, and had thrust out the Governors which he had set there: all which was done for that he had 〈◊〉 left they young King of Hungary and Bohemia at liberty, moved thereto by the Earl of Cilia and by VLRICH a great man in Bohemia; who persuaded them to take LADISLAUS, the son of ALBERT Duke of Austria for their Lord, to whom that country did more properly apperta●…e; and the Emperor understanding of their rebellion, came with part of his Army to a town called Nieustat, where those of Austria came against him; and notwithstanding that the Emperor had good forces, yet they fought with him, and the fight continued four hours: but so many charged the Imperialists, that they were constrained to retire to Nieustat, before which those of Austria encamping themselves with great fury, in the name of Hungary and Bohemia requiring their King, ba●…tered the same. When it was known that the Emperor was besleged, great preparation was made through all Germany by sundry Princes which resolved to free him: and the like was made by the Hungars and Bohemians, which to the contrary required to have their King. The Emperor foreseeing the great miseries likely to ensue, gave ear to a parley, wherein it was agreed that he should deliver the young King LADISLWS who was not yet fully 14 years old) into the hands of the Earl of Cilia, who should have the keeping of him until November than next coming, in the year one thousand four hundred fifty two: And that the Proctors and deputies of Hungary and Bohemia should meet in the City of Viena, there to conclude who should have the government of those kingdoms; with many other promises which were never performed. Herewith the siege was raised from before the city, and the Earl of Cilia, carried the young king to Viena, where he was received with as great joy, as if he had been the natural Lord thereof: and so presently without any other treaty, he gave offices and dignities as lord of the country, and was also called Duke of Austria, by the Title before specified. To him came presently many great men of both the kingdoms, and amongst them JOHN HUNIADES VAIVODA, who had been governor of Hungary; and GEORGE POGIOERACCIO Governor of Bohemia. The time appointed being expired, thither resorted many Princes of Germany, and Ambassadors from the Emperor: but the young unexperienced King would accomplish no part of what was covenanted; and being ruled and led by favourites, in the small time that he lived many disorders were committed in his house and Court, which AENEAS SILVIUS hath most excellently written in his History of Bohemia. Viena, and the other Cities which held for LADISLAUS being supported by Hungary and Bohemia, persevered in their rebellion, and so continued as long as LADISLAUS lived. Whilst the Emperor FREDERICK was pestered with these troubles, and the other Princes had wars amongst themselves, MAHOMET the great Turk in the beginning of the year one thousand four hundred fifty three, with an huge Army besieged the Imperial City of Constantinople, the head of all the Greek and Oriental Empire (CONSTANTINE Constantinople besieged and taken by the great Turk. the last Emperor thereof being within it) which he besieged the space of more than fifty days; in which time (for that it was not relieved) upon the nine and twentith day of May in the same year, the City was by force taken and entered, and the Emperor, to the shame and dishonour of all Christian doom was therein slain: and in that City were such cruelties committed, as the like thereof had never been seen or heard of. For the loss of Constantinople all the Princes in Christendom were very sorry, but much more when they understood how great cruelties and murders the Turk had afterwards committed; and that he had taken other Towns and Provinces thereto adjoining, and that he therewith threatened Italy and Germany: Whereupon they began to consult of defence and resistance to be made against him: but the Ambition and dissension which reigned amongst them, gave no place to the conclusion or performance of any good exploit; as in our days the like hath been seen in the like necessity. Yet the next year a peace was concluded in Italy between the King of Naples and the Venetians, the Duke of Milan, and the Florentines, and those of their league: which being concluded, the Pope rigged up a great fleet of Galleys to make head against the Turks; but they writ that he was ever so sorrowful after the loss of Constantinople that he never enjoyed good day, but falling sick died, upon the twenty fift day of March in the year one thousand four hundred fifty five, in the fifteenth year of the reign of the Emperor FREDERICK, and the eighth of his Papacy. After his decease, Cardinal ALFONSO BORGIA a Spaniard was chosen Pope, and called CALIXTUS the Third. The first thing he undertook was to procure war against the Turk, and to that effect sent out his Bulls, and a general Croisaide, and therewith sent his Legates into all parts of Christendom, especially into Germany; where the Emperor having the like care, had summoned a Diet or Parliament upon that occasion. And notwithstanding that many Princes gave-in their names, and offered to serve in this war, yet the jealousy and dissension amongst them was such, that they put nothing in execution: but the Pope nevertheless sent Cardinal JOHN CARAIAVAL for his Legate into Germany; who for that it was certainly known that the Turk was coming into Hungary, with the Emperor's aid and favour levied men and money: presently hereupon came news that the Turk was come, and that he had in his Army (they which say lest) one hundred and fifty thousand men, and that he went to besiege Belgrado otherwise called Alba Graeca, and more anciently, Taurinum; and that The great Turk●… entered Hungary. he purposed in few days (taking that City) to march forwards. King LADISLAUS giving the charge of that war, with the defence of that City and Kingdom to JOHN HUNIADES, retired to Viena: for in truth he was neither of age, neither had power sufficient to fight with the Turk. The Pope's Legate with the greatest number of men that he could get came to Buda, and from thence before the Turks coming put himself therewith into the City of Belgrado: amongst those which came with him, was one JOHN CAPISTRANO, a Franciscane Friar, who with his sermons and exhortations gathered together and brought with him a great number of men, which for their device ware the sign of the Crosse. The Turk coming with The Turks besieged Belgrade. his power, and besieging the city, these men wrought wonders in the defence thereof, being furiously battered. To the relief thereof, with the power which the Emperor sent, and such others as he could raise in Hungary, which were forty thousand Foot, and five thousand Horse, came JOHN HUNIADES. To be brief, it pleased God, that the succours being arrived, and comn to blows, they had so good fortune that the Turk was overthrown and wounded, and a great number of his men slain: Whereupon he raising his siege and flying, left his Artillery and baggage behind him. The great Turk overthrown before the city of Belgrado in Hungary. This happened upon Saint MARY MAGDALENS day, in the year one thousand four hundred fifty six. All Christendom rejoiced, and made bonfires for this so notable a victory: And Italy and Germany by this means were delivered from the fear which they conceived, by reason of the late loss of Constantinople: For, considering the great power of the enemy, they all feared to have been lost. Within few days after this victory, died that excellent Captain JOHN HUNIADES: and the Turk by reason of this overthrow, suffering Hungary and Italy to rest in Peace, made wars in the Lands of the Sea called Archipelagus, and in other countries bordering upon them. The Emperor FREDERIDKS reign was so long, and so many accidents happened therein, that I shall be enforced to be briefer in writing what followeth, than I have been in what is past. After this victory obtained by JOHN HUNIADES, the Emperor FREDERICK applied himself to the establishing of peace in Germany, to the end he might be able to prevent what might befall: and being busy herein, the young King of Bohemia and Hungary being of the age of eighteen years died (not without suspect of poison) in the City of Prague, where he attended the coming of the French Kings daughter, to whom he should have been married. The realms of Hungary and Bohemia, and that also which he held in Austria, by reason of his death without issue and heirs, were void; which caused much strife in those countries and kingdoms, about the succession and election, diverse Princes pretending to have right to them. In the end the Bohemians took GEORGE POGIOBRAC●…IO (who was Governor thereof in the time of LADISLAUS) for their King, a man of a Noble house and of great valour. The Hungars for their King chose MATTHEW the son of that excellent warrior JOHN HUNIADES, as well for the love which they bore to his father, as for the good hope they had of his person, being a young man of nineteen years old, and then prisoner in Bohemia for the death of the Earl of Cilia; which grew upon this occasion, the young King LADISLAUS was wholly governed by the Earl of Cilia, who had envied the virtues and glory of JOHN HUNIADES; and after his death continued his hatred against his sons LADISLAUS and MATTHEW, seeking their ruins: LADISLAUS coming to expostulate the matter with the Earl, they fell to words, so as in the end the Earl strooke him, and LADISLAUS slew the Earl. The King of Hungary being informed of the fact, promised LADISLAUS pardon & gave him a pur●…le robe embroidered with Gold: yet being newly incensed, he seized upon both the brethren, and put LADISLAUS to death, and finding that the Noblemen of Hungary hated him for this fact, and that he could not stay there without danger, ●…he returned into Bohemia, carrying MATHIAS the younger brother with him, where soon after the young king died, leaving him a prisoner; whom POGIOBRACCIO the new King of Bohemia setting at liberty, married him to his daughter; and he afterwards being King of Hungary, proved an excellent and a most valiant Prince. In the house of Austria (the government whereof in right appertained to the Emperor) his brother ALBERT pretended, that for as much as his brother was Emperor, he aught to enjoy the same; the like did his cousin SIGISMOND. About this controversy those of Austri●… assembling maintained the Emperor to be their principal Lord; and that he according to the custom of Germany was to have regard to the maintenance of his brothers and cosin-germanes estate: Wherhfore and for the better preservation of the peace, certain Lands and revenues were assigned unto them. The Emperor upon this agreement came to Viena, and was there received and obeyed: but his brother and cousin, persevering in their purposes, caused some alterations in the Country; and there were some sharp bicker about this matter: but, by the mediation of LEWES Duke of Baviere, a composition was made between him and them, yet they were never without jealousies and contentions till the death of ALBERT: at which time the Emperor without any contradiction took possession of that estate. After this, in the year 1458, died ALONSO, King of Arragon and Naples, whom his brother JOHN King of Navarre succeeded in the Kingdoms of Arragon and Sicilia; and in the Kingdom of Naples succeeded his base son FERNANDO, who contended with JOHN the son of RENE, with whom his father was at variance about that Kingdom. And in the month of August following, died Pope CALIXTUS; and in his place was chosen AENEAS SILVIUS, a Cardinal and Citizen of Sieva, and was called PIUS the Second; who was so excellently learned, and endued with so many graces, that I cannot express what is written in commendation of him: besides this, the books which he wrote bear record of his wisdom and learning; who accordingly first took care for the defence of Christendom, and for the wars against the Turk, and to that effect wrote to the Emperor and the other Princes. The next year after his election, he summoned a general Council to be held in the City of Montoa, to treat more effectually of the matter; where many Noblemen and Princes Ambassadors met, and many matters were devised and ordained, which were never put in execution, by reason of the wars and troubles in Italy, and between the most part of the Princes in Christendom. Particularly in Germany, in the year 1460, began great debate and strife between VDALRICUS Earl of Wittenberg, and FREDERICK Count Palatine of Rhine, about a dowry and some such matter; for which they came to fight sundry times, and many were slain of either side, until that an agreement was made by the Emperor's commandment and authority. After this another war ensued, of longer continuance and more dangerous; which was for the Archbishopric of Mentz: for which, DIYETERUS of Ysenburgh, and ADULPH of Nassaw contended. DIYETERUS, who was in possession of the greatest part of the Bishopric, being for his contumacy, intrusion, simony, and such other matters, by the Sentence of Pope PIUS deposed, ADULPH by the Emperor's consent was by the Pope created; so as the one to get possession, and the other to defend the same, troubled all Germany, which the Emperor could not remedy: for, their rage grew to that height, that his commandments being contemned, some Princes taking part with the one, and some with the other, all employed their whole force therein; and there followed many battles and encounters, and many great Personages were slain of either party. CARION writes; that Pope PIUS the Second, of the house of the Puolomini, who had been Secretary to the Emperor FREDERICK, relying upon his private love, and his respect to the Sea of Rome, deposed DIYETERY from the Archbishopric of Mentz, and advanced ADULPH of Nassaw. The chief reasons they say were, for that he opposed himself stoutly against the Pope's unjust exactions, wherewith the Provinces were oppressed under colour of the Turkish war; and that Pope PIUS required an oath, whereby his successors should also be bound, that he should not call the Electors together for the choosing of a new Emperor, or to determine of any other thing concerning the Empire, before they had acquainted the Pope therewith, and known his pleasure, which he refused to do. This quarrel drew most of the Princes and chiefest Lords of Germany into Arms and combustions, as you have formerly heard. This war continued long: but yet in the end, by the Emperor's order and authority, the matter was taken up; but the harms which were done before that time, could not be repaired as he would have had them. For, he was so ill obeyed by his subjects in Austria, that those of Viena joining one day with his brother ALBERT, in the year of our Lord 1463, took Arms and besieged the Emperor in the Fortress of that City; and, battering the same, would have taken him prisoner. The King of Bohemia, who was his next neighbour, desiring to win his grace and favour, came to his aid; and rescuing him, in such manner pacified the rebellion, that the Emperor if it had so pleased him might have apprehended his brother ALBERT, but he of purpose let him go: and it pleased God that a while after Duke ALBERT died, when as without his death there was no mean of peace in the state of Austria. He being dead, the Austrians together with Duke SIGISMOND wholly submiting themselves, become subject to the Emperor. In the year 1464, in the 24 year of the reign of the Emperor FREDERICK, died that excellently learned Pope, PIUS the Second, otherwise called AENEAS SILVIUS, after The death of Aeneas Silvius, otherwise Pope Pius 2. whom was chosen Cardinal BARBO a Venetian, and was called PAUL the Second, who considering that the Turks daily conquered the Christian countries, applied himself to procure a remedy: but the same reason which hindered others, prevented him also, so as he could not bring it to pass. Yet the Venetians entered into league with MATHIAS King of Hungary, whose fame and reputation was then very great; and they giving him a certain sum of money, resistance was made in diverse parts. About this time died FRANCIS SFORC●… Duke of Milan, whom his eldest son GAL●…AS MARIA SFORC●… succeeded in that Dukedom. About this time also died PMILIP Duke of Burgundy, and Earl of Flanders, whom succeeded the most valiant and renowned Captain Duke CHARLES, called CHARLES the Hardy. In the second year after Pope PAUL'S election, the Emperor FREDERICK came to Rome, where by the Pope he was most honourably received: the cause of his coming, some say was to perform a vow which he had made; others say that it was to confer with the Pope concerning wars against the Turk: but howsoever it was, he came and returned quietly into Germany, where through his means peace continued long after, at the last there was no great war, either in Germany or in Italy. In those days notwithstanding that these countries were in peace and quiet, yet Duke CHARLES of Burgundy had cruel wars with France, and with the Swissers, and with other Princes. Pope PAUL being dead, SIXTUS the 4 succeeded him, who although he was but a Franciscane Friar, yet they writ that he was so warlike, that the most part of the time that he was Pope he warred in Italy. The next year after his election which was in the year 1472, and the 32 of the Emperor's reign, Duke CHARLES of Burgundy (of whose power and aspiring mind and of his wars, and the battles which he fought, wonders are written) procured leave to see, and to speak with the Emperor: and they meeting in Lutzemburgh, the Duke requested many matters at the Emperor's hands; amongst which, this was one, that the Emperor should give him the title of King of Nuples, and make him his Vicar or Lieutenant in Italy, for he purposed to have made a conquest thereof. The Emperor disliking the ambition of this Prince, temporising in the best manner he could, answered him in general terms without concluding any thing, and in a night without bidding him farewell, departed the City; wherewith the Duke was very much discontented, and the next year following he levied a very great Army, and marching towards Colen be●…ieged the City of Nuis: which he did to the end (as he said) to restore Colen to ROBERT of Bavari●… the Archbishop thereof, who was his kinsman and good friend. The Emperor understanding that the Duke's meaning was (if he could) to take Colen; required him to raise his siege; which taking no effect he levied a very great Army, and therewith marched directly against the Duke: but as he was slack in his business, so he needed (considering the Duke's power) to have speedily brought a great Army: but as he came not with such expedition as the cause required; so the besieged, and the country thereabout endured great extremity, and the siege continued many months: but he coming at length (though late first) and the one Army encamping near to the other (with the Emperor came the Duke of Saxony, the marquis of Brandenburg, the Archishops of Mentz and Treviere) and being at the point to have given battle (which as it was thought would have been very cruel) a treaty of peace was propounded between them, whereto the Emperor never refused to give ear, in so much that he was therefore called The peaceable Prince. What the conditions of the peace were, I find not written by those Authors which I have read: but the effect of what ensued, was that the Duke raising his siege from before the Town, returned with his Army into his Country; and so the war ended betwixt the Emperor and him. Some writ, that by this peace it was concluded that MAXIMILIAN the Emperor's son should marry with the only daughter of CHARLES, and enjoy all his Provinces, if he died without issue male. Out of this peace were excepted by CHARLES, LEWES the French King, SIGISMOND of Austria the Emperor's cosin-germane, RENE Duke of Lorraine, and the Swissers, who had made an irruption into Burgundy by the procurement of LEWES: and he was incensed against SIGISMOND, for the redeeming of certain Towns which had been pawned to him. But the Duke had other wars, for he ever desired and procured the same, and thereby enlarged his Countries and Dominions until that in the year one thousand four hundred sixty six, in a cruel battle which he fought with the Duke of Lorraine, he was overthrown and slain. His death was the cause that the Emperor The death of Charles the Hardy, Duke of Burgundy. and his son MAXIMILIAM warred with the French King, the relics and seed whereof continued long, and happened in this manner: The warlike Duke CHARLES dying in such manner, as I said, left no heir but one only daughter; whose estate contained the two Burgundy's, the estates of Flanders, Brabant, Gelder's, Holland, Zealand, Artoys, and many other Towns, besides those which he had taken in Lorraine, in Picardy, and from the Swissers; for his mind and valour was so great, that he durst hold all the world for his enemy, and made no reckoning to take their towns. But this smoke (for so it may well be called) being by his death overblown; even as he had done by all others, so all men dealt with his. The Duke of Lorraine, and his confederates the Swissers, recovered what he had taken from them. LEWES the French King, speedily levying an Army, recovered Picardy, took the Cities of Peronne, Mountdidier, Turnay and other Towns. The Flemings and Burgonians with those of their party, in the name of their Sovereign Lady, MARY daughter of the deceased Duke, for their defence put themselves in Arms. The French King alleged that Burgundy for want of heirs males, was to return to the house of France: the Duke of Lorraine by his commandment entering Burgundy, took the greatest part thereof; and the King sent to require the Duchess MARY to come into France in person to do him homage for the Earldom of Flanders, and her other estates subject to the Crown of France: but she understanding his meaning, refusing to come stood upon her guard. Hereabout were many treaties and parleys, and many Towns were taken, too long to be recited. The Flemings sending to the Emperor for aid, offered their Duchess MARY in marriage to his son MAXIMILIAN, who was then one and twenty years old, a young man of a great spirit, valiant, a comely personage, of a very good constitution, and apt for any attempt. The Emperor being very glad of this proffer, granted their requests, notwithstanding that he saw he undertaken a war against France, and that he already had wars with MATHIAS King of Hungary, who (like the Duke of Burgundy) was never content with what he had, but thought all too little; and incensing the Austrians against the Emperor, took some towns from him in Austria and warred upon him. The French King having intelligence of this treaty of marriage, sent to the Emperor and his son MAXIMILIAN persuading them to desist. This notwithstanding, MAXIMILIAN who was now called Archduke of Austria, with many good men of war, in july, in the year 1467, went into Flanders, and marrying this Lady MARY had with her all her dominions: the wars on the Flemings side against the French through his coming, were well reinforced: and he therein fight oftentimes in his own person, showing the greatness of his mind, obtained some victories, especially one memorable battle between Turnay and Arras, wherein he alighting from his horse, put himself into a squadron of foot. Afterwards some The 〈◊〉 of Guinegast. treaties of peace being motioned, a truce was taken for a time; wherein the French King rendering some Towns, continued in possession of what he had taken in Burgundy, and so for a season the war ceased. This peace (so fare as I can conjecture) was made by the Emperor's procurement, by reason of wars made against him by MATHIAS King of Hungary: for which, being otherwise troubled with other occasions of the Empire, he could make no sufficient provision, and also for that the peace with Fr●…nce (as presently shall be said) continued but a small time. The reason of the war, betwixt the Emperor and MATTHEW CORVINUS King of Hungary, was, for that the Pope having by his Bulls given the kingdom of Bohemia to CORVINUS, from GEORGE BOIEBRAC, who constantly defended and maintained the doctrine of JOHN HUSSE, which was hateful to the Court of Rome, the Emperor refused to invest him in the said kingdom. But this quarrel grew violent after the death of GEORGE, when as the Noblemen of Bohemia, and the Emperor neglecting CORVINUS, made choice of LADISLAUS the son of CASIMIRE King of Poland, the Emperor having first refused to come unto the said kingdom; either terrified with the mutinies of the Bohemians, or else that he fled from toil and danger, wherein he knew he should be engaged against so powerful and valiant a Competitor. In this war the Emperor was in very great danger to have lost Austria, if ALBERT Duke of Saxony had not valiantly and fortunately made head against MATHIAS, forcing him in the end to accept of conditions of peace. MATHIAS did so honour ALBERT for the event of this war, as he gave him only the praise, to be one of the greatest and most valiant Captains among all the Princes of Christendom. At the same time GALEAS MARIA having been nine year's Duke of Milan, certain his subjects and favourites, for his licentiousness, and insatiable Luxury, conspiring against him, slew him as he was in S. STEPHEN'S Church at Mass, he being then of the age of three and thirty years. He left for his successor a son of the age of nine years, whose name was JOHN GAL●…AS, who by reason of his nonage was under the tutele of his mother BONA: through whose negligence and unchaste life, his uncle LEWES or LODOWICK, called the Moor (a man blinded with ambition and desire of command) seized upon the person of the young Duke, whom he consumed away with a slow poison, and usurped the government, getting into his hands all the strong holds, or whatsoever else did belong to that state, whereby he came to be absolute Lord of the whole Duchy: and his Nephew (languishing two and twenty years) had only the title of Duke; and LODOWICK the authority and possession: where many matters happened, which for that they concern not my History I omit. The truce between MAXIMILIAN and France continued little more than one year, at the end whereof the French King and he renewed the war, which lasted a certain space▪ and some Towns were taken both of the one side and of the other; until at length through the procurement of the Emperor FREDERICK, a peace between them was concluded for seven years. At the same time when these matters passed, the great and mighty Turk MAHOM●…T, having done much harm in the Christian countries, held Rhodes besieged little less than three months; but it pleased God that he could not then take it: this happened in the year of our Lord 1480. After this in the same year, he sent a mighty Army by Sea, which landing, in Puglia and in the kingdom of Naples, took some Towns, and amongst others Otranto, which they held more than one year after: and if through the goodness of God the great Turk had not died, all Italy was in danger to have been lost: but through the death of this mighty Tyrant The death of Mahomet the great Turk. (who in Graecia, besides Constantinople and Thracia) had taken and subdued many Provinces, and an infinite number of Ci●…ieses and Towns) those towns in Italy were recovered, and Christendom was freed from the oppression which it endured: and the rather for that his son and heir BAJAZETH in the beginning of his reign, was troubled with domestical war and dissension. At this time died RENE Earl of Provence and Duke of Ani●…w, an ancient challenger of the crown of Napl●…s. In Italy was great war at that time, which beginning between the Venetians, and the Duke of Ferrara, spread itself over all Itali●…: Which the Emperor FRED●…RICK perceiving, and considering how great danger all Christendom was in, he procured the Princes of Germany to settle some perpetual peace and concord, thereby to be able to resist the Turks: the like he practised with the French King, and with his own son the Archduke of Austria, and Duke of Burgundy. Whilst he was thus busy, the Duchess MARY, daughter to the brave Duke CHARLES, with whom MAXIMILIAN had so many provinces, came unfortunately to her end: for she (as of custom she used to do) riding hunting, fell from her horse; and, as some say, the horse trod upon her, or kicked her, whereof she died: others say, that with the fall she was so bruised, that she died thereof the eleventh day after, which was upon the seventeenth day of March, in the year of our Lord 1482, when she had been Lady of those Country's little more than five years. She left at her decease one son and one daughter which were PHILIP, who afterward was King of Spain, and father to the Emperor CHARLES the Fift; and MARGARET, which afterwards was a Princess in Spain. When this Duchess MARY died, LEWES the French King was very sick, and lying upon his death bed, desired peace; wherewith the Emperor being well pleased; they agreed, that MARGARET (which was a child of two years old) when she should be of age, should be married to his son CHARLES, who afterwards was King and then twelve years old: and that their fathers and they should keep perpetual peace: with this condition, that either of them should continued in possession of what they held in Burgundy. This being concluded, the young MARGARET with great pomp was brought to Paris, where her wedding feast was held, although it afterwards took no effect, as shall be said. Within few days after this solemnity King LEWES died, leaving his son CHARLES of the age almost of thirteen years, to succeed him. At the same time a peace was coucluded The death of jews king of France. in Italy, and about the same time the Emperor assembled the Prince's Electors and other Princes of Germany in the City of Frankford, where he desired and obtained of them to make his son MAXIMILIAN King of the Romans, which was effected in the seven and fortith year of his reign, upon the sixteenth day of February, in the year of our Lord one thousand four hundred eighty six: and departing thence with a very great court of Princes and Lords, they went to the City of Aken, where he was with great solemnity crowned with the crown which sometime was of CHARLES the Great; brought for that purpose from Norembergh, where it was kept with great respect. The same day, by the consent of all the Princes, he made a Law: Whereby he ordained under great penalties that peace should be kept through all Germany; which was obeyed, and in the greatest part of Germany observed a long time after. After this, the new king of the Romans came into the Low countries, whereof his son PHILIP was now lord, whose tutor he was, where at first he had great oppositions, ADOLPH D. of Gelder's being head of a faction, who (conspiring with the French) was slain at Tourney, whereupon the Duchy of Gelder's yielded unto him; he being assisted by the counsel and fortune of that valiant warrior ALBERT Duke of Saxony: the Belgians factiously mutyning, and insolently rejecting the command of their new Prince PHILIP of Ravenste in being head of the faction, he so daunted them with encounters and sieges, during the space of eight years, as having taken some Towns by force and others by composition, he so terrified the rest, as they willingly submitted themselves, and craved pardon. After which ALBERT of Saxony transported the wars into Friesland, the which (in reward of his great service, and recompense of his charges) MAXIMILIAN (with the consent of the Princes of the Empire) gave unto him and to his heirs for ever, whereof although he subdued a great part, yet being prevented by death, he left the victory imperfect to his sons. But the event of this Friesland was, that although that GEORGE and HENRY brethren, Dukes of Saxovy, had subdued the greatest part of the country, yet afterwards they fell into a new rebellion, not able to endure a stranger's yoke: wherewith the brethren of Saxony being tired, this Province lying fare from their hereditary possessions, the enjoying whereof would be more chargeable than beneficial, they afterwards passed it over by transaction, to the Emperor CHARLES the Fift, for a certain sum of money. MAXIMILIAN being in the City of Bruges, in the year one thousand four hundred eighty seven, upon certain discontentments the Burghers rose against him, and in this tumult apprehending his person, with certain of his train, they held him prisoner the space of four months: whereof when his father had intelligence, levying the best forces that he could, he hasted to him, and notwithstanding that his son before his coming was at liberty, yet he severely punished the Burghers of Bruges and of Gaunt, and so the king of the Romans peaceably enjoyed the government of the Provinces of the Low Countries, and of that which he held in Burgundy, and his father the Emperor being now old and tired, returned into Germany, to maintain peace and justice, and to provide for defence to be made against the Turks. For the preservation whereof, notwithstanding that MATHIAS King of Hungary had taken Viena and other towns in Austria, he endured it, and attempted not by force to recover the same: but within short space after King MATHIAS died, without any heirs, when he had reigned seven and thirty years. His death being made known to MAXIMILIAN King of the Romans, he with great speed departed from Flanders; and through his father's aid, levying a puissant Army, in short space recovered Viena, and all the rest which King MATHIAS had usurped. Whilst these matters were in handling, LADISLAUS son to CASIMIR●… King of Poland wholly recovered the kingdom of Bohemia, for which both he and his father CASIMIRE had warred with king MATHIAS, from the time that GEORGE POGIOBRACCIO died. After this, both he and MAXIMILIAN pretending to be King of Hungary, each of them sought to marry the Queen widow, the Lady BEATRIX of Arragon, daughter to FERDINAND King of Naples, who was of great authority in that Kingdom. MAXIMILIAN being somewhat slow in the matter deferred the time; but LADISLA●…S' making more haste, married her and was received for King of Hungary, and crowned in Alba Regalis, and presently between him, the Emperor and MAXIMILIAN a peace was concluded, wherein it was ordained by the consent of those of the kingdom, that if LADISLAUS died without lawful issue male, than MAXIM. and his heirs should inherit the kingdom. But LADISLAUS reigned 22 years after, and his son LEWES succeeded him, who married MARY sister to the Emperor CHARLES the Fi●…t: and FERDINAND brother to the Emperor CHARLES, married his sister ANNE: by which marriage (King LEWES being in the year of our Lord 1526. overthrown and slain by SOLIMAN the great Turk) this FERDINAND succeeded in the kingdoms of Hungary and Bohemia: and so the covenant by means never thought of, came Lewes' king of Hungary overthrown and slain by the Turk, anno Dom. 1526. to take effect between LADISLAUS and MAXIMILIAN; which passed in the year 1490. Returning to our history, after this agreement, MAXIMILIAN coming to Norimbergh, by the consent of his father he treated of a marriage between him and the Duchess of Britain, who after her father's decease without heirs males, succeeded in that Dukedom: and CHARLES the French King in like manner sought to have her, notwithstanding that he was already betrothed to MARGARET of Burgundy, which was but a child, and whom he had in his power, as hath been declared. The French writers excuse him herein, and yield reasons for what he did; whereof those Kings are never to seek which have not the fear of God before their eyes. They alleged that the King's contract with the young Lady MARGARET was of no force, for that she was under age; and also for that King CHARLES never consented thereto: and notwithstanding that he had consented, yet he was likewise under age, and afterwards revoked the same; And that the contract of the Duchess of Brittany with MAXIMILIAN was of no effect: for the Duchess gave thereto no sufficient authority, for none of the Ambassadors being four in number, had any authority in solidum to make any contract; neither had the Duchess any meaning to do it: and that which she did was but to temporize with the Britain's, to the end they should not yield themselves to King CHARLES of France. And admitting that the contract had been made by men having sufficient authority, not being confirmed it was of no force, for that the conditions and covenants were not afterwards performed. Finally, by these and other reasons they excuse him, holding their arguments for true and sufficient in their opinion. And the French King going into Britain, the Princess MARGARET (who was nothing sorry for it) returned: for (they say) she never liked of the match, yet yielded thereto by the persuasion of the Flemings: and so a very furious and cruel war began between the Emperor, his son MAXIMILIAN, and the French King. And forasmuch as his father was now old, MAXIMILIAN Wars between the Emperor and the French King. had the sole government, and had already undertaken the charge: but after some bicker, a feigned peace was made between them; whereto MAXIMILIAN by reason of the great and excessive charges of the war, and for some other respects, was constrained to condescend; but principally for that at the same time, which was in the year 1492, the men of war which had served the valiant MATHIAS King of Hungary, which kept still together (& for that they wore mourning colours for their King, were called the black Regiment) through want of pay, or some other insolence, making war in Austria, had the spoil of some towns: for the relief whereof, MAXIMILIAN levying forces, went into those parts, and without any great trouble brake and scattered the mutineers, and for example to others severely punished them. This year was much noted above others for three special things: the first was, for that therein died Pope INNOCENT the 8, in the eighth year of his Papacy; whom RODRIGO the Boria a Spaniard, borne in Valencia in Spain succeeding, was called ALEXANDER the Sixt: GVICCHARDIN writing of his election saith, that he came to be Pope by bribery, having cotrupted some of the Cardinals with money, and poisoned the rest with promises of offices and great preferments; which made him hateful to the world; and drew upon him the vengeance of God. But his election was not so distasteful, but his conditions were more odious: who although he were sharp witted, excellent▪ in counsel, a good Orator to persuade and of great judgement in the greatest affairs, yet these virtues were wonderfully blemished by his vices: for his manners were dishonest, in his actions was no sincerity, there was no modesty in his countenance, small truth in his words, little faith in his heart, and less religion in his soul. Albina his actions were stained with insatiable covetousness, immoderate ambition, barbarous cruelty, and a burning desire to advance his children (by what means soever) being many in number, among the which there was one no less detestable than the father, to whose cursed counsels he become a wicked instrument. The second was, for that the great city of Granada in Spain, was in the beginning of that year, by FERDINAND and ISABEL King and Queen of Castille taken from the Moors: the third was, for that in the same year, by the commandment of the same Princes, the West Indies were discovered in the Ocean sea. This being past, and the year 1493 being comn; Germany and Italy being, through the Emperor's wisdom and good government, in peace, and himself at peace with all Princes, in quiet possession of the Duchy of Austria, and his son MAXIMILIAN being King of the Romans, and Governor of the states and provinces of the Low Countries and of part of Burgundy, in the behalf of his son PHILIP; when he had reigned 53 years and four months' Emperor (wherein no Emperor but AUGUSTUS CAESAR, who reigned three years longer, could be compared with him: but yet FREDERICK did far exceed him in age) at this time The death of the Emperor Frederick the third it pleased God to take him out of the world. This Prince is reported to have had many virtues: for, beside that he was courteous, desirous of peace, temperate in his diet, and very devout, he was in all his life time never heard to swear but twice, which he could not avoid; once was, when he was crowned in Aken; the other time in Rome. He had great care for the preservation of the lands of the Empire: and to the end not to hazard the same, or to bring them in question, he sometimes made peace with the loss of his own estate; neither would he ever invest FRANCIS SFORCE nor his son GALEAS MARIA in the Duchy of Milan, notwithstanding that they were in quiet possession thereof: which when FRANCIS SFOSCE saw it would not be gotten without much money, he gave over the pursuit, nothing fearing the Emperor's force, who was diverted without other war. He had by his wife ELINOR (who died long before him) three sons and two daughters: his first son's name was CHRISTOPHER, who died a child: his second son was MAXIMILIAN, who was afterwards Emperor: the third was JOHN, who also died a child. Of his two daughters, the one, called HELEN, died in her infancy; and the other, called HUGRADA, was married to ALBERT, Duke of Baviere, and was afterwards mother to the Dukes, WILLIAM, LEWES and ERNESTUS. THE LIFE OF MAXIMILIAN, THE FIRST OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDRETH AND FOURTEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. FRederick being dead, his son Maximilian, who in his father's life time had the government of the Empire, was without any contradiction made Emperor. In the beginning of his Reign, he disposing himself to go to the wars against the Turk, who had kept a great stir in Hungary, made him to flee. He took to wife Blanch, daughter to the Duke of Milan, and made great wars against the Swissers. In this Emperor's time the Pisans in Germany made an insurrection, which was one of the greatest tumults that had been seen: but they being soon suppressed, he subdued many other Rebels. Than began to grow the causes of the dissension between Spain and France for the Duchy of Milan. This Emperor made war against the Venetians: then followed the terrible battles of Ravenna and Marinian, with diverse accidents of war, which ended in a feigned (yet for a time durable) peace. When the Emperor Maximilian departed out of this life, he had reigned 25 years. AFter the peaceable FREDERICK, followed his son, the warlike and victorious MAXIMILIAN, who in his father's life time was crowned King of the Romans. The same year that his father the Emperor FREDERICK, died, the Turks made an incursion into the country of Croacia, a province of Hungary, which bordereth upon Dalmatia: and the new Emperor desiring to prevent the danger, speedily raising his forces, went to fight with them, but they having intelligence of his coming, retired: whereupon he dissolved his Army. The Emperor MAXIMILIAN having been a good space a widower; when as his father was dead, he contracted himself to the Lady BLANCH, the daughter of GALEAS, and Niece to LEWES SFORCE Duke of Milan; who being Uncle and governor to his Nephew JOHN GALEAS (who in right was Duke) usurped and held his estate. This BLANCH being the fairest woman of her time was wooed by many Princes, yet to her was the Emperor married. To whom LODOWICK promised in dowry 400 thousand ducats, to be paid within a certain time and 40 thousand in jewels and other ornaments: and MAXIMILIAN (regarding money more than the alliance) tied himself to invest LODOWICK in the Duchy of Milan (to the prejudice of JOHN GALEAS his new brother in-law) to hold it for him and his successors, as if the estate had been without a Duke since the death of PHILIP MARIA visconti. At the same time, which was in the year of our Lord 1494. the French king CHARLES the Eight made preparation to come into Italy, who a little before had given out in speeches that he meant to make a conquest Charles the eighth, King of France, came into Italy. of the kingdom of Naples, which he pretended to belong to him, by the last will and succession of RENE Lord of Provence, and his ancestors Dukes of Anjou: whereto he was chief induced by LEWES Duke of Milan Uncle to the right Duke JOHN: For FERDINAND King of Naples, and his son ALONSO, had required him to leave the government of Milan, to Duke JOHN GALEAS, who was married to King FERDINAND'S Niece, and upon this quarrel they determined to make war upon him: by reason whereof he by all means possible persuaded the French King to come against him into Italy, and to that effect furnished him with a great sum of money. And to the end that the Emperor MAXIMILIAN should not be his enemy in this case, LEWES SFORCE procured this marriage of his Niece with the Emperor. In the time wherein his coming was most bruited, died FERDINAND King of Naples, when he had reigned seven and thirty years, and his son ALONSO Duke of Calabria succeeded him. At this time was the new Empress BLANCH carried into Germany, and there was married to MAXIMILIAN; Germany being in peace and quiet, and the Emperor taking care for the wars, and resistance to be made against the Turks. But the King of France nevertheless took his way towards Italy: and to the end he might pass in more safety, he gave to King FERDINAND the Earldom of Rossillion, and the I'll of Sardinia, which JOHN, father to FERDINAND had mortgaged to LEWES the French King, father to this CHARLES. Of the coming of this King CHARLES, although it concerneth not this history, yet I will briefly writ the sum: for it was a matter very famous, and much feared by the Pope, and by all the Princes and Potentates of Italy: and also for that it will serve for the better understanding of what we shall speak of hereafter, King CHARLES then with 50000. men of foot and horse, in the month of September in the same year came into Lombardy, where he was by Duke LEWES received with great honour, and his Army was by him furnished with all things necessary. Being there he went to visit the right Duke, JOHN GALEAS, who lay sick in Pavia, and within few days after died, leaving a young son called FRANCIS: He was his cousin german: for the King and GALEAS came of two Sisters, daughters to LEWES the Second, Duke of Savoy. The words he used to him were in general, for that LODOWICK was present, only expressing how much he was grieved for his sickness, persuading him to hope of recovery, but in his mind the King and all that were with him had great compassion on him, believing confidently that the young gentleman had not long to live, by the villainy of his uncle. The presence of ISABELLA his wife did add much to this compassion: who not only full of sorrow for her husband's infirmity and the estate of her little son, but much afflicted for the danger wherein her father and friends were, in the presence of them all fell at the King's feet, recommending unto him with tears, her father and his house of Arragon: to whom although the King for her age, beauty and present fortune made some shows of pity, yet not able to stay the course of so great an action upon so slender an occasion, he answered her with shows of will to do that which he could not; saying, that he was forced to prosecute the enterprise, being so fare advanced. Than holding on his journey he came to Pisa, and was afterwards received into Florence, and from Florence he went to Rome, no man daring by the way to make head against him, and much less at his coming to that city. Pope ALEXANDER not daring stay his coming in his Palace, retired himself into the Castle Saint Angelo, so much did they stand in fear of him. Afterwards they two came to a composition of peace, although they neither met nor spoke together: but afterwards upon security they met and conferred; and within few days after, the King with the greatest part of the forces which he brought with him out of France, took his way towards the Kingdom of Naples, in the month of january, in the year of our Lord 1495. where King ALONSO durst not stay until he came; aswell by reason of the great Army which he brought with him, as for that, by reason of his vicious and dissolute life, he was ill beloved of his own subjects of that kingdom. Whereupon, at what time as King CHARLES was in Rome; King ALONSO having reigned not fully one whole year, giving up that Kingdom to his son FERDINAND, went into Sicilia, where he become a Monk, and in short space after died: by reason whereof, his son FERDINAND being King, he raised the greatest power he was able, so that it is affirmed he had 5000. men at Arms, 500 light horse, and a great number of foot. Nevertheless the French had so good success, and King FERDINAND found so great fear, and so little constancy in his people, that after some accidents, he came to Naples, and thence fled by Sea to Ischaia, and King Charles of Francs his conquest of the kingdom of Naples. afterwards into Sicilia; and so the French King in two months space, become Lord of the whole Kingdom, excepting some little towns upon the Sea side, which held for King FERDINAND. Pope ALEXANDER seeing the prosperity and power of King CHARLES in the kingdom of Naples, knowing his ambition, and fearing to loose his estate; whilst he was busied in the conquest of Naples, procured a league to be made between himself, the Venetians, and the Emperor MAXIMILIAN, whom he solicited to come into Italy to the relief and defence of his Church. Into this league also entered LEWES Duke of Milan (notwithstanding that by his procurement King CHARLES took occasion to come into Italy) being grieved in mind for that King CHARLES had so good success in Naples, which made him stand in fear of his own estate; whereto the French King ever had an eye; as afterwards LEWES Duke of Orleans and cousin german to King CHARLES, who afterwards was King, made apparent; who challenged that Dukedom to appertain unto him, for that he was Nephew of the other LEWES Duke also of Orleans, brother to King CHARLES the Sixt, and of his wife VALENTINA, sister to Duke PHILIP of Milan, the last of the Viscounts; whose bastard, FRANCIS SFORCE Duke of Milan took to wife, when he become Lord of that Duchy. Whereupon LEWES for the better confirmation of his estate, obtained of MAXIMILIAN (as supreme Lord of all Lombardy) to be invested in the Duchy of Milan: which in my judgement, and of all those which writ without passion, was his truest and best title; for after the death of Duke PHILIP above named, neither the Emperor FREDERICK, neither MAXIMILIAN had given the title to the Duke, or to his Father, or to his Nephew; neither could it descend to them by the feminine sex, and much less to this LEWES Duke of Orleans, who then sought, and afterwards took the same, when he came to be King of France; and by so much the more, for that the descendants from this SFORCH, came from the woman being a bastard, whereby he unjustly and without reason possessed so great an estate: he being invested by the Emperor with great joy and solemnity, took the ducal Ensigns. King CHARLES having intelligence of the League newly made by these Princes, resolved to leave such forces in the kingdom of Naples, as might suffice for the defence thereof, and with the rest of his Army to return into France; and marching towards Rome, giving the Pope to understand that he came to do his duty to his Holiness; Pope ALEXANDER after some Ambassages between them, not daring to abide his coming, departed from Rome, wherein, and in other towns belonging to the Church, the King's troops did much harm. The Pope not holding himself to be in safety in Civica Vechia, went to Perugia, with an intent, if he were oppressed, to go to Ancona, and thereto embark himself for Venice. The French King departing from Rome, continued his journey towards France, notwithstanding that he knew that in Lombardy the Venetians and the Duke of Milan had an Army in a readiness to fight with him; and in Lombardy LEWES Duke of Orleans had already taken the City of Novarra, under pretext of the title aforesaid: whereupon the Duke of Milan made haste A battle betwixt the French and the Italians at Furno●…. to besiege him. King CHARLES coming near to Parma, passing the river Tarro, found a great Army of his enemies; whereof FRANCIS GONZAGA marquis of Mantoa was General: with whom near to the river they came to a battle, where happened very notable accidents. But heerin is great difference among Writers about this matter: for, the French attribute the victory to their King; and the Italians give it to the Venetians and to the Milanois. The truth is, that neither of the Armies was wholly broken or overthrown, but the Italians that day seemed to be Masters of the field: which appears in this, that they taking many French prisoners, none of them were taken by the French; and they moreover compelled the French king to seek another passage, by reason whereof they were reputed to have the victory. There died in this battle, which was fought on the sixt day of july, in the year of our Lord 1495, a thousand men of both sides. But GVICHARDIN, writing of this battle of Taro or Furnove, saith, that the French had not above 200 slain; and of the confederates there were slain 3000: among which was RAINUCIO de Farneze, Leader of the Venetian horsemen. Touching the honour of the victory, either side sought to appropriate it to himself with what reasons they could produce; The Italians, for that their tents and carriages were not spoiled: but, by the general opinion of all indifferent men, the French were held to have the glory of the victory, both for that they slew more of their enemies, they chased them over the river, and won their liberty to pass on. But after some treaties between the two Armies, the French in a night went towards Aste; where the King remained certain days, and a peace was concluded between him and the Duke of Milan: and LEWES Duke of Orleans rendering Novarra, King CHARLES returned into France; and shortly after, FERDINAND King of Naples recovered that Kingdom, but not without great difficulty, by reason of the French which remained in garrison there, and of those which the King afterwards sent thither. In which war, matters of greatest importance for the service of King FERDINAND, were guided and directed by the famous Captain GONSALO FERNANDES of Cordova, who for his excellency was called the great Captain of Spain; sent thither by King FERDINAND, called the Catholic, The Kingdom of Naples recovered by King Ferdinand of Arragon. for the defence of that Kingdom the first time that he went thither: and so of all this great enterprise, there remained nothing to the French King, but that he did much harm, and put all Italy in great fear (for, the reputation and power wherewith he came, was very great) and making a journey, gave a bold attempt, and therewith returned. Whilst these matters passed in Italy, the Emperor in the same year 1495, assembled a Council or Diet in the City of Worms; where the matter was debated, whether the Emperor should go to relieve the Pope against the French King, or make war against the Turk: but the Princes were so contrary in their opinions, that nothing was concluded. The Emperor at this Assembly gave to the Earls of Wittenberg the title of Dukes, which they hold to this day: and from thence he sent the Ensigns and investiture before named to LODOWICK Duke of Milan; and other matters were ordained concerning the government and peace of Germany. At that time was MAXIMILIAN daily solicited by the Duke of Milan to come into Italy: and in the end by his importunity, and promise' of certain money for the defraying of his Army, the Emperor past the mountains but slenderly accompanied, giving it out that the body of the Army The Emperor comes into Italy. which he had promised, marched after. Being entered Italy, he sent to have the Duke of Savoy and some other Princes come and speak with him: but his forces were so contemptible, that not any one would obey. Than LODOWICK Duke of Milan persuaded the Emperor to go to Pisa (against whom the Florentines made war) hoping by his means to get that Town into his hands: whereupon, the Emperor sent Ambassadors to Florence, to let them understand, that intending to go with a great Army against the Infidels, he held it necessary first to come into Italy, for the pacifying of all quarrels. And for that it did belong to his Imperial Authority, he required to be informed of the controversies between them and the Pisans; commanding them in the mean time to surcease from Arms, with assurance that he would administer justice indifferently. To whom they sent their Ambassadors to Genoa to beseech him to think, that seeing his holy resolution was to settle peace in Italy, there was nothing more convenient than to restore Pisa to the Florentines, from whence sprung all the discontentments to his Majesty and the confederates, Pisa being in that regard the cause which made some aspire to the Empire of Italy; who to that end laboured to keep it in continual war, meaning the Venetians. Moreover, that it was not agreeable to justice, that such as had been despoiled by force, should (contrary to the Imperial laws) be constrained to refer their rights to compromise, if they were not restored to their possession; which if they might obtain of him, they would then refer their cause to him, and wholly rely on his justice. MAXIMIL. discontent with this answer, went by sea to Pisa, meaning to besiege Livorn: where doing little good, he raised his siege, and returned suddenly with little honour into Germany, having showed his weakness in Italy. It happened after, that King FERDINAND having recovered his Kingdom, falling sick, died; and for that he had no son, his uncle FREDERICK, brother to his father King ALONSO, had the Kingdom; and many other matters befell in Italy, which I have no time to writ: and the Emperor was in peace with King CHARLES, who shortly after in the year 1497, died suddenly; which caused a great alteration: for, by reason that he had no issue male, the aforenamed LEWES Duke of Orleans, being next of blood, succeeded him in the Kingdom of France; who as soon as he was King, caused himself to be called Duke of Milan; whereby it might be easily perceived, that he had a resolution to do that which he afterwards put in execution: and he presently divorcing himself from his wife JOAN, which was sister to his Predecessor CHARLES, alleging for his reason that she was barren, and that he was forced to marry her; and also to the end to have (as he had) the Duchy of Britain, he married the widow Queen ANNE, late wife of the deceased King CHARLES. The Emperor having intelligence of the death of the French King, desiring to get the Duchy of Burgundy for his son PHILIP, who afterward was King of Spain, entered it with an armed hand, and took some Towns: for the defence whereof, the new King LEWES sent a very great Army; but within few days following, a peace was concluded between them, greatly to the Emperor's honour and advantage: which was the more easily effected, by reason of the great desire the French King had to proceed in his enterprise against Milan, for the right which he pretended to have to that Duchy; and for that the Emperor had resolved to make war against the Duke of Gelder's. The Duke of Milan having a watchful eye, and standing in great fear of the French Kings proceed, as much as was possible for him provided for his defence, principally through the league and friendship with the Emperor; who, being of sufficient power to protect him, was resolved to have done so: but other wars happening in the mean time with the Swissers, who in the year of our Lord 1499, made wars in the Territories belonging to Austria (which war, and the occasion thereof, is written at large by HENRICUS MUCIUS and NAUCLERUS); the Emperor, leaving the enterprise of Gelder's, went to this war: for, the Swissers (called in ancient time Heluecians) as well by reason of the situation of their country, environed with most high hills and steep mountains, as also for their great strength and courage, were then (and at this day are) greatly esteemed, and reputed valiant in Arms. MAXIMILIAN coming against them, notwithstanding that this war began against his will, yet he followed the same in such sort, that in sundry conflicts and encounters between them, 30000 men were slain of both parts, but the greatest number was of the Swissers; fortune inclining sometime to the one side, and sometime to the other: in the which war he did wonders in his own person, until that at last, through the entreaty of the Duke of Milan and other Princes (which interposed themselves) the Emperor concluded a peace with them. But before that this war was ended, LEWES the French King (who procured the same) to take benefit of the time, raised his whole power; and in the month of October, the same year, entering Lombardy, he besieged and took the Duke of Milan's Towns; who because he was ill beloved of his subjects, and the Emperor failing him in his necessity, and also because the Venetians were in league with the King, he resolved by abandoning the City to give place to the French fury; and sending his brother ASCANIUS S●…ORCE before, with his sons MAXIMILIAN and FRANCIS into Germany, he with the best and greatest part of his treasure, within few days after followed. The Duke being in this manner departed, the French King with very little resistance or none at all, was received into Milan, and into the rest of the cities in that Duchy: and the Venetians (according to the composition made between them) took the city of Cremona and other places of that estate. King LEWES being in this manner become Lord of all Lombardy, leaving therein such governors and garrisons as he thought expedient, returned victorious and triumphant into his country. The Duke of Milan being come before the Emperor (who loved him very well) was by him very honourably and kindly entertained; and within few days after, the Emperor assembling the greatest part of the Princes of the Empire, resolved to relieve and secure him as a prince by him invested, and who had the best title to that estate; and so with the greatest, expedition that could be made, a good Army was levied, the greatest part whereof were Swissers; wherein the Cardinal ASCANIUS the Duke's brother used great diligence. With these men and with such others as he levied in Italy, the Duke in the year 1500. returned into Lombardy, and his brother the Cardinal going before, was received into Milan and other cities; who speedily conducted thither his brother. The French King being certified hereof, in the greatest haste possible sent into Lombardy the greatest number of choice men that he could get, the greatest part whereof likewise were Swissers: and the Duke who wanted neither men nor courage to fight, attended in field the coming of the French Army: the two Armies being at the point to have joined, the Swissers which were with the Duke, not only refused to fight, but (as some say) corrupted with The Swissers gave the Duke of Milan into this power of his enemy the French King. money, delivered up the poor Duke to the French, who was carried prisoner into France and afterwards his brother the Cardinal was taken. And so in few day's space, the French King recovered the estate of Milan, and Duke LEWES afterwards, poor, afflicted, and deprived of his Duchy; died in prison, having been one of the most puissant, valiant and redoubted Princes of the world. Pope ALEXANDER (who never had any feeling or compassion of an other man's affliction and miseries) felt tragical crosses in his own house, the first-fruits of lust and unnatural cruelty; for he still desiring to advance the Duke of Gandie his eldest son to all temporal greatness, the Cardinal of Valente ambitiously affecting his brother's place, and withal envying him that he had a better share in the love of the Lady LUGRETIA their common sister; thrust on by lust and ambition, he caused him to be murdered as he road one night alone in the streets of Rome, and his body to be cast into Tiber. GVICHARDIN writes, that it was reported, that The Duke of Gandie murdered by his brother. the father was a concurrent with his two sons in the love of his daughter LUCRETIA, who being made Pope took her from her husband, as too mean, and married her to JOHN SFORCE Lord of Pesaro: but not able to endure her husband to be his corrival, he dissolved this second marriage, suggesting that JOHN was cold by nature, and unable to cohabit. The death of the Duke of Gandie afflicted him so, as with tears in the open consistory he accused his own actions and life, and promised reformation. In this year 1500, upon Saint Mathias day, being he five and twentieth day of February, CHARLES who afterwards was King of Spain and Emperor, and was called CHARLES the Fift, was borne in the city of Gaunt in Flanders. Duke LEWES having in this manner lost his estate, the Emperor received his sons which the Cardinal ASCANIUS brought with him: what become of them, you shall hear hereafter. In the year 1501, prodigious sights, much to be admired, appeared in Germany; for certain crosses of sundry colours, and some black, were seen upon men and womens' apparel, upon their heads, and upon the beds whereon they did lie, made so perfect and so lively for the time they lasted, that it was wondered to behold; after which, ensued a most grievous and cruel Pestilence. In those days also in Asia began the Empire and dominion of that great Prince, called the Sophi of Persia, who had his beginning from one called SCHIN, or SECHIN, who was said to be descended from the ancient Kings of the Persians': this Prince by Arms made himself Lord of all Persia, and of great part of Armenia, of Mesopotamia, and other Provinces: and afterwards the Kingdom of Persia was established in his successors; which since increasing, is in some sort a bridle to the unmeasurable rapine and power of the great Turk. At the same time, LEWES the French King standing in some doubt of the Emperor, by reason of his late conquest of Milan, and the enterprise of Naples, which he purposed to undertake, sought to enter into a league with him, and to give his eldest daughter CLAUDIA in marriage to young CHARLES, who afterwards was Emperor and King of Spain, being then but one year old (she being also an infant) to whom appertained the succession and inheritance of the Duchy of Britain: with this match, the Emperor and his son PHILIP were well content: and Queen JOAN and the said PHILIP being then to go into Spain, by the leave and consent of the said French King, went through France, and in the city of Paris this marriage was solemnised; and so they passed into Spain, where they making their abode not fully two years, returned by the same way they came through France, as through their friend's country. Which marriage afterwards was not accomplished, for King LEWES married his said daughter CEAUDIA, to FRANCIS Duke of Angolesme, who was afterwards King: by reason whereof King LEWES lost the title which he pretended to have to the Duchy of Milan; for at the making of the peace, it was decreed, that if this marriage took not effect, that then the Emperor, should give the Duchy of Milan to the said young Prince CHARLES. The French King being in this manner in league with the Emperor, sought also to enter into the like with FERDINAND King of Castille, with these conditions; that they two making a conquest of the kingdom of Naples, and deposing King FREDERICK should divide the same between them: which conditions were accepted by King FERDINAND (as saith SABELLICUS, a writer of that time) for that King FREDERICK shown himself ingrateful to A league between the French King, and the King of Castille. his Nephew, who sent him aid and succours; and the fame went, that he secretly practising underhand with the French King, offered to pay him tribute, to the end he should not make war against him, but suffer him to live in peace; and that he promised 〈◊〉 his help for the taking of the I'll of Sicilia, which appertained to King FERDINAND, and to the house of Arragon. This being concluded, the two Kings sending thither their Armies and Generals, the war began; and after some matters (which I have no time to relate) King FREDERICK abandoning the Kingdom, yielded himself into the French Kings hands, who used him very kindly: but his Army nevertheless took all his Country, Calabria and Pulia excepted, which the Spaniards seized on in the behalf of King FERDINAND. And so for a while the peace continued between the French and the Spanish, until that the French seeking to intrude themselves into the Spanish limits, they made war one against the other, which war was one of the most cruel and famous that ever was, and wherein the French employed the greatest force and power: and GONSALO FERNANDES of Cordova, being General for King FERDINAND, in the space of three years that this war lasted, obtained so many notable victories, and performed such exploits in Arms, and used so many policies and stratagems, that he purchased the name of a great Captain; and wholly expelling the French out of that Kingdom, made a conquest thereof for his King: and so it remains until this day subject to the house of Castille. In the time of this war, which was in he year 1503, died Pope ALEXANDER, when he had been Pope eleven years. He died (as it is written) of poison; which, GVICCHARDINE relates after this manner: Going the 18 of August to sup in a Vineyard near to the Vatican, he was suddenly carried away dead to the Palace, being (according to most men's opinions) poisoned after this manner: The Duke of Valentinois his graceless son had resolved to poison ADRIAN Cardinal of Cornette in the wine they should have at supper: for, it is most certain, that both father and son were well practised in poisoning; not only to be revenged of their enemies, or to be freed from jealousies, but even of a wicked desire to get the goods of the rich whosoever they were; As happened to the Cardinal of S. Auge who was very rich, yea they would poison their greatest friends and most faithful servants, such as were the Cardinals of Capua and Modena. VALENTINOIS had sent certain flagons of poisoned wine before, giving charge to his man that no man should touch them. The Pope coming thither before and some what altered with heat, called for drink, his own provision being not yet come: he that had the charge of the poisoned wine (thinking it had been recommended unto him for the rareness thereof) gave the Pope thereof to drink; and his son VALENTINOIS, arriving at the same Instant, drank also of the same wine. The father died instantly: but VALENTINOIS by the vigour of his youth and the help of strong counterpoysons recovered after a long and grievous sickness. Albina Rome rejoiced to see the body of this monster dead; a man full of ambition, infidelity, cruelty, luxury, and strange covetousness, selling both holy and profane things without distinction, with which vices he had infected the whole world. In his place was chosen Cardinal FRANCIS PICCOLHOMINI, Nephew to Pope PIUS, being his sister's son, and was therefore called PIUS TERTIUS; but he being Pope but thirty days, Cardinal JULIAN was chosen, and called JULIUS the Second. The Emperor intermedled not in the affairs of Naples, as well for the preservation of the league and friendship with France, as also the better to provide for other matters in the Empire, wherein at the very same time, which was in the year of our Lord 1502, befell a strange adventure in the country of Spire; wherein an infinite number of people gathering themselves together under the name of liberty, addressed themselves against the temporal Lords and Princes, and also against the state of the Clergy: these men having made them two Captains, began An insurrection of the Commons of Germany, in the Country of Spire. to war, rob, and to commit all manner outrages and insolences; having first determined to observe certain articles, which they meant to hold religiously for a law: the first was to purchase liberty, and to make themselves free, or to dye in the action: another was, to say every day a certain number of Pater Nosters, and other prayers; upon another day, to destroy all the Princes, and to kill all those which should resist them, and some others they purposed to rob, and to make all the clergy goods common; with other strange and dangerous devices. These men within few days gathered themselves together in so great a number, that if the Emperor had not very speedily sent an Army against them, which broke and overthrew them; they had brought the estate of Germany in hazard, if they had continued as they began; but through the Emperor's endeavour this combustion was pacified, and the offenders were, for example's 〈◊〉 justly punished. Nevertheless, at the same time the city of Basil (which was an Imperial cit●… and tributary to the Empire) got liberty, and making itself free, entered into a league and c●…deracie with the Swissers, which was a matter of great importance and danger; as well for the charge to provide for such a case, as for the war against PHILIP, the County Palatine, and his son ROBERT, which sprang through this occasion. GEORGE Duke of Baviere, called the rich, having no more but one daughter, whose name was ISABEL; and marrying her to ROBERT the eldest son of the Count Palatine of Rhine, who was also called Duke of Baviere, for in ancient time both had been but one house; he gave him with her for her dowry, the inheritance and succession of his whole patrimony, which was against law and reason, and a wrong done to his brother ALBERT, who was also Duke of Baviere, and had married the Emperor MAXIMILIAN'S sister. This marriage being made, Duke GEORGE, father in-law to ALBERT, in the year 1503, died: and ROBERT having ISABEL to wife (being by his father in-laws last Will made his heir general) with the help of his father, the Count Palatine of Rhine, began to take Towns and Castles in Baviere, and to make himself Lord of a great part thereof; and so began the war. The Emperor seeking means to bring them to an agreement, ROBERT would not accep the conditions: whereupon the Emperor proceeding against him, and against his father the Count Palatine (who notwithstanding that he had been often required and persuaded to the contrary, counselling his son to proceed, assisted him both with men and money) confisked his goods, and exposing the same to him that would take them, made presently cruel war upon him: and by his order, the like was done by the Lantzgrave of Hessen, the Duke of Wittenberg, the marquis of Brandenburg, and the said ALBERT and ALEXANDER Dukes of Beviere, and other Princes: against all which the father and the son armed themselves, with the help of the king of Hungary and Bohemia, from whence many men came to their aid; and so between them began a most cruel war; wherein the Emperor warred in his own person particularly in the country of Baviere (whereof ROBERT was in possession:) And william Lantzgrave of Hessen, and the Duke of Wittenbergh, either of them for their portion, together with their friends and kinsfolks made wars in several parts of the countries, subject to his father the Count Palatine of Rhine. The Emperor warred with such force and courage, that obtaining certain notable victories against ROBERT and the Bohemians, he recovered all the towns which he had taken; but ROBERT saved himself by flight; and the Emperor giving those towns to his cousin ALBERT, went with his Army into the Count Palatines country, wherein the Princes above named had taken some towns: and coming with the like fore and fury as he had recovered the estate of Baviere, he took the greatest part of that dominion: and PHILIP being unable to defend what he held, sending to the Emperor for pardon, promised from thenceforth to be his loyal servant. CHRISTOPHER marquis of Baden, together with certain religious persons being intercessors; the Emperor considering that if he should wholly ruin him, being a Prince Elector, there would be great controversy about the right of the election, he thought it best to pardon him; and so ceased the wars on all parts, and the Count Palatine returning to his obedience was pardoned: but his country and estate was much diminished. His son ROBERT after the wars were ended, being of the age of five and twenty years, seeing himself overcome and dispossessed, died of sorrow and his wife also, by whose right he challenged that which is above specified. Whilst the Emperor was busied about these matters, the great Captain of Spain, GONSALO FERNANDES, wholly conquered the kingdom of Naples, and (as writeth SABELLICUS) The Spanish conquered the kingdom of Naples from the French. a truce being taken between King F●…RDINAND of Castille, and LEWES the French King for three years, Italy was in peace for a time. In this year, 1504, died ISABEL Queen of Spain, whom Queen JOAN succeeding in that kingdom, was with her husband PHILIP called to the Government: but their coming was deferred until the beginning of the year 1506. In which time the Emperor summoned a Council to be held in the City of Colen; from whence he went with an Army against the Duke of Gelder's; and taking some towns from him, brought him to such distress, that he was constrained to sue for pardon, and he forgiving him, returned to the Council or Diet at Colen. This CHARLES Duke of Gelder's, by the provocation and support of the French, with whom after his father's death he had been bred up in hatred of the house of Burgundy, violating his faith by the which he was bound to MAXIMILIAN, did infested the Brabantines, committing great spoils and murders. This young Prince was of a sour and proud disposition, whose Grandfather ARNOLD, was son to MARY, daughter to JOHN Lord of Arkell, by the death of REYNOLD the last of the Dukes of juliers and Gelder's, of the house of Nassau, his mother's Uncle, it was conferred into the family of EGMONT who still was an enemy to the house of Burgundy, in favour of the French. The next year following, the Emperor being displeased with the King of Hungary and Bohemia, for the assistance given to the Count Palatine against him, and for his rebellion against the Empire, levied an Army and went against him; and entering Hungary, did great spoils there, and put the king thereof in such fear, that he (with great humility sued to him for peace, which was granted upon such conditions as pleased the Emperor; and so the war ended. In the mean time, LEWES the French King, having no meaning to marry his daughter CLAUDIA to Prince CHARLES, who being afterwards Emperor, was called CHARLES the Fift, shortly after married her to FRANCIS Duke of Angulesme and Dolphin of France, who afterwards was King: and fearing wars with the Emperor about the Duchy of Milan, made a perpetual league with FERDINAND King of Castille, who was upon his departure from Arragon to return to Naples; for he expected King PHILIP who went thither in the beginning of the year 1506: this league being made between them, King FERDINAND married the Lady GERMANA, sister to the Earl of F●…ix: and in April, in the year 1506, leaving Spain, he went to Naples: and upon the five and twentith of September in the same year, King PHILIP being of the age of eight and twenty years, departed out of this World: his death was much deplored by all his subjects, but more by the Emperor his Father, who was extremely sorry for the same. After his decease, for that the Queen was sickly, and the Prince CHARLES a child, King FERDINAND of Naples was called to the Government of those Kingdoms; whereupon the year next following he came into Spain to that effect: and the Emperor, to the end he should undertake the Government of the Low Countries, was by Ambassadors from the States thereof, solicited to come thither; who accepting the Government, went presently into Flanders. The French King having levied an Army to go into Italy to suppress the rebellion at Genoa, the Pope and the Venetians were in some doubt that he had a further design: whereupon they sent their Ambassadors to the Emperor and Princes Electors, to let them understand that the French king had an intent to oppress the state of the Church, and to usurp the dignity of the Empire. This caused MAXIMILIAN to assemble a Diet of the Princes and free Cities at Constance; giving them to understand that the French Kings intention was to advance the Cardinal of Ambois, and to receive of him the Imperial Crown. The Princes were herewith much incensed with disdain; that through their negligence the Majesty of the Empire should be translated into another Nation. After much consolation, in the end they concluded to furnish the Emperor for his voyage into Italy, with eight thousand horse, and two and twenty thousand foot, paid for six months, and 6000 slorens of the Rind for the charges of the Artillery monthly: But the French King having dismissed his Army and himself retired into France, the Pope and the Venetians grew cold in their hot pursuit; the Pope giving charge to his Legate to persuade the Emperor, in his name, to pass into Italy, without an Army, offering to do him more honour, than had been at the crowning of any former Emperor: and the Venetians upon great instance made by his Ambassadors to that State, for the passing of his army through their Territories, made answer; That their resolution was to grant him passage, if he came without an Army, but coming Armed, to deny him that liberty: Wherewith the Emperor being discontented drawing his forces towards the Frontiers of Italy, he sent a Herald to Verona to publish his intent to pass into Italy, to receive the Imperial Crown, and to require lodging for 4000 Horse; whereunto the governor made answer, that if he would pass for no other occasion then to receive the Crown, they would honour him with all offices of observance: but they saw contrary effects, having brought so great forces with Artillery upon their Frontiers. This voyage of the Emperors produced no great effects: for after some spoils done in Friuli and some places taken, which the Venetians soon recovered, in the end he sought to have a truce with the Venetians, the which was concluded for three years, and so the Emperor retired into Germany. In the mean time, CHARLES Duke of Guelderland, through the aid (as it was surmised) of the French king, made wars in Brabant, whereupon the Emperor was constrained to give over the war against the Venetians, and with his forces to go to the relief of that Country, wherein he making head against the Gelderois, put them to the worse. In the year 1508, LEWES Duke of Milan, called the Moor, being deprived of his estate, died prisoner in France; his sons MAXIMILIAN and FRANCIS, living in the Emperor's Court in Germany. This year the Emperor and French King being either of them much discontented with the Venetians, they resolved to contract a league secretly against them; sending their deputies A league made at Cambray. to Cambray to that end, where they concluded (contrary to the covenants with either of them made with the Venetians) with the consent of the Pope and king of Arragon, to make war against the Venetians, every one in his own right, to recover those towns which they had usurped from them. As, for the Pope Faenza, Rimini, Ravenna, and Servia: for the Emperor Milan, Vincenza, and Verona, belonging to the Empire, and Friuli and Trevisa as th'inheritance of the house of Austria: for the French King Verona, Guiaradada, Brescia, Bergamo, and Crema: And for the king of Arragon the Towns and havens which had been mortgaged by FERDINAND king of Naples: That the the French King should begin the war in person by the first of April, at what time the Pope and the Catholic King should enter into the action: And to the end the Emperor might have some colour of excuse for not observing the truce which he had made with the Venetians, The Pope should demand succours of him as from the protector of the Church. There were many other Articles contained in this league whereof GVICHARDIN makes an ample relation. The Pope being resolute, and loath to see the Emperor too great in Italy, he desired rather to obtain part by accord, than the whole by Arms; labouring to induce the Venetians to restore him Rimini and Faenza; letting them know that the danger which threatened them by the union of so many Princes, would be fare greater if he did concur with them, and pursue them both with his spiritual and temporal Arms; but if they rendered those towns he should have just cause not to ratify the league, which without his Pontifical authority would easily vanish. The Venetians were herewith much perplexed, there being great contrariety of opinions amongst the Senators: but in the end the worse counsel prevailed, which was not to yield unto the Pope's desire, whereupon his Holiness ratified the league. In April 1509 the French King advanced his Army into Italy, sending a Herald to Venice to denounce war against them, whereunto the Duke and State answered; That since the king his master was resolved to make war against them, in a time when they hoped most for the observation of the league which they had never violated, whereby they had made the Emperor their enemy, they would stand upon their defence, relying upon the equity of their cause. They having drawn together a flourishing Army went to field, and after some days the two Armies met at Guiradada where there was a furious battle fought, and the Venetians were overthrown. But some writ that only the Venetian rearward came to blows, where they were in a manner all slain having fought very valiantly, their commander BARTHOLOMEW d' ALVIANA being taken prisoner. Many towns in Lombardy followed the Victor's fortune and yielded to the French King. The news of this overthrow being come to Venice, it cannot be written what a general lamentation there was in the city, and how much they feared the ruin of their country. Thus in 15 days after the battle, the French King having conquered all that belonged to him by the league of Cambria, the Pope played his part with the towns of Romagna, and the Emperor MAXIMILIAN sending divers troops into Friuli, took divers towns there. The Venetians, seeing their estate desperate, resolved to abandon the jurisdiction of the firm land, and to contain themselves within the salt water; commanding their Magistrates and Officers in Padova, Verona, and other places, to retire, and leave the Towns to the people's devotion. They also sent an Ambassador to the Emperor to pacify him by their humble submission, and to obtain peace under what condition soever: but they could not move him. They also sent to restore the Ports to the King of Arragon: and they sent a Secretary into Romagna to deliver up to the Pope whatsoever they held there, upon certain conditions; which the Pope did not allow. Thus were they stripped of all their great power, being almost out of hope for the preservation of their liberty. This ruin of theirs was very sensible to many; who foresaw that the estate of Italy would be very wretched, if it should be brought under the yoke of strangers. The Pope above all others began to be much grieved for their fall; who, fearing the power of CAESAR and the French King, resolved to do all he could to cross their courses, accepting the Letters written unto him in the name of the Duke of Venice with great submission, humbly entreating him to pardon and absolve them. The Emperor delaying his coming into Italy, the Venetians began to recover some Towns in the firm land which they had abandoned; and the French King prepared for his return into France. In the mean time the Emperor came into Italy with no great forces, so as he spent the time in enterprises of small moment with little honour to the Imperial Name: yet at that time he did solicit his confederates to join their forces together, for the taking of the City of Venice; but they could not agreed: but in the mean time Friuli and Istria were pitifully afflicted by the Emperor's forces; and he went in person to besiege Padova with a great Army, which the Venetians did fortify with all the men, artillery and munition they could; so as all the young Gentlemen of Venice with their friends and followers put themselves in Arms, and went to guard the City: but after seventeen days siege he raised his Camp, and retired towards Verona with much discontent; and then presently returned into Germany to give order (as he said) for the wars he intended to make the Spring following: After which, the Venetians made their submission to the Pope; who gave them absolution, and enjoined them for penance to visit certain Churches. The war continued still betwixt the Emperor's forces and the Venetians: and the Pope, seeking to reconcile them; the first that gave over this war, was Pope JULIO; who, being sued unto by the Venetians for peace, granted the same, and therewith withdrew his forces. Pope JULIO (as he was a subtle cunning Prelate) having gotten what he desired, mistrufted that the Emperor and the French King having brought the Venetians to ruin, his own state would be in danger: for, his meaning was, that no man should be of greater power in Italy than himself. But as the French Kings purposes were to the contrary, so he took his agreement between the Venetians and the Pope in very ill part; and after many Ambassages passed between them, in the end they two fell at variance. The Pope, practising under hand with the Genoais, made them rebel against the French King; and the King (in requital) made a schism in the Papacy, and to that effect drew the Cardinal of S. Cross (who had been Legate in Germany) together The French King caused a schism in the Poped●…me. with some other Cardinals, to his devotion; who, calling a Council against the Pope, appointed the City of Pisa for the place of their meeting. The Emperor, notwithstanding the league between the Pope and the Venetians, desisted not from warring against them: but he was advertised that the French King had induced the Duke of Gelder's to take Arms against him, and to that effect had with money supplied his want: for, the King although he would that all should aid and assist him, yet he would not that any one but himself should have the victory. Upon this occasion, the Emperor, leaving the friendship of the French, joined with the Pope: and the French King, persisting in his resolution, caused many Bishops and other Prelates to go to Pisa; where he procured the Council to be assembled, which the Cardinal of Saint Cross had already begun: but, holding themselves to be there in no safety, they went afterwards to Milan. And the Pope in like manner sent to the King of Castille, requiring his aid, which presently was promised, and afterwards sent him: and then he began with his fulminations to persecute the French King. And to the end to defeat this Council, he summoned a Council general to be held in Saint JOHN de Lateran in Rome, the year next following, which was in the year 1512. The war between the King and the Pope being very cruel, the King mightily engrossing his Army, made MONSIEUR DE FOIX, General thereof; who going to Bologna, took it; and taking Brescia, sacked it. The Cardinal of Saint Cross, and those which joined with him, cited the Pope to appear before them: and the Pope, after many protestations proceeding against them, deprived them of all their ecclesiastical dignities and benefices. King FERDINAND'S forces coming to the Pope's aid, after some encounters the two Armies (meeting near to Ravenna upon Whitsunday, in the year 1512) came to a battle, which was as cruel and bloody as ever was any; and although the French obtained the victory, yet twice so many of them were there slain, as of those which were overthrown, if they may be accounted overcome; whereof one squadron remained whole and never broken, and so passed through the midst of their enemies, none daring to charge them. In this battle MONSIEUR DE FOIX the French General was slain, together with many of the French Nobility. Finally, the French were reduced to such an estate, that notwithstanding A battle betwixt the French and the Pope's forces near the river of Car in Italy. they had the victory, yet it fared with them as though they had been overcome: for, they departing from Ravenna, and taking their way towards Milan (MONSIEURDELA PALISSE being the General) Pope JULIO recovered the City of Ravenna, and in like manner Bologna: and understanding the issue of the battle (though at the first he stood in great fear) yet being certified of the truth, and how much the French Army was distressed, he after his accustomed manner levying new supplies, wrote to all the Kings and Princes of Christendom to stir them up to war, and to that effect sent a Cardinal to the Emperor; who, being discontent with the French King, within few days after sent into Italy by the way of Verona, an Army of Swissers and Germane, with MAXIMILIAN SFORCE the son of Duke LEWES, to recover the state of Milan which was his fathers. MAXIMILIAN SFORCE entering Italy, and being come to Verona, joining with the Spanish Army, and with those which were in league with the Pope, the French were stricken with such fear, that the Cardinal of Saint Cross, and the rest of the Council of Pisa (which had withdrawn themselves to Milan) with all speed possible departing thence, fled into France: and MONSIEURDELA PALISSE the French General, leaving such garrisons as he thought good in the Castles of Milan and Brescia, and other Towns in Lombardy, abandoning the City, retired to Pavia; and the enemy coming thither, he departed from thence, and went also into France. And so MAXIMILIAN SFORCE, in short space recovering the Duchy of Milan, was with great joy (through the Emperor's aid and favour) received into the City: to whom presently came Ambassadors from Genoa to do him honour, and to congratulate his return: for, the Genoais then rebelling against the French, and having chosen them a Duke, besieged the Castle of the Lantern, which was at the French devotion. In the process of his war, the King of Navarre, for that he held with the French King against the Emperor, against the Pope, and the King of Castille, and would not give passage to the Spanish Armies, was bereft of his Kingdom; and the Kings of Castille possess the same unto this day. After these things, and other which succeeded, in the beginning of the year, upon the three and twentith day of February, in Rome Pope JULIO died, in the tenth year of his Papacy; and in his place was chosen JOHN, Cardinal de Medicis, who being taken at the rout of Ravenna, and afterwards set at liberty, was called LEO the Tenth: in the beginning of whose Papacy, the French King, the Lord of Tremoville, and the Duke of Albania, with a great Army came into Lombardy against MAXIMILIAN Duke of Milan; who with aid from the Emperor and the Swissers, coming to a battle near to Novarra (where his father was taken prisoner) obtained the victory, with the death, overthrow, and imprisonment of many of them: so as he, driving the French out of that Duchy, remained Lord thereof in peace. Presently after this in the same year, the Emperor (resolving to let the French King know that he had committed an error, in not keeping the peace made and concluded with him) came to a composition with HENRY the Eight King of England (who was enemy to the French King) to enter France, and to make war against him: for performance of which conditions, the King of England came to Calis; and entering France, the Emperor with his Army came and joined with him: and although the French King durst not fight in battle, yet there passed many notable skirmishes between them: and notwithstanding that the King of England lay two months before Terrovenne, yet the French King in all that space not daring to come to free it, the town was constrained to yield: and so the King after the taking of some other places, went to Tournay, which he battered with such fury, that it yielded, together with the Castles and other towns near adjacent; whereof the King of England being Lord, made great spoil in the country, without finding any Army in the field to make head against him. The Emperor in like manner by another way, sent VDAL●…ICK Duke of Wittenberg, with great troops of Swissers into Burgundy; who besieging Dijon, and having brought it to that distress as it was thought the province would have been lost; the Swissers (according to the accustomed manner) in consideration of one hundred thousand Ducats, sent them by the French King, and moved with the hope of a promised greater sum, raising the siege, returned home to their houses, maugre the Duke of Wittenberg their General: who with his people seeing himself abandoned, returned also into his country. It lkewise happened, that whilst the King of England made war in France, the King of Scots (through the instigation of the French King) entered England; against whom in person came KATHERINE Queen of England, accompanied by some of the Nobility and Commons of that Realm, and fight with the Scots (notwithstanding that the victory was very doubtful and unequal, by reason of the great multitude of them) yet their King was slain in the battle: and the Scots not daring any longer to hold the field, returned home; and the English entering Scotland, took certain places there, in such sort that the King of England through his wife's means in England, and the Emperor's aid in France, returned victorious into his country. And the Emperor, for that his presence was very requisite in Germany did the like; for in Worms was much debate and contention between the estates Ecclesiastical and Secular. There was also great controversy between WILLIAM and LEWES, Dukes of Baviere, the Emperor's Nephews, the sons of his brother in-law ALBERT. Whereupon the Emperor went to them, and in some sort mitigating the contention, brought them to be in peace. In the same year 1513, the Venetians made a league with the French King, which was effected by means of BARTELMEW D'ALVIANO their General, who was taken prisoner by the King, and ANDREW GRITTI a Venetian gentleman, who was afterwards one of the most excellent Dukes that hath been in Venice, who likewise was prisoner. After this, a peace being concluded between England and France, the French King took to wife MARY the King of England's sister, with whom he lived but a while after his marriage; for he falling extremely sick, died upon the first day of january, in the year of our Lord 1514. and the 17. of his Reign; whom succeeded the often named FRANCIS Duke of Angulesme, who after his Coronation, procured a league to be made with the Emperor: whereupon the Earl of Nassaw came to Paris, and so a new marriage was concluded between CHARLES who then was Prince of Spain, and RENATA sister to CLAUDIA the new Queen of France; which Marriage afterwards took no effect. The Emperor consented, and liked well of the march, as well by reason of the troubles he had in Germany, as for the peace and common good which was expected to ensue thereof. And for the better preservation of the particular peace made with LADISLAUS King of Hungary & Bohemia, he resolved to marry his niece MARY to LEWES, the eldest son of the said King, notwithstanding that they both were very young: whereupon in july in the year 1515. a meeting was appointed to be held in Viena in Austria, whither came SIGISMOND King of Poland, LADISLAUS King of Hungary and Bohemia, with his son LEWES, the Emperor, the Dukes of Baviere, and many other Princes of Germany, where the said LEWES prince of Hungary was betrothed to MARIE the Emperor's niece: and it was also agreed, that FERDINAND of Castille, should marry with his sister ANNE, which afterwards took effect; who reigned in those kingdoms after the decease of his brother in-law LEWES; which marriages were accomplished after the Emperor's decease, in the year 1521. The French King FRANCIS knowing the Emperor to be inclined to peace, feasting and banqueting; and having a little before confirmed a peace with England, and with the Venetians, as he had also done the like with the same Emperor; within short space after he levied a very great Army of Germane, and Lantzknechts', with a resolution to invade the Duchy of Milan; and being with his Army past the Alpss, near to Turin, he joined with his Uncle CHARLES Duke of Savoy; and then coming to Verselli, thither came 2000 soldiers sent him by the Genoais, at the request of OCTAVIAN FREGOSO their Duke: from thence he went to Novarra, which yielded without assault; and passing on towards Milan: and knowing that the Duke had an Army of Swissers sent him by the Emperor; and that he intended to give him battle, he sought to have corrupted the Swissers with money, as king LEWES did when he took the said Duke's father; but failing thereof (for it was discovered to his enemies) he fought with them between Milan and Marinian, near to a Village called Saint BRIGETS: the battle was so fiercely fought, that before any sign of victory, they were overtaken by the night, which was so dark, The battle of Marinian. the Moon being down, that when they left fight, neither party knew how to retire, and so they stood all the night armed, expecting the day; which being come they again renewed the battle: at which time, a rumour was spread over the Camp, that BARTHOLOMEW DALVIANO was at hand with the Venetian Army, and that he had marched all the night to come to join with the French King. Whereupon the Swissers fearing so great succours, fled: and the victory remaining to the French King, a most cruel slaughter was made of the poor Swissers. GVICHARDINE writes, that the Swissers grew proud of the first day's fight, it being bruited throughout Italy, that they had put the enemy's Army to flight, and the King was careful to provide for all things fit for his safety. At the break of day, the Swissers (who not only despised the French Army, but all the forces of Italy united) returned to the charge with like fury and rashness, and the French entertained them with great valour and discretion: and withal ALVIANO commander of the Venetian forces coming with his light-horse-men, charged the Swissers on the back, so that they despaired of the victory, sounding the retreat, and retiring in good order towards Milan, to the great astonishment of the French men, who durst not follow them. This was one of the most furious battles that ever was seen in Italy. The King having obtained so notable a victory; Duke MAXIMILIAN abandoning the city of Milan, withdrew himself into the castle; whereupon the city yielded to the King, and the other cities did the like. The Duke being besieged and assaulted in the castle, (notwithstanding that the Emperor certified him that he would speedily sand him relief) compounding with the French King for a certain sum of money, which the king promised to give him yearly, he resigned the title and state of Milan; and so putting himself into the King's power, he went into France, where he afterwards died. The French King hereupon was received The French King in possession of the Du●…hie of Milan. into Milan, and into all the other cities without resistance; wherewith the Emperor being much displeased, made preparation for his coming into Italy: whereof the King standing in some doubt, sought to enter into a league with Pope LEO; who seeing him victorious was glad of the match; and appointing to meet him in Bologna, the league was confirmed; which being ended, the King returning into France left the Duke of Bourbon with his Army in the state of Milan. At this time upon the five and twentith day of january in the year 1516, died King FERDINAND in Madril near to Guadalupe in Spain; and to the government of those kingdoms they called CHARLES, (who was afterwards Emperor, being then but sixteen years old) who went thither the year following. The Duchy of Milan being conquered by the French King, in such manner as is said, within few days after the Emperor MAXIMILIAN by the way of Verona, came into Italy with so flourishing an Army, that he would have been glad to have met the French King: and the Duke of Bourbon in Lombardy not daring to keep the field against him, shut up himself in Milan: the Emperor finding no resistance, held on his way until he came before the city, and besieged it: which together with all the rest had been soon recovered, if he could have stayed some while in the country; but the treasure and revenues of this great Captain, were not sufficient to maintain the wars which he undertook, and to pay the ordinary troops which he should need in the action; which was the occasion that he that he oftentimes lost great occasions. Besides this, LADISLAUS King of Hungary falling sick and dying, there arose after his decease, such discord, that to establish peace in that kingdom, and for the defence thereof against Turk, the Emperor was sent for; for LEWES, son to the deceased King, was but a child of little more than thirteen years old: wherefore being constrained to leave the wars of Milan, and to return into Germany, the French King continued in possession of that Duchy for a time; as you shall hear. The Emperor upon so urgent occasion being come into Germany, could hardly keep the peace in Hungary: the occasion whereof was, for that King LADISLAUS before his death nominated for tutors and governors for his son, in the kingdoms of Hungary; and Bohemia, the Emperor MAXIMILIAN, and his own brother SIGISMOND, King of Poland: wherewith the Hungars were very much discontent, for they stood in fear that these two Princes would have practised to have had those kingdoms to themselves. But as the Emperor's intent was but for the good of the country, so he took not so great care to have the government, as he did that those Kingdoms should be governed with equity, and for the defence of Hungary against the Turk, which was put in effect so long as he lived: for he gave the government to certain great personages of those Kingdoms: but not without great difficulty and trouble; which plainly appeared, by the the calamities which ensued in those kingdoms after his decease. A hundred years were now past since the conclusion of the Council of Constance, when JOHN HUSS●… foretold would come a fatal change in the Roman Hierarchy, which no fury nor fire should be able to prevent. Wherhfore this year 1517, MARTIN LUTHER an Augustin Friar, began to impugn the Pope's trade of Indulgences, the which were carried about in Germany to be sold for little money, (under the title of ALBERT Archbishop of Magdeburg) by TICELIUS an impudent sycophant. LUTHER being moved with his wicked Sermons published certain propositions concerning Indulgences: against whom TICELIUS did spett out his poison, and burned his propositions, which forced LUTHER to writ more copiously for the defence of the truth; yet in the beginning he did not wholly reject Indulgences, but desired some reformation. The Elector FREDERICK Duke of Saxony having read LUTHER'S writings and duly considered of his authorities, favoured and supported his doctrine, neither could he be diverted with any terror or threats, being straightly enjoined by MAXIMILIAN and CHARLES Emperors and by the Bishops of Rome not to grant LUTHER any place to teach in: yet he would not of himself judge of his doctrine, but craved the opinions of many learned men. And among others calling ERASMUS of Rotterdam unto him, he said that he had rather the earth should swallow him up, than he would adhere to any false opinions, entreating him earnestly to deliver his judgement freely. To whom ERASMUS answered pleasantly, that LUTHER had committed two great sins, he had been to busy with the Monk's bellies, and with the Pope's Crown, but he added seriously, that LUTHER had justly taxed the errors, and that reformation in the Church was necessary, and that his doctrine was true, but he wished more mildness in his proceed. After which there were many disputations touching diverse points of doctrine held by the Church of Rome, which LUTHER did impugn, whereof diverse have written, and diversely, to whom I will refer the impartial Reader. At this time also it behoved the Emperor to take order for the going of his Nephew CHARLES King of Spain into his Country; by reason whereof, he was constrained to give care to a new peace motioned by the French King, which was concluded; and it was also decreed that CMARLES King of Spain should take to wife the daughter of King LEWES. This friendship and alliance being made (although the marriage took no effect) King CHARLES taking shipping sailed into Spain, where he arrived the nineteenth of September, in the year 1517. And so Peace being between the Emperor and the French King, and generally through all Christendom, he spent the rest of his time in ministering justice, and reforming the laws and customs of the Empire; and so lived in peace and good estate. This year one thousand five hundred eighteen, the Emperor called a great and his last assembly of the Princes of Augusta (where they treated of the Turkish wars; for Selim, having ruined the Sultan's of Egypt) strooke a great terror into all the Princes of the Christian World) and desired to settle the succession of the Roman Empire upon one of his Nephews, which he wished might have been FERDINAND the younger brother, thinking it better for the supporting of the honour of his house if two personages were great, than one alone: but being otherwise persuaded by some about him, and by the Cardinal of Zion, he commends his Nephew CHARLES to the Prince's Electors, who could not be chosen King of the Romans in his life time, for that he had not received the Imperial Crown from the Pope. After this The death of the Emperor Maximilian. he was taken with a Dissenteria, which bereft him of his life upon the twelfth day of january, in the year of our Lord one thousand five hundred nineteen, being of the age of nine and fifty years (as saith CUSPINIAN) and after others, threescore and three, and in the five and twentith year of his reign. Thus have I briefly passed over the great acts of this Emperor (for as I said in the beginning of his life) if I should at large have described his prowess and excellency, I should have been driven to have run a long race, and have needed an excellent wit and much eloquence, whereof I know myself as naked and destitute, as this Prince was abundant in all virtue: for he was so bountiful, that if he had been Lord of all the rents and revenues of the World, he would have needed them, considering his gifts and expenses, according to the greatness of his mind; and notwithstanding that what he had was great, yet was it ever too little in regard of his liberality. He was endued with such magnanimity, that he never was seen to be timorous what danger soever he were in; and there with was one of the most redoubted Princes in the World: he was very devout, and as he lived so he died, he was of a most singular wit, and sound judgement, as well in Peace as in War: and notwithstanding that he was well able to counsel others, yet he never disdained to ask and take counsel of such as he thought loved him, and were able to give him counsel. And as he loved learning, and learned men, so he gave great gifts and pensions to such as were well seen in the Liberal Sciences: and it grieved him much that he had not in his youth been instructed in good Letters, and in the pure elegant Latin tongue: for as he had a barbarous schoolmaster, so was that which he learned of him; yet he afterwards, having many learned men in his Court, came to the knowledge of many things. He was naturally inclined to Poesy, so as he compiled a notable piece of work in his own vulgar tongue, of the many dangers wherein he had been, and another book called the price of honour. Besides his excellent wit, he was of a wonderful memory: for whosoever had once conferred with him about any business, although in long time after he came not into his presence, yet as soon as he should see him he would know him. He was so honest and bashful as it was strange, for he never consented that any one should see him naked; neither did he at any time take the Urinal to make water, in the presence of any Chamberlain or Page, or any such like thing; neither would he permit that any should see his Urine, except some few very excellent Physicians. He was of an excellent and strong complexion, and was seldom sick; and then but lightly; whereto this was a great help, in that he was very temperate in his diet; yet he kept a very bountiful table; and did take his meat so neatly and comely as it was a pleasure to behold him. He could so well endure travail, that heat, cold, hunger, thirst, or any other want or discommodity did little annoyed him. He much exercised his person in bearing Arms, especially at Tilt and Tourney, besides the wars and battles wherein he fought in person; and above all he was exceeding mild and courteous in his behaviour towards Princes, and towards all his servants and familiars; and was so friendly to those which had to deal with him, that with his looks and countenance he won their hearts, which put them out of the fear and bashfulness wherein they were, by reason of his presence: for which excellencies and other which I leave to writ, he attained to be the most honoured Prince of his time, and was both obeyed and beloved through the whole Empire, and saw all his sons and Nephew's Lords of the greatest part of Christendom. After his death CHARLES the Fift was chosen Emperor, whose great wars and acts require a more eloquent and exact writer. THE LIFE OF CHARLES, THE FIFT OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDRETH AND FIFTEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE Author, writing the life of this famous Emperor, passeth over his memorable acts cursorily, both for that (as he saith) they were then fresh in memory, as also they were related at large by GVICHARDINE, JOVIUS, and other Writers. But, holding it an indignity done to so noble a Prince, to neglect him more in the writing of his life than other his Predecessors, or to sand the Reader to seek satisfaction from other Authors, I am bold somewhat to enlarge the History of his life. The Emperor CHARLES was by his father's side of the Imperial House of Austria; and by his mother he descended The descent of the Emperor Charles the Fist. from the ancient Kings of Spain; and his grandmother by his father, was of the house of France, in this manner: CHARLES the Fift, King of France, surnamed the Wise, gave the Country of Burgundy to his younger brother PHILIP. From PHILIP, who had to wife the only daughter of LEWES Earl of Flanders, descended JOHN, who was father to PHILIP which begat CHARLES the Hardy, Duke of Burgundy; whose wars with LEWES the Eleventh, King of France, are written by PHILIP de Comines, Lord of Argenton. This CHARLES, being slain at the battle of Nancy, left his only daughter the Lady MARY, heir to his whole estate: this MARY was married to MAXIMILIAN the Emperor, father to PHILIP; which PHILIP took to wife the Lady JOAN, the daughter of the Kings of Castille and Arragon, and by her he had the Emperor CHARLES the Fift. And forasmuch as FERDINAND King of Castille had never a son, he adopted his son-in-law PHILIP for his son; who, after the decease of his father-in-law FERDINAND, become King of Spain: and by these means the house of Austria obtained the dominions of Burgundy, Flanders and Spain. As for his mother, her grandfather FERDINAND, King of Spain, had to wife the Lady ISABELLA, the only daughter of JOHN the Second, King of Castille; and after the conquest of Naples, he got by her JOHN, ISABELLA, JOAN, MARY and CATHERINE: but JOHN and ISABELLA dying without issue, the succession of the Kingdom, by the laws of Spain, came to JOAN, as to the eldest of them; but Austria, by the division of the inheritance, came to FERDINAND brother to CHARLES the Fift; which FERDINAND was afterwards Emperor also, and father to the Emperor MAXIMILIAN the Second. CHARLES was born in Gaunt, a City of Flanders, upon Saint MATHIAS day, being The birth of the Emperor Charles. the four and twentith of February, in the year 1500: which day was noted to be ever very fortunate unto him; considering that upon that day many accidents happened to him in sundry parts of the world, and he obtained upon that day honourable victories; as by his actions, written by GVICHARDINE and JOVIUS, plainly appeareth. Being come to years of discretion, although but a youth (for, his father, dying, left him but sixteen years old) he was sent to Mecklin, a city in Brabant, to school, his Master's name was ADRIAN of Florence; than whom, none in all that province was more famous, for many qualities, as the issue of his life made manifest; for he became a Cardinal, and afterwards being made Pope, after the death of L●…O the tenth, was called ADRIAN the Sixt. But in his exercise of arms he was instructed by CHARLES de Cheures, a valiant man at arms in that Age. It seemeth that he profited little in learning, yet he attained to the Spanish, Dutch, and French tongues, the Latin tongue he understood somewhat grossly. Three books only he loved to read, which he caused to be translated into his own vulgar tongue; of which, one was the Institution of a civil life, which was the Courtier of the Earl BALTASAR de Castilione; the other was of matters of state, which was the Prince, with the discourse of MACHIAVELLI: the third was the Order of Knighthood, which was the history of POLYBIUS. But he most delighted in arms, which besides religion, are the foundation of kingdoms; and he more esteemed the wars then any man in the world. He was skilful in the managing of Artillery, and very expert in the marshalling of an army, and lodged the same very skilfully, and knew all the means and devices how to batter and assault a City: so as all his attempts, or the greatest part which he undertaken, might well have good success. The constitution of his body was neither fat nor gross, but of a gallant proportion and strongly sinued. His hands were great and strong, fit to wield weapons and to manage Arms. His legs were strait and of a due proportion, which chief appeared when he was on horseback: for, he road with such majesty when he was armed, and managed his horse so gallantly, that it seemed no gallanter Knight could be found, or more fit to bear Arms than himself. He was of a fair complexion, with clear azured eyes; which (although he were angry) were not terrible, but accompanied with a grave bashfulness and manly modesty. He was somewhat hook-nosed, after the manner of the ancient Kings of Persia, which was a sign of the greatness of his mind. He had a long chin, and a yellow beard: his hair was yellow of the colour of gold, after the use of the ancient Emperors of Rome. It was thought by those which were wise, that never was man of better constitution, better advised, or of riper judgement than he: for, with a certain motion which accompanied his speeches, he made men to wonder at his proceed. He was very courteous in discourse, but double; so as his speeches might have divers constructions: and so he ever saved himself by the interpretation, fitting it to his purpose; alle●…ging, that his meaning was to be understood in this and in this manner. He was never throughly angry; but telling the truth, and grounding his speeches upon reason, he satisfied the hearers. He was never overhasty in his answers: for, he first consulted, and then concluded; but the conclusion must depend of him only. He made great account of those which might either pleasure, or annoyed him; but made no show thereof in outward appearance, to the end to maintain his reputation in greatness. He was neither bloody nor vindicative upon his enemies, but reform them without ruin. He seldom punished his servants and officers, but upheld them in their defects. And although that by his enemies he was noted of cruelty, in the matters of Rome, and in the death of the children of France, yet was he mild and pitiful, and they of malice slander him wrongfully. As for his friends which were made great by him, he constantly maintained them, and would not endure to hear them ill spoken of; giving more credit to his own judgement then to other men's reports; reputing them to speak of envy or malice. He was an earnest defender of his Ambassadors; notwithstanding that they did aught that were not tolerable; for he loved to have good intelligence, and knew all that passed in all parts of the World. He used to discourse of his affairs the space of four or five hours together, and wrote down the reasons pro & contra, the better to consider thereof; and his arguments were so well compounded, and all of one poise, that who so understood the beginning of the matter, might presently comprehend the end thereof. He knew the natural inclination of those Princes with whom he had to deal, and spent much money to have full notice of them; by reason whereof, he negociated with them, with lively reasons and sound arguments, and not with generalities; and had his business in all parts in readiness, attending opportunity & fit occasion to put them in execution: Hence it grew, that in regard of his affairs, he was mortified in all his pleasures: concerning the laws, he was just, and made profession to maintain and hold his word, and to prefer his honour before all things in the World; wherefore whosoever desired to get his favour, was to use the means of honour, and of modesty, with show of Religion: whereto he was so much addicted, as he communicated four times in the year. He was very patiented in hearing causes, and gave audience aswell to the mean as the great, with much attention: and notwithstanding that he was slow to resolve of his own affairs, aswellas of other men's; yet he concluded very prudently. But he that will blame him may say, that he was remiss and irresolute; and he that will commend him may affirm, that he was well advised and politic. Touching his liberality, he was held rather niggardly and sparing, then bountiful; especially towards his servants, whom he entertained with hope many years; but when he did reward, if enough were enough, he gave enough; for he had great means to give, of the three orders of Knighthood which are in Spain, besides Bishoprics, Abbeys, Titles, Offices, and other revenues: nevertheless, it seemed that in giving he much more favoured the Flemings then the Spaniards or Italians. He was bountiful to such Captains as served him in the wars, and to such as he loved; but it came but slowly. He made show to love peace, and not to desire wars, but when he was provoked. Briefly, he gave example for all to follow, and abstained from all such vices as might stain his Conscience, or good name. He effected great matters by negociation, wherein he was more than in Arms; notwithstanding that in Arms he was invincible and peerless. He rose late in the morning, and after he was ready (clad in no better than in silk, or cloth, close made, more like a private Gentleman than a great Lord, but yet very neatly) he heard a private Mass for the soul of the Empress; and then gave audience and dispatched much business; then going out of his chamber, he heard another Mass openly in a Chapel, which being ended, he went to dinner: Whereupon they used this proverb in his Court, From Mass to Mess. He was a great feeder, and did eat such things as did breed gross and viscous humours, whereof proceeded the Gout, and the Ptisick; which infirmities in his later days greatly tormented him, especially the Gout; which was of so malign a condition, that it sent the vapour thereof from the stomach into the head, which put him often in danger of his life, which he assured himself could not be long: but yet when he was well, he made small reckoning of Physicians, as though he should never be sick again. He did eat little at night, thinking to make amendss for disordering himself at noon. After dinner he gave audience, and sometime retiring himself into some secret place, he passed the time in drawing the plot of some fortress, or other edifice; but most commonly he used to jest with a Polonian dwarf which he had, or with one ADRIAN a groom of his chamber; and often with the Baron of Monfalcon Steward of his house, in whose company he took great delight, for his ready and quick wit. He sometimes road on hunting, not with above eight or ten horse at the most, and returned oftentimes with a brace of stags', or wild Boars. And sometimes he used to shoot at Pigeons, at Choughs, and such like birds; and in all these his disports he spent not an hundred crowns in the yeete; so much did he apply himself to matters of importance. He used the like sparing in cladding his court, in his table, in the furniture of his house, and such other ornaments; insomuch that if in trussing himself a point broke, he would tie it together, and keep it, not to loose so much time as till another were fetched. His sparing was such, that there was no man that spent ten crowns by the year, but spent more than he: but for other expenses, passing through other men's hands, he did as other Princes do, which refer the same to other men's trust; yet he used all possible diligence to understand every particular, and would know how his money was issued, even to a crown; so careful was he for what was his. The virtues and fair conditions of this Prince, together with his power, excelling all the Princes of his time, moved the Electors in Germany to created him Emperor. But before we come to relate what his actions were after he came to the Empire, it shall not be impertinent to make a brief repetition of the most memorable accidents which happened in his kingdoms of Spain. FERDINAND King of Arragon dying, left Queen JOAN his only daughter to succeed him in all his Realms and estates: CHARLES Archduke of Austria and Earl of Flanders her eldest son was to inherit all those great estates after her; by reason The death of Ferdinand King of Ar●…gon. of whose absence and the Queen's disability (being possessed with a melancholy humour) FERDINAND thinking that Prince CHARLES would not come in person to govern the Realms of Spain, was desirous to appoint FERDINAND his Nephew, brother to Prince CHARLES (whom he loved dear, having been bred up with him) to govern those Realms, for his daughter Queen JOAN; but he was diverted by the wise advice of some of his Council, showing the inconveniences that might ensue: whereupon he nominated Cardinal FRANCIS XIMENES of Cisneros for governor, until the coming of Prince CHARLES, giving great testimonies of his fidelity and loialty: who took upon him the government of Castille, with the consent of all the Council, and Nobility; only the ministers of the Infant DON FERDINAND, sought to have him intrude himself into the government of affairs. The first care of Cardinal XIMENES was to make an accord with Doctor ADRIAN of Florence who had been Shoolemaister to Prince CHARLES, having been sent Ambassador from him to King FERDINAND, touching some negotiation; but with secret authority, that the King dying he should take upon him the government of Castille; but the Cardinal Accord for the government of Castille. and he made an accord that until they had other news from Prince CHARLES, they should jointly sign all dispatches. The Cardinal with the Council remaining at Madrid, there grew some tumult in Andalusia, A tumult in Andalusi●…. the head whereof was Don PEDRO GIRON eldest son to the Earl of Vregna, who entered the Duke of Medina Sidonia's country with forces, pretending a title to the whole Duchy: which tumult the Cardinal sought to suppress, proclaiming them troublers of the public peace and guilty of high Treason, wherewith Don PEDRO GIRON retired for a time; But soon after he returned to his first frenzy, being countenanced and supported by Don FERNANDES of Velasco, Constable of Castille, by the Duke of Benavent, the Duke of Albaguerque, by the Earl of Midina Celi, the Bishop of Segutnea, with divers others, who hating the Cardinal entered into a faction: But by the wise advice of of the Duke of Infantazgo (whom they sought to have drawn unto them) and by the constant resolution of the Cardinal these practices died; and they returned unto their first obedience, the greatest of them seeking to ins●…uate themselves into the Cardinal's favour. This wise Cardinal knowing that he might be crossed in the government of affairs, by the Nobility which did both hate and envy him, he sought to procure from King CHARLES Letters patents for the confirmation of his authority, and that he might have free liberty in matters of state to do what he should think profitable for the safety of the kingdoms; requiring the like authority over justice and the treasure; but before the dispatch of these Letters patents, he put one thing in execution which bred some alteration in the State. The Cardinal after the death of King FERDINAND ordained for the defence of the Realm, aswell against foreign invaders, as homebred rebels, Legions and bands of soldiers Cardinal Ximenes institutes legion●…ry Souldier●…. taken out of the citizens and Burgesses of the good towns of Spain, men of good fame, having both house and family. Some seditious men and desirous of innovation were much scandalyzed at this edict, and many towns began to oppose themselves against the execution thereof, but especially at Vailledolit, where they took Arms against Cardinal XIMIN●…S' as against an enemy, offering violence to his officers who were sent to make the inrolments, wherein they were animated Sedition at Vailledolit against the Cardinal. by the Admiral of Castille who had some hereditary rights in the government of the town, and the Bishop of Astorgia who had been Schoolmaster to the infant, Don FERDINAND. These alterations did much trouble the Cardinal; yet would he not proceed rigorously against them until that he had received approbation from King CHARLES, the which was sent him the year following; so as at the coming of these Letters into Spain, the inhabitants of all the mutinous towns, submitted themselves and gave over their factions. In the year 1517 there grew a mutiny in Malaga against the officers of the Admiralty, the townsmen being desirous to free themselves from that jurisdiction, pretending that it did but A tumult at Malaga. hinder the course of justice, and give way to ill livers, to avoid deserved punishment. This multitude of Malaga having no patience to attend an answer from King CHARLES of Austria, did tumultuously chase away the judges, and defaced all the marks of the Admiralty in their town and jurisdiction. The Admiral of Castille complained to the Cardinal and Council, who sought by admonitions and threats to suppress the fury of this people: but they persisted still in Arms and planted the Artillery upon their walls. But the Cardinal seeing no mild courses could prevail, sent 6000 of his legionary foot and 400 horse against them, under the command of Don ANTONIO de la Cueva, upon whose approach the Malagins fainted, and sued for mercy: whereof the Cardinal being advertised, he commanded him to proceed with mildness and clemency, preserving the King's honour and dignity; So as there were five of the chief authors of this sedition hanged and the rest pardoned. Cardinal XIMENES was much troubled with the pitiful estate of JOAN Queen of Castille; for this Princess being possessed with a sharp melancholy humour led a most lamentable The state of Queen joane of Castille mother to King Charles. life in the Castle of jordefillas whereas King FERDINAND her father had lodged her, being a very pleasant place: yet LEWES FERRIER of Valencia who had the chrge of her could never get her to lodge in any wel-aired chamber, but she would still lurk in some dark place near the ground, fit to entertain her melancholy. She did abhor soft beds, and would lie upon the ground, or upon a board covered with a carpet by importunity. They could not get her to wear a furred gown in winter, nor any thing that was rich: She was many times three days together without eating, complaining often, that she was kept like a prisoner, and that they withheld her from the government of affairs like a private person. The Cardinal was much grieved hereat: and somewhat to redress it, holding that the negligence of LEWES FERRIER did feed the malice of her infirmity, he removed him, putting in his place FERDINAND DUCA of Talavera, a man nobly borne and wise, who by his discretion in a short time did moderate this violent humour in the Queen, getting her to be content to have her chamber made clean, which grew unsavoury by reason of the meat which she would not suffer them to carry away, and by little and little he persuaded her to lie in a bed and to go abroad to Church, and he made her to have some feeling and apprehension that she was a Queen, and so acknowledged. And in time he made her familiar and brought her to a more mild and humane kind of life: The which did much please K. CHARLES her son, who thanked Cardinal XIMENES by his Letters. Cardinal XIMENES found many crosses and oppositions in his government: yet he was so impatient of any injury, as whatsoever King CHARLES ordained touching the affairs of Cardinal Ximenes impatient of injuries. Spain, if it proceeded not from him and his counsel, he held it done in contempt of him, and condemned it as a subject of sedition; accusing the Noblemen & Council of Flanders of rashness, who being ignorant of the manners of the Spaniards meddled with the government, the which did wholly depend of the Viceroy's authority & of the king's Council which was in the country: he did much honour ADRIAN FLORENT who was joined with him in the government: for that he yielded unto him. The Spaniards who are by nature haughty and proud, could not long endure the integrity of Cardinal XIMENES, neither were they well pleased with the Flemings, who entertaining the King in Flanders were too busy with the affairs of Spain, so as all things tended there to a combustion. But to prevent all disorders which were feared by reason of the King's absence, it was resolved to sand the Lord of Chaux thither to have the third place in the government with Cardinal XIMENSS, and Doctor ADRIAN, who had A third governor sent into Spain. formerly been the principal cause of his sending; for that (as he said) he was not sufficient to resist Cardinal XIM●…S' a haughty man, who did manage all things at his pleasure, and could in no sort endure any companion; His coming was very pleasing to the Noblemen and people of Spain, who were much discontented with the Cardinal; and they all went forth to receive him with great honour, being the first that ever had been sent into Spain with authority, since CHARLES of Austria took upon him the title of King. But the Cardinal maintained his authority resolutely, and held still the first place in all dispatches; as may well appear by that which follows: for, the other two having on a time signed certain Letters, leaving a space for the Cardinal to sign under them; he tore them in pieces, causing others to be made to the same effect, which he signed above: and thus he continued until the Kings coming. It was often resolved in Flanders to have sent some great man into Spain to manage the government, and to check the sour and harsh disposition of the Cardinal. LEWES Count Palatine was propounded both to take charge of the State, and of the Infant D. FERDINAND: but the Cardinal could endure no corrival, beseeching the King by his Letter, not to sand any one into Spain with whom he must be in continual quarrel; but rather to give him leave to retire himself to his Diocese, where he would live religiously in peace, foreseeing that many would seek maliciously to cross his good designs to serve the Common-weal; they having no other end but to breed some great tumults in Spain, he desired not to be engaged therein, but rather to be a spectator; advertising the King, that the only means to prevent all dangers, was, To commit the whole affairs of the estates government to his tried faith, and to rely wholly upon him, seeking to divide the royal Sovereignty betwixt the King and himself: for, he said the Flemings understood nothing in the affairs of Spain, and the King for his tender age could not undergo so many cares: but the Cardinal's proud courses bred him much hatred. The King was greatly desired in Spain by the Nobility, who thought thereby to supplant the Cardinal in his government: and this voyage was much pressed by the Emperor MAXIMILIAN, The King much desired in Spain. who held it very necessary; and to that end came to see the King at Bruxelles, and to confer with him, fearing that his long stay in the Low Countries would breed some alteration in the state of Spain, where he was much desired. This conference bred some jealousy in the Cardinal; who wrote, that the interview of great men did never bring profit to themselves, nor to their affairs. The Spaniards, seeing the time spent in vain hopes of their King's coming, began to grow into mutinies, making great complaints of the greediness of the Flemings, who disposed of the affairs, and wasted the King's treasure, transporting it out of the Realm. Many of the best Towns of Spain, being incensed with these complaints, sought how to prevent the disorders, and to kerb the greediness of the Flemish Courtiers. The Cardinal and Council, knowing well, that what the Towns had desired was just, yet fearing some popular tumults, they persuaded them to forbear all Assemblies till there were certain news of the Kings coming, who they understood made preparation to embark speedily: and in the mean time they advertised the King of what had past. But the Cardinal and Council were again importuned for an assembly of the States, promising only to solicit the King to come into Spain, to maintain the laws and customs of the Country, and to reform such disorders as were crept in; or else the people did protest to sand Ambassadors to the King, and to provide that the Common-weal should take no prejudice. The Cardinal could not refuse their just demand, appointing the Assembly in September 1517, hoping by that time the King would be arrived in Spain; having to that end sent him a fleet of ships, and sending Post daily to advance his coming, the only means to maintain peace: for, the Cardinal held it a dangerous thing when as people (having cause of grievance) presume to complain publicly: for having once lost the respect due to the magistrate, there is no more any restraint; and popular complaints are easily believed by such as have a desire to trouble the State. Pope LEO about this time, by virtue of a decree made in the Council of Lateran, demanded the tenth of all the revenues of the Clergy, upon colour to defend the Christian religion against Infidels; for that SELIM, Emperor of the Turks, threatened Christendom, and especially Italy: whereupon the Pope sent out his Bulls to exact this money for three years, with many Exactions of Pope Leo hindered by Cardinal Ximenes. indulgences to such as should contribute willingly. The Clergy complained hereof to Cardinal XIMENES, being at Toledo; who undertaken their protection, and by his authority (which was great with the Pope) freed them from that exaction. At one Instant there were three of the greatest Noblemen of Spain conspired together against the Cardinal upon sundry discontents; which were, the Duke of Infantazgo, the Duke of Alva, and the Earl of Vregna. The Duke of Infantazgo had offered violence to a Promoter Violence committed by the Duke of Infant●…go. sent by the Cardinal touching some proceeding at Guadalaiara, threatening to hung him. The Cardinal gave it out, that he would call the Duke in question, for that he had violated religion, and broken the public peace: and the Duke, desirous to brave the Cardinal, sent a Chaplain of his unto him, with a message full of disgraceful reproaches and vain threats. To whom the Cardinal (hearing him quietly without any alteration) answered, Go back to thy master, whom thou shalt find repenting the foolish words which thou hast delivered: and in truth before his return, the Duke's choler was past, and he very sorry for his rashness; but he was afterwards reconciled to the Cardinal by the Constable of Velasco. The Earl of Vregnas excess was of a higher strain: for, Don GUTTIERE of Quixada having a suit against him for the restitution of Villafratte, a Town near to Vailledolit; and certain officers of justice coming thither by order of the Court to put him in possession, they were outraged & beaten by RODERIGO GIRON the Earls son, BERNARDIN of Velasco the Constable's The court of Parliament violated. son, BERTRAUD the la Cneva son to the Duke of Albuguergue, FERDINAND HENRIQVES son to the Admiral, with other ill advised young Noblemen then present. The Court being much incensed heerat (the Bishop of Malaga being Precedent) commanded certain legionary soldiers to arm to assist justice, and to punish those rebels, getting himself in person towards the place. The Constable, foreseeing the danger, posted thither before, and caused them to give way to the Sentence of the Court: for which good office, the Bishop of Malaga gave thanks to the Constable, and dismissed his soldiers. But the Cardinal was not so tractable, but sent out his warrant to apprehended these young Noblemen; who, seeing him proceed criminally against them, returned to their old frenzy, putting themselves again into Villafratte, meaning to keep it. This business tended to sedition, many blaming the Cardinal's severity, whereby the whole Realm might be drawn into combustion: but the Cardinal held it a glory to oppose himself against great men, seeking such occasions ambitiously to show his magnanimity & courage. Finally, they proceeded against these young Noblemen by course of justice; and their names were proclaimed, and they cited to appear and to give an account of the action. The Fathers of these young men were much troubled: who knowing the Cardinal's power and sour disposition, resolved to pacify him by all fair means, sending to entreat him to have regard unto the youth of their children, complaining notwithstanding by their letters unto the King of the Cardinal's harsh disposition, whereby Spain was filled with combustions; The Cardinal in like manner did aggravate this action unto the King, complaining of the disobedience and contempt of these Noblemen, who made many assemblies tending to some great tumult: But in the mean time, they proceeded against them, that were within Villafratte, whofearing the Viceroy's power, left the place and dislodged by night. The town was by sentence condemned to be burned, and the ground to be sowed with salt: And the Earl of Vregna with his son and their other confederates were convicted of high treason, which sentence was presently put in execution: The town was burnt to Ashes and seven of the inhabitants publicly whipped. This severity bred great hatred against the Cardinal. But the Admiral HENRIQVES coming to MADRID, told him with great mildness, that he did himself wrong, and the whole Realm (being Archbishop of Toledo and Primate so to blemish the honour of the greatest houses of Spain, so well deserving, both in these public executions and in many bad offices which he had done them with the King; persuading him for the good of the Realm, and the king's service, to temper his austere behaviour, and to entreat men with more equity, and less choler. The Cardinal (with a settled countenance) answered, that he had never sought to win favour of Kings or to maintain his reputation in the world by doing wrong to any, but had ever endeavoured to acquit himself duly, of the government which had been committed unto him: neither had he done any bad offices to the king, as many did maliciously publish. The Duke of Alua's discontent grew upon a suit depending betwixt Don DIEGO, of Toledo his son, and D. ANTHONY of Estunigea, brother to the Duke of Beiar, for the Priory of Saint JOHN of jerusalem. D. ANTHONY, who had it at the first by resignation from his Uncle The causes of the Duke of Alva's discontents. the which Pope LEO confirmed with consent of King PHILIP, and now again having sewed at Rome, he had won his cause, and gotten letters of execution from the Pope, who recommended him with other favourable letters to King CHARLES, who sent him into Spain to Cardinal XIMENES, giving him charge to sequestrate all the places of the Priory into his hands, commanding the Duke of Alva and his son to retire their men, and to refer the cause to his compromise, and if they should refuse then to execute the King's letters, and the sentence. The Duke of Alva was loathe to dispossess himself, conceiving that the Cardinal did not affect his cause; And therefore he reicted such reasonable conditions as he offered unto him; and falling into choler and rage, he mustered up his friends and forces, thinking to maintain that by Arms which was not justifieable by law or reason: wherefore the Cardinal, seeing his furious proceeding, was forced to come to the last remedy, calling together his legionary bands, as well to guard and fortify the counsel and justice, as to suppress and disperse the mutinies; of whom they encountered about a thousand foot and some horse, drawn together by the Duke of Alva, and put them to rout. The Duke presently saw his own error, employing the favour of his best friends for his reconcilement; submitting himself unto the Cardinal, into whose hands he yielded up the Priory: which controversy was after ended in friendly manner. This year the Inhabitants of Algiers (a Town in Africa) being much afflicted by the dissension of two brethren Moors, who contended for the Signory, they had called unto them FLORUSCO BARBAROUSSE, a famous Pirate, to defend their liberties; who having seized upon Algiers attempted by the Spaniards. that City, fit for theft and Piracies, he made himself king of Algiere, having slain CELIM the lawful Prince, and then he began to spoil the coasts of Spain, and to tyrannize over the petty Kings of Africa, of his own sect, seeking to dispossess ALEUZEVEN, King of Tunis; whom having slain, he forced JAHIA his son to fly into Spain, who imparting his miseries to Cardinal XIMENES, entreated him to assist him in the recovery of his Kingdom. The Cardinal caused men to be levied to sand against this Pirate BARBAROUSSE, giving the charge of the Army to DIEGO VERA, a rash and indiscreet man. This Army, being about eight thousand strong, came near unto Algiers in October, the Moors being advertised, and prepared to hinder his landing. The Town was manned with very good soldiers Turks, which HORUSCO had brought with him out of Asia. DIEGO VERA, coming near the Town, divided his Army into four parts, contrary to advice: for, the Barbarians were in all places stronger than the Spaniards; so as the whole Christian Army was chased and dispersed with great slaughter. DIEGO VERA abandoned all, and hid himself with his son among the rocks till the evening; when as he found a vessel lying at anchor, with which he returned into Spain, with much disgrace and dishonour; the children singing, that DIEGO was too weak to wrestle with HORUSCO, who had but one arm. Cardinal XIMENES made small account of this loss; saying, that by this means Spain should be purged of a great many of lewd insolent companions. The Cardinal was much importuned to sand a fleet into Flanders to transport K. CHARLES into Spain: whereupon he prepared a good number of ships, appointing GOMES of Buiteron A fleet sent into Flanders for king Charles. for Admiral. He caused the Ports of biscay, Asturia and Galieia to be visited for fear of infection, and victuals with other refresh to be sent unto all places where the fleet should arrive: he himself went unto Arando of Duero, there to attend the Kings coming, having in his company the Infant Don FERDINAND, Doctor ADRIAN now made Cardinal, and ARMASTOF. Dining at Boleguillas, a Borough in the mountains, it was thought that he was poisoned; so as he fell into a linger consumption. Having dined, he found himself very ill, the blood coming out at his cares and nails: this suspicion was augmented by an unknown horseman, who that morning having near unto the village met with the Provincial Cardinal Ximenes poisoned MARQVINE and other Monks which went unto the Cardinal, he willed them to make haste and to advice him not to eat of a great Trout which would be set before him: for, without doubt it was poisoned. If you arrive, said he, too late, then care for the health of his soul, for his body will be past recovery. This message was delivered late to the Cardinal; who answered, that if his infirmity came of poison, he thought it proceeded from Flanders, and that he had been infected by the eyes in reading of a Letter which came from that Country; since which time he had not been well. Being in this estate, he caused himself to be carried to Aranda, and in the mean time, the A tumult 〈◊〉 Vailledolit. town of Vailledolit fell into a new tumult, the people having a conceit, that the report of the kings coming was but counterfeit, and that this great preparation, was to sand the infant Don FERDINAND into Flanders; so as Spain remaining destitute of her Princes, being in the hands of an old Monk, half rotten and near his end, must of necessity be ruined by homebred seditions, or become a prey to foreign Nations: But to pacify this mutiny, and to assure them of the kings coming, the Cardinal sent unto them, and satisfied them: The Cardinal had resolved Resoemation of Don Ferdinand's house by the cardinal. to do one act more which he held necessary, but was full of envy, and that was to reform the Infant Don FERDINAND'S house, and to take from him those which had bred him up and served him, either for some private dislikes, or for some other considerations which he pretended, wherewith he acquainted the King, who a little before his coming, sent his Letters of command to the Cardinal, to discharge D. PEDRO NUGNES of Guzman, the Infant's Governor; D. ALVERO OFORIO bishop of Astorga his Schoolmaster; Don GONZALO of Guzman his chamberlain, and SANCHO de Puredes his steward, and to sand them home to their houses, letting them know that the King was well satisfied with their good services; but their ages required rest, referring the rest of the Infant's house to the Cardinal's disposition. The secret of this packet was divulged before it came to the Cardinal's hands, which bred a great alteration in the Infant's house, they giving the Infant to understand that this was a practice of the Cardinals, to debase him and keep him under; whereupon he came in choler the next day to the covent of Aguillera, where the Cardinal lay sick of his infirmity, to whom he complained even with tears, of the wrong he did him; seeking without any just cause to deprive him of such faithful servants, and therewithal he entreated him and conjured him, by Entreaty of the Infant D. Ferdinand to the Cardinal. the memory of Queen ISABEL, not to suffer such an indignity to be done him, as to take from him such worthy personages which had attended him so faithfully, and now to see them so ignominiously disgraced. The Cardinal sought by mild words, to pacify the incensed courage of this Prince, laying before him the King his brother's pleasure, which tended to his advancement, if he would show himself obedient and tractable; he told him that he loved him dearly, and that he had no will to wrong him: he confessed that his care for the good of his servants was honourable, but he must withal know, that the king his brother was dearer unto him: and therefore he exhorted him, that laying aside those passions which his servants had bred in him, he should wholly rely upon him who was the greatest king in Christendom, against whose will it was neither safe, nor fit for him to oppose himself; using many other reasons to the like effect; But the young Prince was not so satisfied, but answered the Cardinal with these words: Seeing you are resolved to ruin me and mine, I must of necessity find means to preserve ourselves. The Cardinal being touched at these words; Do (said he) what you please, but I swear by the life of king CHARLES your brother, that tomorrow shall not pass, before his commandments Speech of Cardinal Ximenes to the Infant D. Ferdinand be executed, the which it behoves you to obey before all other; yea, though all Spain had conspired to hinder it. Hereupon the Infant went from the Cardinal without any show of perturbation, and so returned to Aranda, where he found himself with the Town and all the approaches, guarded by two Captains of the Guard, and their troops, which bred great discontent in the Infant, but he could not help it, nor avoid the removing of his servants, as you may read at large in the History of Spain. King CHARLES having taken shipping in Flanders in the beginning of September, arrived about the end of that month, upon an uneasy coast of the Asturies, a Rocky place and not Arrival of K. Charles at the Asturies. frequented; The mountain-people having retired their wives and children into the Rocks, betook them to their Arms, and came down in troops to take the Seashore, thinking there had been some enemies; which the king perceiving, he caused his royal Standard to be advanced, that he might be known, and the Asturians discovering the arms, knew it was their king; so as laying down their weapons, they came to salute him upon their knees, accompanying him to Villa Viciense; where he rested himself after his travail by Sea, being accompanied by his sister D. LEONORA then Queen of Portugal. The Cardinal, who lay in his covent very sick, was so much joyed, at the news of the kings coming, as he left his bed and sang Mass; and the Flemings, on the other side, were as much discontented, wishing him dead before the king should confer with him, for they knew well that he sought to chase them from the Council, and from the managing of all affairs: Practices of the Flemish courtiers to keep the king from seeing of the Cardinal. wherefore they were very inquisitive of his life, and practised delays to stay the King upon the way, wishing he were dead before the King should see him: There were diverse devices to have drawn the king first into Arragon, which the Cardinal hindered, humbly beseeching him not to determine any thing touching his public or private affairs, before he had given him a full information of the estate of his Kingdom: and he also counselled him to sand Don FERDINAND his brother as soon as might be into Germany to the Emperor his grandfather, holding it the best course both for his own affairs & the good of the Infant, and to be a means that all or the greatest part of MAXIMILIANS estates might be conferred upon him, seeing that he was King and Lord of so many Realms and rich estates. This advice was followed after the Cardinal's death: but it seems the Flemings had other designs; for, the Lord of Cheures sought to keep him under, and would have had him give water to the King his brother; who (being discontented to see his brother so debase himself) said, that XIMENES counsel was better: whereupon he ordained, that the Infant should be conducted into Germany. The King, upon his way towards Vailledolit, had a desire to go and visit his mother Queen JOAN at Tordesillas; writing the causes which moved him thereto to the Cardinal and to his brother D. FERDINAND: his resolution seemed full of piety; but, considering the indisposition King Charles visits his mother of this Princess, it was not needful to confer so long with her of affairs and matters as he did. The Court coming to Vailledolit, the Cardinal found that his credit began to decay, and that he was not so respected in the making of his lodging as he aught to have been, wherein he thought himself to have been disgraced; saying, that it was a poor recompense after so much Sight of the Cardinal's disgrace. toil and sweated to receive a wrong, in the place of a reward, blaming the King's officers, who were ignorant of the customs of Spain: But the receipt of the king's Letters touched him nearer, by which he was commanded to attend him at Moiados, upon the way to Tordesillas, where he desired to have his advice touching the affairs of his Realm and house, to the end he might discharge him of so great a burden, and suffer him to retire to his own house to live in rest, where God would reward him for the many good offices he had done to the Realm, which he thought was not in the power of man to do, and that for his part, he would ever remember it, The Death of Cardinal Ximenes. and honour him as his Father. He conceived so great a grief upon the receipt of these Letters, to see himself kept back, and, in a manner, disgraced, as within few hours after he died. The King having called the estates of Castille to Vailledolit, he was there proclaimed king of Castille, Toledo, Granado, and other Provinces depending in Spain, where he received and took Coronation of King Charles the first of that name. the oath after the accustomed manner: at which there was some question made by some of the Granades, for that Queen JOAN his mother was yet living, but notwithstanding they proceeded. Having there ordained some things touching the Government of Castille, he went into Arragon to have the like assembly called and solemnly performed in regard of those countries and provinces: during his abode there, he had news of the death of the Emperor MAXIMILIAN: for which great dignity, there were two great Princes in competition; FRANCIS the Death of Maximilian, and 2. concurrants for the Empire. First, King of France; and CHARLES King of Spain: In the beginning they proceeded with great modesty, each of them labouring by his Authority and means to draw the Electors unto his side. The King of Spain thought the Empire did belong unto him by right, as having continued by a long succession in the house of Austria, and that it had not been the custom to deprive the descendants of the dead, without apparent cause of disability, having diverse other reasons to feed his hopes to attain unto the Empire. The French King on the other side had no less hopes, grounded upon an opinion he had to purchase the Electors voices by money, whereof some were his ancient friends and pensioners, to which enterprise they encouraged him, as a matter easy to effect: He also knew well that it was very grievous to many great houses in Germany, who held themselves capable of so great a dignity, to see the Empire continued so long in one house, and become as it were hereditary; and that they might call that Election a succession, which durst not leave the next descendants of the deceased Emperor. These humours of the German Princes made him hope, that the jealousies among them might help his cause. The Electors were assembled at Frankford to agreed upon their election. The French King was still abused by the promises of the marquis of Brandenburg, who was drawn thereunto by offers of great sums of money, for the which he did not only bind himself to give his voice: but he also promised that his brother, the Archbishop of Mentz should do the like; and the French King was in hope that some other of the Electors were well affected to his party. But the German people had no will to see the Imperial dignity transferred to a stranger, entreating The German●…, lovers of their countries. the Pope that he would not favour any one in that election, that were not of the German Nation; yet in show he seemed to favour the French King, but in his heart he desired not to have either of them chosen Emperor, fearing their great power, but laboured to 'cause some other of the Germane Princes to be elected. During all these practices and the Electors differences about the election, they were advertised of an Army put to field by the King of Spain (who was more ready to levy Soldiers with his money then to give it to the Electors) which Army drawing near to Frankford upon colour to bridle such as should offer to force the Election gate courage to those Electors which favoured his cause, and drew such as stood doubtful unto them. The marquis of Brandenburg who stood for the French King, was so amazed, as despairing of the other Electors, and fearing the hatred of the whole nation, he durst not discover his intention; so as coming to the act of Election, CHARLES of Austria King of Spain was chosen Emperor by four of the Electors, only the Archbishop of Treves gave his voice Charles the Fift chosen Emperor. for the marquis of Brandenburg who was also concurrent in the Election for himself. This election did much trouble the French king, so as many conceived that these two young Princes, between whom there were so many causes of jealousy and debate, upon sundry pretensions, would in the end grow to some great & dangerous war, as you shall hereafter understand. King CHARLES being at Barcelona, he had news of his election to the Empire of Germany, by an Embassage sent from the Electors, whereupon he went to make preparation for his journey, and to set order for the affairs of Castille, which were very confused. But he was forced to make haste and to leave many things undecided, being advertised of the conspiracies and leagues betwixt the towns and Noblemen of the Realm, for the defence of the privileges of the country, against the greediness of the flemish Counsellors. The king was loathe to be engaged in the Spanish mutinies with whose humours he was not yet acquainted: wherefore he embarked suddenly at the Groin, leaving for governor's Cardinal ADRIAN and the Constable VELASCO, with whom afterwards he joined FREDERICK, HENRIQVES great Admiral of Castille: And so passing by sea with a great fleet he landed in England, to see king HENRY the Eightth, with whom he was in good correspondence, where he was very honourably entertained for some days, and then passed over into the Low countries, from whence he went with an honourable train to Aix, where he made his entry with all the Prince's Electors, and many other Prince's Ambassadors and Noblemen, so as some writ there were in the train 15000 horse, and there he received the first Imperial, crown of Iron. In the mean time the combustions increased daily in Castille, many towns and Noblemen complaining of the breach of the laws and privileges of the Realm, and of the bad government of the Flemish Lords, most of the chief towns fell to Arms and actual rebellion, having Civil wars in Castille. joined with divers Noblemen and Knights and committing all sorts of riots and insolences, refusing to obey the King's officers, but of themselves they set down a form of government, which was made by the general multitude, and they called it, la Santa junta. The governors seeing this general revolt, levied forces to suppress the rebels, in the which there were many exploits done, which I omit. But in the end the two Armies met near to Villa Lara, where the rebels were defeated, and thereby all tumults pacified, & the confiderate cities laboured to recover their former favour. The Bishop of Zamorra one of the chief of the confederates was taken & strangled, and some other condemned to loose their heads: and thus their civil wars ended, which grew by the excess and violent government of the Flemings. During this rebellion in Castille, the governors being weak, were forced to draw the garrisons out of Navarre, and to draw away some of the ordinance out of Pampelona, whereupon the Navarre entered by the French. Lord of Asperant brother to the Lord of Lautrech, with some French well affected to HENRY of Albret, the right heir of that Realm, entered the country and took some places, and in the end was received into Pampelona: yet being abandoned by the Duke of Nagera, who was Viceroy, and finding no resistance in the whole Country, during the civil wars, he unadvisedly past the river of Ebro and laid siege to Logrogna: but the Governor's having gotten the victory at Villa Lora, marched towards him, and forced him to repass the river, following the French until the Armies came near to Pampelona, where the Lord of Asperant resolved to hazard a battle and would not attend such forces as were to join with them the next day, in the which the French were defeated, and the General taken prisoner; whereupon the whole country of Navarre was easily recovered by the Castilians. The Lord of Asperans and the French defeated in Navarre. The heart burning betwixt the Emperor and the French King began now to discover itself, for the Duke of Bovillon (having put himself under the protection of the French) sent to defy the Emperor being at a Diet at Worms, and his son the Lord of Florenges having levied some Duke of Bovillon d●…est the Emperor. forces in France, went to besiege a small town in Luxenburg, but the king of England dissuaded the French King, from entering into quarrel upon so small a subject; there was nothing done, and the Duke of Bovillon dismissed his Army: but the Emperor raised forces, and took diverse places and towns from the Duke, who finding himself too weak obtained a Truce for six weeks. After the Emperor's coronation the first act he did, was to suppress, if he could by mild means, the doctrine preached by LUTHER the which increased much in Germany. To this end, and for some oath rcauses of importance concerning the Empire, he caused the Princes and estates to assemble at Worms, whither LUTHER came, having a passport, and was heard disputing against Doctor ECKIUS and diverse others, but there followed small fruits of this A Diet at Worms. Diet. King FRANCIS being much discontented with the overthrow of the Lord of Asperants' army, he sent the Lord of Bonguet admiral of France with a greater power, who entered by Guipuscoa and besieged FONTARRABI the which after some days he took by composition, and manned it with a garrison of 3000 Gascoines, under the command of the Earl of LUDE: and about Fontarrabi taken by the French. the same time the Viceroy of Navarre received commandment from the Emperor, to ruin all the walled Towns and forces of Navarre, to prevent another rebellion, the which was executed but at Pampalona and some few other places. Both these great Princes in like manner were in Arms upon the frontiers of France and Burgundy, where there were divers exploits done but of no great moment. This year the Emperor hearing of the alterations which had been in Spain against the governors; having consulted with the Prince's Electors he disposed of his affairs there and of the Netherlands, and took shipping at Flushing, who finding a prosperous wind he touched in England where he concluded an alliance with King HENRY the Eightth, to marry with The ●…mperours' second voyage into Spain. MARY his daughter (being then but seven years old) when she should come to age but it succeeded not, from whence he sailed into Spain and arrived at S. Ander the 25 of july. The Emperor being gone into Spain there fell out great combustions in Germany, the Peasants taking Arms against the Nobility, who being assembled in great numbers, made spoil of religious houses, and committed a thousand insolences having no subject, but only abused by certain false preachers, who said, they had a revelation from God, that they should root out that tyrannous Nobility and enjoy their full liberty; but they were defeated, and put to rout by the Count Palatine, the Archbishop of Mentz, and some others. Their leader was publicly The peasant's war in Germany. executed, and those poor wretches that escaped from the battle, returned home to their houses. The Emperor being in Spain, had sent an Army to infested FONTARRABIE: the Earl of LUDE the governor wanting things necessary for the defence of a town of war, which attended a siege hourly, he advertised the king his master, entreating him to relieve him and to sand another to take the charge: whereupon the Marshal CHABANES came and victualled Fonbarraby taken by the Emperor. the town, and changed the garrison, leaving captain FRAUGET, in the place of the Earl of LUDE, and the next year 1524 the Emperor sent an Army to besiege it, and FRAUGET having neither want of victuals nor endured an assault, yielded the town by composition, for the which he was degraded of his Nobility, upon a scaffold in the city of Lions. In the mean time the wars began to grow hot in Italy, whereas the Pope and the Emperor had made a secret league against the French King, seeking first to supplant him in the Duchey of Milan by secret practices, and then by open Arms, where after many exploits done in the end the Imperialists took the city of Milan. After with the Swissers under the French Kings pay, and M●…lan taken by the Imperialists. under the command of the Lord of Lautre their General, would needs go and change the Imperialists at Bicocca where they were repulsed, yet they retired in good order with their Artillery, the enemy not daring to pursue them; in which conflict the Swissers lost 3000 of their best The incoun●… of Bicocca. men and 22 Captains: after which they returned home; and the French, into France. The lord of Lautrec having given order for the defence of Cremona, Genoa, and some other Towns in Lombardy, in the mean time the Emperor made a league with the Venetians: the Articles were, that between the Emperor FERDINAND Duke of Austria, and FRANCIS SFORZA A league between the E●…peror, and Venetians. Duke of Milan, on the one part, and the Senate of Venice on the other, there should be a perpetual peace and league, with divers other Articles for the joint preservation of their estates. And in August following there was another league concluded at Rome betwixt the Pope, the Emperor, the King of England, the Archduke of Austria, the Duke of Milan, the Cardinal of Medicis, together with the state of Florence, and the Genoais; where it was concluded, that this league should continued during the confederates lives, and a year after the death of any of them, referuing place for any other to come in, so as they were admitted by the Pope, the Emperor, and the King of England: the rest of the Articles you may read at large in GVICHARDIN. The French King was nothing daunted with these leagues, nor the union of so many Princes; The French King prepares to go into Italy. who being come to Lions, resolved to go in person with a great Army into Italy. His Army passed the mountains: but the King was stayed by the conspiracy of the Duke of Bourbon; who, being the greatest officer of the kingdom, and of a noble Family, seeing himself in some disgrace, made a league with the Emperor and the king of England, by which it was agreed, that as soon as the king should have passed the Alps, he should enter Burgundy with twenty thousand Foot; But this could not be brought to pass, before it was discovered to the King being at Lions, who sent to apprehended him, but he was fled away in a disguised habit. This accident of importance stayed the king from his intended journey; who keeping certain troops about him prepared for the new war, he sent the Lord of Bonivett Admiral of France, into Italy, with one thousand eight hundred Lances, and thirty one thousand Foot, of several Nations, with which he drew near to the confines of the Duchy of Milan, where he took some Towns, but attempted Milan in vain. The Duke of Bourbon, not able to do the Emperor any service in Burgundy, for want of money to pay his Lance-knights, retired to Milan, where the Emperor (having no will he should pass into Spain, to marry his sister the widow Queen of Portugal) sent to entreat him that he would stay there, giving him the title of his Lieutenant general in Italy; the Emperor's affairs were not successful upon the coasts of of Spain, for having a great desire to pass in person into France, and thither to transport the wars, having to that end sent his Army under the The Emperos design to go into France made frustrate. Pirenean hills, the which had taken Doluaterra: But his designs were greater than his power, being unable for want of money to entertain such great forces as were necessary for such an enterprise: for which cause he could not draw his Army together before the later end of the year, which bred him great difficulties in that cold season, for which consideration together with the want of victuals he was forced to dissolve his Army. But to return to Italy, the Emperor's Army was now on foot, under the leading of the Duke of Milan, the Duke of Bourbon, the Viceroy of Naples, and the marquis of Pesquera; what success these two Armies had, I leave to the relation of GVICHARDINE: part of this Army was sent in France, under the Duke of Bourbon, and the marquis of Pesquiera, they entered The duke of Bourbon enters into Provence with an Army. Provence and took Aix, the chief City of that Province, with some other towns. The Duke of Bourbon would gladly have passed the river of Rhosne, and entered farther into France, giving diverse reasons for his advice: But the marquis and the Spaniards desired rather to take Marseilles a haven of the Sea, lying very commodious for the Emperor's passage out of Spane, into Italy, the which they went to besiege, lying forty days before it; but despairing to be able to take it, and fearing some great danger if the King should approach, they raised their siege: the king being comn to Auinion with his whole Army, and marched with all speed towards Marseilles; the French King; seeing a fair occasion offered him for the recovery of the Duchy of Milan; having a puissant Army, and his enemies being weak, he resolved to embrace the occasion, wherewith he acquainted his Captains; saying, I have resolved to pass in person into Italy, The Frenck king resolves to pass the mountains and follow the enemy. and whosoever shall advice me to the contrary shall much displease me. Let every man therefore look carefully to his charge, for God is a lover of justice, and the rashness of our enemies, hath at last laid open a means for us to recover that, which hath been violently taken from us. After which he caused the Army to march immediately, shunning to meet with the Lady Regent his mother, who came to persuade him not to pass the mountains in person: But he went on, and encamped with his Army before Pavia (having first taken the City of Milan) during which time, the Pope did mediate a Peace betwixt those two great Princes, but it took no effect. The French King continued still his siege before Pavia which was reduced to exremity, but the Imperialists drew all their forces together to relieve it: and the Armies lying near together, they joined battle upon the four and twentith day of February, where the French Army The battle of Pavi●… where the French king was taken prisoner. was overthrown; and King FRANCIS, fight valiantly and long in the midst of the battle, had his horse slain under him, and himself lightly hurt in the face and the hand, being fallen to the ground, he was taken prisoner by five soldiers who knew him not: But the Viceroy chancing to come, he discovered himself unto him, who gave him his hand with great reverence, and received him prisoner in the Emperor's name. In this overthrow there were many Princes and Noblemen of France slain and taken prisoners, the particularities whereof I omit for brevity's sake. The Emperor being advertised of this overthrow, and of the king's imprisonment, the news were very pleasing unto him, yet he made no show of pride for this great success, but carried himself●… very modestly; For, being informed of the victory, and receiving Letters of the French Kings own hand, which were humbly written, rather in the condition of a prisoner then of a king: He went forthwith to the Church to give God thanks, and the next morning The Emperor's moderation upon the news of the Victory. received the Sacrament with great devotion, and so went in procession with his whole Court, but he would not suffer any Bells to be rung, or bonfires made in sign of joy; saying, That it was fit to rejoice for victories obtained against Infidels, and not for those which were gotten against Christians. Whereupon he called his Council together to advice in what sort he should deal with the French King, and to what ends he should use the Victory, commanding every one to deliver his mind freely in his presence: Whereupon the Bishop of Osma, who was his Confessor, making a grave speech & showing three deliberations which might be taken, touching the French King; the first to keep him a perpetual prisoner; the second, to deliver him friendly and brotherly without any other conditions but such as might settle a perpetual Peace betwixt them; and the third to deliver him, but to draw as great profit thereby as he could, concluding that the safest course was to bind the king unto him by a free and brotherly deliverance. But on the other side the Duke of Alva persuaded the Emperor to make as great profit of this Victory, as possible he could, whose advice was applauded by the whole Council without any reply, the which the Emperor himself also approved: Whereupon there were certain Articles drawn and sent with all speed unto the King, who rejected them as unreasonable. The Viceroy doubting of the King's safe keeping within the Duchy of Milan, he resolved to transport him to Naples, whereat the King was much grieved: He was conducted to Genoa, and The french king transported into Spain. from thence to Portofeio where he should embark, but the Viceroy having certain French Galleys, sent him by the Queen Regent, he changed his advice, and transported the King into Spain. The Emperor, hearing of his arrival, gave commandment, that he should be received with great honour in all places as he passed: what followed during his imprisonment until his delivery, you may read at large in the French history. In the year one thousand five hundred twenty six, after many consultations, in the end was a treaty concluded for the delivery of the French King; but the Emperor tied him to such The delivery of the French king. conditions as were very unreasonable: yet he promised upon his oath to observe them faithfully, having left his two sons in Hostage, and contracted himself to queen ELINOR the Emperor's sister. This accord held all the Princes of Christendom in suspense, for they considered that if he observed the treaty of Madrid; all Italy being unable to defend itself, would fall into servitude, but the world was soon satisfied of the French kings intention; For, being arrived at Bayonne, he was required to ratify the Accord, which he had promised to do when he came to a free place, but he delayed it with many excuses: giving the Emperor to understand that before he proceeded to such an act, it was necessary he should pacify his subjects, who were discontented with bonds which tended to the diminution of the Crown of France: But notwithstanding all difficulties he would observe what he had promised; notwithstanding the Pope and the Venetians sending messengers unto him, he complained much of the Emperor's inhumanity unto him, during his imprisonment, not using him like a Prince, nor with that commiseration His complaint against the Emperor. of his calamity that befitted a Prince. That he had not found him any mildlier disposed towards others, but perceived by his speeches used at M●…drid that he affected nothing more than how to bring the Church, Italy, and all other Princes into servitude: and therefore he wished them to be careful of their own safeties: which if they did, he would concur with them for the common good, and make a league with them against the Emperor, not that he had any intent to recover the State of Milan, or to add any thing to his own greatness, but only by war to recover his children, and assure the liberty of Italy, seeing the Emperor's great covetousness had left him no colour to bind him to observe the treaty: For that both at the first when he was in the Castle of Pisqueton and afterwards in Spain, he had often protested to the Emperor, by reason of his exorbitant demands, that if through necessity he were driven to compound upon unjust conditions, or such as were not in his power to perform, that not only he would not observe them; but holding himself wronged in that he had forced him to make impossible promises, he would be revenged if ever occasion were offered, and that he had often told him, that it was not in the power of a French king, to bind himself to the alienation of any thing depending of the Crown, without the consent of the general estates: that the Laws of Christians did not allow, that he which was taken in war should be detained in perpetual prison, which was a punishment proper for malefactors, and not for such as had been beaten with the cruelty of fortune; that all men knew that bonds made by constraint in prison were of no value; and that the capitulation being of no force, the faith likewise which was but accessary, and the confirmation of the same, could not be bound; that by the oath which he had taken at Rheims at his coronation, he was bound (according to the custom of other Kings of France) not to alienate the patrimony of the Crown: and therefore for these reasons he was no less free than ready to abate the Emperor's pride. The Emperor, growing jealous of the King's delays for the ratification, sent one unto him to be certified of his intent, who found him very unwilling to leave Burgundy; which, being The Emperor sends to the French King touching the treaty. very prejudicial to the Crown of France, he said was not in his power to observe: but desiring much to entertain the amity begun with the Emperor, and to give perfection to the marriage, he would be contented (observing all other Articles) to pay him two millions of crowns for the resignation of Burgundy. The Emperor, hearing this answer, was much troubled in mind, yet he resolved not to altar any thing touching the restitution of Butgundy, and rather to accord with the Pope, and to consent to the reintegration of FRANCIS SFORCE; being more fitting for him to pardon a Prince less than himself, than by yielding to the will of a powerful Prince, and one that envied his greatness, to make as it were a confession of fear. But the French King hearing that the Eimperor would altar nothing touching the Articles of the capitulation, he presently began to harken to the treaty of the league, the which was concluded the tenth of May 1526, between the French King on the one part, the Pope and the Venetians on the other; that between the Pope, the French King, the Venetians, and the Duke of Milan (for whom the Pope and the A league concluded between the Pope, the French King and the Venetians. Venetians assured their ratification) should be a perpetual league to restore FRANCIS SFORCE freely to the Duchy of Milan, and the French Kings children to their liberty; that the league should be signified to the Emperor, to whom was given power to enter into it within three months, with condition to deliver the King's children, receiving a competent ransom, such as the King of England should arbitrate, and also to leave the whole Duchy of Milan unto FRANCIS SFORCE, and the other estates of Italy as they were before the last war began: there were many other Articles touching the managing of this war, which I leave to GVICHARDINE. The Army of confederates being in field, they came and sat down before Milan, and soon retired again without any effect: and in the mean time the poor Inhabitants of Milan were wonderfully oppressed by the rigour and cruelty of the Spaniards; and the face of this City appeared very miserable and almost naked of Inhabitants, many being wasted by the plague, and The miserable estate of Milan. many fleeing away daily to avoid the fury of those merciless Spaniards. They were somewhat revived by the coming of the Duke of Bourbon; persuading themselves, that seeing he had brought some provision of money, and that the confederates Camp was retired, their necessities and dangers would decrease, and they should not be so much oppressed and cruelly handled: furthermore, they had a conceit, that the Duke (to whom it was said the Emperor had given the Duchy of Milan) would provide for his own profit, that they should be no more so miserably afflicted. Wherhfore, assembling themselves together, they came to the Duke, and delivered their grievances unto him by the mouth of one of their company, with tears and lamentations. The Duke seemed to be much grieved for their miseries, promising to do his best to relieve the City, which had been so much oppressed contrary to the Emperor's will and pleasure: he told them, moreover, that he had brought some provision of money, but not so much as might content the soldiers; yet if the City would furnish him with 30000 Ducats for the pay of one month, he would 'cause the Army to retire out of Milan; assuring them, that he would not break his faith and word, upon which they might confidently rely; praying God, that, if he failed of his promise, his head might be taken from his shoulders by the first shot of Cannon from the enemy: whereupon, the poor Citizens with great difficulty began to make provision of the money. But the Duke of Bourbon made no reckoning to keep his word and promise, or at the lest it lay not in his power to kerb the pride and insolency of the soldiers. The Castle of Milan was all this time besieged by the Imperialistes and reduced to great extremity The Castle of Milan yielded to the Imperialists. for want of victuals, the confederate army under the command of the Duke, promising still to relieve them, and they came and planted their Camp within a mile of Milan: but they delayed the execution so long, as the Duke of Milan was forced by extremity of hunger, to yield it up unto the Duke of Bourbon upon certain conditions, the which were very ill observed. Provisions of the Emperor against the confederates. The Emperor began to fortify himself in Italy against the confederates: he sent the Viceroy of Naples out of Spain, with 6000 foot, Lanceknights, & Spaniards, and he sent directions into Germany for new succours of footmen: but by reason of the want of money that Levy came slowly. After the success of these matters in Italy with divers events, Ambassadors came unto the Emperor in September from the Pope, the french king & the Venetians, to signify unto him the league which they had made; with the liberty which was left to him to enter, according to the conditions: at which act the Ambassador of England being present, he delivered a Letter from the king his master, who persuaded him to enter into the League. The Emperor having heard their charge, answered, that it agreed not with his dignity, to enter into a league, made principally against his estate and honour: but having been always desirous of the universal peace, he made offer to accomplish it presently if they had sufficient commissions for the same. This year the Duke of Bourbon went out of Milan with part of the Imperial Army, being 1527. persuaded by the Duke of Ferrara to address himself to the head, and attempt Florence, or Rome: and in like manner the Viceroy of Naples, who also had an Army for the Emperor, was desirous to invade the territories of the Church: the Duke of Bourbon marched near to Bologna, where he was in great danger of his life by reason of the mutiny of his soldiers for want of pay: But The Pope maket an accord with the Imperialists. the Pope seeing these storms approach, began to faint and to loose all courage, so as he resolved, to make an accord with some whom the Viceroy had sent to Rome, to that end: which was, That there should be a surceasing of Arms for eight months, the Pope paying to the Imperial Army 60000 Ducats; with divers other Articles. The Duke of Bourbon was persuaded by the Viceroy to accept of the truce: the which he refused, saying that the Army could not be stayed but by the advancing of a greater sum of money; so as having no means to entertain the Army longer without money (for until that day he had carried them through many difficulties, with fair promises and vain hopes) being constrained either to try his fortune or to perish, he resolved to march with all possible speed to surprise Rome: where the reward of the victory would be inestimable; and he was encouraged with hopes of good success, for that the Pope had unadvisedly upon the treaty of the accord dismissed his troops. The Duke of Bourbon, leaving his artillery and baggage behind, marched with incredible speed, and drew near to Rome, the Pope being scarcely advertised of his coming: what passed within the City, I omit for brevity's sake. On the fift of May he sent a Trumpet to demand passage through the City of Rome, to go with his Army to the Realm of Naples: and the next morning at the break of day he resolved either to die or vanquish, giving a furious assault to the suburbs; in which he was much favoured by a thick mist. At the beginning of the assault, the Duke of Bourbon, being in The duke of Bourbon slain 〈◊〉 the assault of Rome. the head of the troops to draw them on, was shot through the head with a bullet, and slain. This did nothing daunt the resolution of the soldiers; who after a little resistance forced the rampiers, the Defendants all fleeing away: whereupon Pope CLEMENT with certain of his Cardinals fled into the Castle; and the same night the soldiers entered the City, where they Rome taken and sacked by the Imperialists. made a pitiful spoil, without respect of person or place, were they holy or profane. The spoil was infinite for the wealth and riches which they found, and for the quality and number of the prisoners, who were to redeem themselves with very great ransoms. On the sixt of june the Pope compounded with the Imperialists: the conditions were, that he should pay to the Army 400000 Ducats, that he should deliver up to the Emperor the Castle Saint Angelo, the Forts of Ostia, Civita vecchia, and of Civita Castellano, with the Cities of Parma, Placencia and Modena; that the Pope, with thirteen Cardinals which were with him, should remain prisoners within the Castle until the first payment were made of 15000 Ducats, and then they should go to Naples or to Caietta, and there attend the Emperor's pleasure; that for assurance of the other payments he should give in hostage certain special men whom they named. This sack of Rome drew all the soldiers of the Realm of Naples thither; so as there were at that one Instant 24000 men, who lived there tumultuously and insolently, and would not departed: but a great number of them were devoured by the plague. Matters being treated of before for the preparation of a new war, in April a league was concluded betwixt the Kings of France and England, upon certain conditions set down: and it was resolved, that either of them should sand Ambassadors to the Emperor to acquaint him with A league betwixt the kings of France and England. the league they had made, and to summon him to restore the King's children, and to enter into the peace with honest conditions; which if he would not accept within one month, then to denounce war. This league being concluded, the two Kings sent two Gentlemen in post to make this summons to the Emperor; which act the two Ambassadors performed. And in like manner, on the fifteenth of May 1527, the French King (having news of the sack of Rome, and the death of the Duke of Bourbon) contracted with the Venetians and the Duke of Milan, for the levying of an Army in Italy. Of this Army of the league, MONSIEUR de Lautrech was made Captain general; who, having passed into Italy, took Genoa and Alexandria, and sacked Pavia. After which he was importuned by the Pope to advance with his Army: whereupon the Imperialists, fearing his descent into the Realm of Naples, which they were of necessity to defend, made an accord with the Pope. The Articles were, that the Pope should make no enterprise against the Accord betwixt the pope and the Emperor's agents Emperor, either in Milan, or the Kingdom of Naples; that he should grant him a Crusade in Spain, and a Tenth of all the Clergy-revenues in those Realms; that he should leave in the Emperor's hands (for assurance of the observation) Ostia, Civita vecchia, Civita Castellana, and the Castle of Furlie, and give for hostages his nephews, HIPPOLITO and ALEXANDER; that he should pay to the Lance-Knights 67000 Ducats, and to the Spaniards 35000: which being performed, they should release him with all his Cardinals: and they should go out of Rome, and the Castle; conveying the Pope in safety to Oruietta, Spoleto or Perousa, until the rest of their money were paid. The night before the tenth of December, which was appointed for the Pope's departure, he fearing that some sinister accident might happen unto him, stole, in the closing of the evening, secretly out of the Castle in the habit of a merchant; being attended by LEWES de Gonzaga, who was in the Emperor's pay, and conducted him safely to Oruietta: from whence he wrote a Letter to MONSIEUR de Lautrec, thanking him for that which he had done touching his delivery. Most part of the former year there had been treating of a peace betwixt the Emperor and the Kings of France and England; and taking no effect, the Ambassadors being retired, their Heralds 1528 Answer made by the emperor to the French King. came to denounce war against the Emperor: whereto (as some writ) he made this answer, that the French King could not denounce war against him being his prisoner, although he were at liberty, having given his sons for hostages: if he could not observe his promise which he had solemnly sworn, being hindered by his subjects, he should return again to prison; and that he could not by the law of Nations, being not yet freed from his oath, denounce war against him: and GVICHARDINE writes, that he told some of the King's ministers, that he would end all quarrels with the French King by single combat of both their persons, and that he had dealt villanously and cowardly with him in falsifying his faith. The King, hearing hereof, held it a dishonour to pass it over in silence: and therefore on the twentith of March, in a great assembly of all his Princes, all the Ambassadors and his whole Court, calling for 〈◊〉 the Emperor's Ambassador, after some speeches he desired him to carry a Letter and deliver a message to the Emperor from him of this tenor, that whereas the Emperor had The French K. gives the Emperor the lie. told his Herald that he had falsified his faith, he had spoken an untruth; and that as often as he had spoken it, so often he had lied; and not to defer the trial of their quarrels, that he should assign him the place where they might together perform the combat. The Ambassador refusing to carry this Letter or deliver the message, told him he would signify as much to the Emperor by an Herald: and although he were not ignorant that he had spoken against the honour of his brother the King of England, yet he would say nothing therein, knowing that the King was well able to defend himself: but if through the indisposition of his body he had any lawful impediment, he offered to adventure his body for him. But not many days after, the King of England gave him the like defiance with the same solemnities. The Army of the league under the command of Monsieur de Lautrec their General, entered into the Realm of Naples, being still followed by the Imperial Army, cutting off their victuals: but in the end of April 1528 Naples besieged. he came to Naples, which he resolved to besiege both by sea and land; where in the beginning there was a great fight at sea between PHILIP DORIA who served the French, and the Imperialists; in which Don HUGO de Monarda Viceroy of Naples, with above 1000 Spaniards, were slain, and many Noblemen and others taken prisoners. The siege of Naples proved very The Spaniards defeated at sea. fatal for the French: for, ANDREW DORIA with his galleys left the King's service, and fell to the Emperor, whose Army was fortified with new forces. The French Army was distressed for victuals, and much infected with the plague, whereof many great Commanders and Captains died, and in the end Monsieur de Lautrec the General himself; which was the overthrow Death of M●…nss. de La●…rec. of the French Army in the kingdom of Naples, having as bad success in Lombardy under the command of Monsieur de S. Pol, who was overthrown and taken prisoner by ANTHONY De Leva, at Lavidriano. These many crosses caused the French King willingly to give ear to a treaty of peace, the which was debated at Cambray in the year 1530 by LEWES of Savoy, the French Kings mother, and MARGARET of Austria the Emperor's Aunt, where after much debating the two Princes were reconciled; by the which the Infants of France were to be delivered in regard of two millions and 500000 crowns, paiable at several times, whereof part was in discharge of the Emperor to the King of England, that the King should renounce The Emperor makes a peace at Cambray with the French king. the Sovereignty of Flanders, & Artois, and his pretensions to the Duchy of Milan & Naples, with divers other Articles which did not hold. During the negotiation at cambray, the Emperor passed into Italy with great forces, which amazed all the States of Italy: he landed at Genoa, and went to Bologna, whereas Pope CLEMENT attended him and received him with great honour, Coronation of the Emperor at Bologna. and lodged him in the same palace with him, where by their outward demonstrations they seemed to have been always in great amity. There he received the imperial Crowns, one of Iron, which the Emperors have been accustomed to receive at Milan, and the other of Gold which he should have taken at Rome: and during his abode there, by the Pope's mediation, the Venetians, and the Duke of Milan, upon certain conditions, were reconciled to the Emperor, who restored to FRANCIS SFORCE, Milan, with the whole Duchy: from whence he passed into Germany, to an Imperial Diet which was held at Ausbourge, where assisted FERDINAND King of Hungary his brother, with the Princes of the Empire. There the Protestant Princes, Noblemen, and Imperial towns besought the Emperor to hear the confession of their doctrine, where were many disputations by the Doctors on both sides: where the Protestant's seeing they could not prevail any thing, made a protestation that they could not contribute to the wars against the Turk who threatened to besiege Viena: After which, King Ferdinand chosen King of the Romans. FERDINAND was chosen King of the Romans, with whom the Emperor went to Aix where he was solemnly crowned, in january 1531. And from thence the Emperor went into the Low countries, where he made a very severe Edict against them of the reformed religion; and then he returned into Germany and went with his brother FERDINAND to a Diet at Ratisbon, where the Council of Ausbourg was allowed until a Council were called: and so a peace was concluded in Germany, upon certain Articles; so as the Protestant's for their parts, being seven A peace betwixt the Emperor and the Protestant's in Germany. Princes and 24 towns, offered obedience to the Emperor, and promised him succours against the Turk. This treaty was ratified by the Emperor the second of August 1532, commanding the Imperial chamber and all other judges to obey it. The Emperor leaving Germany returned into Italy, and had an interview with the Pope at Bologna, in show to treat of a general Council, which was nothing pleasing unto the Pope: but the chief end was, to make a league between A league betwixt the Pope and the Emperor. them and the other Potentates of Italy, for the assurance of their estates against the enterprises of the French: which done, the Emperor returned to Genoa and from thence passed into Spain. The Emperor being in Spain, he was solicited by MULEY HASCEN King of Tunis who had been dispossessed by HARADIN BARBAROUS●…E, to restore him to his Realm, promising Mulai Hascen restored by the Emperor. to hold it of the Crown of Spain. This occasion was willingly embraced, as necessary for the good of Christendom, and very honourable for the Emperor in particular. Having resolved upon this enterprise, he advertised all Christian Princes, inviting them to contribute men, money and ships to this war, whither he would go in person: the Rendez vous was in Sardinia, The Emperor's forces going to Tunis. where he shipped his Army being near 40000 men, with the which he landed happily within six miles of Tunis: he first assaulted Gouletta which was a strong Fort set upon the mouth of the lake, the which was taken by assault, in which there were slain in fight or in flying away above 1500 Turks and all BARBAROUSSES' ordinance and Galleys taken. There was great Go●…letta taken by the Empero. consultation touching the enterprise of Tunis, which some held difficult and others made it easy. It is written that BARBAROUSSE being much grieved for the loss of Gouletta was once in mind to have slain all the Christian slaves: from which cruel resolution he was diverted by some, showing him that so foul a fact would not only blemish his name perpetually, but bring him in disgrace with SOLIMAN, who was a generous Prince, and hated all such base actions, as to kill people imprisoned which could not offend him. The Emperor marched with his Army towards Tunis, and BARBAROUSSE came forth of the city in show to give him battle, having (as some writ) twenty thousand horse, 100000 foot, Moors and Arabians, with 7000 Turks on whom he did chief rely. The two Armies drawing near, the charge began: Battle between the Christians and Barbarousse at Tunis. but the Barbarians upon the first charge, fled away basely, neither did BARBAROUSSE show any courage that day, but fled speedily to the City, where the slaughter in this battle was not great, the Barbarians flying presently. BARBAROUSSE being in Tunis entered into a new resolution to murder the Christian slaves, which moved two Renegadoes (much favoured by him) to campassion, who opened the prison doors to these wreaths, who (as some writ) were 10000: and they having broken their chains, got staffs and such other weapons and become Christian slaves seize upon the Castle of Tunis. masters of the Castle, driving away those few Turks which were left there in guard, seizing upon the treasure, victuals and Arms which BARBAROUSSE had left there, who posted to the Castle seeking to be let in; but they chased him away with reproaches. This happened the day after the battle, when as those slaves made sign unto the Emperor to approach, but by reason of the distance they could not be seen: yet the Emperor finding there was some alteration sent to discover it. In the mean time BARBAROUSSE fearing the inconstancy of his Moors, left the city, and went towards Bona with his 7000 Turks: the Christian Army marching towards Tunis, they were met by Ambassadors from the city, who offered to yield unto the Emperor upon what conditions he would prescribe, so as he would secure them from sack, the which was granted: But soon after the Emperor's entrance the Spaniards and Germans fell to spoil and kill, committing all acts of hostility. After all this MULI HASCEN was restored to his kingdom by the Emperor, upon certain Articles set down, doing him homage: and then the Emperor dismissing part of his Army from Gouletta he returned with the The Emperor returns into Sicily. rest into Sicily, and so came to Naples. The Emperor being returned to Naples there began a new war betwixt him and the French king, for the Duke of Savoy brother in law to the Emperor, whom the French sought to dispossess of his estate. The Emperor consulted with his captains of the manner how he should begin this war, whether he should stay in Piedmont or pass presently into Provence: where after divers opinions it was concluded to invade Provence; for the which enterprise he made preparation of a mighty Army, having (as some writ) 24000 Germans, 14000 The Emperor's passage into Provence. Spaniards, 12000 Italians and 5000 horse, with which he marched into Provence, where he attempted Marselles in vain, neither did he any thing in that voyage worth the memory, but was forced to retire with his Army with great loss and dishonour, the particularities you may read at large in the French history. After the Emperor's retreat out of France the war being still hot in Piedmont, Pope PAUL considering what miseries it brought unto Christendom, and foreseeing the ruin of Italy if it continued, he laboured an interview of these two Princes and himself An interview betwixt the Pope, Emperor, and French King at Nice. at Nice, where they could not be reconciled, there being a truce only for ten years concluded. The Emperor returning towards Spain, was stayed by fowl weather about Marselles, where the King sent to entreat him to enter and to rest himself until the wind were fair; for which he gave him thanks, letting him understand, that he desired they might meet at Aigues mortes: whereupon the king went thither from Auignon; where the Emperor landed, and dined The Emperor and French king met at Ague●…mortes. with the king, and he afterwards entered confidently into the Emperor's Galley where they conferred long together, and parted with great shows of friendship. In the yeeare 1539. the Ganthois in the County of Flanders began to mutiny: the Companies of Trades and occupations, assembled in their several Halls, and then went to Arms, seeking to extort many things from the great Bailiff, and the Magistrates of the Town; they committed many to prison, and one they publicly beheaded of their own authority. The Emperor hearing of this rebellion, (upon the French Kings word and safe conduct) he posted The Emperor passeth through France to suppress the Ganth●…is. from Spain, to come by land, into the Netherlands through France, The Prince Dolphin and the Duke of Orleans, were ready to receive him at the foot of the Pyrenian mountains, who conducted him to Paris, being in great state, in all the towns where he passed: approaching near unto Paris the King met him having a godly train of Princes, Noblemen, and Gentlemen; and being come to the Louvre both the King and Queen ELINOR his sister, gave him a very Royal reception, from whence he was conducted to Valencienes in Henalt: and from thence he went to Brussels, where hearing many complaints of the Ganthois rebellion, he went thither with 4000 men, where coming near the town the Magistrates met him, and brought him into the town with great honour. Being duly informed of all matters, he caused many Burgesses to be apprehended: and their process being made, there were nine of the The Ganthois rebellion punished. chief beheaded, and the inhabitants were forbidden to carry knives, unless the points were broken: and the better to keep the town in awe, the Emperor caused a strong citadel to be built; their privileges were taken away, and many other indignities were done them, which I forbear to relate. The wars continued hot betwixt the Emperor and the French King, who had entered Brabant, and spoiled the Country until they came to Antwerp, being assisted by the troops of The French enter into Brabant. the Duke of Gelder's. The Emperor having settled his affairs in the Netherlands, he went to Ratisbone, where he had appointed an Imperial Diet, as well to provide for the war against the Turk, as to bring the Protestant's under the obedience of the Church of Rome: and under the colour of Religion, he thought to stay the French King from making war (being much incensed, for that his Ambassadors had been murdered going to Venice) by undertaking the Conquest of Algiers; for which attempt he assembled his Forces, rejecting The Emperor's voyage to Algiers. the wise counsel of his best Captains, who advised him to defer the enterprise until the Spring following: but the enterprise proved very fatal; for the Army was not only annoyed by Land by the Barbarians, but his Fleet was miserably torn and spoilt at Sea by Tempest, whereby the Army was driven to great extremity for want of victuals, and the Emperor forced to retire, embarking his Army in those few ships and galleys that remained; His return from that miserable attempt. himself shaping his course for Spain, where he found himself engaged in a difficult war against the French King, who pretended the truce had been broken, by the murder of The French king invades the Emperor's territories. his Ambassadors; whereupon (as I have said) he had sent troops into Brabant, and the Duke of Orleans into Luxenburgh: the Dolphin HENRY went with a goodly Army to besiege Peruignan, but he prevailed not: he also made war in Italy, and sent the Duke of Vendosme into Picardy. The Emperor fainted not for all this; but that which troubled him much was to hear that SOLIMAN had newly repulsed the forces of the Empire from before Buda, and that he prepared to return this year into Hungary with a mighty Army: and that which did afflict him more, was to understand that BARBAROUSSE was at sea with a great fleet; meaning to invade his countries of Naples, and Sicily, or Spain if he could. To prevent all these mischiefs he passed into Italy and made a league with the King of England, from whence he went into Germany, and so into the Low Countries, and then began the war in those parts betwixt the two Princes: for after many encounters, and sieges of towns, the two Armies being near, and ready to give battle, by the mediation of some good men, a peace was concluded betwixt them, and the Emperor retired to Brussels in October, whither came in the same month Queen ELINOR the French Kings wife, with the Duke of Orleans, where they were received and entertained with great state and magnificence. The Emperor went from thence to an Imperial Diet at Worms, where he meant to treat of matters of Religion; Pope PAUL and he having made a league in june 1546, A league between the Pope and the Emperor against the Protestant's of Germany. concluding, that seeing the Protestant's would not allow of the Council of Trent, nor submit themselves unto it, the Emperor should force them by Arms, and if he entered into any treaty with them, he should not prejudice the Church of Rome: That the Pope should consign 100000 crowns at Venice, besides 100000 Crowns which he had already paid, to be employed in this war; that he should also entertain 12000 foot, and 500 horse, for six months; That the Emperor might for this war, take the one half of the revenue of the Clergy, and cell of Abbey Lands, to the value of 500000 crowns: And if any Prince should seek to hinder their resolution they should join their forces together to resist them. Than they began to make preparation for this war, both in Germany, Spain, and Italy. The Emperor (as it seemed) had a further design; Viz. that having ruined the protestants, which made the greatest power of Germany, he would subject the states of the Empire to his will, that he might keep the Empire in his family, and make it hereditary: and for some proof of this absolute power which he did affect, he had mad a truce with the Turk the better to attend this war, without taking the advice of those Princes and States, who had contributed great sums of money, to make war against the enemy of Christendom. Finally; after many conferences, and refusal of peace, which they had demanded; the confederate Princes raised a mighty Army, whereupon the Emperor proclaimed them guilty of high treason. The two Armies lay near together, and the protestants offered battle to the Emperor, but he would none; assuring himself that they could not long continued together. The protestants Army had two commanders, the D. of Saxonoy & the Landgrave of Hessen, The Duke of Saxony defeated and taken. who did not concur well in their consultations, beside they wanted victuals, and money; so as they were forced to dislodge and retire further off: whereupon, divers protestant Towns compounded to pay money, and to receive garrisons. The Emperor pursued the Elector, and forced him to fight with disadvantage, where he was defeated and taken. Within few days the Emperor gave Sentence of death against him, which was revoked upon suit made; yet upon condition, that he should resign the dignity of Elector; which was given to MAURICE, with all his Lands. There were many other conditions imposed upon him, all which he signed; only he would not promise' to obey the decrees of the Council of Trent, protesting constantly, that he had rather die than yield to it: whereupon the Emperor caused that Article to be left out; yet for all this, FREDERICK continued prisoner to the Emperor. D. MAURICE being now Elector of Saxony, and the Marquis of Brandenburg, sons-in-law to the Lantzgrave of Hessen, were suitors for him; who obtained a promise from the Emperor to pardon his life, to remit all other punishments due to the Rebels, to leave him his Country, with one Fort furnished with artillery, so as he did renounce all leagues which did prejudice Conditions propounded to the Lantzgrave. him or his brother FERDINAND, obey the Imperial Chamber, deliver up the rest of his Ordinance, pay 150000 crowns within four months for the charges of the war, and deliver the prisoners which he held, and come and crave pardon of the Emperor. The Lantzgrave accepted these conditions, and presented himself to the Emperor upon his knees; who returned him an ambiguous answer: yet, thinking that all went well, he thanked the Emperor. Than going to sup with the Duke of Alva, and thinking after supper to retire with his two sons in law, he was detai●…ed prisoner, and given in guard to Spaniards, the which ministered matter of great discontent, Duke MAURICE and Brandenburg charging the Emperor with breach of his promise. This act deprived the Emperor of the first-fruits he pretended of his enterprises, and was a means to chase him out of Germany. Prince PHILIP, being sent for by the Emperor his father, came from Spain into Italy; and so passing through Germany, arrived at Brussels, the Emperor investing him in the Duchy of Brabant, the County of Flanders, of Henalt, and of Arthois, and afterwards of the Town of Antwerp, and the Marquisate of the holy Empire: all which was performed with great pomp and Prince Philip take possession of the duchy of Brabant. ceremonies. In May 1550, the Emperor parted from Brussels with the Prince his son, to go to an Imperial Diet held at Ausbourgh where he pressed his brother FERDINAND to resign to Prince PHILIP his son his right and dignity of King of the Romans; whereupon The Emperor solicits King Ferdinand to resign the dignity of the Romans for his son Philip. they grew to a quarrel: for the pacifying whereof, MARY Queen of Hungary, their sister, was forced to return to Ausbourgh. He pursued this resignation by all means possible: but FERDINAND would never yield, thinking that if he made this dangerous alienation, all his sons (having many) should remain without estates: and he had sent into Spain for MAXIMILIAN his son to come to the Diet, being a mild and courteous Prince, and very pleasing unto all Germany. Prince PHILIP, having failed in this attempt, returned towards Spain the same way he came; Duke MAURICE and Brandenburg, being assisted by the king of Denmark, the King of Romans, and by many other Princes, who had written their Letters to the Emperor for the Lantzgraves' delivery: But it seemed the Emperor respected all these Princes little, referring the answer of their request, to the coming of Duke MAURICE, whom he said he expected to come and treat with him. WILLIAM eldest son to the Lantzgrave did importune him much: But Duke MAURICE and the marquis of Brandenbourg much more, speaking very boldly unto him, and putting him in mind of their bond and promise. The Emperor, being puffed up with his good success in Germany, gave distaste to all, as well Catholics as Protestant's, by his exactions, upon divers pretences: of some to be satisfied for the charges of the war, which he pretended to have made for the liberty of Germany; of other by the way of chastisement, for that they had revolted: wherein he said he proceeded mildly, quitting much of his right to ease and spare them. By this means there was neither Town nor Country, estate nor condition amongst the Germane which were not vexed by taxes, and by The Germane begin to grow diccontent with the Emperor. sour speeches and threats, if they presumed to put him in mind of his convention and promises. It is said, that he wrested from those Princes and protestant Towns, above 500 pieces of great Ordinance, wherewith he furnished his Forts in Italy, Spain and Flanders. Duke MAURICE remembering the captivity of the Lantzgrave his father-in-law (whom he had brought to the Emperor upon a promise that he would not detain him prisoner, yet notwithstanding he carried him up and down as it were in triumph) resolved to compound the wars with the town of Magdeburgh, which had been straightly besieged for that they resisted the Emperor's edicts; so as they had means to free themselves upon honest conditions; Duke MAURICE being the chief in that action: who seeing the Emperor reject his many motions unto him for the Landgraves delivery, he entered into league with ALBERT of Brandebourg, the Landgraves children and others, and all they jointly with HENRY the Second, the French King (son to FRANCIS the First, who died before in the year one thousand five hundred forty seven) who marched speedily with a great Army towards the Rhine, publishing that it was to restore the Germans, his good neighbours, and ancient friends, to their true and ancient liberty, which A league betwixt the Princes of Germany and the French King against the Emperor. was taken from them by CHARLES of Austria, terming himself Emperor: the Protestant Princes went also to Arms, and took many Towns in Germany, into their protection yet forcing them to furnish both money and artillery enjoining the towns of upper Germany, to meet at Ausbourg in the end of April. Duke MAURICE had taken Ausbourg, finding small resistance; from thence he marched The Emperor flies to Vilacco for fear of Maurice. towards Inspruch, to overtake the Emperor, who (seeing this new taking of Arms in Germany) had retired thither to draw men out of Italy. Hearing that the enemy approached, he sent some few soldiers to defend Chiusa, a very strong passage in that Country, but it was soon forced by the Germans; whereof the Emperor being advertised, he parted suddenly from Inspruch, in the night by torchlight, in a rainy season, and retired to Vilacco, a Castle belonging to the house of Austria, upon the confines of Friuly. It was a miserable thing to see the Emperor and his Court departed in such haste, at such time, and in such a season, having left behind them most part of their baggage, many walking on foot for want of Horses, whom the Emperor comforted what he could. Duke MAURICE came the same night to Inspruch, but followed the Emperor no furrher, making spoil only of what the Court had left there. But this war had an end by the Landgraves delivery, and by a peace concluded by FERDINAND'S mediation at Nassau, the which the Emperor himself signed. The French king was discontented with this accord, yet hearing that the Land-grave was in great danger, if it had not been concluded, he yielded, sending back the hostages (which the Protestant Princes had given him) safe into Germany, and retired with his Army, retaining for his charges, Metz, Thoule, and Verdun, Imperial towns. The Land-grave was set at liberty according to the accord, having been a prisoner five years at Macklin in Brabant, and returning The Duke of Saxony and the Land-grave set at liberty. homeward, he was again stayed by the Queen of Hungaries' commandment, who pretended that the Peace was broken. The Emperor set JOHN FREDERICK Duke of Saxony at liberty, having first deprived him of his Electoral dignity, and his estate; And in September the Land-grave was absolutely discharged, and returned to his house: And the Emperor finding himself bound to recover those towns which the French had taken, came with a goodly Army, and laid siege to Metz, in November, the which he battered with 40 Cannons. The winter was very sharp, Metz besieged by the Emperor. and the town well manned, and valiantly defended, by many good captains, Princes, and others of great houses, under the command of the Duke of Guise: so as seeing his Army overtoyled, and diminished daily, through hunger, cold, nakedness, and want of all things, being pressed by necessity, he retired his Army with loss and dishonour; from whence the Emperor returned to brussels, and the wars continued betwixt him and the French King, upon the Frontiers of Arthois and Picardy, where there passed many encounters and taking of towns. In the year one thousand five hundred fifty four, HENRY the French king, sent three Armies against the Emperor, the first into Vermandois under the Prince La Rochesur Yonne: the Three French Armies against the Emperor. second towards Crely led by the Constable, and the third was commanded by the Duke of Nevers, who entered the Ardennes, took Orchimont, and burned many villages, and passing into the country of Liege, he assured the passage of the River of Meuze, by the taking of some strong Forts. The Constable's Army took Marreimburg, and Rocroy, with diverse other places; The Prince of Roch sur Yonne, with the Duke of Nevers, entered Henalt, and Brabant, where they burned all the villages, and carried away a great Prey, leaving the country miserable and desolate; They besieged the Castle of Ranty, which the Emperor came in person to relieve, whereupon the French retired their Army. During the wars in Germany and the Low Countries: the Turks and Pirates of Africa, spoilt the Coasts of Naples, Sicily, and Spain: whereof the chief commander was DRAGAT RAYS a famous Pirate, who surprised the town of Africa, which then was well peopled and of great traffic, whereby he made himself fearful to all the Coasts of Italy and Spain. So as the Emperor was daily importuned to dislodge him from thence, who gave charge to Don JOHN de Vega, Viceroy of Sicily, and ANDREW DORIA, to gather an Army together with all speed for this action, who came in june, one thousand five hundred Africa a Town in the Realm of Tunis taken by the Spaniards. fifty two, with 54 Galleys well manned with soldiers and mariners, and landed near to the town of Africa, but they first attempted Ministerio a little town near it with a good Castle, the which DRAGUT had fortified with a good Garrison of Moors, and Turks: the which they having battered; in the end, after a long defence they took it, all the Turks being either slain, or taken prisoners: Than they turned towards Africa, the siege whereof they found to be of greater difficulty, it being environed on three parts by Sea, where they could not easily batter it, and the fourth side upon the Land, was very well fortified, yet they planted their Cannon against a ravelin and made a breach which the Spaniards entered with great courage and resolution: but there being no diversion made by the Galleys, as it was ordered, they were oppressed by all the forces of the Town, and repulsed with great loss, the which did much afflict the whole Camp, there being small hope in this siege; for the Moors and Turks were grown proud, and in the Camp they wanted both men, munition and victual; but sending to Genoa, they were supplied with 1200 Spanish foot from Milan; and the Duke of Florence, and the State of Genoa, fortified them with munition and victuals. DRAGUT was resolved to relieve them by Land, having gathered together many Moors, which he joined to seven hundred Turks, who making often attempts, did much annoy the Christians: But in the end, having lost many of his men in a furious skirmish, he despaired, and retired himself to Gerbe; after which they concluded to make three batteries, one by Sea, and two by land, where having made sufficient breaches, they came to the assault and took it, the Turks having defended it very valiantly: In which Town (some writ) there were 10000 prisoners taken; it was afterwards to be razed by the advice of the Emperor's Council, being held a place of great charge, and not guardable. After all the wars upon the Frontiers of France and the Netherlands, betwixt the Emperor and the French king, they sent their deputies, who met in a Plain betwixt Ardres, Calais, and 1555 An assembly to treat of a peace. Gravelling, having Tents set up for that purpose, whither came Cardinal 〈◊〉 from England, to assist as a mediator and umpire betwixt them: The demands on either side were so excessive, as they could not agreed, and so the assembly proved fruitless. This year, on the ninth of May, news came to the Emperor of the death of Queen JOAN his mother, in the Town of Tordesillas, having been always troubled in her senses and distracted The death of Queen joan the Emperor's mother. since the death of King PHILIP her husband, until she was 75 years old. This Princess troubling herself infinitely for that she thought she was contemned and kept as a prisoner, this ambitious humour of command would not suffer her to take any rest; so as this sharp and violent humour of melancholy (which she had as it were by inheritance from Queen ISABELLA of Portugal, her grandmother, wife to JOHN the second King of Castille) was continually augmented in her: her funeral was deferred until the coming of King PHILIP, who was then in England with Queen MARY his wife, who arrived at Brussels in September. At what time the funerals were celebrated with great pomp and state. This year the Emperor performed an act, which bred admiration in all the World; for, being broken with the toils and cares of the World, and willing to free himself of so great a burden, he renounced the absolute Government, with all the titles of those Realms and Estates, except the Empire, in the which his brother FERDINAND was to succeed. And to this end he called all the Knights of the order of the Golden-fleece to Court, in whose presence he pulled the Choler of the said order, from his own neck, and put it about his sons; saying, I do now make you Sovereign of the noble order of the Golden-fleece; maintain it in the like dignity that I, my Father, and predecessors have done. Than turning to the knights he said, The Emperor resignes his government to his son K. Philip. Prince my son, these are the faithful servants, which have been the support of my Empire, by whom I have overgone many perils and dangers, and therefore I have loved them dearly. If you do the like, I assure myself they will carry you the like affection and obedience: but if you entreat them otherwise, they will be the cause of the ruin of your estate; wherefore love and honour them. On the twenty fift of November, all the States being assembled in the great Hall at the Palace of Brussels, the Emperor came thither, being accompanied by the King his son, Queen MARY the Regent, with many other Noblemen; whereas the Queen caused all men to departed, of what degree soever, but such as were called to this solemn Act. The Emperor, King, Queen and all the deputies being set according to their degrees, philibert of Brussels the Emperor's Orator, made a long speech to them in his Majesty's name; giving them to understand, that he had governed those his hereditary countries long, and An Oration to the states in the emperor's name. had always endeavoured to maintain the public quiet; that he had undertaken many painful and dangerous voyages to come unto them; that he had been careful to govern them with justice, to maintain their rights and privileges, and to do all other things whereunto a good Prince is bound; All which he held well employed, being done for such faithful, dutiful, and obedient subjects. But his age and the weakness of his body making him unable to undergo his forepast toils, he was resolved to give over that burden and to commit it to another, who might continued as he had begun; and so retire himself into Spain, from whence he had been long absent, the climate being more agreeable to his health then any other; wherefore he resolved to substitute in his place, his dear and only son, and their Lord and lawful Prince, to whom they had given their oath; his majesty knowing well, that the king his son was not only sufficient to undergo the charge, but also had a will and a desire to employ himself for the good of those countries: wherefore his Imperial majesty trusting that they would like thereof, and that for the love of him, they would willingly accept in his place the king, their Lord and Prince, he did then give over those Countries, and resign them into his son's hands, entreating them earnestly to receive him willingly and cheerfully. And accordingly he did freely acquit and discharge them of their oath of fealty and homage, that they might take the same unto their king at the reception of their estates and offices. His Majesty did also entreat them to take in good part the affection which he had showed by the effects, having omitted no travail nor care belonging to his duty, confessing withal that they had been good and loyal subjects, and had assisted him faithfully and dutifully. He used many words more, admonishing them of diverse things which concerned their estate. After which speech the Emperor began to speak unto them in French, saying; That he had forty years since in the same place been emancipated by the Emperor MAXIMILIAN his Grandfather, and put in possession of those Countries, since which time he The emperor's speech unto the States. had run through many fortunes, and endured much as well in Spain, touching the affairs of Queen JOAN his mother, and the government of her kingdoms, as in his other estates: he shown also how many troublesome, long, painful and dangerous voyages he had made in passing and repassing the Seas, as well into Spain as into Italy, to the great peril of his person; namely in the voyages to Barbary, Tunis and Algiers; he shown also into what danger he had willingly thrust himself, passing through France, to prevent the troubles which were like to grow in the Nether-lands, which he ever had in great recommendation. And as they had always been to him loving subjects and faithful vassals; so he entreated them to be the like unto his son, into whose hands he had resigned those Countries. In speaking of which words he shown such passion, as sighs interrupting his speech, the tears trickled down his cheeks, which moved many to the like compassion: having made a little pause, he took his Spectacles, and looking upon a remembrance which he had in his hand, he said that his sight and memory were not so good as they had been, and that he felt himself to decline, and grow weak hourly, unable to endure the travail that was requisite for the preservation of the Country and of them all, the which did move him chief to return into Spain, and not to prolong his life, the which he referred into the hands of God. Lastly, he entreated them to continued in the Christian Religion, as they had done, and to observe justice. After these words, the king kneeling down before his Father, said unto him that he was unworthy of so great a favour: but seeing it was his Majesty's pleasure; he humbly thanked him, accepting the charge, protesting to be so careful to govern his Subjects with justice, as he hoped they should rest satisfied with him, reserving to make manifest by his deeds the love which he bore them: And turning to the assembly, he spoke in French, saying; I would, my Lords, that my skill in this language were more than it is, to the end I might make you the better understand what affection I bear you; but for as much as I cannot express it in such terms as were fit, the Bishop of Arras shall speak for me; who rising up, delivered the King's mind at large: which being ended, King PHILIP retired to his seat. After which, Doctor MASEUS an eloquent Orator, deputed to that end by the The Deputies answer to the Emperer. States, made answer to the former speeches, saying, that they knew well his Imperial Majesty had for many years governed that estate carefully and religiously; that he had vndergon great and many toils in many accidents; that notwithstanding his Majesty's great and urgent affairs, yet he had always carried a fatherly love and affection to those Countries of his inheritance, whereof the people had tasted the fruit whensoever they stood in need: all which duly considered, they found that his Majesty was well advised in that which he had propounded. And therefore the Nobles, Prelates, and Deputies of Towns there present (although it were a sword which did wound their hearts to hear of his Majesty's departure, yet desiring to conform themselves in all things to his good will and pleasure) did humbly thank his Imperial Majesty for the great honour and favour he had done them; every one being very ready to consent irrevocably to the said Session or resignation made by his Imperial Majesty of all those Netherlands to the behoof of the King there present, whom they did acknowledge for their natural Lord and Prince, the lawful son and only heir of his Imperial Majesty, being ready to renew the oath which they had formerly made unto him, with all other duties requisite in the like case: and so, after thanks given, he ended his speech. During this action, Queen MARY of Hungary, the Emperor's sister, and Governess of those Countries, rising from her seat, said reverently to the Emperor, that she had ever endeavoured The words of Queen Mary to the Emperor. to govern those Countries in such manner as she thought most expedient for his Majesty's benefit and the public good: but if peradventure, according to his desire and her good intent she had not attained thereto, she humbly besought his Majesty to pardon her. To whom the Emperor, both with his hands and his countenance, made great show to be well pleased: and then she, turning herself towards the States, used in a manner the same words which she had done to the Emperor. After all these speeches, the Emperor by a public Act resigned to his son K. PHILIP the Kingdoms of Spain, Sicily, Sardinia, Maiorca, Minorca, the Indieses, and all others depending upon the Crown of Spain, reserving only a small yearly revenue for the maintaining of himself and a few servants. The next morning the Deputies of the Duchy of Brabant coming to Court, King PHILIP in their presence renewed the oath which he had formerly taken in the year King Philip takes the oath as Duke of Brabant 1549, to keep, maintain and preserve them in their ancient rights, privileges and customs, without breaking them, or suffering them to be broken in any sort whatsoever. And the Deputies of the chief Towns of Brabant did also take the oath of fealty and homage to him, as to their Lord and Duke of Brabant. About this time there ended an Imperial Diet held at Ausbourg, where king FERDINAND did preside in the Emperor's name; in the which, after much debate, it was concluded, Resolution of the Imperial die●… held a●… Ausbourg. that neither the Emperor, King FERDINAND, nor any other Prince, or State should do wrong to any of the Empire, in what sort soever, by reason of the confession of Ausbourg; that from thenceforth they should not force by edict or other means, the allies of this confession, to abandon their Religion; but should suffer them to enjoy it freely with their goods, rights, and possessions, with many other privileges, granted in favour of their Religion. It was thought that the Pope was wonderfully discontented with this decree, and that he did solicit the Emperor to disannul it. Before the Act of the Emperor's resignation, he gave instructions to his son PHILP, touching the government of his person and estate; the which being very long, would take up too much room in this Volume: but I will only make mention of the reasons which moved him to this resignation, who speaking unto him, said: I have resolved dear son, to come to the point of resigning into your hands, the absolute government of all my Realms and estates; wherefore my pleasure is, that against the The Emperor's speech to his son. morning you give order for the performance of this Act, with all due Ceremonies: you shall give order with speed, that all Governors, Magistrates, and all other persons, acknowledge you for their superior; that all persons (except the subjects of the Empire) take the Oath of allegiance: the more rare this precedent is, the greater are the signs, both of my love to you, and of the assurance I have of your good inclination, and also of the great care I have to see your estate settled. I could defer this Act (as most Princes do) until my death; but having a desire rather to imitate the smaller number of Fathers in this point, I have chosen willingly by this Act in my life time, to make myself a superior, rather than a companion to any. It is a weak trial of the valour and resolution of a Prince, to subdue kingdoms by force, in comparison of conquering himself, being not only content to bridle all ambition and desire of Rule, but to submit himself to a certain kind of obedience: Against this course, sensuality doth strive with all her force; and in exchange of all worldly satisfactions, which are enjoyed by the prerogative of absolute authority, setteth before our eyes the rigour of the Laws; to which (Princes setting their authorities aside) must level all their actions, as well as private men. To blind our understanding with like veils, the same sensual consideration stirreth up, by way of admonition, a provident forecast of diverse inconveniences, whereinto many fall, which have made themselves subject to the will of other men, by the diversity of their conceits and censures, the which by the corruption of the care of private interest, are apt to swerve from the right rule of integrity. It may be that some will be terrified with this common supposition, that Princes which are once possessed with authority, may resign it at their own pleasures; but they must resume it at the pleasures of other men: yet fatherly love and affection hath prevailed more with me, than all these worldly considerations, and duty also in some sort; for, finding myself now aged (which may be accounted greater, in regard of my sickly estate) my satiety of glory in this World, and weariness of toil; finding moreover that by my continual tr●…uaile unto this day, I could not satisfy in any part the duty which belongeth unto the profession of a Christian; I find myself inflamed with a most earnest desire to free myself from so many troubles and encumbrances, and then retire to a more religious kind of life, and more fit for a Christian. On the other side the consideration of your age being now ripe, and fit for government, together with the expectation which you have gotten in the World, by managing the greatest affairs of Spain with great judgement, move me now the rather to proceed in my resolution. Being incited with all these good considerations, I have thought it fit to lay this weighty burden upon your shoulders, and to ease mine own, which time and travail have now weakened and disabled. I do confidently hope, that the subjects of all my countries, shall have cause to thank God first, and then me for this resolution, in respect of the gracious usage they shall receive at your hands, succeeding in my place: neither is it hurtful unto yourself, that by this occasion, during my life, you shall settle yourself more firmly in my Dominions. And so he proceeded to his advice and counsel, touching the government of his Estates. After that the Emperor had resigned all his kingdoms unto king PHILIP his son, and disposed of his affairs in the Netherlands, being desirous to free himself from all temporal cares, and to spend the remainder of his days in peace, applying himself wholly to the service of God; he resolved to retire himself with his two sisters, ELINOR the French Queen, and MARY Queen of Hungary into Spain: But before his departure, he would also dispose of the Empire, the which he would resign unto his brother FERDINAND King of the Romans, The Emperor writes to the prince's Electors and to that end he wrote his Letters unto the Prince's Electors and States of the Empire; giving them to understand, that finding himself overcharged with age, and continual infirmities, which had disabled him for the managing of affairs; having long before resolved to resign all his Realms of Spain to the Prince his son, having taken leave of the Court, being ready to embark with the first prosperous wind; and seeing that by his absence, the government of the Empire did of right belong unto his dear and well-beloved brother FERDINAND king of the Romans, of Hungary and Bohemia, as his lawful successor in the said quality of King of Romans; which government he had for many years well deserved in his absence, supporting the burden with a brotherly love and affection; wherefore jest the holy Empire should fall into some dangerous inconvenience, he had resolved that his said brother, king of Romans, should have absolute and irrevocable power to treat, negociate and command in all things that he should find requisite and necessary for the greatness, prosperity and increase of the Empire, as absolutely as he himself being Emperor might do: and for that he could not come unto the Imperial Diet at Ratisbone, there to have resigned the government of the Empire unto the king of Romans, as he had intended; he thought it good by those Letters to acquaint them with his resolution, enjoining all men by his Imperial authority to show all loyalty and obedience unto the King of Romans, and to honour and respect him in all his commandments, and Decrees, without any contradiction, as they would do himself, if he were there in person. After this, the fleet being ready in Zealand, he took his leave of PHILIP his son, and of all The Emperor departeth with his two sisters out of the Netherlands. the Princes and Noblemen: then he embarked with his two sisters, and arrived within few days in Spain; where, after some day's rest, he retired to a Monastery of Saint JEROME the Hermit, in Estremadura near Placencia, an unfrequented place, and fit for heavenly meditations, where he lived not above two years, spending his time in holy and godly works. And the better to attend the service of God, he would have his sisters to live from him at Vailledolit, that they might not trouble him. He reserved but 100000 crowns a year to himself, whereof he employed only 4000, for his diet and entertainment: the rest he disposed of, for the marrying of young maids, and to relieve widows and orphans, and for other works of Charity. This Act of renunciation, being one of the rarest precedents, that had been seen for many ages, ministered occasion unto the world, to discourse of the reasons that might induce him to deprive Divers opinions touching the Emperor's renunciation. himself of so great a dignity. Some held opinion that his infirmity of the gout being very grievous; and foreseeing that it would shorten his life, was the cause that moved him to that resolution. Others said that he did it upon discontent, seeing himself bearded and overmatched, by HENRY the French king: and some affirmed that to avoid the crosses of fortune, which (by the relation of certain Astrologians) he knew would befall him, he with great judgement resolved to retire himself before it should in that sort obscure the brightness of that glory, which he with so much toil had gotten. There were also some which said that fortune began to frown on him when as he made his retreat to Vilacco and went to besiege Mets: so as some commending and others blaming his resolution all did censure diversely thereon. THE LIFE OF FERDINAND, ONLY OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDRETH AND SIXTEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. THis present life of the Emperor Ferdinand, containeth his country, his parentage, his education, and where he was brought up; how he become Lord of Austria, Bohemia, Hungary, and Transiluania; his wars with john Sepusius, the taking of Buda, with the siege of Uiena; when he was created King of the Romans, his agreement made with the said john, the difference between Friar George and him; the often coming of Soliman into Hungary; the Insurrections in Germany against the Emperor Charles the Fift, the displeasure of Pope Paul the Fourth, the creating of Maximilian King of the Romans, his conversation and behaviour, and the children which he had by his wife Anne, sister to Lewes' King of Hungary. AMong many Towns worthy respect, in the Kingdom of Toledo in Spain, it is certain (as it appeareth by the Chronicles thereof) that Alcala Henaret in ancient time, ever hath been, and still is, one of the chief; wherein besides the men of singular valour which in time past have lived there, in the year of the incarnation The birth of Ferdinand, w●…en▪ and who was his father. of the son of God 1503. upon the tenth day of May, in the same year, FERDINAND of Austria of that name the first Emperor of the West, was borne; whose father was PHILIP the first of that name, King of Castille, and son to the Emperor This Isabella together with her husband Ferdinand drove the Moors out of Granada anno dom. 1487. MAXIMILIAN: his mother was JOAN, daughter to FERDINAND and ISABEL, King and Queen of Spain, who by reason of the unexpected sudden death of his Father (which happened in the year 1506) remaining under the tutele of his Grandfather FERDINAND (commonly called the Catholic) was by him (by means of the excellency of his wit, besides the exercise of Arms) carefully instructed in diverse languages; principally in the purity of the Latin tongue; wherein, in short space he profited so much, that to the great admiration of all men, he proved a most active Knight in Arms, and a perfect Orator in the Latin, Dutch, Spanish, Italian, Hungarish and Bohemian tongues; so as all men did prognosticate him to prove a Prince of singular valour: and this made him the more accounted of, for that by all men generally which knew them, he was likened to FERDINAND the Third, who by force took Sevil from the Moors, from whom by his mother, he descended. That FERDINAND for his many virtues, was no less numbered amongst the blessed, then reputed happy amongst all the Kings of Spain, for being father of King ALONSO, who for his rare knowledge in Sciences, was surnamed the Sage: who in the long schism of the Empire, in the year 1258, being by the greatest part of the Prince's Electors of the Empire chosen Emperor; by the persuasion of Pope GREGORY the Tenth, for the common quietness of Christendom, voluntarily resigned, and gave up his right, after that he had enjoyed the name of Emperor the space of sixteen years, approving and ratifying the successive election of RODULPH the First of that name, from whom from father to son this FERDINAND lineally descended. This FERDINAND being brought up in Spain, under the Catholic King, was for his rare qualities so much beloved by the Spaniards, that his brother CHARLES in the year 1520. remaining (through the death of his Grandfather FERDINAND, which happened in the year 1516.) heir general of the kingdoms of Spain, of both the Sicily's, of the West Indies, of Burgundy, and Austria, and in the year 1519. through the death of his Grandfather MAXIMILIAN, chosen to wear the Imperial Diadem, was by those which (tumultuously mutinying under the name of the holy assembly) rebelled against his brother CHALES, by reason of the unmeasurable oppressions laid upon them by his polling officers, instantly requested and entreated to make himself King of Spain; whereto not consenting (much more esteeming the preservation of his faith, by refusing those estates, than the greatness of them, by violating the same to his eternal infamy) with singular integrity of mind, he not only refused their offer, but used all means possible to retain those kingdoms in his brother's subjection: for which, he was ever after entirely beloved by him. Who returning into Spain, in the year 1529. not only reconfirmed unto him the donation of the Archduchy of Austria (the ancient patrimony of their family) made over to him by testament, by their Grandfather MAXIMILIAN, by his brother CHARLES his consent, to whom as to the eldest son it did appertain; but he also freely gave him the Countries of Stiria, and Carinthia, with the Counties of Tirol, Habspurge, and Hassia: having first in the Diet at Worms, declared him (to the good liking of the Prince's Electors) his Lieutenant, and Imperial Vicar in Germany; whither, within a while after this grant, going in the year 1521. he was honourably received by the Germans; and as Vicar of the Empire, was with great magnificence, met by all the Potentates: where making no long abode, he went to take possession of his dominions, to the great good liking of that people. In the same year he celebrated his contracted nuptials, with ANNE sister to LEWES' king of Hungary and Bohemia; renewing the oaths sworn in the year 1515. between his Grandfather MAXIMILIAN, and LADISLAUS father to King LEWES; which were, that LEWES dying without issue, FERDINAND, or any other begotten by him, and his said sister ANNE, should succeed in his kingdom. But either through the just wrath of God kindled against the manifold iniquities of the Hungars, or what other occasion I know not, the two brother's in-law had scarcely enjoyed the beloved fruit of the established succession two months, but FERDINAND being molested by the instability of fortune (seldom constant in prosperity) was advertised that SOLIMAN Emperor of the Turks, being victorious, having subdued GAZELLES in Soria in the year 1516; and also for that his father SELIM, had in three several battles, with incredible fortune, first overthrown CAMPSON, and Egypt taken by the Turks. soon after TOMOMBEY, Souldanes of Egypt; GAZELLES giving place to fortune, and voluntarily yielding himself into the power of his victorious enemy, was with great favour received into grace: so that notwithstanding that the Empire of the Souldanes was extinguished in Egypt, yet he having liberty was made Governor of Soria (not without much murmuring of the Turkish Captains, his Lieutenants in that country). Nevertheless GAZELLES in the year 1519. being certified of the death of SELIM, thinking himself now discharged of the oath of fealty which he had sworn unto him only (without any mention made of his successors) and therewith earnestly desiring to revive the ancient dominion of the Soldiers, levied the greatest forces of Mamalukes, Arabians, and Syrians that he possibly could; with which, rebelling, he made himself Lord of sundry Cities in Soria: against whom in the year 1520, SOLIMAN sent FARAAT Bassa with a great Army; who fight with him near to the City of Damascus; GAZELLES being slain in the battle, he obtained a notable victory, which happened in the end of the year 1520. FERDINAND (as I said) being advertised that Gazelles overthrown & slain by Faraat Bassa, 1520. SOLIMAN puffed up with pride by reason of his victory, resolved to make war in Hungary; where through the negligence of King LEWES, and want of relief from the Emperor CHARLES, or his Lieutenant FERDINAND, the Turks (making sundry roads and incursions into the Country) in the end besieged, battered, and took the strong City of Belgrade, in ancient time called Taurinum, situated in Angularie Farm, between the rivers Saws and Danubius, the which was held the buckler of Christendom, and in the time of MATTHEW King of Hungary, it had been twice assaulted in vain by MAMOET his great Grandfather, and AMURATH father to the said MAHOMET, and now by the negligence of King LEWES, who did not relieve it in time (although he were much importuned thereunto by FERDINAND) Belgrade in Hungary taken by the Turks. after some month's siege, it was forced by SOLIMAN, and a great slaughter made of the Christians. But FERDINAND as it seemeth taking more care to suppress LVTHER'S doctrine, then for the defence of Hungary against the Turks; in a Council held at Norimburgh, upon grievous penalties, prohibited the reading of the Bible, which LUTHER had translated; but yet LUTHER nevertheless being countenanced by JOHN FREDERICK Duke of Saxony published his book, wherein he touched all the Romish Princes of Germany, but chief FERDINAND. Hereupon FERDINAND summoned a Council to be held in Ratisbone in the year 1523, whither from Pope CLEMENT the seventh, who succeeded ARDIAN the sixt, came Cardinal LAURENCE CAMPEIUS, to procure (although in vain) the suppression of LVTHER'S doctrine. About which matter FERDINAND having spent the years 1523, and 1524, had intelligence that SOLIMAN after the taking of the Isle of Rhodes (which he upon composition entered upon the five and twentith day of December, being Christmas day, in the year 1522, after that it had been by the Knights of the order, held and valiantly defended against the whole forces of the Infidels, for the space of 214 years, from the year 1380 at which time it was taken from the Infidels until then; and after that it had been now besieged the space of six months, in which time the Turk lost the greatest part of his Army; for besides those which were slain at the many assaults which were given, above 30000 died of the flux) threatened to bring greater calamities upon the Christians: among which a man would have thought, the long troubles of the former wars, in the year 1525, would have ended. For the imprisonment of FRANCIS the first King of France, who by the Emperor's Captains, upon the four and twentith of February in the same year, was taken at the battle of Pavia, made most men to think that the Emperor would not have released him, without an assured peace with France; by which mean, he might not only have been able to have performed any great attempt, but also have made frustrate SOLIMAN'S designs. But as men in future accidents are most commonly deceived in their opinions, so the affairs of the Christians fell afterwards into fare worse terms; for the most part of the Christian Princes being moved against the Emperor, either through grief for the French kings adversity (a Prince for the worth of his person, and the greatness of so flourishing a kingdom highly esteemed) or else for fear of their own particular interest, doubting that he would have aspired to the absolute Monarchy; the state of Christendom came to be so confused and out of order, especially in Italy, that men's judgement proved not only vain, but the troubles continued a long time after. Italy being by reason of the war between CHARLES the Fift, and FRANCIS the French King miserably afflicted, the one envying the others greatness; most of the Princes and states in Christendom were by the one or other (to the great enfeebling of the whole Christian Commonwealth) drawn into the action; which SOLIMAN the great Turk perceiving, was thereby encouraged with an Army of two hundred thousand men to invade Hungary; into which (having Belgrade) he had an open passage; thinking withal that he might Soliman the great Turk entered Hungary with an army of 200000 men: & the reason. easily oppress the young king of Hungary, who was ill obeyed in his kingdom, by the discord of his Barons; having also small experience in the art of war, by reason of his young years. King LEWES, who in regard of his tender age, was but weak of judgement and terrified with the fame of so powerful an enemy, sending in vain to all places for succours; he called a Diet of Hungarians, which was according to their custom of armed men, who were bound to assist him in the wars. The Nobility of Hungary (who had never seen the camp of a Turkish Emperor, but had only encountered them in light skirmishes) despised the Turks in such sort, as they bragged vainly, that if they came to fight they would cut in pieces huge Armies of Turks: Among the which PAUL TOMOREUS Archbishop of Colossa shown himself most vain, assuring himself confidently of the victory, bragging that he would be the first that should charge the Turkish troops with his lance. The King had not in his Army above 26000; and yet TOMOREUS would needs press him to fight: whose presumption all men of judgement condemned; and the old soldiers said that it was the part of desperate men, to join battle with such an enemy who had near eight times as many fight men in his Army: wherefore some were of opinion that the king should retire himself, and STEPHEN VERBESIUS General of his Army persuaded him to go into the Castle of Buda; but the obstinate soldiers opposed, saying that they were not to fight unless the King did lead them. TOMOREUS The Hungarians overthrown by the Turk. prevailed, and the king resolved to go and meet the enemy yea, TOMOREUS madness was such, as he would not stay for JOHN SEPUSIUS governor of Transiluania who marched with an Army to join with the king. The Armies joining, the Hungarians were in half an hour overthrown. And the poor king seeing his whole Army in rout, thought to save himself by flight: but passing through a marish fen, his horse falling, he was smothered in the mud, there being not half a foot of water: his page escaped and observed the place, so as many Death of jews king of Hungary. days after the enemy's retreat, the King's body was found, and buried in Alba Regalis. After the victory it is said that SOLIMAN wondered at the beastly humour of the Hungarians, and that the king's Counsellors should be possessed with such madness, as with so small forces to encounter so great an Army. Having seen the pictures of the King and the Queen his wife, he was grieved (he said) for the disgrace of that young king, who having had such foolish counsellors, in a matter of such importance, had grossly made haste to join battle; adding withal that he came not into Hungary to deprive him of his kingdom, but to revenge the wrong done him by the Hungarians; and if he had escaped from the battle he would only have imposed a tribute, and restored him to his kingdom: and that he would have held it a glory to have preserved one who was son to a brother of SIGISMOND King of Poland his friend, and so strictly allied to the Noble house of Austria: which words he delivered with great majesty. This battle was fought in October 1526. For the infortunate death of King LEWES, FERDINAND was very sorrowful: for besides the loss of his friend and brother in-law, he was advertised that SOLIMAN besides other places, without one blow stricken, had taken the city of Buda; and that from thence, besides the most excellent Artillery which he found there, he had carried the statues of HERCULES, APOLLO, and DIANA, most exquisitely made in brass, and left there by the great MATTHEW CORVINUS: and that with an infinite number of captives, and laden with prey and booty, he was returned to Constantinople. After SOLIMAN'S departure, King FERDINAND went into Bohemid, and there was crowned together with his wife, who a little before was delivered of a daughter called ISABEL, which afterwards was married to SIGISMOND King of Poland: and being in peace King of Bohemia, he challenged to be King of Hungary. But knowing that JOHN SEPUSIUS Vaivode of Transiluania, after the celebration of the sumptuous obsequies of King LEWES, notwithstanding FERDINAND'S former election, aspiring to the kingdom, had made himself john Sepusius Vaivode of Transiluana crowned king of Hungary. to be crowned King of Hungary; and at the same time had bestowed upon those Lords which had assisted him in the action, the principal estates of that kingdom, to the end that being obliged to him for received benefits, they should not after their accustomed manner practise aught against him; FERDINAND made himself in Bohemia to be crowned King of Hungary, Ferdinand in Bohemia crowned king of Hungary. in the presence of Doctor STEPHEN, and other Hungarian Lords his friends, which after the death of king LEWES came to see him. After this coronation, FERDINAND having levied an Army, presently marched therewith against JOHN SEPUSIUS: who by reason of the inequality, of their powers standing in some fear of him, departed from Buda, which after SOLIMAN'S departure was again recovered by the Hungarians; and retired himself on the other side of the river Tiss●…, to Toccay, a place both by nature and Art very strong; where, sending to his friends in sundry parts for aid, he wrote two Letters, one to the Prince's Electors, entreating them to give no aid to FERDINAND against him: the other to the Emperor, therein exhibiting sundry complaints against FERDINAND. But FERDINAND pretending the kingdom of Hungary in right to be his; marching forward with his Army, without any resistance took Buda, and other principal places in that kingdom: and being unwilling to give his enemy time to recover heart and courage, Ferdinand entering Hungary with an army against john Sepusius, taketh Buda. he without any great difficulty, passing the river Tissa, upon a bridge made of boats brought thither for that purpose upon carts, went to seek him at Toccay; and within sight of the castle making an Alt, made VALENE TURAC General of his Army; who in the day of battle divided the Cavalry of Stiria and Austria into two squadrons, in the midst between which he ranged his main Battalion, which of both the one and other Army, were Hungarian footmen. Which order when FERENCE BODO, who was General of King The battle of Toccay Fought between john and Ferdinand, both pretending to be King of Nungary. JOHN'S Army perceived, he marshalling his troops in the like manner, persuaded King JOHN with certain troops of choice horse, to withdraw himself to some place from the Army, where he might, notwithstanding any sinister accident, save himself. After whose example PHUL BARCHIT a Seruian, one of the chiefest Captains of king FERDINAND'S Army, retired himself to a close place, a good distance from the Army; with a determination to charge his enemies in flank. To be brief, the two Armies joined in a battle, wherein for a space the fight was very doubtful: for the left wing of King JOHN'S battle charging the right of the Stirian horse, and gallantly overbearing them, had put king FERDINAND'S people to rout, had not the men at Arms of Austria in rescuing them, with such fury charged the enemy, that they were constrained to retire fight. In the mean time the footmen, which of either side were almost all Hungarians, fought with such obstinacy, that it was hard to judge whether party should have the better. So as, if BARCHIT with his troop, which until then lay close in an Ambuscado, had not risen and suddenly charged at unawares, FERDINAND (as the report went) had had the worst of the bargain; but BARCHIT giving a fresh charge, BODO, notwithstanding that he that day, shown himself no less a valiant Soldier than a prudent Captain, often attempting in vain to have rallied his squadrons, being overborne by his enemy, was taken prisoner together with many other very excellent Captains: and their camp being assaulted, their Ordinance and Colours were likewise lost, and the whole troops were so much disordered, that they running away, left all their baggage to the Austrians. Which when King JOHN perceived, he as fast as his horse could bear him, fled: and not holding himself in safety in his own country, he fled into Poland, where by JEROM LASKY a Nobleman of that country he was honourably King john flieth into Poland. entertained. And FERDINAND'S Captains entering Transiluania, all the country, together with what in Hungary held for him, without any resistance yielded to be at his devotion. But forasmuch as BODO, upon promise of liberty, would not renounce his oath made to king JOHN, and so bear Arms against him, he was by king FERDINAND'S commandment cast into a dungeon, where of grief and sorrow he died miserably. After this victory FERDINAND made himself together with his wife in Alba Regalis, to be solemnly crowned king of Hungary by the Archbishop of Strigonium, who forsaking king JOHN came to FERDINAND, bringing with him the Crown of STEPHEN king of Hungary, which amongst the Hungarians was held in great veneration. Shortly after, FERDINAND leaving STEPHEN BATOR for Viceroy of that kingdom (to be assisted by the Bishop of Strigonium) went to Bohemia, and thence into Austria, where upon the first day of August in Stephen Viceroy of Hungary for King Ferdinand. the year 1527. his Queen bore him a son, who was christened MAXIMILIAN, and in process of time coming to be Emperor was called MAXIMILIAN the Second. FERDINAND having so happily gotten the kingdom of Hungary, was very earnest with his brother CHARLES the Emperor to release Pope CLEMENT the Seventh, taken prisoner by the Duke of Bourbon General of the Emperor's Army in Italy, the same year, upon the sixt day of May, a fatal day in ancient time in Rome: which he did to the end to avoid further cause of discontentment amongst the Christian Princes: for the greatness of the house and state of Austria being grown odions and suspect to all Christendom, it seemed that by long detaining the Pope, the hatred and ill will conceived against it, would daily increase: which reasons induced Pope Clement the Seventh released out of prison. the Emperor after seven months imprisonment to set Pope CLEMENT at liberty, although upon hard conditions. King JOHN after the battle of Toccay, being expulsed his kingdom, fled as we have said to JEROME LASKY, a Nobleman of great account among the Polonians, by whom he was most honourably entertained, with the consent of SIGISMOND King of Polonia, who notwithstanding their affinity was nothing pleased with FERDINAND'S greatness. To be brief, JEROM LASKY counselling king JOHN to crave aid of SOLIMAN the Emperor of the Turks, went himself Ambassador (King SIGISMOND winking thereat) to Constantinople, where he so behaved himself amongst the Bashaes', that SOLIMAN taking JOHN into his protection, john Sepusius sueth to the Turk for aid. with promise to restore him to his kingdom, proclaimed war against Hungary. Wherewith FERDINAND seeing himself destitute of sufficient forces to withstand the Turkish power; and that by reason of the wars amongst the Christians, chief in Italy, he could not have such aid from his brother the Emperor as the necessity of the cause required, he was much grieved: nevertheless to clear himself from blame, acquainting the Emperor with all matters, he sought means to obtain of SOLIMAN (according as LADISLAUS and jews, Kings of Hungary Ferdinand sueth to the Turk for truce, but in vain. had done) truce for some years; and to that effect sent JOHN OBERDANSK, a very wise man, to Constantinople; who after many practices could bring no other answer from SOLIMAN, but that if FERDINAND did not restore JOHN to the kingdom of Hungaria, he would make him to know how much the Turks power was to be feared: with which answer, OBERDANSK being driven out of Constantinople returned into Hungary; where relating SOLIMAN'S proud answer to the Council, he went to Spire to FERDINAND, who at that time was busied at the Diet, about matters of Religion. FERDINAND, upon this answer, standing in great doubt of the Turks forces, made all the provision that the brevity of the time would permit: but the year 1529 being come, in the beginning of the Spring, SOLIMAN commanding his Bashaes' to draw his Forces to an head, came in person with 140000. men to Belgrado; where, by means of his favourite jews Soliman with an Army o●… 140000. men entereth Hungary. GRITTI, son to ANDREW GRITTI (at that time Duke of Venice) and of ABRAIM Bassa, gently receiving JOHN with many other Hungarian Lords, he again promised to restore him to his Kingdom: wherewith JOHN being very joyful, with many his friends followed the Turkish Army; which marching from Belgrado was already before Buda. Those in Buda being in extreme fear, presently yielded to SOLIMAN; who entering the City, sought with as great speed to have had the fortress, guarded by THOMAS NADASKY a Captain for FERDINAND; who valiantly resisting the enemy, was within few days (to the great reproach of Christian Soldiers) betrayed by those Germans which FERDINAND left there in garrison: who perceiving that the enemy with Ours & other Military stratagems, sought to force the place; willing to provide for themselves, and to the end that NADASKY should be ●…o impediment unto them, bound him; and then yielding to SOLIMAN, with their lives and goods saved, gave up the Fortress. Whereinto when the Turk came, knowing the treason of the Soldiers, and moved with a noble disdain, he presently set NADASKY at liberty, Soliman contrary to his promise, put to the sword all 〈◊〉 Soldiers in the Castle of Buda. and made his Soldiers cut all those in pieces which had committed so shameful a villainy; making no conscience to break his faith with men so base and so unworthy to live. SOLIMAN having (without effusion of blood) gotten the city of Buda presently sent his Army towards Viena in Austria; and coming before the same upon the six and twentith day of September that present year, he besieged the city in five parts; having first by the way taken Altenburgh and the five Churches. From thence with great speed he made his horse troops to overrun the country as fare as Lintz, (many miles distant from Viena); where doing much harm, and laden with booty, and many prisoners, they returned to the camp; which being divided into many parts, continually infested Viena. The Count Palatine of Rhine, with many other excellent Captains, being therein for the defence thereof in the behalf of FERDINAND, used all means to frustrate the enemy's attempts; who besieging the City by land, had intelligence that the Fleet which came up the River Danubius with great store of Ordinance to batter the City, was for the most part by WOLFANG of Oder Governor of Poson, beaten Vienna besieged by Soliman. and sunk in Danou, which then was swollen extraordinarily high, by reason of much rain which fell at that time. Whereof when SOLIMAN was certified, he with the rest of the Artillery which escaped WOLFANGS' fury, so beaten Viena, upon the fifteenth day of October, that he missed but little to have taken it: but he was repulsed by the valour of those which had the guard thereof. SOLIMAN lost at the assault in this one day thirty thousand Turks, with many famous Captains: who thinking with himself, that if he should have the like success in two other assaults, he should have a small Army remaining; hearing withal that FERDINAND came with a great Army to succour them, and that he was not fare off, he resolved to retire from that Soliman's loss at the assault of Vienna. enterprise; sending word unto them of Vienna, that if they would yield, he would not enter in to the City, and their goods should be saved, giving them a perpetual exemption, for that he was not come to do them any harm; but only to meet with FERDINAD, to end the quarrel for the possession of the kingdom of Hungary by battle: whereat, the people of of Vienna made a scorn; so that the day following being the thirtieth day of the siege, he was constrained (after that he had given many fierce assaults) to retire with the loss of 80000. men; and the sooner, having intelligence that FERDINAND with a great number of Bohemians and Moravians came to the relief thereof. Which making him to doubt that his people being weakened with the wars, would be unapt to make head against FERDINAND'S fresh troops he resolved to raise his siege and to departed. And being departed with so great loss of his people, Soliman raiseth hi●… siege from before Vienna. and having in vain sought to allure those of Vienna to give up the City upon composition, he went to Buda; where confirming King JOHN King of Hungary, calling him his friend and vassal, and leaving LEWES GRITTI with him for his counsellor, he with a determination to return again the next Spring with greater forces, leading with him about 4000 captives, returned to Constantinople. Shortly after SOLIMAN'S departure, FERDINAND came to Vienna: from whence advertising his brother the Emperor of all what had happened, he took order for the re-edifying of the City, which together with all the country round about was in a manner wholly ruined, and then shortly after returned into Germany, very joyful for the news of the peace concluded between the Christian Princes, hoping that the Emperor being free from wars, would now have suppressed LVTHER'S supposed heresy, which daily increasing, was in such manner dispersed, that many Princes of that country were of his opinion; by reason whereof there was nothing but Counsels in Germany concerning Religion: which to abolish was FERDINAND'S chiefest care. But the year one thousand five hundred thirty, being comn, and CHARLES being with the Imperial Diadem, by the Pope solemnly crowned in Bologna in Italy, upon Saint MATHIAS the Apostles day (an auspicious day to him) and afterwards going into Germany, and there celebrating the Augsburg Diet, he took such order, that FERDINAND by the Electors (after some contradiction) was chosen King of the Romans; who being crowned in Aken, and the Emperor being go into Flanders to visit those Countries, he went for fear of SEPUSIUS to Vienna: for SEPUSIUS by the counsel of LEWES GRITTI, daily incensed the Turks against FERDINAND, who in the end of the year coming into Hungary, spoiled such countries as held for him: but King JOHN being desirous to bring those troubles to an end, he in such manner solicited GRITT●… to be an intercessor for him, that SOLIMAN in the year one thousand five hundred thirty two, much displeased Soliman came into Hungary with ●…00000 men. with FERDINAND, proclaimed open war against Hungary; and coming shortly after thither with an Army of three hundred thousand men, he committed such spoils in the country, that more could not be done. Which FERDINAND understanding (who at that time was with the Emperor at the Diet at Ratisbone about matters of Religion) was greatly troubled: and having no sufficient power to resist the Turks forces, imploring aid of all the Potentates in Christendom, he (by the Emperor's means) obtained some of the German Princes: and the Emperor causing a great number of his footmen to come into Germany, resolved with the assistance of other Christian Princes, in person to join with him; particularly with the aid of Pope CLEMENT the Seventh, who with nine thousand men paid, sent his Nephew the Cardinal HIPPOLITO de Medicis, with all the succours that possibly in time of such discord (especially between France and Italy) could be gotten. And in such sort the matter was handled, that the Emperor and his brother FERDINAND having ninety thousand footmen, and thirty thousand horse, taking their way towards Vienna, resolved to fight with SOLIMAN; who proudly rejecting FERDINAND'S Ambassadors sent to treat with him of a league, he with such fury assailed in many parts, such places as held for FERDINAND in Hungary, that he did infinite harm; for besides the desolation of towns, he in person with great fury bend his forces against the City of Guinz: The charge of which siege, was given to ABRAIM Bassa, Captain general of the Turks Army; who understanding that NICHOLISSA (a man well known to him) was Governor within the Town; he sent to persuade him not to hold so weak a place against him, promising him all honest conditions: but NICHOLISSA, who was a soldier, having resolved either to die or win honour in that service, answered him courteously that he could not do it: whereupon the place was battered many days, and valiantly defended, but the Turks had no great Ordinance; SOLIMAN giving it out that he came only to fight a battle against the Christians, and therefore had brought none but field pieces. A●…RAIM, seeing what difficulty there was to force this place, he drew NICHOLISSA to his Camp upon a safe conduct: where having much commended his valour, he laid before him the great danger wherein he was, if he attended the great Ordinance which was near, persuading him by the friendship that was betwixt them, to yield him the place, the which he must for his honour take. The governor seemed to esteem his words little, telling him that his garrison was strong, and that he had many Germans and Spaniards within the place, who would not accept of any accord: but through the importunity of ABRAIM, he suffered some Guinz freed from the Turkish Army. few Turks to enter, to give him some satisfaction for his honour, and so Guinz was bravely defended against this mighty Army: and ABRAIM retired to SOLIMAN'S Camp, from whence he dismissed FERDINAND'S Ambassadors; to whom he wrote that he was come into Hungary, to revenge the wrong done unto JOHN his friend and tributary, and that he would be soon with him to give him battle: wherewith he was not much troubled. LEWES GRITTI (left in Hungary with SEPUSIUS after the siege of Vienna) likewise assailing Strigonium, and making incursions by his Captains into the country, did put the Hungars in such fear, that many of them abandoning their houses, retired to the Christians Army lying entrenched without the walls of Vienna; whither it was thought that SOLIMAN in the end would have come: but he failing of his purpose to get the City of Guinz, and fearing the Emperor's fortune; after that he had harried the country, and taken many prisoners, retired to the other side of the River Mura into Carinthia; and from thence leading his Army in great disorder, and with dishonour to Belgrado; and there not holding himself fully in safety, he shortly after went to Constantinople; being first greatly annoyed by the Christian Cavalry, which then did follow his Camp to Belgrado, and did often fall upon his rearward. SOLIMAN being departed out of Hungary, FERDINAND used all means to draw the Emperor to attempt the recovery of Buda; but for as much as he could not persuade him to stay in that Country, he obtained of him to leave the Italian footmen, together with Cardinal HIPPOLITO there in Garrison, against the Turks: but they unwilling to stay any longer, The Em●…eror Charles le●…t the wars against the Turk in Hungary to go to war against Christians in Italy. mutyning, by the persuasion of one MARK da V●…lterra putting themselves in order, in a great rage returned into Italy: with which their departure FERDINAND was so discontented, that coming to a composition with JOHN SEPUSIUS, he granted him during his life, peaceably to enjoy such part of Hungary as then was at his devotion; by reason whereof the wars for that time being ended in Hungary, FERDINAND bent his forces against the Lantzgrave PHILIP: who being an enemy to the house of Austria, induced VLRICH Duke of Wittenberg (assisted (by FRANCIS the French King) to take Arms against FERDINAND, for the recovery of his estate taken from him by the Emperor, and given to FERDINAND at the Diet at Ratisbone; in which action the Duke so valiantly behaved himself, that to FERDINAND'S great loss and prejudice, he recovered his Duchy: in whose behalf sundry Princes in Germany carried themselves so towards the Emperor and FERDINAND, that they permitted the Duke peaceably to enjoy his estate: Yet upon condition, that from thenceforth the Duke should never take Arms against FERDINAND or the house of Austria. After this peace, FERDINAND received Letters from LEWES GRITTI, importing a request; which was, that if FERDINAND would be content to permit GRITTI during his life to enjoy the Kingdom of Hungary, he would so deal with SOLIMAN, that he should confirm the same after GRITTI his decease to FERDINAND and his heirs: which his demand, refused by FERDINAND, did much offend G●…ITTI, who had been sent into Hungary by SOLIMAN who favoured him very much, to the end he might assist JOHN jews Gritti sent by Soliman into Hungary. SEPUSIO as his Protector, and have a care of the confines of that Kingdom against FERDINAND and the incursions of the Christians, giving him full authority both in peace and war. LEWES GRITTI parted in great pomp, SOLIMAN having given him certain companies of janissaries, with seven thousand other soldiers, bringing with him two Hungarian Captains his friends, who were in SOLIMAN'S pay; called JOHN DOCCIA and VRBAN BACCIANI, with two companies of horse for his guard. Being come into Transiluania, he made a public proclamation, that as absolute Commissioner for SOLIMAN he was comn into that Kingdom to compound all differences. AMARIGO Bishop of Varradine was Governer of Transiluania for King JOHN SEPUSIO, a Noble Gentleman, endued with many virtues, of great judgement and generally beloved of the people, with whom he had great credit; who came not to meet and honour GRITTI as he thought he was bound, representing the person of SOLIMAN. JOHN DOCCIA, one of his Hungarian Captains hated this Bishop of Varradine, of whom he had spoken much evil in their voyage, and that he was in secret a capital enemy to SOLIMAN and all his ministers; whereof he had always showed effects, speaking much of his haughtiness and pride: And GRITTI, seeing the Bishop stay long before he came unto him, did easily believe his malicious suggestion; who being of himself proud by nature, and very glorious, desired to be honoured at his first entrance into the Kingdom: whereupon, he grew much discontented with the Bishop; which DOCCIA perceiving, he thought it then time to be revenged of AMARIGO; telling him, that he should never govern freely during this man's life, offering to go and kill him, or to bring him bound: whereto GRITTI consented. AMARIGO was then upon the way to meet with GRITTI, marching softly with 12000 men to do him honour: for, the season of the year was very hot, which caused DOCCIA to breed more jealousy in GRITTI; saying, that he came for no good intent with such forces: whereupon he grew into choler, and gave him order to go and do the effect; so as, taking with him some companies of horse, he came in the night to the Bishop's Tent, his people lying scattered abroad, and cut off his head. The Bishop of Varradine slain by order from Lowes Gritti. Than going to horseback, he returned and presented it to GRITTI; whose choler being now past, and he better advised, repent the fact. The Bishop's Tent with some others were spoiled by the Turks; and his people rising at the noise, found him dead, and understood the manner: so as he being greatly allied in that Country, many of the chief Barons conspired against GRITTI, and resolved to be revenged for that Noble Prelate: for whose death all the Transylvanians were so much grieved, that they ran generally to Arms without calling; so as in an Instant there was an Army of near 40000 men, horse and foot. GRITTI hearing hereof, retired himself to Mega, into which he was received with some difficulty, where he meant to defend himself. The Army coming, the multitude ran rashly to give an assault without battery, but they were repulsed with loss. MAIALATO (who was General of this Army, and a great friend to AMARIGO) resolved to take it by siege, knowing they had no store of victuals. GRITTI seeing no succours come, both for that the Turkish Captains which lived on those frontiers, excused themselves that they could not leave their charges without express commission from their General who was fare off; and King JOHN (who hated him much, both for that he was come to be his competitor in the government of the Realm, as also for his great cruelty committed upon his Governor, and so worthy a man) in words made show that he would assist him, and began to levy men to sand him; but they came not in time. GRITTI seeing himself thus abandoned, and all things desperate, fell sick and had recourse to the Moldavians who were in the Camp, entreating them to receive him and his sons into their Quarter; which, PETER their Prince promised: so as, coming forth at a little Port the next night, he was encountered by MAIALATO and the friends of AMARIGO; who laying The death of jews Gritti. hold on him, they led him to the General's Tent, where they caused his head to be cut off by a hangman; his children were taken, and (as some think) were secretly put to death by PETER the Moldavian. DOCCIA (who was the cause of this foul fact) was tormented and cruelly slain, with most of the Turks. Some writ, that when as the hangman stripped GRITTI, he found in his breeches a bag of jewels, to the value of 100000 crowns. This death of GRITTI was pleasing to many, especially to FERDINAND, for that he might now with more facility contend against King JOHN his enemy, being no more supported by him. After the death of GRITTI, King JOHN entered into Transiluania, and within few days become Lord thereof: but being still molested by FERDINAND, he was forced to sue to SOLIMAN for aid; who, hearing of the miserable death of GRITTI, was much displeased: but being certified that K. JOHN had no hand in it, and supposing that King FERDINAND had been the author, he sent MAHOMET JAIAGOLI, an old expert soldier and wise, to defend the Frontiers of King JOHN against FERDINAND; who being very diligent, had in short time taken many places, joining with the Sangiac of Bosna, FERDINAND being unable to resist him for his many hindrances. Among others, they took a Castle in the Province of Possiga called Essechio, very commodious for the passage of the River of Drava, to enter into The Turk entes into Hungary. Hungary; the which he fortified very well, and manned with a good garrison: from whence he made incursions into FERDINAND'S Country, notwithstanding that there was a truce betwixt SOLIMAN and him, made before the coming of GRITTI; whereby he was content that JOHN SEPUSIO should be called King, and enjoy that which he held, during his life. FERDINAND seeing the spoils which the Turks made, and being importuned by his subjects, he drew an Army together of eight thousand horse, and sixteen thousand foot, and gave the charge of General to JOHN CATTIANIER an old soldier, who had won much Ferdinand sends an Army against the Turk honour at the defence of Vienna; and the Earl of Lodron was General of all the foot. This Army marching towards the enemy, being much stayed upon the way by their great Ordinance, they began to grow in distress for victuals, their Commissaries failing them; yet being a little supplied, they marched towards the enemy, their foot companies being much decayed: yet the younger men cried out to fight; whereto the General CATTIANIER consented: so as they marched near unto the enemy lying at Essechio, where there passed many skirmishes betwixt the two Armies. The Turk, seeing the Christian Army in great distress of victuals, would not suffer his soldiers to go out of their Camp: wherefore the Commanders consulting together, they resolved to rise and march to Ermando, a Castle ten miles off, whereas MAHOMET had drawn together much victual, the which they thought would satisfy their hunger; but having yielded, they found little corn and some wine, which would not suffice the Army two days: wherefore they resolved to pass the river of Bodrogo, and to go to Valpiano, where they heard there was great store of victuals. The Turks pursued them, and annoyed them continually with skirmishes, and the Christian Army grew into a general amazement. At night the Captains went to council, to consult what course they should take, and which way they should go. CATTIANIER was of opinion they should part that night towards Valpiano, a place of safety not fare off, where was store of victuals to refresh the Army, giving order for the troops to march away at midnight: but there fell our great disorder, divers troops going away upon the first watch before the word was given, every company taking his own way. CATTIANIER hearing this, was much amazed; and thinking that all the troops had taken the same course, he went away unarmed and without his baggage. They writ, that these infortunate news being delivered The flight of Cattianier. to the Earl of Ladron (who slept, being oppressed with toil and watching) he returned to his rest until that some of his Captains awaked him, assuring him that their General was fled: wherewith this valiant man being troubled, he stood for a time in doubt, and could not believe that a man practised in so many wars, and who had never yet deserved the name of a base coward, should with so great impiety do an act contrary to his honour. Than calling the Captains and chief of the companies together, he comforted them, and exhorted them either to die gloriously, or to win perpetual honour by the victory: and being entreated by them all to take charge of the Army, he gave order for their march, that they might recover Valpiano if it were possible. Being ready to march, at the break of day they discovered the enemy's troops, with whom they continually maintained skirmish, and continued their march: but being oppressed still with fresh troops of Turks, having lost many men, the footmen being tired with fight, The Christians ou●…owne by the Tu●…kss. and almost dead with hunger, they were in a manner all cut in pieces. Count LODOWICK, being sore wounded, retired himself into a narrow lake adjoining, with three companies that remained: being oppressed with his hurt, and entreated by the Turks to yield, he submitted himself. MAHOMET, grown proud with this victory, sent the Earl of Ladron's head, and many of the chief Captains, with a great number of their noses which were slain, unto SOLIMAN. The death of the Earl of Ladron. FERDINAND, hearing of this infortunate success, was wonderfully grieved, considering that it happened by the baseness of his General, and other fugitive Captains who were grown a scorn both to women and children. CATTIANIER, hearing hereof, wrote to FERDINAND, that he understood his honour was much blemished in Court by his adversaries; desiring, his Majesty would be pleased to give him a safe conduct to come to Court to justify himself; the cause of this great ruin proceeding not from him, but from the Commissaries who had not according to their duties brought victuals to the Camp. FERDINAND granted his desire, and CATTIANIER came; but he had such cold entertainment from the King and the whole Court, that he repent his coming. He spoke much in his own excuse: but not able to defend his going from the Army, and having given no sign to departed, the rest were slain, every man called him a base Traitor. FERDINAND having committed him to custody to punish him as he deserved, fearing with the loss of his honour, his life would be in question, he made an escape by night, and fled to MAHOMET; who received him kindly, promising him great entertainment if he would bring Austria under SOLIMAN'S command: the which having promised, he parted and went to NICHOLAS SADEINIO, a man of great power in that Country, seeking to draw him to serve the Turk: but NICHOLAS, having given him good words, slew him. Having cut off his head, he carried it to FERDINAND, making an ample relation of his wicked design: for the which the King honoured him much, and rewarded him with the estate of CATTIANIER. About this time 1538, PETRR governed in Valachia or Moldavia: he was nephew to DRACOLA, who had made the league with King MATHIAS against AMURATH. This PETER Peter, Prince of Moldavia, inconstant and faithless. although he were a Christian of the Greek Church, yet was he a man of an ill disposition, faithless, inconstant, greedy of spoil, and without any conscience, to make his own estate great. He was Tributary to SOLIMAN: but he carried himself so, that when any occasion was offered whereby he might annoyed him for his own good, he had no respect so as he might do it covertly, or have any colour to excuse it. He had friendship with King JOHN, and likewise with FERDINAND, and yet he laid wait to murder them. He assaulted FERDINAND'S Camptraiterously, near to Brassovia: for which, King JOHN gave him great thanks, thinking he had done it for his relief. PETER (who never took Arms but for his own profit) grown proud by that former victory and the artillery which he had taken, soon after he invaded Transiluania, took many places, and spoiled the Country. King JOHN sent to expostulate with him, why he did him wrong under the colour of friendship; requiring restitution. The Moldavian answered, that he meant to be his friend; whereof he had given him good proof when he relieved him against FERDINAND. And if he had made use of VESTRICK, it was to secure CIZOVIO, against whom FERDINAND had a practice. He invaded the confines of Poland often: but at the last he was encountered by JOHN Earl of Tornau a valiant Captain who fought with him, and overthrew his Army, and took forty pieces of Ordinance with FERDINAND'S Arms; he himself was wounded and fled into his country. King SIGISMOND was importuned by his subjects to make war against him, and to ruin him, the which he would not do without SOLIMAN'S leave, being his tributary; who at that time hated Soliman hated Peter Prince of Moldavia. PETER much, for that upon his faith, LEWES GRITTI had go forth, and was slain, and also he had murdered his innocent children with great cruelty. And moreover he paid not his tribute duly. They writ, that SOLIMAN took this request of SIGISMOND very kindly, showing him such respect: to whom he made this answer. That he knew well the deserts of the Moldavian, but it did belong to him as well to punish his seditious and wicked tributaries, as to defend the good; and soon after he entered Valachia with an Army, but PETER fled out of the country: whereupon SOLIMAN made STEPHEN his brother, Prince in his place; and then returned, freeing both King JOHN and FERDINAND from the fear of his Arms. PETER being fled into Cizovia with his wife and children and chiefest treasure, King JOHN (who hated him very much) went to besiege the place; which being very strong, and well furnished with men and victuals, continued four months, until that he had withdrawn the Transylvanians who were his subjects: whereat PETER being amazed, and seeing the danger, yielded himself and the place. King JOHN (who was pitiful by nature) although he knew his treacherous disposition, yet had he compassion of his miserable state, and received him courteously. Soon after, SOLIMAN wrote his Letters to King JOHN to sand PETER to Constantinople: to whom JOHN made an humble relation in what manner PETER had yielded, and that he had promised him his life; beseeching him, that, as he was a Noble and generous Emperor, he would not suffer him, being his vassal and tributary, to fail of the faith he had given to that wretch, promising so to keep him as STEPHEN should have no cause to fear. But SOLIMAN was not so satisfied, sending sharper Letters for him; and King JOHN, fearing to incense him, resolved to sand him; but in such sort, that SOLIMAN, being a generous Prince, should be forced to use him with all clemency: and therefore being well accompanied, he wrote, that he had sent him as an Ambassador, not as a prisoner; recommending him much. SOLIMAM upon his submission, and the faith which King JOHN his friend had given him, was moved to mercy, and confined him only to P●…ra. STEPHEN his brother, who reigned in his place in Moldavia, began to grow odious to all his subjects for his covetous disposition and cruel extortion of money; whereupon they slew him, which gave good hope to PETER to recover his Country again: but the Nobility made choice of a young man called ALEXIUS, of the same house of DRACOLA. But soon after, those Noblemen which are called Boiari, who made choice of him, cut off his head, and sent it to PETER, who was upon the confines with an Army of Turks, to restore him into his estate; who by degrees put all those traitorous Peter restored to his Country. Boiari to death. In the beginning of the year 1538, DEVILS' ASSEMBER (a man of great account in Bohemia) seeing the negligence of SEPUSIUS his people, gathered together certain companies of foot and and horse; and going towards the Countries guarded by the Turks garrisons, particularly to the City of Toccay, situate on the other side of the river Tissa, there having easily surprised those which had it in guard, in few hours took it: and having almost sacked it, he went through to the Citadel against a squadron of the Turks horse; who understanding of the surprise of Toccay, came to relieve the garrison: and coming to blows with them, he so distressed them, that they were constrained to retire; whereupon, returning to the City, and making an end of sacking it, loaden with the spoil, and having gotten certain pieces of artillery, he returned: whereat FERDINAND greatly rejoicing, bestowed many gifts upon him. The Emperor, the Pope, and the Venetians being joined together in league against the Turk, he was comprised in the number of the confederates, in the year one thousand five hundred thirty nine. FERDINAND helping his brother the Emperor to suppress the Gantois, which rebelled against him, and tired with the continual wars of Hungary, he came to an agreement with King JOHN, upon condition, that each of them should continued in possession of what he held in Hungary, and that JOHN should freely enjoy the title of king: and if that JOHN should have no heirs, that then the kingdom should fall to FERDINAND and his heirs: provided always that king FERDINAND should conceal this agreement from SOLIMAN, of whose displeasure JOHN stood highly in fear. The matter was not so secretly handled, but that SOLIMAN had full notice of all their agreement. Whereupon being angry with JOHN, he often times charged him with ingratitude; and had it not been for his friends, and (that which did more import) the war with the Persians', he had without doubt troubled him for it: who either for fear of SOLIMAN, or upon some other occasion, being a while after displeased with FERDINAND, he took to wife ISABEL, the daughter of SIGISMOND King of Poland; who within few months appearing to be with child, induced him to seek to drive STEPHEN MAIALTO and BAILASSO out of Transiluania, both governors of that Province: the one of which, which was MAIALTO, notwithstanding that he knew that SOLIMAN deadly hated him; yet he sundry times instantly sued to have been by him crowned King of Transiluania: whereof JOHN being advertised by SOLIMAN himself, who hated traitors and treason wonderfully, he sent to king JOHN the Letters which MAIALTO had written, blaming him for his carelessness, to have given the government of his Provinces to so faithless a man, exhorting him to repair it, and to be more advised hereafter when he should have any occasion to make choice of the like governors: And to MAIALTO (whom he hated for the death of jews GRITTI, and the Turks which were slain with him) he gave a sour answer, more by his countenance then his words; MAIALTO seeing himself rejected by SOLIMAN, and his treachery discovered to King JOHN, he entered into practice with King FERDINAND, who easily entertained it, by means of THOMAS NADASKY, brother in law to MAIALTO: who being received into FERDINAD'S protection, were assisted by him against King JOHN; but neither of them being of equal power to him, they were constrained, the one which was BAILASSO, to retire himself; and the other being in Megest (a most strong place) was by King JOHN'S soldiers besieged: but King JOHN understood that his wife Queen ISABEL in the mean time whilst he was about Megest had borne him a son. During this siege, King JOHN lay at Sabin●…, being fallen into the relapse of a former sickness; The Captains of the Army whom the King favoured most (being but a day's journey off) came to him to rejoice with him. Upon this happy news of having a successor to his kingdom, the king would needs be brought forth of his bed unto the banquett, where eating more than was fit, in the regard of the fever which had newly left him, his stomach having no strength to digest it, he fell again into a fever, whereof he died. By his testament (contrary to the Accord made with FERDINAND) he left his son heir to his kingdom; giving him for tutors PETER VI●…CHIO his kinsman, whom he had left for his Viceroy in Buda with the Queen; and Friar GEORGE Bishop of Varradine a man very faithful and wise, under the protection of SOLIMAN. Who being nobly born in Croatia, after some time spent in the service of King JOHN, become a Monk in Buda; where he had not long remained, but waxing weary of the Monastical life, he retaining still the habit, went out of the Covent, and returned to the service of JOHN in Polonia: to whom (being expulsed his kingdom by FERDINAND, and remaining with JEROM LASKY) he did many services of importance, so as being very highly respected by him, he created him after the recovery of Transiluania, and the rest of Hungary, Bishop of Varadin; and at his death, left him together with the Queen (mother unto the child) Governer of the Kingdom: who in the year 1540, compounding with MAIALTO, in the name of the Queen refused to stand to the agreement made between JOHN and FERDINAND; and temporizing with him, levied certain companies of horse and foot: and to the end to be in the more safety, suing to SOLIMAN for aid, as to the Protector of the pupil, he together with the Queen and the young King retired to Buda: wherewith FERDINAND being highly offended, and therewith hoping to recover that Kingdom, he levied an Army: and in the mean time, sending Ambassadors to SOLIMAN, he offered to give him that tribute which King JOHN was wont to pay; but he first persuaded Queen ISAEELL, that she contenting herself in peace to enjoy Transiluania, should resign the rest to him, according to the agreement made between him and her husband. But seeing that he could obtain neither the one nor the other of his demands, he sent LEONARD VELSCH one of his Captains, with a great number of men of war, to molest the Queen. VELSCH, entering the Country of the young King, went from Strigonium to Visegard, which he took without any difficulty; and, having taken it, stayed there certain days to refresh his Army. Than passing the river Danuby, and with the like celerity having taken Pesthe and Vaccia, he presented himself before Buda; wherein VALENTINE DURAC (who in former time had served FERDINAND) lay then in Garrison. This DURAC to his great credit, withstanding VELSCH, defended the City, until that constrained by the Turkish soldiers, sent by the Saniacque of Belgrado to the relief of the young King, VELSCH retired to Visgard: where having in few day's space taken the Citadel, and garrisonized it, in the name of King FERDINAND; and wintered his soldiers in the same place, without any molestation by the Turks, until the end of that year: in the year one thousand five hundred forty four, the Turks took the field with such fury, as having suddenly taken Vaccia, they sundry times attempted Pesthe; where being resisted by the valour of the defendants, they departed, fearing that FERDINAND'S Army (which being much increased, was come to make head against them) would have defeated them, whose assaults they could not so well avoid; but being in ill plight, they lost many of their Arierguard. By reason of which good success, FRRDINAND hoping to have taken Buda, gathered together 40000 men, which he sent under the conduct of WILLIAM ROCKENDOLPH, a Captain of great worth, to take that City. ROCKENDOLPH Rockendolph sent by Ferdinand to attempt Buda. coming thither, gave many attempts: but being ever valiantly repulsed by the besieged, he saw that by assault he could not take the City; he therefore resolved to try what he could do by siege: and besieging it round, he so kept victuals from the City, that had not Friar GEO●…GE used great diligence, the City doubtless had yielded. Nevertheless ROCKENDOLPH with words and threatenings frustrating the devices of some seditious persons, continued the siege, till it was freed by SOLIMAN. The Queen, being thus distressed in Buda, sent her Ambassadors to SOLIMAN to crave aid; who calling them into his presence, said unto them, that he had invested King JOHN in that Realm of Hungary, the which should pass to his heirs; and that he would, his promise should hold perpetually, as long as the heirs should remain obedient to him, and perform that whereunto they were bound: wherefore he confirmed his vassal and tributrry STEPHEN the pupil, giving to the Ambassadors the Ensigns of the confirmation of friendship with the Infant; which were, a round shield, a iron mace with the handle of gold, a Scimitar with a scabbard enriched with jewels, and a long robe of crimson velvet and gold; saying, that by those Ensigns which he sent him, he took him into his protection. These Ambassadors being thus happily dispatched, LASCO, sent by FERDINAND, arrived, and demanded the investiture of that Kingdom for him, with an offer of tribute, showing the agreement which he had made with King JOHN; but he could not be heard: and for that he did often name the Emperor CHARLES, magnifying his power, SOLIMAN disdaining it, caused him to be put in prison. SOLIMAN understanding that Buda was in great distress, sent MAHOMET Bassa with many men of war, and a great quantity of victuals, to the relief thereof; promising to follow himself in person, as within few days after he did. Which 〈◊〉 much troubled ROCKENDOLPH, that they forced him to retire into the I'll of Comer: for, MAHOMET having victualled Buda, and being encamped within sight of FERDINAND'S Army, after many skirmishes Rockendolph overthrown & put to flight by Mahomet. he so much provoked his enemies, that they joined with him in battle; wherein, after sundry accidents, ROCKENDOLPH being overthrown, was constrained to flee, and many of his Captains were taken prisoners. And MAHOMET Bassa, sending to visit the young king and Queen mother, persuaded her to hope well of SOLIMAN the great Turk; who, coming from Adrianople into Hungary, shortly after came to the Camp, bringing with him a great number of soldiers, with a resolution to free himself from troubles, and wholly to put FERDINAND out of all hope ever to recover that estate. SOLIMAN being come near unto Buda, he sent unto the infant king three goodly horses, with their furnitures of gold, set with jewels, and three Royal Robes of Gold, and to every Hungarian Baron a Robe with a chain of Gold: by his Ambassadors he sent word unto the Queen that she should sand the child with those Barons, unto the Camp, excusing him that he came not to see her, being not the custom of the Ottomans to see women in another house; neither would he in respect of her honour (being young and beautiful, the daughter of a King his friend, and the wife of his confederate) that she should go into his camp. The Queen (they say) was much amazed; fearing for her son: but FRIAR GEORGE persuaded her to sand him speedily, lest she should show any distrust of that great Emperor. Being brought to SOLIMAN'S pavilion he embraced him lovingly, the Hungarian Barons were honoured, and dined with the Bassa: but in the mean time SOLIMAN had given order, that some of his captains (making show to visit the city) should seize upon a port and draw in their men; the which they did before it was discovered: whereupon they disarmed the citizens, and lodged their troops, but with great modesty and shows of friendship. SOLIMAN being advertised that the city was at his command, he sent the Infant back unto The city of B●…da in the power of Soliman. the Queen, but retained five of the Barons, which were FRIAR GEORGE, PETER VICCHIO, VALENTINE STEPHANIO, VERBESIO the head Chancellor, and VREAN BASHIANO who had the guard of the city. The Queen seeing the city taken by fraud, and her Barons detained, sent humbly to entreat SOLOMAN that he would not blemish his great name of clemency and magnanimity, but observe the faith given, and sand back her faithful Barons, who had always deserved well of his greatness and of the Turkish name. SOLIMAN was three days in counsel touching this action. Some persuaded him to put the Barons to death and seize upon the whole state. But ROSTAM Bashaw his son in-law whom he favoured much, was of a milder disposition, advising him to restore unto the Queen the city and the Barons, and that SOLIMAN being a just Prince should not unjustly take from that poor pupil his kingdom, seeing that the father was his tributary and the Queen had offered it for her son: that he should remember he had taken the Infant into his protection, and had confirmed him in that Realm with the usual ensigns and ornaments; the which if he should now take away, he should purchase himself perpetual infamy with the world, to have by fraud usurped the Realm of a poor pupil, who had recommended himself unto him, and had been confirmed by him; giving many other reasons to the like effect. SOLIMAN took a middle course, sending word unto the Queen, that she should part from Buda, for that he meant to hold it as a Bulwark against FERDINAND; and that she should go and reign at Lippa beyond the river of Tivisco; that he would receive nothing of that kingdom, but his ordinary tribute, and defend the city and castle at his own charge; whereupon all the Barons were sent back, but VALENTINE whom she could not obtain by any suit: yet he promised he should have no harm, and withal he assured that the young king should be no sooner able to govern, but he would restore whatsoever belonged to him and was in his power. The Queen departed from Buda to Lippa with her son and all her Royal furniture, accompanied with all her Barons, except VALENTINE, cursing the infidelity of such a Tyrant, The Queen driven out of Buda. and repenting in her hart, that she had not accepted the conditions offered by FERDINAND, to give the province of Sepusia, and other places which he had taken, where she might have lived with more quiet of mind, then to have her son king of the whole Realm, subject to so perfidious a Barbarian, as she might doubt hourly he would deprive him. She said that this happened for her sins, to have rather trusted in the friendship of a cruel Mahometan then in a Christian King, who was mild, just, and of the same faith: but she durst not discover her thoughts. FERDINAND hearing of the defeat of his Army, in fear of some greater loss, being also sorry for the loss of Buda, a place of great importance for the defence of Christendom, he resolved Conditions propounded by Ferdinand to Soliman. to sand Ambassadors presently to conquering SOLIMAN, with conditions of peace, who were dispatched unto him with very rich Presents; and falling down the river of Dannow, they came to the Camplying before Buda, and were honourably entertained by ROSTAN Bassa, and brought into the presence of SOLIMAN: to whom they delivered their Ambassage, requiring in the name of FERDINAND, that he would grant him the Realm of Hungary for the same tribute which King JOHN had paid; promising to satisfy the Queen in the behalf of her son; showing also that the said K. JOHN moved in his conscience, who told him he had no title to that Kingdom, having unjustly usurped it, had promised it him after his death; whereof they produced the contract: by reason whereof, FERDINAND made war. After two day's pause, SOLIMAN gave answer to the Ambassadors by ROSTAN, that he was content to give peace to FERDINAND whensoever he should restore the Forts, Cities, Soliman's answer to the Ambassadors. and places in Hungary; and for that he had been often provoked to war, and spent much, yet he would impose no other penalty, but the payment of a small tribute yearly for the Arch-duchy of Austria, and that he should quit his pretensions to Hungary; threatening, that if FERDINAND did not accept of these conditions of peace, he would not fail to take those places by Arms which were unjustly usurped. The Ambassadors said, that FERDINAND could not resolve to accept of these conditions without the privity of the Emperor his brother, and therefore they craved some time of truce that he might writ to him, and receive his answer. But SOLIMAN knew well that their design was only to win time, to the end that winter might approach, and the war be deferred; assuring himself, that FERDINAND would never accept of such unreasonable conditions, and therefore he would not grant any truce. After twenty days stay at Buda he retired to Constantinople, having given charge to the Sangiac of Belgrado to make an incursion into Austria, and to put all to fire and sword; and he commanded CACON General of the Adventurers to spoil Moravia: but God had compassion of his people; for, there fell such abundance of rain, that they could not do any thing to annoyed the Christians. This year 1542, King FERDINAND lost Marano, a place of great importance, and a Port of the sea upon the Adriatic Gulf, near to Aquilegia and the confines of the Venetians: it was Marano treacherously surprised. treacherously surprised by BELTRANIO SACCHIA of Vdena who pretended to be a great friend unto the governor, promising to bring him two barks of corn, whereof the Castle was in want: by which colour he brought in divers soldiers and become master of the Castle, and put the governor his wife and son in prison: but soon after, SACCHIA himself was shut out of the Castle by his companion TURCHETTO da Nave, and forced to flee to Venice. It was besieged by FERDINAND'S forces which lay at Gradisca and there abouts. TURCHETTO did pretend to hold it for the French King, sending to PETER STROZZI (who was then levying of men for the King) to sand him some troops. FERDINAND, being advertised hereof, caused men to be levied in the County of Tirroll and the bordering places, for the recovery of Marano, sending also a little Army of Barks, besieging it by sea and land. Having after a long siege reduced the Castle to extremity for want of victuals, in the end there appeared certain Venetian Galleys; who gave the Commander to understand, that they should departed from thence, for that the Segnory of Venice had bought the place of the French: and so the Venetians entered presently, and it was yielded up unto them. The Emperor's Ambassador complaining hereof to the State, they answered that they had bought Marano (that is to say, the circuit as it stands in the water, not meddling with the firm land) to avoid a greater scandal, the French King being else resolved to deliver it to the Turk; which they hoped FERDINAND being a wise Prince would not take in ill part. And thus Marano continued in the hands of the Venetians, and doth to this day. This year 1543, there was a great Assembly of Princes and Noblemen at Noremberg, where they conferred touching the aiding of FERDINAND in his Turkish wars; so as they had drawn together from the Noblemen and free Cities 30000 foot and 7000 horse, all Germane. CONRADE HESSIUS commanded the foot, and THEODORICK VOLFANGO Ferdinand's preparation against the Turk. the horse; and JOACHIM marquis of Brandenburg was General. Coming to Vienna, the Governor of Stiria came to them with ten thousand horse; and there were almost 15000 Hungarians on horseback, under the command of PETER PERENO, who had always commanded the old bands. The Council being now assembled at Trent, King FERDINAND sent his Ambassadors thitherto demand aid: whereupon Pope PAUL sent him 3000 foot commanded by ALEXANDER VITELLI and SFORZA PALLAVICINO: and fearing the Turk, he had great forces on the frontiers, before commanded by the Marquis of Marignian. The Army being assembled at Vienna, they marched in good order along the banks of the river of Dannow, and went to besiege Pesta near unto Buda; where were many encounters and skirmishes, with great loss of either side, but especially of the Turks. The Town was battered, Pesta besieged, and the Christians repulsed. and a furious assault given by the Italians and the Hungarians: but in the end they were repulsed with the loss of 700 men. It is written by VLLOA, that upon their retreat a janisary cried unto them in the Italian Tongue, saying; You valiant Italians, retire and save yourselves, The words of a janisary. and let come those cowardly Dutchmen: for, we desire to draw the wine out of their heads, and to give you all possible respects. After this repulse, the Commanders and Council hearing of the coming of ACCOMAT Sangiack of Belgrado, and winter growing on, they resolved to retire the Army, and return to Vienna, much against the will of the Hungarians, the marquis of Marignas and Vitelli; who persuaded them to batter it again the next day without giving any assault, to the end it should not seem that the amazement of the former day's The end of the war of Pesta. success had made them departed: which done, they withdrew their artillery; and the Army marched away in good order, being sometimes annoyed by the Turk, but still to their loss: and thus ended that shameful enterprise. At this time PETER PERENO, a Nobleman of Hungary, of great account, who had always commanded the Hungarian horse, and done great service, being accused that he practised to make himself King of Hungary, was by FERDINAND'S commission taken in the Castle of Strigonium by LESCANO a Spaniard, and given to MARIGNAN, who conducted him Pereno imprisoned by Ferdinand. to Vienna; where he was put in prison, and could not be admitted to justify himself publicly. Which much discontented the Hungarians, seeing he was a valiant Captain, greatly beloved of them; some thinking he was falsely accused by such as were near FERDINAND and envied him. FERDINAND, employing himself to the affairs of Germany, used all means to hinder the meeting of the Princes of Germany in Smaleald, with the Ambassadors of the free Towns, who (as the fame went) were assembled to the prejudice of the Emperor. Which for that he could not effect, he assayed to make peace between the Emperor and the French King, notwithstanding that both in the one and the other he found great difficulty: nevertheless, he so handled Peace between the Emperor & the French King. the matter, that in the beginning of the next year they agreeing upon sundry conditions, in the year 1544 the articles of peace were confirmed by them both. In the beginning of the year 1545, FERDINAND sent his Ambassadors to the Council of Trent, to the end that the disagreement in matters of religion in Germany might be reconciled according to the Emperor's desire: but he seeing the ill will which the Assembly at Smalcald bore to the Emperor, and that the same increased, by his Lettrs he persuaded each of them to quietness: which persuasions taking no effect, the Emperor came from Flanders into Germany; where he obtained aid from the Duke of Florence, the Duke of Ferrara, and from every Potentate in Italy some, but chief from Pope PAUL: who seeing that the war should be waged against the Lutherans, coutemners of his Holiness, sent him twelve thousand footmen and six This Pope sent 12000 foot and 600 horse to aid the Emperor against the Protestant's. hundred horse, commanded by his nephew OCTAVIUS FARNESE the Emperor's son-in-law, with his brother the Cardinal ALEXANDER FARNESE, Legate à Later for his Uncle the Pope. With which supplies, the Emperor having in the year 1546 and 1547 distressed his enemies, he restored the Duke of Bruinswick to his estate; who from the year 1543, had by the Lantzgrave, and JOHN FREDERICK Duke of Saxony, lived deprived of his duchy: and notwithstanding the promise made to Duke MAURICE, assuring him that the Lantzgrave should be restored to his Countries; yet he nevertheless was likewise taken prisoner the same day that according to the agreement they spoke together; so as Germany being in short space in quiet, Duke JOHN FREDERICK was deprived of the dignity of Elector, and together with many other Captains of the league committed to prison in the year one thousand, five hundred, forty seven. In the year 1545 SOLIMAN came again into Hungary with a great Army, sending to besiege Soliman comes into Hungary. Valponio, a Town belonging to PETER PERENO (who at that time was prisoner with FERDINAND) in the which his wife was, with agarrison of Hungarians: but she yielded the Valpanio taken. place upon good conditions, the which were duly observed. After which, they besieged So●…lo, another Town belonging to this Lady; the which was valiantly defended, and many Turks slain: but being forced in the end by their continual assaults to retire into the Castle, they offered to compound. ACCOMAT who commanded that Army, disdaining that so little a place should make such resistance, said, that he would accept of no other conditions, but discretion: whereupon, yielding they were all slain, to terrify the rest. SOLIMAN being comen to Buda, he sent to besiege Strigonium: in the which, SALAMANCA and LESCANO, two Spaniards, commanded for FERDINAND; the one having charge of the City, the other of the Castle: where, after many exploits of war and assaults given, the Commanders began to faint, and resolved to yield (as it was thought) to save the wealth which they had gathered together; which the soldiers discovering, cried out, that they might yet defend it valiantly; but they could not prevail: whereupon, the Town was yielded to SOLIMAN, upon condition to have their liberties Strigonium taken. and lives. From thence the Turks went to Tatta, a Castle near to Gomorrah, the which was commanded by HANNIBAL TASSO of Bologna, and ANTIO a German, with a garrison of 800 men; who despairing to defend so small a place against so great an Army, yielded it without fight, Tatta yielded to the Turks. being suffered to departed freely. The Earl of Torneillo, who commanded in Gomorrah, put these two Captains in prison, and cut off TASSO'S head, leaving ANTIO to FERDINAND'S censure, who referred him to the same Sentence which Torneillo had given of the Italian Captain: and so they died both of one death. Than the Turks went to besiege Alba Regalis; which they battered, and gave divers assaults: but in the end it was yielded to the Turks by the wilfulness Alba Regalis taken. of the Citizens, contrary to the will of the Commander and soldiers, upon condition to have their goods and liberties: the like was granted to the Italians and Germane, but not to the Hungarians; and they departed without the loss of any thing. After which, the Turk retired with his Army to Constantinople. FERDINAND went against the Bohemians, which in the behalf of the Duke of Saxony had rebelled against him: and being comn into the Kingdom, after much resistance and apparent danger of his person, he at length got the Castle of Prague; wherein being entered, he put the Bohemians in such fear, that, notwithstanding the many difficulties, yet he subdued them in such manner, that they yielded themselves absolutely to his mercy. And so having accomplished this enterprise, he sent his eldest son MAXIMILIAN with certain gallant troops of horse to the aid of his brother the Emperor; and he himself in the mean time never desisted, together with Duke MAURICE, to trouble Duke JOHN FREDERICK. In the day of the battle beyond the River Albis, he not only assisted his brother with his forces, but with certain very good troops of horse came thither in person; where he shown himself no less a valiant man at Arms, than a most prudent Commander. After which victory, returning into Bohemia, he celebrated the obsequies of his wife ANNE, who in the beginning of the year died in childbed: which obsequies he could no sooner solemnize, by reason of the wars in Germany, and the insurrections in Hungary. FERDINAND, having ended the wars of Bohemia, and helped his brother to suppress his enemies, in the year 1548, holding a Synod with the Emperor in Augsburg, there were fifteen Institutions published appertaining to religion, with express order, that the same should be observed till the dissolution of the Council of Trent; which ordinance was called an Interim: wherein was contained what was commanded to be believed till the determination of the said Council. After which publication, the Emperor desirous that his son PHILP, Prince of Spain, should be acknowledged by the Netherlanders for their legitimate and natural Lord, he married his daughter MARY to MAXIMILIAN Archduke of Austria, eldest son to his brother FERDINAND, to the end that they should make their residence in Spain until the return Ferdinand●… gave Bohemia to his son Maximilian. of PHILIP: and purchasing a dispensation from the Pope, he publishing the nuptials, sent him into Spain, accompanied by the Cardinal of Trent, and the Earl of Mansfelt, and many other of the Germane and Bohemian Nobility. But first, before his departure, he obtained for him of his father FERDINAND the Kingdom of Bohemia, to the end that he should come into Spain with the greater dignity; where, as Governer of those Countries, he remained till the return of Prince PHILIP. In the year 1551, FERDINAND received Letters from SOLIMAN the great Turk; wherein showing himself discontent both with FERDINAND and the Emperor, for that ANDREW DORIA had taken the town of Africa from DRAGUT RAISE a Pirate, he protested, that if it were not rendered, he would cruelly revenge the injury done to his Captain DRAGUT. Whereto FERDINAND made answer, that for as much as Pirates were not comprised in the Articles of agreement, neither he nor his brother were bound to any thing. With which answer dispatching the messenger, in the month of May he sent JOHN BAPTISTA CASTALDO into Transiluansa, to assist Friar GEORGE against Queen ISABELLA; who having in former time drawn great part of the Transylvanians to her devotion, and sought to preserve Castaldo sent to aid Friar George against the Queen. that Province for her son, fell at open variance with the Friar: who, ambitiously desiring to continued his government, gave FERDINAND to understand, that the Queen hoping by the Turks means to hold that Country, was again risen against him, and sought to drive him out of that estate: which for that he knew to be very prejudicial to all Christendom, he had advertised him thereof; therewith entreating him, that for the preservation of the country, he would be pleased to relieve him against the Queen's invasions, which daily troubled him. FERDINAND, induced by these reasons, sent (as before is said) Castaldo to the Friar: who as his Lieutenant General coming to Agria, levied 5700 footmen, and 1700 horse; with which passing the river Tissa, he went to Debrezen, where finding Andrew Battor, and Thomas Naclaidi, principal Lords of that kingdom, he went into Transiluania: where having for the space of three months besieged Colosuarre in the behalf of the Friar, he was advertised that the Friar through a new composition with the Queen, having taken Alba julia, was retired from the wars; and that he had nevertheless sent him word, that if he would meet him at Egnet, he would speak with him. Wither Castaldo being come, after many discourses and treaties passed between them, obtaining of the Friar the City of Alba julia to winter his people in; he had word from the Queen, that she would come to an agreement with FERDINAND, according to the covenants made with her husband: so that after many conventions, coming to Colosuarre, whither were already come the most part of the Lords of that kingdom, Isabel in the name of her son renounced, and gave up the kingdom and estate of Hungary to Castaldo, who in the name of FERDINAND accepted the same. After which renunciation, she granted to the most insatiable Friar all his demands, which were unreasonable, together with the Archbishopric of Strigonium, being at that time void. Castaldo accommodating that Province according to the order received from FERDINAND, and as he thought most expedient, celebrated the nuptials between one of FERDINAND'S daughters, and john, at the first called Stephen, the Queen's son. But the ambitious Friar, not content with the agreement, by the means of a Frenchman, who was a spy for the Turk in that kingdom, he acquainted Soliman with the whole agreement and composition made between FERDINAND and the Queen. Wherewith Soliman being highly displeased, shortly after sent the Beglerbey of Grecia; who passing with great celerity to Belgrado, came to Beech, and took it, with Bekerque and Senate: and having without any resistance, upon composition taken Lippa, he went without any opposition made by the Christians, to Themesuar; where encamping himself, he understood that Castaldoes Army was come. Who with much ado, having induced Friar George, then made Treasurer of that kingdom, and Vaivode of Transiluania, to levy forces against the Turk, he brought it so to pass that he constrained the Beglerbey to raise his siege from before Themesuarre; notwithstanding that the Friar ever endeavoured all that he could to hinder Castaldo's proceed. The Friar understanding of the Turks departure, went to Lippa; where he stayed not long, til by Pope julio at the request of FERDINAND, he was made Cardinal; yet he sought to cross Castaldoes designs, and to betray him and FERDINAND'S whole Army into the hands of the Turks: hoping by this means, not only to reconcile himself to Solsman, but to become absolute Lord of Transiluania. Whose wicked practice being made frustrate, Castaldo Lippa taken by Castaldo. continued the siege of Lippa: which after many skirmishes and assaults, coming into Castaldoes power, was given in prey to the Soldiers, who loaden with spoil, presently besieged the Fortress; about which having spent some days, they had taken the same, together with Oliman Governor thereof, if the Friar's villainy had not frustrated Castaldo's purpose; Who desiring by these means to obtain the Turks good will, dealt so, that he set Oliman at liberty: wherewith Castaldo being infinitely displeased, sought to abate the Friar's authority: but failing of his purpose, he dissembled the matter. Winter being come, FERDINAND'S forces leaving Transiluania (he being unwilling they should remain there) stayed upon the frontiers of the enemy. After whose departure CASTALDO conducting the Artillery into the kingdom, discovered to SFORZA PALLAVICINO that FERDINAND had commanded Friar GEORGE should be put to death; but being unable, without great circumspection, to bring it to effect, he willed PALLAVICINO to be in a readiness until he gave him further direction. In the mean time repairing to the Citadel at Lippa, he stayed near to Varadin: and sending his Army before, he joined with the Friar riding together in one Coach to Buise, in which place being again solicited by FERDINAND to make away the Friar. CASTALDO speedily wrote to SFORCE PALLAVICINO that as soon as he might, he should with his troops come to confer with Mean●… used by Castaldo totra●… Friar George. him, about what course was to be taken in that business. Whereupon PALLAVICINO coming to Buise, and having laid the plot for the Friar's dispatch, he went to seek him just at the time when he should have said Mass: with whom CASTALDO holding a long discourse shown him ever a good countenance, notwithstanding that he was in all occasions crossed by him: and his insolency was such, that he forbore not openly to negociate with the Turks. Whereupon CASTALDO directing those which should kill him, in what manner they should dispatch him; he appointed his secretary MARC ANTONIO FERRARI of Alexandria (under colour to get the Friar's hand to certain Letters which SFORZA PALLAVICINO should bear to FERDINAND) to come to him, upon the eighteenth day of December, the same year. Who coming in the company of Pallavicino into the Castle with certain Harquebusiers, and presenting the Letters to the Friar, to the end he should subscribe them; after that the Frierhad advisedly read them, stooping down to writ upon a little table which was in the chamber, Ferrari drawing his poniard stabbed him twice; which being of no sufficient force to kill him, it behoved Pallavicino (who upon the noise ran into the chamber) to set his helping hand to the work: for the Friar was a gallant strong fellow; who turning to him that stabbed him, threw him to the ground, and therewith made so great a noise, that Pallavicino coming into The death of Friar. George. the chamber and seeing Ferrari down, setting hand to his sword, gave the Friar such a blow on his head, that he cloven the same in two: an act truly worthy of great reprehension, if the behaviour of the man had not deserved it. For Friar George was endued with such excellency of wit, and therewith was of so generous a spirit, and so diligent in all matters of importance, that FERDINAND himself (who caused him to be slain) would often say openly, that he envied the Vayvode for nothing, but Friar George. The Friar dying in this manner suddenly, Castaldo imprisoned his great friend Francis Thendi, who to escape from FERDINAND'S forces, had after the Turkish manner clad himself in Scarlet, whose imprisonment was a great help to Castaldo: for Thendi being reconciled, was the cause that the Sicoli, a most fierce people of Transiluania, yielded obedience to the King of the Romans; which people with others, through Castaldo's endeavour, within few days submitted themselves. But in the year one thousand five hundred forty two, Soliman understanding of the death of Friar George, sent two Armies into Transiluania, to invade the same in two several places: where Castaldo thinking by fortifying the frontiers, to entertain the Turks until the coming of an Army out of Germany, he sent Friar George's treasure to FERDINAND; and taking Seghedin, had sundry supplies from the Lords of that kingdom; and fortifying Lippa and Themesuarre he gathered those men together which (to avoid the rage of the Turks) came to his Campe. The death of Cardinal George bred great rumours and discontents in Transiluania: the inhabitants being much affected to their King, imagined that the death of Friar George did not proceed of any treaty he had with the Turks, but that FERDINAND taking away the dog which kept the flock, he might (as they said) with more ease afterward devour it: but in the Consistory at Rome, they were much scandalised, and FERDINAND blamed to have committed so great an excess upon a sacred person, and of that eminency. The matter was much aggravated: and although that FERDINAND was otherwise well respected, and held for a just Prince, and of great bounty; yet the Pope would not absolve him, being excommunicate, without the consent of the Cardinals: but making the truth appear by his ministers, and the danger wherein those Realms were, if he should not have used that prevention, in the end he obtained absolution, not without the contradiction of many Cardinals, whereto the Pope's facility was a great help: And not long after, Sforza, and all the rest that were actors in the death of Friar George, were in like manner absolved, but with fare greater difficulty. FERDINAND unable to sand such succours as he had promised, by reason of the wars in Germany between his brother the Emperor and Maurice Duke of Saxony, persuaded Castaldo to bear his fortune in the best manner that possibly he could; promising with all possible speed to relieve him. Who perceiving that the Moldavian, and Mahomet Bassa were with a great Army come into Hungary, to invade Transiluania; he sent Felix Earl of Arco, to defend the Castle of Brasovia. And obtaining great relief and victuals, from the City of Zibonio, he endeavoured to reinforce his troops, and to fortify many places; but this nothing furthered FERDINAND'S proceed: For by reason that the Articles of agreement were not observed to Isabel, many of those people rebelled against him, and after much contention, he was constrained to come to blows with them: For spending much time, both in losing, and in recovering, the Turks daily conquered more and more. Who taking Lippa, and Themesuarre, with many other places, by an order from Mahomet; the Bassa, together with the Bassa of Buda, marched to the Castle of Drigall; before which lay Sforza Pallavicino with six thousand men, Germans and others: who valiantly assaulting the Castle, was at unawares set upon by the Bassa; with whom coming to fight, and performing the office both of a valiant Soldier, and prudent Captain, he was in the end overthrown, and shortly after with many Sforza Pallavicino wounded, overthrown and taken prisoner by the Turks, before the Castle of Drigall. other Captains taken prisoner, and brought (by a Turk which charging him in the flank with his Cimitare had wounded him very sore) to the Bassa: from whom he was afterwards ransomed for a great sum of money. After which, Mahomet to the great slaughter of his men, took Salonch, built by FERDINAND in a strong place beyond the river Tissa; the loss whereof greatly troubled FERDINAND. Who seeing that his affairs notwithstanding the valour and wisdom of Castaldo daily went from ill to worse, and understanding that the people of Transiluania were wholly revolted to the Queen, greatly favoured by Mahomet Bassa, and that they had often practised to kill Castaldo; he commanded him that notwithstanding Mahomet's retreat, despairing to take Agria, long attempted by his people, he should retire. Which Castaldo putting in execution, placed the Spanish and Dutch soldiers in Zibinio, and other places near adjacent: and having fortified Deva, after much provision made, he went to Alba julia to winter the rest of his Army. In the mean time, absolution came from Rome for those which killed Friar George. And the year 1553 being come, Francis Thendi, favouring the Queen's cause, brought it so to pass, that notwithstanding the many Counsels, wherein Castaldo was ever present, a great number of the Lords of Transiluania in the behalf of the Queen, took Arms against FERDINAND, and expulsing FERDINAND'S forces, reestablished her, together with her son in her estate. That year being ended, and the year 1554 begun, FERDINAND sent his Ambassadors to his Nephew Philip in England, to congratulate his marriage with Mary Queen of that Country, who succeeded her brother Edward. And in the year 1555 died joane, mother to FERDINAND, and the Emperor Charles the fift, in Spain; whose death FERDINAND took very grievously. In the mean time taking a truce with the Turk, who upon an ack nowledgement of a tribute, suffered him peaceably to enjoy all that he held in Hungary. King FERDINAND (as some writ) did upon the conclusion of this truce yield to pay unto the Turk a yearly pension of 30000. crowns, but not by way of tribute; for the confirmation whereof, he sent his Ambassadors to Constantinople. But the Bassa of Buda had no will to peace: for in the beginning of the year, 1556 he complained of wrongs done unto them by the Garrisons of Sigeth, Babott, and other neighbour places; whereupon he drew together 10000 men, and surprised Caposuiver and Babot suspecting no danger; with the like hope he went to Sigeth, but tarried not: yet he returned soon after with a great Army and began the siege. The town was defended by valiant soldiers, under the command of Mark Horuato a worthy gentleman, Sigeth attem●…ted in vain by the Turks. and of a noble family. At that time FERDINAND was troubled with tumults in Transiluania, procured by Peter Vtcchius: who not only persuaded Soliman to cause Transiluania to be restored unto him, belonging unto him as he said by hereditary right; but he also dissuaded all the subjects from their obedience to the young Vayvode. Moreover George Bebequius infested the confines of Agria, taking certain castles with the help of the Valac chians. FERDINAND being oppressed with so many enemies, he sent to the Princes of Germany being assembled at Ratisbone, to crave aid, and in the mean time he levied soldiers with his own revenues. His troops being ready, the rendez vous was appointed at Canitia a town in Stiria, where they resolved to besiege Babot, thereby to relieve Sigeth. The Turks left the siege, and went with all speed to encounter the christians, where notwithstanding that they were more in number and had the The Turks ●…ut to Rout at Babot. advantage of the gound, yet they were beaten and forced to retire with very great loss; wherein 300 Austrian horse which they called the black bands, did so charge the Turks in the retreat as they confessed they never dealt with more fearful enemies. FERDINAND being advertised of this encounter at Babot he did much honour the Earl of Serine and the other commanders: and being desirous to finish the wars he levied new troops and made his son FERDINAND General of the Army, but before he could attain to the Camp, the Turks had again invested Sigeth with a new siege: assuring themselves to carry it, they planted their battles, and used all persuasions and threats to draw them to yield, but the governor nor his soldiers would not be moved, although they were in some want of powder and victuals, but made daily sallies and returned with much honour, and great spoils, which made the Bassa despair of the event, and resolved to leave it. They writ that the besieged showed such valour, as the Bassa wept, hearing that he had slain but one christian in five The Turk●… leave Sige●…. days, and so he retired. The Archduke FERDINAND being come to Canisia to the Army, they took Carioth, Babot, Saint Martins, and divers other Towns in those parts: and the Exploits of the Archduke Ferdinand in Hungary. garrison of Sigeth being now at liberty, went as far as the walls of Quinqueecclesia, and brought away great spoils. Charles Serotin, a Baron of Moravia, was sent to refresh Sigeth with victuals, powder, and all kind of warlike munition: the which having performed accordingly, he returned within few days to the Archduke; who hearing that the Turks drew all their forces together, and seeing Winter approach, and diseases to creep into his Army, having freed Sigeth from Siege (which was the chief end of that expedition) he resolved to return to Vienna, being also called home by Letters from FERDINAND his father, who received him joyfully about the end of November. In the Archdukes retreat, the Turks (contrary to their usual custom) never followed, but like men amazed kept themselves within their defences: soon after A truce made with the Turks. Soliman made a truce with FERDINAND, but the affairs of Transiluania would not suffer it to hold. There came a Turkish Ambassador into Transiluania, who bringing (as he said) hope of peace, they entreated FERDINAND to give them leave to treat with him. A conference then being appointed by his sufferance, the Turk delivered a fare other charge than they expected: which was, that expelling FERDINAND'S soldiers, they should presently receive john, (who was baptised by the name of Stephen) son to the first Vayvode, for their King: which being done Soliman would accept of their tribute, and vouchsafe them his favour; but if they did otherwise, he would take revenge of them. He did also writ unto Andrew Battori, a man of great credit amongst the Transylvanians, complaining that they had received foreign The Turks threatneth the Transylvanians. forces, who committed many insolences, and that he would come with a great Army, to expel them, punishing them severely, if they did not obey his commandments. The Transylvanians being terrified with these threats, acquainted Castaldo withal: who came unto the assembly of the Noblemen; where he refuted all Soliman's threats, persuading the Transylvanians, rather to dye honourably, then to live basely in the Turkish servitude. Wherhfore, it was concluded to pay him the promised tribute, the which if he refused, then to command him to departed out of their confines; but the Ambassador seeing he could obtain no other thing, received the tribute and returned. After which, Isabella mother to john the Vaivode, expelling all that favoured FERDINAND got the whole government into her hands, partly through the people's favour, and partly relying upon the Turks, and Polonians friendship: which she might effect the more easily, for that the plague had consumed many thousands of men, and made the whole country in a manner desolate. FERDINAND did forbear to take Arms against her though justly incensed, knowing that the king of Poland and other Princes, would treat with him about a peace. CHARLES the Emperor having given up the states of the Low Countries, the kingdoms of Spain, and all his other kingdoms to his son Philip; FERDINAND sought to suppress and extinguish the preaching of the Gospel in Germany; and receiving Letters of his brother's renunciation made to his son, he infinitely commended his resolution. That year being ended, and the year 1556 being come, he was advertised that his brother the Emperor having renounced the Empire unto him, was retired into Spain, to lead a solitary life; for which yielding him thanks by his Letters and Ambassadors, he went to Viena to make provision for the wars, which (as it was said) Soliman would make in Hungary: where spending the rest of that year, he remained until the year 1557. In the beginning of which year, he interposed himself between King Philip and the Pope, persuading them to peace: for the Pope induced by his Nephew the Cardinal Carassa, made war against the King. And that year being ended, in the beginning of the year 1558, he was by the Electors according to the will of his brother Charles, chosen and proclaimed Emperor; no man but the Pope contradicting his election, who affirmed that the resignation made by the Emperor Charles could not be done without the Pope's consent: but his exception being rejected, FERDINAND was chosen and proclaimed lawful Emperor. Not long after, he had news that his brother Charles was departed out of this world: for whose death he with his whole Court were very sorry; nevertheless suppressing his grief, he celebrated the exequys with great pomp, and presently sent his Ambassadors to King Philip, to condole the common loss. Soon after the decease of the Emperor Charles, in the beginning of the year 1559, FERDINAND used all his Peace between King Philip of Spain and Henry of France. endeavour to make a peace between King Philip, and Henry the French King; which after many treaties being concluded, and an alliance made, he was exceeding glad, for that after seventy years continual dissension, peace was now made between those two mighty kings, which was proclaimed through all Christendom. A little while after, in the beginning of the year 1560, FERDINAND was confirmed in the Empire by the new Pope, who willingly approved his election, and held it an unworthy thing, after a peace so long desired, again to bring The Emp. confirmed by Pope Pius 4. Italy into new combustions: and so following the desire of that Prince, he consented to the calling of a Council. In the year 1561 he made proclamation to all Prelates and Nations, of a Council to be held the year following, wherein the Articles proponed by the Lutherans should be determined. And in the year 1562 a Council was again called, to be held in the city of Trent, whither FERDINAND sending the Prelates of his dominion, persuaded all the Princes of Germany to do the like: and writing to his Nephew King PHILIP, and to the King of Portugal, and to all the other Princes of Christendom, he used such means that all the Princes according to his desire, sent the Bishops oftheir country's with their particular Ambassadors to that Council, wherein the matters of greatest importance were handled concerning religion. In which time FERDINAND desiring that some one of his sons after his decease might succeed him in the Imperial dignity, he called the Prince's Electors to a Council held at Frankford, where propounding to them his desire, he alleged that in respect of the Turk it was requisite it should be so; and after the matter had been loug debated, he obtained his purpose to his content: which being concluded, he made his son MAXIMILIAN within few days after to be crowned King of the Romans. After which ceremonies, going to Ispruch to see his daughters, he understood that the truce lately treated of with SOLIMAN, not only took effect for ten years, but that at his suit Don ALVERO de Sande was released out of prison, together with three other principal Knights, taken in the year one thousand, five hundred sixty, in the enterprise of Tripoli, by DRAGUT RAISE. At that time were great wars in France between the Papists and the Huguenots, which the Emperor sought to have pacified: but that nation was so extremely incensed, that the Emperor's persuasions could nothing prevail among them. In the year 1564, the Council of Trent being dissolved, FERDINAND came to Vienna; where falling sick of an Ague, and knowing by the vehemency of his disease that his life drew The death of the Emperor Ferdinand. near to an end, he sent for all his children, which then were dispersed into sundry places: to whom after he had given his blessing, together with many good exhortations, he rendered his soul to God upon the fift day of july in the same year. He was a Prince by all men reputed to be of singular bounty and piety, and of a most gentle and pleasing disposition, not very strong of body; but replenished with so much majesty, that whosoever saw him could not but respect him: for, being of a pleasing and affable condition, he would most courteously incline himself to every one that came to salute him. He was naturally merry, free from surfeiting, and wore his beard rather short than long; and his hair so long, that it covered his eyes, with some bauldnes. He was in all his actions (prosperous or adverse) always constant, holding all things to happen to him by the will of God. He confessed himself three or four times in the year, and with great devotion received the Communion, willing that every one in his Court should do the like: so that his house seemed to be rather a regular Monastery, than a Court of secular men. He left behind him many children, and had in all fifteen; four sons, and the rest daughters, which were married to sundry Princes in Christendom. ISABELLA, which was his first, was given in marriage to SIGISMOND King of Poland: ANNE was wife to the Duke of Bavier; MARY, to the Duke of Cleve; MAGDALEN; a chaste Virgin; CATHERINE, to FRANCIS, Duke of Mantoa; ELINOR, to WILLIAM Duke of Mantoa: MARGARET was a Nun: BARBARA was married to ALFONSE the second Duke of Ferrara; VRSULA a Virgin and a Nun: HELEN lived but a little while; and JOAN was wife to FRANCIS the great Duke of Tuscan. Of sons, besides the Emperor MAXIMILIAN, he had FERDINAND and CHARLES, Archdukes of Austria; and JOHN, who died very young. He had but one only wife, and (as it was said) never before nor after knew any other woman but her; whom he loved so entirely, that he would not marry the second time. He much loved learned men, and gave them great pensions for their maintenance. He never undertaken any wars but for religion; either against the Turk or the Lutherans, whom he vehemently persecuted. FERDINAND having been King of Hungary and Bohemia four and thirty years, and Emperor seven; to the great grief of his people, and of all the Princes of Christendom, ended his days: After whose decease, his obsequies being celebrated with great pomp, sundry funeral Orations were made by diverse learned men: and his body being carried through Moravia into Bohemia, was buried in Prague by his wife. FERDINAND seeing his end draw near, called King MAXIMILIAN his son (who was to succeed him in the Empire) to whom he made a long speech, touching the government of himself, and state, the which according to Vlloa's relation, I have presumed to Ferdinand's speech to his son Maximilian. set down Verbatim, for that it deserves to be written in gold, for a perpetual precedent for all Princes to imitate: his words were these. Dear son seeing it hath pleased his divine majesty to call me unto him, and that my soul shall leave these earthly spoils, I have thought good to impart some things unto you, which I hold very necessary: the which I entreat you to hear with an attentive ear, seeing I deliver them with a joyful heart: know then son that I leave this world joyfully, for that I found myself in a lodging which was not firm nor constant, wherewith I was much troubled: I repent not the time that I have lived, having employed the whole course of my life in the service of god, and the increase of his holy faith; and I departed contented for that I leave thee my son, in whom as in a lively image of my body and soul, I trust, although I be dead, yet I shall in some sort live, and that thou wilt imitate me in all my actions, according to my desire. The which I entreat thee to do if thou lovest me and thyself; and let it be thy chiefest study and care, to the end the world may know that thou art my son, and the strong pillar and firm support of the house of Austria: The which shall be easy when as thy counsels and actions, shall be squared by the rule of honesty and honour. Next if thou shalt set before thine eyes the reputation and glory of RODULPHUS (a great Prince, the honour of our house, and an excellent Emperor) of FREDERICK thy great Grandfather, of MAXIMILIAN thy Grandfather; of Charles the Fift thine Uncle, invincible Emperors; and of myself who am thy father; and if like a good child, thou shalt imitate their famous and worthy deeds, they will make thee glorious in future ages: but if thou shalt do the contrary, thou shalt reap nothing but in famy and dishonour; For they which spring from noble and glorious Princes are held base and unworthy, when as their actions do not concur with their progenitors whose deeds are not without great judgement recorded in writing to posterity. It shall not be needful to tell thee what helps the valiant and worthy deeds of our progenitors have given to me and the Emperor my brother, in the laborious course of our lives, for that our actions do show Prince's should in their actions imitate their predecessors virtues. them. Know then son, that I leave thee a heavy burden, that is the government of the Empire and of my kingdoms: but if thou provest a good and virtuous Prince, they will seem light unto thee: be then my son such a one, as thy subjects may not lament the loss of thy father: that is to say, strive to exceed me in their good usage and government. And to the end (with the Empire and state which I leave thee) thou mayest have Arms to defend them, I will put thee in mind like a good father what thou art to do, the which will be happy and valiant Arms. Those things which I loved in my life (if thou wilt show thyself to be my son) do not contemn after my death: I recommend strictly unto thee the worship of religion, reverence to the Sea of Rome, honour to God, and justice, if thou wilt have thy government continued long. Consider, all wisemen direct their actions to purchase fame in this world and eternal glory in that which is to come. I mean a good name, not by their vain glory, but that God may be honoured, and by their good example of life and works, others (which shall succeed) may take example; Thou must consider that a good Prince may attain to both. Seek not that fame which he had that burnt DIANA'S Temple, or that of ALEXANDER, and JULIUS CESAR, which was so prejudicial to the world. A good fame is purchased by good works, not by bad; If thou wouldst truly attain to that which all others seek, strive rather to be called a good Prince than a great, have a care rather to better, then to increase thine Empire, endeavouring to imitate such as govern their estates well, not those which got them or increased them: for that many seeking to gain another man's, loose their own: what the Prince is, such are his subjects: strive then to be such a one as thou wouldst have thy people. If thou be'st a gamester, all will play: if thou followest women, all will be luxurious; if ambitious every man will seek to rise, at what rate soever: and if thou be'st superstitious thou shalt see superstition reign. But if thou be'st religious and a good Prince, OH what profit will it bring thee? If thou wouldst free thyself from the heavy burden of importunities, show thyself to be much displeased with ambition. If thou canst do this thou mayest call thyself happy: If thou shalt propound virtue for the reward of all thy labours, thou shalt never live discontented, and thy subjects will do the like. If thou canst attain to this, thou mayst sleep securely: finally I put thee in mind that what thou art, such will thy subjects be: strive then to be good if thou wilt have them good. The greatest want we Princes have, is of men that will tell us the truth; wherefore give liberty to all men, that they may admonish and reprove thee; and they that do it freely, hold What Princes chief want. them for thy truest friends. As thou dost exceed other men in honour and dignity, so must thou exceed them in virtue. Remember son that a commonweal is not instituted for a King; but a King is ordained for a Commonweal: For that many Commonweals, have flourished without a Prince; but no Prince hath continued long without a State. Strive rather to be beloved then feared, for that no State is long preserved by fear. Whilst thou art only feared, thou shalt have as many enemies, as subjects: But if thou art beloved, thou shalt not need any guard, for that every vassal will be a n1. If thou wilt be beloved, Love; for that Love is not purchased but with Love. Love's thy subjects in such sort, as thou mayest always prefer a general good, before thine own affections, or thy private interest. Be such a friend to truth, as there may be more credit given to thy bore word, then to another man's Oath. Have more care to govern thyself, bridling thine affections, than thy subjects; for if thou wilt not obey thyself, why shouldst thou be obeyed by others? Maintain thy gravity in such sort as becomes a prince; and on the other side, be pleasing, courteous, and affable. Remember how other Princes have lived, imitating the good, and flying the evil. Let nothing proceed out of thy mouth, that may be injurious or dishonest. Punish no man, being angry; for choler gives no way to reason, and thou mayst afterwards repent it. Be not carried away with the opinion of the Vulgar, but always embrace the advice of wisemen: For, those Commonweals may justly be called happy, which are governed by the wise. Govern thy subjects in such sort as all thy care may be, that no man shall exceed thee in good Government, and justice. Whilst thou art young, set always before thine eyes, that thou art not only a Prince and Pastor: but reverence the Christian faith, making account that it is most necessary for Princes to follow it. Strive to seem a Christian, not only in outward Ceremonies; but with Christian works. Offend not God, seeing thou hast sworn him to be thy Lord With what face darest thou punish one that hath betrayed thee, if thou be'st a Traitor to thy Lord? The more powerful a Prince is, the more stayed and circumspect he should be, not respecting what he may do, but what he aught to do; imagining that he stands upon a high Tower, whereas all the World beholds him, and that no vice can be concealed. If thou mayest defend thy State without prejudice to thy subjects, hold it the best course; for that the Prince was ordained for the Commonwealth, and not the Commonwealth for the Prince. Remember CODRUS and OTHO, who (although they were Pagans') desired rather to die, then to defend their estates with the loss of humane blood. Hold it better to be a just man, than an unjust Prince; for that a good Prince deserves a great reward, and a wicked merits grievous punishment. If thou wilt be held a good Prince, strive to be like unto God, not doing any thing which he would not do. There are three things chief attributed unto God, Power, Knowledge, and bounty; He that hath the first, and wants the rest, is no King but a Tyrant: Know that the difference betwixt a King and a Tyrant, is not in the name, but in the actions. If thou shalt do the works of a Tyrant, they may well, whilst thou livest, term thee king, but when thou art dead, they will call thee Tyrant. Wouldst thou know the difference that ARISTOTLE sets betwixt a King and a Tyrant? A King affects the good of the Commonwealth; and a Tyrant seeks his own profit. Endeavour to leave thy kingdoms better than I now leave them, and this shall be thy true glory. Consider there is a contract and conditions betwixt the Prince and the people: if thou dost not that which thou oughtest unto thy subjects, they are not bound to perform their duties unto thee; with what face canst thou demand thy rents, if thou dost not pay them? Remember that they are men and not beasts, and thou art a shepherd of men, and not of sheep. Seeing that all men learn the Art whereby they live, why shouldst not thou learn the Art to become a good Prince? the which is the most excellent of all others. Be contented with the name of King or Prince, not striving to be so; for it may be they will call thee Tyrant: For he is no true Prince, to whom a kingdom cometh by succession, but he who by his actions strives to be so. He is a free King which governs and commands himself; and the other is a slave, who cannot restrain and bridle his affections. If thou vauntest thyself to be free, why shouldst thou obey thy passions, which is the most infamous and brutish servitude of all other. I have seen many freemen serve, and many slaves to be served: A slave is a servant by force, and cannot be blamed if he be so, seeing it is not in his own power; but avicious man, who is a voluntary slave, aught not to be put in the number of men: Wherhfore love liberty, and learn to be truly a King. Be so careful of the good government of thy subjects, as thou mayst never sleep one whole night without it: Study not how to pass away thy time; but how to lose it. Barbarous Kings, especially in Persia, maintained their Majesty by hiding themselves from their subjects; but thou on the other side (following my example) shalt keep thy gates always open to the poor, rather than the rich; for they have more need of thy favour then these. In thy answers follow the advice of ARISTOTLE, Those which be good and mild give thyself: the bitter and sour leave unto thy Ministers, and let no man departed from thee justly discontented. What thou hast to give, give it speedily and cheerfully, of thine own free will; and give them no cause to thank others, for the favours which thou thyself dost them. Banish from thee such as seek out new means to oppress and grieve thy subjects, and remember that the poor, not the rich, pay tributes and exactions. Be so desirous to do good, as thou mayst think to have lost that day, wherein thou hast not assisted some one. Honour the good and virtuous, more than the rich and powerful, and thou shalt make all men to follow virtue. Admit no idle men into thy kingdoms, for they will breed a world of mischiefs. Be tractable to pardon thine own injuries; for, if an equal to thyself hath done it, thou canst not take revenge, without prejudice to thy subjects and his, who have not offended: If a private man doth thee wrong, the greater thy power is to revenge, the better will thy clemency appear. Let thy exercises be honest, holy, good, and profitable to the Commonwealth. OH how well it becomes a Prince, to hear the afflictions and grievances of his subjects, and to redress them! Imitate not those who unburden themselves, all they can, of matters of justice; for it is thy chief office. Think always of the means, by the which thou mayst govern thy subjects: endeavour always to know the nature and manners, not only of thine own subjects, but also of strangers. Be always in peace and friendship with thy neighbours; contend not with them, jest it breed thee war and discord. Learn rather by Histories, then by experience, how dangerous and pernicious war is: Let this be a special remembrance unto thee, that thou never undertake war, for hatred, or private interest; and when thou shalt be forced unto it, let it not be so much for thyself as for thy subjects. Consider first of all (which will be most comodious) whether to undertake it, or leave it; and being forced unto it, let it be with extreme necessity. But first endeavour to make an accord: for, peace is better than just war; from the which thou must endeavour to fly, if it were for no other respect, but for the honour of the name of a Christian, being much opposite unto it. Make war against Turks and Infidels; for otherwise they will not only make Christian's slaves, and force them by torments to deny the faith of Christ; but also ruin Christendom, and profane the Temples of Christ: But let it never come into thy mind, to make war against them, for thine own private interest, or for Ambition. Consider, that under this colour of making war against Infidels, there lurks much poison: and when thou hast conquered them, labour to convert them to the faith of Christ, principally by good works; For, with what face canst thou advice them to become Christians, if thou and thine in your actions be worse than Infidels? It will be no great matter to conquer the Moors and Turks, if they shall see Christian virtues to shine in thee and thine, wherefore with these labour to convert them: It imports much whether thy conversation be good or bad, and with whom thou dost converse; therefore strive always to draw into thy company good and virtuous men, and chase away the wicked and vieious, which may corrupt thee and be very hurtful. Love them which reprove thee freely, and hate such as flatter thee. Do not observe what company is most pleasing unto thee: but what will be most behooveful for thee; for there is no beast so venomous. nor creature so pernicious and uhrtfull about a Prince, as flatterers, and ambitious persons: For, the vulgar sort, who know not the disposition of their Prince, do always think that he is like unto his favourites; if they be virtuous, they hold him for virtuous; if wicked and vicious, they esteem him the like: Consider then how careful thou oughtest to be in making choice of such as shall converse with thee; chief make choice of a Confessor that is sincere, pure, incorrupt, of good life and fame, and not ambitious. The principal part of the good government of thy kingdom consists, in that thou be'st good: and the second, that thou provide good Ministers; wherefore consider well how thou givest thy Offices, thy Benefices and thy Bishoppericks; there is none worthy of any administration in the Commonweal, but he that takes it by constraint, and against his will. Wherhfore it would be very profitable unto thee, never to give any Office, Benefice or Bishopperick, to him that seeks it; but to him that being virtuous, and full of bashfulness, will not sue for any thing. And know for certain, that such as seek them, are insufficient to govern them; for either they know what they demand, or not. If they know not, they deserve it not; and if they know and demand it, they discover themselves to be proud, ambitious, and wicked. Never commit matter of justice, but to men that are uncorrupt and good, and who accept them being entreated: for, committing them to others, thy subjects shall suffer oppression; for there is nothing more pernicious, then to have covetous judges, who affect government to oppress the people. Let the judges keep their residence, and forget not sometimes to oversee them, rewarding the good and punishing the bad; where I would not have thee use clemency, nor with thy servants, which shall forget their duties: but punish them with more rigour than other men, both for that they are more bound to be good, being near unto thee; as also for that part of the infamy redounds upon thee. Punish false-witnesses and scandalous accusers by TALION'S Law. In making of Laws, have more respect unto the public good, then to thine own particular. What thou shalt see profitable to thy subjects, do it before they entreat thee. Be diligent and resolute in that thou hast to do, jest in the action thou losest the occasion, and in the benefit the thanks. Strive ever to purchase a good name rather than riches or great estates: for, the one, wicked men attain unto by money; but the other good men only purchase by virtue. Love and fear God, who will teach thee all the rest, and guide thee in all thy actions. I have long desired to speak this unto thee, but I never had opportunity; wherefore I entreat thee (dear son) so to imprint it in thine heart, that thou mayst never forget it. Lastly, I commend unto thee thy brethren, sisters, and kinsfolks: entreat them in such sort, as they may not be disgraced, their old father being dead, nor grow proud seeing their brother Emperor. Moreover I recommend unto thee my old servants, to whom my long cares, my troubles, wars, affairs, and my long infirmity, have been the cause of much toil. And if they served me faithfully unto death, it is reason they should be rewarded: and although my body remains in the grave with the Worms, yet will I be always mindful of them before God. Herein thou shalt show thyself a good son, rewarding those which served thy Father. Above all things I will put thee in mind, and hold it for good advice, Be ever in peace and league with PHILIP King of Spain, my Nephew, and thy Cousin, and son to that father whom I loved much; from whom thou mayst always receive good assistance. And when it shall be fit for thee to make a league with him against Infidels, I exhort you to do it, for that with your two forces, you may with more facility ruin the common Enemy. I commend unto you your brethren, whom I have enjoined to be obedient unto you. Love them, and live in Peace and Charity, like good brethren: It shall be a great joy unto me, and my blessing shall be with thee, and with you all together, with the Grace of our Lord GOD: to whom I give infinite thanks, that he hath done me this favour, that I might speak this unto thee, and bless thee with my hand, as I do. THE LIFE OF MAXIMILIAN, SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDRETH AND SEVENTEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE ARGUMENT. THis life containeth little else, but the Country, Parentage and Noble descent of Maximilian, with his acts in the wars in Germany against the Lantzgrave, his going into Spain to govern the same for King Philip, his assumption to the Imperial dignity, with his wars with the Turks at Sigeth, and the Election of his son Rodulph for King of the Romans, with some other occurrents concerning the Turkish Wars. THE house of Austria, amongst the chief houses of Germany, is every way very Noble, and hath been so of long time (as it evidently appeareth) not only through the hereditary succession of the Empire, from the father to the son, in ten Emperors, from the year 1273, at what time RODULPH the First was chosen Emperor of the Germans; but also in that it hath since that time in short space, with admirable felicity, not only in Germany enlarged the small confines of Habspurge and Hassia (the ancient inheritance thereof) but through the singular protection of the heavens, it hath by inheritance attained to the kingdoms of Bohemia, and Hungary, the Duchy of Austria, the County of Flanders, with the estates of the lower Germany, the kingdoms of Spain, The dominions of the house of Austria. with all those countries of the East and West Indieses (to the wonder of the World, by CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS a Genoese, and AMERICUS VESPUSIUS, a Florentine, newly found and discovered; which for their greatness, and the novelty of the action, are called the new world) together with the kingdoms of Sicilia and Naples; and lastly the Duchy of Milan, fare excelling all the other Dukedoms in Christendom. Of which family, in the year of our Lord, one thousand five hundred twenty seven, the Emperor MAXIMILIAN the Second of that name, borne in the City of Vienna in Austria, had to his father FERDINAND, brother to the Emperor CHARLES the The lineage of the Emperor Maximilian. Fift, son of PHILIP the First, King of Spain, Nephew to MAXIMILIAN the First, son of FREDERICK the Third, Emperors of the Almains: his mother was ANNE the daughter of LADISLAAS King of Hungary and of Bohemia, Nephew of the great SIGISMOND, son of CASSIMIER King of Poland, and sister to that LEWES which through the unadvised counsel of PAULUS TOMOREUS Archbishop of Colossa, in the year of our Lord one thousand five hundred twenty six, coming to a battle with SOLIMAN King of the Turks, was not only through the innumerable multitude of the Ottomans lamentably overthrown; but also when he sought to have saved himself from his enemies, was (through the weightiness of his Armour, wherewith he was oppressed, and the stumbling of his Horse, which fell upon him in a passage over a Marish or Fen) most miserably drowned. This Emperor showing even from his infancy the excellency of his wit, was by his father the Emperor FERDINAND committed to very learned men, by them to be instructed in good Literature, but chief in variety of tongues; wherein in short space he so much profited, that he not only spoke Latin very elegantly, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch, Hungarish, and Bohemish; but also very perfectly attained to the knowledge of the Sciences, particularly the Mathematics. So that all men did confidently hope that he would prove no way inferior to his progenitors. And he no sooner came to years fit to bear Arms, but that he sundry times gave no less testimony and proof of his noble valour, seeking to imitate his Grandfather MAXIMILIAN whose name he bore: which he expressly manifested when in the year one thousand five hundred fifty six, in the wars which his Uncle the Emperor CHARLES the Fift made against JOHN FREDERICK Duke of Saxony, and PHILIP Lantzgrave of Hessen, he went to that war, sent thither by his father with the command of twelve thousand horse; having before that time, been ever present in the wars which his father had with the Turks. In that service of his Uncle the Emperor CHARLES, he so nobly behaved himself, that he therein sundry times deserved to be compared with his Grandfather MAXIMILIAN; for he constantly enduring, with the greatness of his mind, all those wants and fortunes which the troubles of the wars bring with them, was ever the first man in all services, wherein he made no less show of a valiant man at Arms, then of a discreet Chieftain: which made him so dear beloved by his Uncle the Emperor, that the civil war being ended (which continued little less than two years) he considering that his son PHILIP Prince of Spain was to be invested in the County of Flanders, together with the Provinces of the lower Germany, and being unwilling that Spain should remain without some man of authority to govern the same, fearing the pride of that Nation ordinarily desirous of novelties; notwithstanding that he was his Nephew, yet by the dispensation of Pope PAUL the Third, he made him his son in law, giving him his daughter MARY to wife, and therewith made him governor of those kingdoms. And those nuptial rites being celebrated, MAXIMILIAN in the year one thousand five hundred forty eight, went into Spain, being first by his father FERDINAND King of the Romans, made King of Bohemia, to whom the Lords of that kingdom swore obedience as to their king and natural Lord Before his coming into Spain, passing through Italy, he was by all the Italian Princes visited and highly honoured; and being arrived at the City of Genoa, and there shortly after embarked in the Galleys of Prince DORIA, he passed to Barcelona: whence taking his way towards Vailledolit, where the Spanish Court then lay, he was in the name of his espouse and of his cosin-Germane oftentimes visited by the principal Lords of Spain. Finally, within few days after his coming to the Court, having with applause of the Spanish Nation celebrated his nuptials, he was settled in the government of those kingdoms, in the absence of Prince PHILIP: which he with great quietness, to the contentment of that people governed, until that in the beginning of the year one thousand five hundred fifty one, the Emperor CHARLES summoned a Council to be held in Augsburg; whither being by his father sent for, he came from Spain into Germany, having first left the government of those kingdoms to his wife Queen MARY, and to the Council royal: and staying there till the end of the Council, he went with his father the king of the Romans to Vienna: where making his abode till the beginning of the year one thousand five hundred fifty two, and then passing from Germany again into Spain, to bring his wife into his Countries, he came from Barcelona (after that he had been molested by the French fleet) to Genoa; and from thence coming to Trent, he went to Augsburg, where by the Emperor CHARLES the Fift, he was kindly received, and together with his wife was by the German Princes much honoured, but particularly by his father, who then absolutely resigned unto him the government of the kingdom of Bohemia: which to the great contentment of the Bohemians he ever after governed so long as he lived. From thence in the same year he sent great troops of men to the Emperor, for his wars against MAURICE Duke of Saxony, who by reason of the imprisonment of the Lantzgrave PHILIP warring against the Emperor, was proclaimed traitor: but it was not long before the Emperor was freed from that trouble. And MAXIMILIAN recalling his forces, peaceably applied himself to the government of Bohemia, without that any matter of moment happened; until that in the year 1554, he together with his father sent his Ambassadors to congratulate the marriage of his cousin King PHILIP with the daughter of King HENRY the Eight, then by the death of her brother EDWARD, Queen of England. In the year 1558, he was present at the Coronation of his father, who by the Emperor CHARLES the fift was adopted Emperor, and accepted by the Princes of Germany. Afterwards taking his way with his father towards Viena, he returned into Bohemia; where within a while after, understanding of the death of his Uncle and father in law the Emperor CHARLES, he with great pomp celebrating his Obsequys, sent Ambassadors to his cousin PHILIP to condole the death of the deceased Emperor. In which actions ending the year present and next following; in the year 1560, after four months vacancy, JOHN ANGELO DE MEDICIS being chosen Pope, and called PIUS the fourth, he sent his Ambassadors to yield his obedience to the Church of Rome. And in the year 1562, FERDINAND desiring that his son MAXIMILIAN should succeed him in the Empire, assembled a Council in Frankford; where proponing to the Electors his determination, he so handled the matter, Maximilian chosen and crowned King of the Romans. that by the general consent and good will of all men, MAXIMILIAN was chosen and crowned King of the Romans; with great applause of the Germans and the Italians, who for his rare qualities dear loved him. Than being according to his father's desire created his successor, he departed towards Viena, first visiting his sisters which were in Ispruch, where he remained until the year 1564, in which year his father died; whose Obsequys he together with his brothers sumptuously celebrated. After which, he received Ambassadors from the Princes, which as to the successive Emperor and King of Hungary and Bohemia came to do him honour: amongst many which came, were the Ambassadors of Spain and of Portugal; MAXIMILIAN being then received and accepted by the Christians for lawful Emperor. Having scarce finished his father's obsequies, news came of new combustions. The Vaivode Satmar taken by the Transylvanians. of Transiluania, who was comprehended in the Turks peace and restrained with the hope of a royal affinity, continued for a time quiet: but now either thinking that FERDINAND'S peace had been dissolved by death, or incoraged by the ill advice of some lewd persons, or else provoked by his neighbour's injuries, he surprised Satmaria, by a notable stratagem. MELCHIOR BALASSUS was governor thereof for FERDINAND, a valiant man and active, who in former times, had taken many towns from the Vaivode upon the confines of Transiluania. Having taken the town, the Castle (although it were very strong) made small resistance: where the governor lost his goods, and his wife and children were led into captivity. BALASSUS (being sore wounded) escaped, and after his recovery he surprised Debreim, a town of good note belonging to the Transylvanians: and having spoiled it he set it on fire. The news of the loss of Satmaria was unexpected to MAXIMILIAN, and the more troublesome for that he was then diverted with other cares. The Vavoide was not ignorant that it would be displeasing unto CESAR, pretending that he had done nothing against the peace, laying all the blame upon the Emperor's governors, especially upon BALASSUS; affirming that the beginning of all injuries fprang from them, who oppressed his subjects with unaccustomed tributes, and daily incursions; adding that he had often complained, but could find no remedy: wherefore it was no wonder, if he had found some means to revenge those injuries and to repair the losses. MAXIMILIAN holding it not fit to endure this insolency, sent for LAZARUS SVENDIE, a Baron of Swethland, a man of great experience in Arms, wise, vigilant, and valiant, to whom he Lazarus Suendie general in the Transiluanian war. committed the charge of the Transiluanian war. But for that he was ignorant of the state of Hungary, he had given him for assistants ANDREW BATTORI, MELCHIOR BALASSUS, and GABRIEL PERENE, men well acquainted with the enemy's affairs. SVENDI marched presently into the country of Sepusio, from whence he sent to entreat MAXIMILIAN to give him leave to manage that war at his will, and not be compelled always to sand to his majesty; jest before a resolution should be taken, a good opportunity might be lost. Hereupon the King of Poland sent his Ambassadors to let the Emperor understand how much he was grieved with this war, the Transiluanian being so near allied unto him: wherefore he laboured to have a surcease of Arms, and the offence remitted. The Emperor gave him good words, but stayed not his warlike preparation. This year LAZARUS SVENDIE, went to besiege the Castle of Toccai, a place strong both by nature and art, standing upon the confines of Transiluania and Hungary: The which Toccai besieged and taken by Suendie. FERDINAND had given to a Nobleman of Hungary, for his good deserts; who dying recommended it, and the guard of his young son to FRANCIS MENETUS. This man of a tutor become a Tyrant: he fled to the Transiluanian and delivered both the the Castle and Pupil into his hands. This Castle being battered, and MENETUS the Traitor slain, they yielded upon condition to departed with their swords, and not to bear Arms against the Emperor. After which he recovered Satmaria, the which the Transiluanian had abandoned distrusting his Satmar recovered by Suendie. own forces; After which he took Erdod (the which FERDINAND had often attempted in vain) with divers other places. The Vaivode finding himself too weak to cope with MAXIMILIAN, he craved aid from the Turk, who being busy at the siege of Malta, he sent STEPHEN BATTORI (who afterwards was King of Polonia) with other Ambassadors to the Emperor to sue for peace; The Transiluanian sue for peace. the King of Poland did the like, and SOLIMAN sent a Renegado to Viena to expostulate the wrongs done unto his tributary, and to find some means of reconcilement. But CESAR was not ignorant, that this was a practice to stay the course of SVENDIE'S prosperous success, and daunt the minds of the Hungarians with a hope of peace: but for that it should not seem that he hindered the conclusion of a peace, he commanded his Army to forbear from spoil, but upon this condition that all the towns on this side the mountains should be his. This was of hard digestion to the Vaivode: wherefore he incensed SOLIMAN, who being returned from Malta with loss and dishonour, resolved to transport the war into Hungary, and to employ all his forces against the Emperor; hereupon he sends a new Embassage to Viena, for the tribute which had been long unpaid: complaining much of the wrong done unto the Vaivode his client; saying it was not lawful for him to make a peace with the Emperor, without his privity, Soliman renews the war in Hungary. commanding restitution of all that had been taken from him, and withal he renounced the peace, which he ●…ad observed with FERDINAND. MAXIMILIAN gave him good reasons for non payment of the tribute; that the peace had been violated by the Vaivode and not by him; that all the places did never belong to the Transiluanian, but to his predecessors, from whom they had been violently taken away: whereupon SOLIMAN resolved to besiege julia. This year the Vaivode (in the absence of SVENDIE, who was gone to Viena concerning the wars) went to besiege Erdod with the help of the Turks: the which being battered, and valiantly defended, in the end they yielded upon composition to departed with bag and baggage, but they were all treacherously slain by the Turks. This summer 1565 AUGUSTUS Elector of Saxony sent 1000 Saxon horses to SVENDIES Camp, promising to entertain them for five months, with whom there joined 350 Noblemen and Gentlemen. The Turkish and Transiluanian Ambassadors were still in Viena treating of a peace, desirous as it seemed to protract time; yet SVENDIE did often advice the Emperor by his Letters, not to trust their fair words, nor to be abused by their false promises: but new Ambassadors coming from SOLIMAN and the Turks having retired their Camp, the Emperor commanded his General to forbear from all hostile attempts. At that time the Earl of SALVI governor of javerin, had an enterprise upon Alba Regalis which he had a great hope to surprise, by means of some of the town: but the Emperor commanded him to surcease, and retire, so as his credulity made the enterprise frustrate, and the Turks discovered the conspiracy, and put 40 of the citizens cruelly to death. The treaty continued still at Viena, and the Emperor sent an Ambassador to Constantinople to conclude a peace with SOLIMAN, who detained him there until the year 1567. In the mean time the Bassa of Buda made an incursion towards javerin and carried away great spoils. It appeared by probable conjectures that the Turks made show of a peace outwardly, but prepared for war. The which a Turk of good note being acquainted with the secret counsels of the Bassa of Buda, confessed freely, being taken, and that SOLIMAN would come the next year with a great Army to besiege julia & Sigeth. STEPHEN BATTORI one of the Transiluanian Ambassadors was yet in Viena, who at that time had the wife & children of BALASSUS (being taken at Satmar as we have said) in prison: wherefore BALASSUS made great suit unto the Emperor to detain him until his wife and children were set at liberty; CESAR importuned BATTORI very much, but he could not prevail, and BATTORI refusing to stay any longer was dismissed: whereat BALASSUS being much discontented, the Emperor told him that there was a great difference betwixt their qualities, for they were Captives taken in war, and he was an Ambassador, whom he might not stay, without doing wrong unto his dignity. After his departure, the Emperor employed all his care to make provision for the Turkish wars: and being unable to encounter SOLIMAN with his own forces, he assembled a Diet at Ausburge, this year upon the tenth of March, to consult with the Princes of the Empire, A Diet called at Ausburg. touching the Turkish wars, and many other things concerning the Empire. In the mean time MAXIMILIAN was full of cares, the fame of the Turkish war increasing daily, and it was said the Transylvanians gathered together great forces. The Princes being assembled; ALBERT Duke of Bavaria, speaking in the Emperor's name, promised, that touching matters of Religion, there should be nothing changed, so as the Princes would endeavour to expel all strange opinions which had crept into the Empire: That the public Peace confirmed by so many Edicts, should be observed: That such as had been proscribed for the fact at Herbipolis, should be punished, and justice done to every man in the Imperial Chamber. But laying aside all other things, he persuaded them, first to consider of aid against the Turks: whereupon they promised to entertain twelve thousand horse, and twenty thousand foot, for eight months; The Princes of the Empire aid Emperor against the Turk. and moreover to pay four thousand horse, for two years and a half: which the Emperor accepted very thankfully. At the same time the Archduke CHARLES, called an assembly of Hungarians, at Possonia, and of Austrians at Vienna; whereas every house promised to give a Florine: and the Nobility and Gentry, were so willing to contribute to these Turkish wars, as he that had but one hundred crowns of yearly rent, was content to maintain a horse, and the Nobility in general promised to go in person, if CAESAR or any of his brethren should be there. The Pope, with the Princes of Italy, and the French king, were solicited for aid in this war. At the Assembly at Ausburge, GROMBUCH, with his confederates, who had slain the Bishop of Herbipolis, and afterwards surprised the City, and spoilt it in hostile manner, troubling the peace of Franconia, was by a new proscription condemned by a general consent of all the orders of the Empire. JOHN FREDERICK Duke of Saxony, sent his deputies, and Grombach proscribed against at Ausburg. lawyers to plead for GROMBARCH, and to urge an abolition of the first proscription; among which HENRY HUSAN a famous lawyer was the chief: who being partly dissuaded by his friends, and partly terrified with the weightiness of the cause, left it; and sought to persuade the Duke by his Letters to relinquish their protection; but he could not be diverted. In the interim, the Transiluanian Vaivode slept not: for having prepared himself to Arms, he persuaded the Nobility of Hungary, to fall from their allegiance, writing Letters, by the which he said he was enjoined by the Turkish Emperor, to persuade all the orders of Hungary to yield him faith and obedience, whereon, and their good agreement, the hope and health of afflicted Hungary depended; and by that only means, the Turkish Army might be kept from their confines: and alleging many other reasons, in the end he persuaded them, to meet at an assembly at Torda; or to sand four deputies with full authority. These Letters being divulged Suendius answers to the Transylvanians Letters. in Hungary, SVENDIUS made an answer unto them, whereby he discovered the Vaivodes impostures, and gave the World to understand, that CAESAR had always sought for Peace with the Turk and Transiluanian; but it succeeded not, chief by this man's slanders, and ambition, who had often broken the peace, the which CAESAR had so strictly observed, as he had neglected many good occasions to advance his affairs. Moreover if there were no hope left of any future Peace, yet the Hungarians should not fear that CAESAR would leave them: who being assisted first by God, and then by the Germans, and all foreign Princes, should have power sufficient to resist all their enemies attempts, persuading them not to fail in their obedience both to their King and Country, the war being not only just, and lawful, but most necessary; and therefore they should not doubt of the happy event. Lastly, he commanded them all in the Emperor's name, not to have any commerce with the Transiluanian. The Transiluanian, what he could not get by fair means, he sought to attain unto by force: and the Turks omitting no opportunity, surprised Aivat by Scalado, in the absence of the Governor, and part of the Garrison, where they slew all the Citizens and Soldiers most Aivat taken by the Turks. cruelly. They thought to have gotten Sigeth with the like policy; but the Earl of Serin repulsed them with great slaughter: and afterwards, making an incursion into the Turks Country, he slew so great a number of them, that he returned to Sigeth with two carts full of their heads. SVENDIUS besieged Hust in vain, the Transiluanian coming with 20000 men to relieve it, but not without great slaughter of his people; whereas SVENDIUS took certain Turkish ensigns with much Ordinance. The Bassa of Buda likewise besieged Palotta; which he had brought, by continual battery, to extreme necessity, the Governor being wounded, but yet would not yield. And thus, when all humane help did seem to fail, God delivered them miraculously. Palotta besieged by the Turks in vain. There were come to javerine twelve companies of Germane; whereof 900 horse with ninety carts were sent out for forage on the foureteenth of june: which the Turkish Scouts seeing afar of, and thinking them to be fare more in number, they returned amazed to the Camp; telling them, there was a great Army coming to relieve the Besieged: wherewith they were so terrified, that they presently left it, and departed in such haste, that they left behind them their tents, much ordinance, powder, and other munition. In the mean time, the Earl of Solmes, going out of javerine, besieged Vesperine; the which he soon took, putting a garrison of Turks to the sword. The like he did to Tocisa, being five Germane Exploits of the Earl of Solmes. leagues from javerine: he also took Gesteso, with divers other Forts upon that Confine; the Turks being all fled to Strigonium, the which the Earl meant to besiege: but, acquainting MAXIMILIAN therewith, he would not suffer him to attempt so great a City with so small an Army, hearing that SOLIMAN was ready to march. In the beginning of july, SOLIMAN having all things ready for the war, he commanded Soliman passes Drove with 200000 men. the Bassa of Buda to cast a bridge over the river of Drove, being very swift: the which having often attempted in vain, he sent word to SOLIMAN, that it could not be done; whereupon, he sent him a halter, commanding he should be hanged if it were not finished against his coming. The Bassa terrified heerwith, setting 25000 men on work, finished his bridge in ten days; where SOLIMAN passed an Army of 200000 men, the which he divided into three. The one he sent to Alba Regalis, the other to Sigeth, and the third to spoil the Country. Upon the way the Vaivode of Transiluansa met him with rich Presents, giving him great thanks for his assistance. SOLIMAN, having passed the river Drove, resolved to besiege Sigeth and jiula. Sigeth is a Town strong both by nature and art, seated in a Marish: it was commanded by the Earl of Serin, having 1800 foot, 200 horse, 150 Citizens, with great store of Ordinance and munition. The Governor, seeing the Turks forces approach, called all the soldiers and citizens together, making an Oration unto them, to encourage them to constancy and resolution. After which, he took an oath to live and die with them, and never to forsake them: the like did all the soldiers to him, swearing to obey him, and to live and die with him. The Turks having planted their Camp, they presently attempted the new Town; the which, for that it could no longer be defended, Sigeth besieged by the Turks. he caused to be burnt. They then planted their Ordinance in three parts, and raised three Mounts which over-lookt the walls. SOLIMAN, seeing this siege very bloody, sought to tempt the Earl with gifts and promise of great rewards; offering him the government of Illiria, and the possession of Croatia, if he would yield him the Castle: but, finding him constant, he tried him by another means. A Trumpeter which served the Earls son, was by chance taken by the Turks: him SOLIMAN sent into the Castle to tell the Earl that his son was a prisoner, and to persuade him to yield the Castle if he would preserve his son's life. But the Earl, neither by the hope of great reward, nor the infortunate accident of his son (although it were false) could not be won; respecting more his Country's liberty, and his faith given to the Emperor, than his son's safety, jest by this fact he should lay a foul stain upon his former deserts. This not succeeding, SOLIMAN goes to force, commanding many assaults to be given, not with small troops, but with whole armies, one seconding another; so as the besieged being oppressed with multitudes, and their forces and spirits spent with continual fight, towards night they were forced to retire into the Castle: the which the Turks attempted twice in vain, setting fire in one part of it which was divided from the other, there being a bridge betwixt them. The besieged seeing all about them on fire, and themselves brought to despair, they resolved to open the gates, and to salie forth among their enemies, and there to die fight; whereunto the Earl encouraged them by a long speech, concluding it with these words: Know then, that The Earl of Sarins' speech to his soldiers. our Emperor, our Country, and all Europe, look upon us, and are witnesses of our valour or baseness. Think, that here an occasion is offered us, either to vanquish or to die gloriously. Heer, necessity hath set the bounds of our labour, whereas every man, possessed with a certain despair betwixt victory and death, must endeavour to vanquish; or if God will not suffer it, it is better to fall fight than fleeing: wherefore going to this war, remember you carry, in your hands, immortal fame, religion, liberty (which no good man loseth but with his life) and your country which bore you and bred you up: wherefore endeavour that you fall not unrevenged nor taken, or be slaughtered like sheep; but may leave to the enemy a bloody and mournful victory: whereto the soldiers gave a joyful consent, all vowing to die with their Commander. At this time there fell out a memorable accident. One of the soldiers, preparing himself to fight and die, having a wife of a Noble family & very fair, resolved to kill her jest she should be A singular example of constancy in a wise. subject to the lusts and reproaches of the Turks: which his wife perceiving, she entreated him to forbear; saying, that it was a wicked thing for a husband to imbrue his hands in the blood of his wife whom he had loved so much; but it was more unworthy, if a good and chaste wife should leave her husband in the extremity of danger. I know, quoth she, I have sworn never to forsake thee: wherefore I will be thy companion in death, that whom love in life hath joined together, death may not part; whereupon she put on man's apparel, and her husband gave her Arms wherewith she joined herself to her husband. The Earl of Serin, seeing his men in Arms, attired himself in his richest robes, as if he had The Duke of Serin prepares to salie forth. been going to some solemn feast, putting 200 crowns in his pocket, the which he said should be a reward for some Barbarian to bury him. After which, he put the keys of the Castle in his bosom, saying; With these the Emperor put me in trust, and whilst I breathe no man shall take them from me. He would not cover his body with any Arms; saying, that he had no need of them seeing, he desired nothing but a fair death by wounds. He made choice of the sharpest of his swords, saying; With this sword I first won my honour, and whatsoever I enjoy, and with it I will willingly bear whatsoever God hath decreed of me, where I shall find an end of danger or of life. So, having a great Standard carried before him, calling upon the Name of JESUS, he commanded the gates to be opened, crying out; Fellow me noble soldiers, as you have done ever, and let us perform this last work of mortal men: and so, thrusting into the midst of their enemies, they made a great slaughter upon the bridge. The Earl was shot through, and fell as he came on the land: of 300 there were not four which came alive into the enemy's power; and the woman (of whom we made mention) fight valiantly, died by her husband's side. Thus Sigeth fell into the Turks hands; but they had no great cause to joy of it: Sigeth taken by the Turks. for, the Earl having laid a train of powder, a great number of Turks being gotten into it, the Castle was blown up; wherewith there were three thousand men slain, and many others sore wounded. During this siege, SOLIMAN died of an Apoplexy, the seventh of September; the which, MAHOMET Bassa concealed from the knowledge of the Army: and, jest it should be discovered, Soliman's death he slew his physician, and such as had attended him. In the mean time he caused the trumpets and music to sound after the accustomed manner, his diet to be prepared, and his guards to be set before his tent as if he had been living, until the coming of SELIM his son. Whilst that SOLIMAN was at Sigeth, MAXIMILIAN had drawn a great Army together Maximilians preparation against the Turk. at Vienna, whereof he made his brother FERDINAND General, and the Earl of Suartzenburgh his Lieutenant: wherein he was assisted by the Pope and many Princes. Many Noblemen came out of England to serve in this war at their own charge. From France came the Duke of Guise, the Earl of Brisack, Lansack, S. Cross, and many other Noblemen. The Duke of Ferrara sent 400 Gentlemen and 300 shot; the Florentine, 3000 foot; the Duke of Savage, 400 harguebusiers on horseback; and other Princes did the like: neither did some Princes of Germany fail to sand voluntary supplies; so as the whole Army consisted of fourscore thousand men. Whilst that SOLIMAN was busy before Sigeth, he sent BARTHA Bassa to the siege of julia, a strong Castle upon the confines of Transiluania, he having in his Army 80000 men; Transylvanians, Moldavians, Turks and Tartarians. The Governors name of the Castle was LADISLAUS SERETZIN, by whose inconstancy and treachery it was yielded five days before Sigeth, upon certain conditions, but not observed: for, the garrison marching away, the Turks lying in ambush fell upon them; who making resistance for a while, in the end they were oppressed by multitudes, and in a manner all slain; only some few (which would not consent to the yielding of the Castle) escaped miraculously. SERETZIN was taken alive, and carried captive to Belgrade; who afterwards was put to a most cruel death in Constantinople. SOLIMAN'S third Army lay near to javerine to infested the Emperor's Camp; so as there were daily skirmishes betwixt them, in one of the which MAHOMET Bassa of Alba Regalis coming Mahomet Bassa taken coming to charge the Emperors Campe. to charge the Imperialls was taken prisoner by George THURIGER: who presenting him to the Emperor, he rewarded him with a chain of gold, and gave him the honour of knighthood. There was a Spaniard then present, who having conversed much in the Turks court, had heard this Bassa brag, that he alone would subdue the German King: the which he denied not, but with an undaunted mind answered, that such was the fortune of war, he had not only spoken this, but might have done it, but now he was a slave, and could not do any thing. The Vavoid of Transiluania, required to have the Castle of julia, which Bartha Bassa had taken, restored unto him, for that it did belong to Transiluania; the which the Bassa promised to do, if he would pay him 400000 crowns, for the charges of that siege: which the Vavoide being not able to perform, it continued in the Turks power. SELIM coming to the Army was proclaimed Emperor of the Turks, and then retired towards Constantinople: upon whose departure javerin was by chance set on fire, wherewith the whole town except the Temple, the Palace, and some few other buildings was consumed: but the Emperor knowing it to be an excellent bulwark against the enemy, caused it to be repaired; & seeing the Turks retired, he dissolved his Camp, and went to Viena, leaving the Earl of Solmes governor of javerin. SELIM left Bartha Bassa in Hungary with a great number of Tartarians, who committed unspeakable cruelties. The Vavoid had drawn part of them unto him, to the siege of Toccay, whereas SVENDIUS lay sick, having formerly provided for the siege, and received succours from the Emperor; but the Vavoide hearing that the Tartarians spoilt his country, he raised his siege to relieve his subjects. The Emperor being returned to Viena, he assembled the estates and obtained a yearly aid of 138000 crowns against the Turk, and for the repairing of javerin 13000. Than he gave Letters to AUGUSTUS' Elector of Saxony, to execute the sentence given against JOHN FREDERICK Duke of Saxony, who had undertaken the protection of WILLIAM GRAMBATH and others condemned by the Emperor: whereupon the Saxon soldiers who had served in Hungary were commanded to prepare for the siege of the Castle of Gotha; whither AUGUSTUS went with his forces, being accompanied by the Emperor's commissioners, commanding all gentlemen, citizens, and country men, in the Emperor's name to leave 1567. him, and to return to their houses, upon pain of loss of life and goods, and absolving them from their oath unto the Duke; but these persuasions could not move them to leave him: whereupon they pressed the siege, so as on the thirteenth of April the Castle was yielded, and JOHN FREDERICK become a prison to the Emperor. In the Castle Grombachius (being Gotha taken, 〈◊〉 Grombach with his companions executed. seventy three years old) with seventeen more of his confederates were taken, and all publicly executed. The 12 of May there was a Diet ended at Ratisbone: where although that neither the Emperor nor any of the Princes of the Empire were present, except ALBERT Duke of Bavaria, who represented the Emperor's person, yet it was decreed that the contribution promised at the Diet of Ausburg for three years should be paid in two; That the defences of the town of Gotha, and the Castle of Grimensteine should be razed, and that the Elector AUGUSTUS should be paid for that expedition. MAXIMILIAN hearing that SELIM the Ottoman Emperor was tractable to a peace A peace concluded with Selim. if it were required, he sent his Ambassadors to Constantinople; where after some treaty it was concluded: and then they returned to Viena, accompanied with an Ambassador from SELIM. A peace was made for 8 years, upon these conditions: That every one should hold what he had gotteen by war; That the Vavoide should be comprehended; that the bordering country The conditions of peace with Selim. men who paid rents both to the Turk and CESAR, should now pay only to the Turks, and perform their works only to them; and the tribute or pension of 30000 Hungarian ducats which FERDINAND did yearly pay, should in like manner be paid by MAXIMILIAN to SELIM. This peace was very pleasing to all Christendom, and did much increase the Emperor's power in Transiluania by the help of SVENDIUS. In the year 1570, the cruel war, which had continued long betwixt the Kings of Denmark and SVETHEN, was compounded by the mediation of MAXIMILIAN, the French A peace betwixt the Kings of Denmark and Swethen. King and the Prince's Electors of Germany, who sending their Ambassadors to a treaty at Setina in Pomerania, a peace was concluded to the content of both the Kings. And about the same time died JOHN SIGISMOND, the Vaivode of Transiluania (who had formerly been called STEPHEN) being but 30 years old: his father was JOHN Earl of Sibinia (whom after the death of King LEWES, the Barons of Hungary had chosen for their King, contrary to the will of the Emperor FERDINAND) his mother was ISABEL daughter to SIGISMOND King of Poland; during his life time he usurped the title of a King: and studying for innovations, with the Turks aid he engaged Hungary in many miseries. STEPHEN BATTORI (who was afterwards called to the Kingdom of Polonia) succeeded him, CASPAR BECESSIUS (whom JOHN had appointed for his successor) being rejected, and driven out of Transiluania: but seeking to raise up a sedition against STEPHEN, with the Emperors help he was vanquished and banished for ever; and STEPHEN governed that Province being separated from Hungary, with more quiet and peace. The peace continued still in Hungary; and RODULPHUS, eldest son to the Emperor MAXIMILIAN, was chosen King of Hungary with his father's consent, who willingly yielded the Kingdom to him. And in the year 1575. he was declared and crowned King of Bohemia in 1575. Rodulph chosen king of Hungary, of Bohemia, and of the Romans. Prague with great solemnity, having received the Diadem of Hungary three years before at Possonia. After this, the Emperor calling a Diet at Ratisbone, RODULPHUS was chosen King of the Romans with a joint consent of all the Electors; and by his father's desire was on the first of November, one thousand five hundred seventy five, crowned in the Cathedral Church at Ratisbone with accustomed ceremonies. HENRY the French King, who had retired himself secretly out of Polonia, was now by a public decree rejected: whereupon, they called an Assembly at Warsavia, for the choosing of a new King; in which, the high Chancellor, with the greatest part of the Counsellors, made Controversy for the Kingdom of Poland. choice of the Emperor MAXIMILIAN: and some others, with a great part of the Nobility (dissenting from the Council) desired to have a King issued from the Poland blood; and therefore they made ANNE, sister to the deceased King, a Virgin almost fifty years old, their Queen; giving her for husband STEPHEN BATTORI Prince of Transiluania, and proclaimed him King. Presently some writ Letters to MAXIMILIAN, and persuade him not to accept of the Kingdom of Poland, relying upon the suffrages of a few Senators and Noblemen. On the other side, they which had chosen MAXIMILIAN, sent to dissuade the Prince of Transiluania from accepting of that Kingdom; whereof the Emperor MAXIMILIAN was chosen lawful King by the general consent of the Senate of Polonia, Lituania, and all Prussia. Such as favoured MAXIMILIAN, sent to entreat him to make haste and come into the Kingdom before that STEPHEN BATTORI should get possession: but (whether presaging his death at hand, or busied with the affairs of the Empire, or using his natural slowness) he sought delays, requiring a more ample resolution touching the heads of his election. The Ambassadors told him there was danger in delay, and importuned him to set down a certain day for his coming into Polonia, and that he should signify so much by his Ambassadors to the Nobility assembled at Leovitia. CAESAR found new delays for his journey, and propounded new conditions; requiring, that the Virgin ANNE, who only remained of the family of the jagelons (which the Polonians honoured so much) might be married to his son ERNESTUS, and he to be crowned King in his place. Whilst time was spent in these differences, Letters came from the Assembly at Leovitia; whereby they complained much of his delay, the which was very prejudicial to his affairs; and gave him to understand, that unless he came speedily, they should be forced to give the kingdom to him that came first: whereupon, the Emperor sent Letters to the Estates which were to meet at Marsavia, propounding conditions touching the marriage of ERNEST with ANNE; requiring in the mean time, that nothing should be decreed that might prejudice his lawful election. In the mean time, STEPHEN BATTORI, being called out of Transiluania by the Noblemen of his faction, posted speedily into Polonia; and, taking ANNE to wife, was crowned in Cracovia, the first of May, having first taken an oath to observe all the rights, privileges and liberties, Stephen Battori crowned K. of Poland. as they had been observed by CASIMIER and other Kings his Predecessors; adding withal, that if he should violate them in any part, he should then loose all the right he had in the Kingdom, and the Noblemen should be freed from the faith and obedience which they did own him as their lawful King. During this, the Emperor MAXIMILIAN called a Diet at Ratisbone, whither the Noblemen of Poland sent Ambassadors to him after the Coronation of King STEPHEN; entreating him, that seeing amidst the divisions of Noblemen, and factious Citizens, he could not attain to that kingdom, he should take it in good part, the Realm being now come unto a king, who was his friend, and devoted unto him: to whom he answered, that it should plainly appear, that he would not so easily renounce the right which he thought he had by this election. At this Diet the Emperor confirmed FRANCIS de Medicis, with the consent of these Princes, in the title of great Duke of Tuscan, the which Pope PIUS the Fift had granted to COSMO the Great in the year 1566. MAXIMILIAN (living but few months after the election of his son to be King of Romans) The death of the Emperor Maximilian. departed this life on the twelfth of October in the year 1577. He left great testimonies of his wisdom, piety, and virtues, worthy of an excellent Emperor: he had often that symbol of ABRAHAM in his mouth, Dominus providebit, and did much blame them which made fortune a goddess. He condemned those Princes which would command over the belief of their subjects, affirming that there was no greater sin then to force men's consciencies: for (said he) they that wrist the soul, whilst they covet after heaven, loose earth. He desired to suppress all controversies of religion: He was merciful to his enemies, and loving to his faithful servants: he honoured and respected Princes and Noblemen: he was an enemy to intemperance: he loved natural Philosophy, spoke many tongues readily, of an exquisite judgement, admirable of memory, eloquent, grave, and ponderous in his speech; An observer of equity and bounty, a severe censurer of covetousness, and much delighted in gardening: he conferred often of the holy scriptures, of the immortality of the soul, and of the resurrection from the dead. To conclude, he was a Prince full of all piety & bounty: and if the troubles & civil wars in Germany had not crossed his good resolutions, and weakened his power, he would have left nothing unattempted to have ruined the Ottoman Empire. He was of an ordinary stature, his countenance full of gravity, and his head somewhat bald. He was a great favourer of Learning, and learned-men, to whom he gave great pensions, and especially to Mathematicians, and Antiquaries, being greatly delighted in those faculties. He was very active of his body: by AUGUSTA MARIA daughter to CHARLES the Fift, and his cosin-germane, he had sixteen children, whereof ten were living. Of his four daughters, ISABEL was married to her Uncle PHILIP King of Spain, MARY was wife to CHARLES the Ninth, the French King. ANNE and ELINOR were then but children. His sons were RODULPH and MATHIAS, both Emperors; ALBERTUS, a Cardinal and Archbishop of Toledo (but afterwards renouncing his Ecclesiastical dignities, he married with ISABEL Infanta of Spain, in whose right he is duke of Brabant, Earl of Flanders, &c.) ERNESTUS, MAXIMILIAN, and VENCESLAUS. He had but one wife, after whose decease he would not marry any other. He was, blindly, very Religious: and respecting much the greatness of the Pope, he endeavoured also to have drawn all the Princes of Germany to have done the like. THE LIFE OF RODULPH, THE SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDRETH AND EIGHTTEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. THe Imperial dignity (being in a manner made hereditary to the house of Austria) after the death of MAXIMILIAN the Second of that name, was by a general consent of all the Electors, confirmed to his son RODULPH, King of Bohemia, and Hungary; chosen a little before King of Romans, at his father's entreaty. At his first entrance, he gave great hopes to restore the Empire to her ancient dignity and splendour, and to recover such countries as had been usurped from the Empire: But he was a prince of too soft a spirit, and loved peace and ease, referring the government of affairs to his Counsellors. He lived much in the Castle of Prague, and was much delighted in the gathering together of precious stones, and the exquisite setting and working of them. He bid Arms Adieu, yet he valiantly protected Hungary, Bohemia, Austria, and other provinces. Presently after his coronation (for the better settling of his new dignity) he sent to the Pope to be confirmed by him, and to entreat him to declare him the eldest son of the Church. Than calling a Diet at Ratisbone, he employed all his credit and means, to have matters concerning the Roman Religion reform, pressing the Princes of Germany to consent to his new reformation. After this, he sent an Ambassador to the Ottoman Emperor, to have a confirmation of the truce made between him and his father MAXIMILIAN, and in the mean time he persuaded his brother MATHIAS (who was gone into the Nether-lands, with hope to make himself Lord of those provinces) to abandon that enterprise, and to return into Germany; showing him, how dishonourable it would be if through his fault, the troubles of those countries should be increased: But his persuasions could not prevail against his resolution: yet soon after (being discontented with the estates of those countries) leaving them he returned (with little honour) into Germany. This year SALENTINE B. of Paddeborne, and Elector of Cullen, a just man, and valiant, more fit for war then to make a priest, being the last which remained of the house of the Earls of Isenburg, married a daughter of the Earl of Aremburg, and gave over both his Bishoprics. Salentine Elector of Cullen marries and resigns his Bishoprics. HENRY Duke of Saxony and Archbishop of Breme succeeded him in that of Paddeborne, upon condition that he should every year keep his court three months in the diocese of Paddeborne; as much in Osnaburg; and six months in Breme. And to the Electorship of Cullen, succeeded GEBARDUS TRUCHSESIUS son to WILLIAM Baron of Walbourg. STEPHEN BATTORI going to be king of Polonia, had left his brother CHRISTOPHER to succeed him Sigismond Battori chosen Prince of Transiluania. in Transiluania: who being worn with continual infirmities, died, leaving SIGISMOND his son to succeed him, the which was confirmed by the consent of all the estates: and STEPHEN BATTORI, King of Polonia, sent an Ambassador to AMURATH the Turk, to entreat him, that (seeing Transiluania was tributary to the Turk) he would suffer SIGISMOND to enjoy it, as other Princes before him had done; and if any thing were attempted to the contrary, he said he could not abandon his kinsman and his country: but AMURATH yielded easily unto it for King STEPHEN'S sake, who at that time was in war with the Muscovite touching Livonia which he detained. And the Muscovite in the mean time sent Ambassadors to the Emperor RODULPH, and to the Bishop of Rome, promising succours against the Turk, the common enemy of the Christian Name; hoping by this means, that he should easily obtain a peace with the King of Poland. TRUCHSIS, having succeeded SALENTINE in the Archbishopric of Cullen (as we have said) in process of time resolved to take a wife, and yet retain his Electoral dignity and Archbishopric: whereupon he married ANNE, daughter to GEORGE Earl of Mansfeld. The marriage was secretly consummated at Bona, in the presence of her brother & sister; which marriage bred great confusion in Germany. The marriage thus consummated, TRUCHSIS left Bona: and having drawn some horse and foot together, he seized upon Marpourge, and tied his subjects to him by a new oath. Than he called an Assembly of the Estates of Westphalia and Cullen: to whom the Elector and the other Palatines, with the Lantzgrave of Hesse, sent their Ambassadors: and LEWES Elector Palatine laboured faithfully with the Emperor, with the Chapter, and with the Senate of Cullen, for the retaining of TRUCHSIS his dignity; which others did oppose strongly: and the Earl of Aremberge seized upon Bona, in the name of the Chapter; whereupon TRUCHSIS flew to Arms, and craved aid of his friends. In the mean time, the Pope sent down ANDREW, Cardinal of Austria, to deprive TRUCHSIS of his Electorship of Cullen, and to give power to the Chapter to choose another; but the Elector Palatine would not suffer them to pass: whereupon, afterwards the Pope by a public decree made in Rome, dated in April, in the year 1583, declared the said GEBHARD TRUCHSIS to be a notorious Heretic, perjured, fallen from his archiepiscopal dignity, and uncapable of all spiritual charge: and soon after, ERNEST of Bavaria, son to ALBERT Duke of Bavaria, was chosen by the mediation of the Pope, the Emperor, the Duke of Parma, and others. Ernest of Bavaria chosen Archbishop of Cullen. Whereupon, the war grew hot betwixt them, either of them fortifying himself with his friends: but ERNEST still kept possession, and lives at this day. In the beginning of this year, Pope GREGORY the Thirteenth took upon him to reform The Calendar corrected by Pope Gregory the 13. the Calendar, for that there was some small difference or distance, the year being not precisely fitted, equal to the course of the Sun; so as in the beginning this little error did produce many discommodities: whereupon the Pope, desiring to have the honour of this reformation, published his Bull for the adding of ten days. The Emperor, being at a Diet at Ausburg, propounded the publication of this new Calendar: which the Protestant Princes rejected; not for that it was rashly done and needless, but for that the Bishop of Rome had ordained it without The protestant princes in Germany refuse to admit the new Calendar. the privity of the Emperor to whom that office did belong, nor with the consent of the Princes of the Empire; the Elector of Saxony gravely admonishing them to have a care, jest under this colour of reforming the Calendar, they did not give to the Pope a new jurisdiction and commanding power over the majesty of the Empire and the Emperor himself. Wherhfore, when as none of the Princes or Cities which embraced the Confession of Ausburg, would allow of this Calendar in Germany, he commanded that the old form, observed in the Imperial Chamber, should be for that year kept. In the year 1584., there was a truce concluded betwixt AMURATH who had succeeded A truce betwixt the Emperor and the Turk. SELIM his father, and the Emperor RODULPH, the which was to continued for nine years. The Emperor sent his Ambassadors with Presents, who came first to Buda, where they concluded this truce with SINAN Bassa; and then they went to Constantinople to have it confirmed. In the mean time, ten thousand Turks entered upon the consins of Carniola, where they committed great spoils, and carried many poor Christians into slavery: but they were pursued by two thousand Christians, who overthrew them and put them to flight, freeing all the captives; in which conflict there were four thousand Turks slain. AMURATH was somewhat moved heerwith: but, being duly informed that the wrong proceeded from the Turks, he was soon pacified, and held them worthily slain; saying, that he would not have his people attempt any thing upon the confines of Hungary that might trouble the peace; commanding the Bashaes' of Buda and Temesuarre, very strictly, to contain their bordering soldiers in their duties: the like he required from the Christians. This year 1585., the Citizens of Magdebourg were in great controversy with their Archbishop touching the ecclesiastical and political jurisdiction, and for one of the City's gates joining A controversy compounded. to the Bishop's Palace, by which he did usually come in and go out at his pleasure. The Electors of Saxony and Brandenburg by their intercession compounded these quarrels; whereby it was concluded, that the City should have free exercise of the religion of the Confession of Ausburg, with divers other privileges, and the Archbishop should have the gate opened whensoever he would enter; but the keys should be kept by one of the Senators, and the Porter should be appointed by the Senate; who should enter into bonds, both to the Archbishop and to the Senate, to give free egress and regress to either party, and at all times when need should require, without any prejudice to the other party; but yet so as no Counsellors nor Ministers should be admitted, unless either the archbishop, or the administrator, were there in person. STEPHEN BATTORI king of Polonia, dying this year 1587., the Nobility met at Varsovia, for the choosing of a new king. There were many Competitors for the Kingdom; Competitors for the Crown of Poland. namely, ERNESTUS, MATHIAS, and MAXIMILIAN brethren, Archdukes of Austria, recommended by the Emperor RODULPH their brother, by the king of Spain, the Pope and other Princes, whom also many Noblemen (enemies to SAMOSCIUS the Chancellor) did favour. The second was SIGISMOND, king of Swethland, grandchild by the mother's side to JAGELON king of Poland. THEODORE, great Duke of Muscovy, did much affect this neighbour kingdom. Some would have one PIASTUS, a Nobleman of Polonia chosen; and other desired to have SIGISMOND, brother's son to the deceased King: yea, there were some which gave their voices to ALEXANDER FARNESE for his singular virtue, and glorious exploits. After much contention, in the end the Nobility was divided into two parts: the one made choice of SIGISMOND of Swethland, the other, of MAXIMILIAN of Austria, the Emperor's brother: so as either of them chalenging the kingdom they fell to Arms; but the Swethen being a young Prince of one and twenty years of age prevailed: being supported by the Chancellor SAMOSCIUS who was very powerful, he came into Poland, and was crowned in Cracovia this year in December. The year following, the Arch duke MAXIMILIAN seeking to get the possession of the Kingdom, came speedily with 16000 foot and horse, and planted his Camp within sight Maximilian of Austria besiegeth Cracovia. of Cracovia, requiring to be admitted and crowned. The Cracovians who favoured the Swethen would not receive him, but sent unto the other to hasten his coming, and in the mean time they fortified their City, burnt their suburbs, and salied forth daily. During the siege many Germans died: and MAXIMILIAN hearing, that the King of Swethen was come to Petricovia, he raised his Camp, and marched to meet with him, to decide their quarrel by a battle; but either knowing by the way, that the Swethen was fare stronger, having thirty thousand men in his army, or for some other consideration, he changed his advice, and returned to Cracovia, which he attempted again in vain: and SAMOSCIUS the Chancellor followed him with a thousand two hundred choice men; the report whereof, did so terrify the Army, as MAXIMILIAN retired to the confines of Silesia, putting himself into Maximilian taken prisoners by the Polonians. the town of Pitfense; whither SAMOSCIUS pursued him, and besieged the town: where MAXIMILIAN (no longer able to defend himself) was forced to yield, and so was carried back Captive into Polonia. MAXIMILIAN being committed to custody, the Bohemians did expostulate with the Polonians, for the breach of the League which was betwixt them, for that during the peace betwixt both the kingdoms, the Polonians had entered in hostile manner, into Silesia, and had besieged their friend MAXIMILIAN, and carried him out of the province captive, for whose disgrace many Princes were grieved. Notwithstanding the truce betwixt the Emperor RODULPH and AMURATH the Third, yet the Turks did often break it: and this year they having gathered together their bordering troops at Capanum, upon the lake of Palotta, meant therewith to invade the confines Capanum taken by the Christians from the Turks. of the Christians; but they thought it fittest to prevent them: whereupon they set upon the Castle, and forced it, wherein they took 190 men of special note, 70 women, with a great number of ordinary soldiers, whom they carried away Captive; but ALI Bassa the motive of all these broils escaped: whom AMURATH afterwards without any respect of affinity (having married his sister) caused to be hanged, for that he had broken the truce with the Christians. But this execution did not terrify them from making incursions, spoiling some towns and many villages. GEORGE SERIN son to Count NICHOLAS, imitating his father's glory, was sent against them, of whom he made a great slaughter; the which was the more grievous to the Ottoman Emperor, for that there perished many choice soldiers and excellent Captains: whereat being incensed, he rewarded the Governor of Sigeth, the author of this expedition, as he had done ALI Bassa. Afterwards SINAN Bassa to revenge these former losses, and to wipe away the ignominy, had gathered together ten thousand men, horse and foot, meaning to spoil all Hungary. Near unto Sixa, CLAUDIUS RUSSELUS opposed himself with one thousand seven hundred men, with whom the Governor of Agria joined, and both The Turks defeated by the Christians. together set upon the Enemy, and put them to flight; in the which there were three thousand Turks slain and drowned; all their Wagons, with great store of victuals, and thirty Ensigns were taken. This victory was not so pleasing to the Emperor as was expected: for notwithstanding that he had a faithless peace with the Turks, and knew well that they governed their counsels by the event of things, and would willingly embrace all occasions to annoyed the Christians, yet he would not be the cause, the truce should be infringed: Wherhfore he dismissed all the Captains from their charges, pardoning the soldiers; but when he undcrstood that the beginning of these wrongs proceeded from the Turks, he allowed of their excuse. AMURATH deprived SINAN Bassa of all his goods, and committed him to prison in Constantinople. The question betwixt King SIGISMOND and the Archduke MAXIMILIAN, being a prisoner, was yet treated of in Poland by Cardinal ALDOBRANDINO Legate for the A peace betwixt Sigismond of Po●…and, and Maximilian & he set at liberty. Pope, and the Ambassadors for either party. There were many difficulties, and still new did arise; but in the end, by the diligence and care of those Ambassadors, a Peace was concluded betwixt the Polonians and the house of Austria, upon certain conditions, which the Emperor should confirm by oath, and so SIGISMOND the Third enjoyed the kingdom quietly. After which, there being an Assembly of the States called, the Emperor sent his Ambasiadour, who complained much of a Decree made the year before, wherein it was mentioned, that no man, hereafter, in the election of a new King of Poland, should presume to name or recommend any one of the house of Austria; if he did, he should be (ipso facto) infamous, requiring that this ignominious exclusion (the like whereof had not been seen in any other Nation) might be abolished: Which done MAXIMILIAN should take the oath he had promised, and the Emperor, with the whole house of Austria would suffer them to levy men, and to buy victuals in their Countries, if Poland should be invaded by the Turk. Whereunto the King answered; that having conferred with his Council he would satisfy him; in the mean time he could not conceal, that he had been advertised from the Turks Court, and by the Ambassadors of other Kings, that the Emperor had pressed the Turk to make war against Poland, being a most fit time; the Noblemen there being then in sactions, that they had no firm peace with the Princes of Germany, nor with the Muscovite, neither had they any store of money to levy and entertain strangers. When the Ambassador had excused all this, he afterwards received his answer: That the Polonians had been forced to make that constitution concerning the house of Austria, to avoid greater dangers. But if the King of Spain, and MAXIMILIAN would perform the promised Oath, they would do that which was just and fit for the dignity of the Commonwealth; that the Decree did only concern MAXIMILIAN; but if the other Archdukes and his kinsemennes did support him, than it should extend to the whole house of Austria. Thus the Ambassador took his leave, and departed with a sour answer: notwithstanding afterwards these houses were throughly reconciled, by reason that King SIGISMOND married with ANNE of Austria, who was daughter to the Archduke CHARLES. The truce continued still in Hungary with AMURATH, to the great content of the subjects, 1592. Amurath renews the war in Hungary. and AMURATH was well pleased to have prolonged it eight years more: but having made a peace with the Persian, his Bashaes' persuaded him to embrace the occasion, and to sand a good Army against the Christians, they being now engaged in civil wars. This counsel pleased AMURATH and his son, whereupon he commanded preparations to be made both by sea and land. In the beginning of the year they entered unexpected, and forced divers towns. After which the Army turned to Camisa: but they were repulsed, and put to flight by the garrison, losing in a manner all the fruits of their former victory. AMURATH (being importuned by his son and others) sent ASSAN Bassa with a strong Army into Croatia, where at the first he took Castrovitium by treason: after which he went to Vehicium the Metropolitan City of Croatia, the which after some small battery yielded; after which he put to flight ERDOD with fifty thousand men, lying betwixt Vehitium and Carolostad. This Army in Croatia increased daily, which strooke a great terror into all Hungary, Bavaria, Bohemia Stiria, Carinthia, Moravia, Silesia, and all the neighbour provinces. The Emperor The Turks proceed into Croatia. assembled the states of Silesia and Moravia, acquainted them with the danger, and persuaded them to join all their forces, to resist this barbarous enemy, although he did not doubt but AMURATH would disavow this war, and the breach of the truce; yet he knew that the Turks property was, that having once taken any towns never to restore them: wherefore he sought by all means, to get aid to resist this tyrant. On the sixteenth of july the Turks came with a foraging troop to Senderine, thinking to surprise it in a mist: but they were discovered, and some few days after, the governor of Agria meeting them but with small troops and forces, they put him to flight, having lost in a manner all his footmen. In july, ASSAN Bassa, grown proud with this success, laid siege to Sisseck, a Monastery The Turks slain by a policy at Sisseck. standing betwixt the river of Save and Colapa, it being defended by a Cannon of Agria, with a good garrison: this he battered six days together with four and twenty pieces of Ordinance: but it was valiantly defended, and he was forced to retire with shame and loss. Having lodged his Army not far off, he attempted the Cannon with promises of reward, giving him to understand that he knew well in what estate they were. The Cannon wondered who should discover their secrets to the enemy; yet he brought in his Messenger and shown them the whole Monastery, being very careful to discover the traitor: In the end, he finds it was the Steward; whereupon taking him and the Turk, he cast them secretly into the River. ASSAN wondering at the long stay of his Messenger, sent to know if any violence were offered him. The Cannon answered, he had sent him away presently with a kind answer, and if any accident had happened unto him upon the way, he was not acquainted with it; adding withal, that seeing there was but little hope to defend the place against the Turks forces, he would treat with the Bassa to yield it, so as he would sand some honourable persons, the which (for that it concerned his reputation much) should receive the place, and withal appointed a day for the delivery. The Bassa was glad of this answer, making choice of a troop of the better sort to go into the Monastery; in the mean time the Cannon planted his Ordinance, and covered it that the enemy might not see it, lodging his garrison armed in secret places, that when a sign were given they might fall out upon the enemy. The Turks came on, all richly attired, and riding three in a rank; whereof fifty were received in at the great gate: but presently the hearse was let down, and the Ordinance discharged upon them, and at the same instant the garrison salied forth upon such as stayed without; and such as could escape, made what haste they could to return, cursing their entertainment at Sisseck. The Bassa wrote proud Letters to the Cannon, that he would not give over the siege til he had taken the place, and that he would flay him alive to the reproach of Christendom. But the Cannon was not much moved with his threats, neither did the Bassa any memorable thing there this year. The Beglerby of Greece entered Hungary with a great Army: he attempted Toggay a strong The Christians slain in their Camp by the Turks at Carolstade. Castle in vain, from which he attempted Gomorrha seated in a marish, and easily to be defended. ASSAN Bassa was still in Croatia and Carinthia, putting all to fire and sword. In September news came to the Emperor's court, that Canisa was straightly besieged with an Army of 160000 Turks, yet there was good hope for that the Christian Army increased daily, the Archduke ERNEST being made General. The Camp lay then at Carolostadium, where the Turks came to view the Army from the top of a hill: and the Christians sending out 50 horse to discover the enemy's Army, found no more than what they had seen on the hill, so as the Christians slept securely without fear of any enemy; who came and charged them so suddenly as they had scarce leisure to put on their Arms: The fight was long and furious, and the slaughter great on either side: but the Christians being oppressed with multitudes fell in the same place where they fought, so as in all there scarce escaped fourscore: the commanders and Captains fled betimes: but afterwards they lost their heads, as a just reward for their baseness. This victory was great, yet purchased with much blood: for many writ the Turks lost 12000 men. All the neighbour provinces were so terrified herewith, as they abandoned their towns. The Emperor sent to all the Princes, and Imperial towns, laying before them the danger wherein Germany stood, unless the enemy were presently repulsed from their borders. The The Emperor craves aid against the Turks. Princes of Germany, both to obey the Emperor, and to prevent the danger of the Christian Commonwealth, did presently give order for the levying of men and money; and the Pope, the King of Spain, the Princes of Italy, and others did contribute bountifully to so necessary a war. The citizens of Aix, of the reformed religion, did not only enjoy the free exercise thereof, but also required to be admitted into the Senate, contrary to an edict, made by a general The Emperor's s●…uere censure against the citizens of Aix. consent, whereby none but Roman Catholics might be admitted to be Consuls; whereupon the ancient Magistrates complained unto the Emperor: who enjoined them strictly to reduce their Commonwealth to the ancient form. The new Consuls and Senators pretended that the peace of religion was infringed, and employed all the Princes and orders of the Confession of Ausburg: the Emperor taking advice hereupon at a Diet at Ausburg, commissioners were sent to Aix; who hearing both parties, and leaving the cause undecided, made relation unto the Emperor, who gave a severe sentence against the accused, disannulling all that had been done, and reducing the government to the same estate it was in the year 1560: That they should pay all the charges of the suit, the Emperor reserving to himself the penalty for the offence committed &c. The execution of which sentence, they of the reformed religion laboured to stay, by the mediation of the protestant Princes. This year the Turks came again to besiege the monastery of Sisseck, with 30000 men. AFFAN Bassa (who was there General) planted his Ordinance, and battered it furiously The Turks besieged Sissech. ten days together, so as the besieged were brought to that distress, as they had small hope to defend it any longer. The most resolute did encourage the rest: so as in the end they resolved to attend all extremes, rather than to yield themselves to assured death and shame. They advertised the Bishop of Agria, and the governor, of their desperate estate; whereupon the Christians having drawn an Army of 5000 men together, after much consultation of the danger, in the end they resolved to charge the enemy. The two Armies joined: and although the Turks exceeded them fare in numbers, yet God gave strength unto the Christians, who defeated them, and put them to slight: The Christiant vistory at Sisseck. their Camp, baggage, ordinance and munition was taken, and carried to Sisseck. They writ that there were eighteen thousand slain, amongst which ASSAN Bassa was one, with many morre of special note. And of the Christians there died not above fifty two. The Emperor being advertised of the victory at Sisseck, he wrote unto AMURATH concerning The Emperor sends to Amurath. this expedition, and to know whether he would continued the truce and peace, which had hitherto been kept betwixt them, or that he would hereafter proceed by Arms: and withal he sent a present to the Sultan, according to the usual manner, commanding his Ambassador to stay at Commorrha, upon the confines of Hungary, with the present until the return of his messenger: and if that AMURATH would continued the peace, he should proceed; if not, then come back to the Emperor: In the mean time news came unto the christians camp, that SIMAN Bassa had received commandment from AMURATH, to invade Hungary with forty thousand men, to revenge their late loss: that he should not be moved with CAESAR'S Embassy; and if he should by chance meet with the Donative, he should take it away and distribute it among the soldiers, and so proceed in the action. At this time the Turkish Emperor proclaimed war against the Emperor both in Constantinople and at Buda: he gave the charge of this war to MAHOMET Bassa of Temesuarre and to The Turk proclaims war against the Emperor. the Beglerby of Greece; SIMAN Bassa being chief General. SIMAN marched with his troops to Buda, and the Beglerby led his Army by Croatia, meaning to besiege the monastery of Sisseck, which they had twice attempted with great loss and shame; but now they battered it with such fury, as in the end they took it, almost in sight of the christian Army, who were not able to relieve Sisseck taken by the Turks. them. The defendants were all cut in pieces, and the Monk was flaid alive and then consumed to ashes. The Emperor being advertised of the denouncing of this war, resolved also to Arms, and to provide all things necessary for his defence; and the rather for that he was given to understand that his Legier Ambassador at Constantinople was kept in chains, and his servants miserably torn in pieces. SINAN, after the taking of Sisseck, went to Vesperine: the which having Vesperine taken by the Turks. battered some days, the garrison finding themselves unable to resist so great a power, by night fled out at a Postern gate; whom the Turks discovering followed, and slew many of them. Thence he went to Palotta: where having battered down the upper part of the Castle, the Governor Palotta taken. compounded for himself and the garrison, to departed with their lives & liberty: having plighted their faiths, the enemy being admitted into the Castle, this perjured Barbarian taking the Governor and two others, they slew the rest. The garrison of Pappa had the like success. The Emperor, having by his spies discovered the enemy's strength, levied new forces, and commanded his Captains to draw all their men into one head; where upon a muster there were found to be 18000 able and resolute men, besides the Hungarians and the horsemen. The Army, having passed the Dannow, encountered the enemy, and slew some thousands of them, freeing an infinite number of Christian captives. The Turks made haste to besiege Tatta. MELCHIOR REDER with a good troop of horse charged them upon the way, and slew many, freeing many Christians of all Ages. These two victories struck a great terror into the enemy. The Commanders of the Christian Army went to Council touching the managing of this war: in the end, after some diversity of opinions, they resolved to besiege Alba Regalis; whither Alba Regalis besieged by the Christians. they marched as secretly as they could, and took the suburbs: but the Bassa of Buda, being advertised hereof, posted thither with an Army of 20000 men, who came marching directly towards the Christians Camp, who resolved to attend them, and to fight with them; wherein God gave them a speedy and an easy victory: for, the Turks lost, in fight and fleeing, 16000 The Turks overthrown by the Christians. men, and as some writ but 12000; whereof the Bassa of Buda was one, and SINAN their General was sore wounded: there were taken 40 of the enemy's ensigns. Having gathered together the spoils, they took counsel for the continuing of the siege: but winter growing on, there being no great store of powder and shot in their Camp, and the Town having a strong garrison, they thought it fit to draw their men into good Towns to winter. In November, FREDERICK DIEFF●…MBACH, Governer of Cassovia, went with Sabat and ●…illec taken by the Christians. 14000 men to besiege Sabat, a strong Castle, which did much annoy the Christians, the which after some day's battery he took. From thence he went to Fillec, whither PALFIUS came to him with new supplies; where having battered three days together, in the end they gave an assault: but the enemies trusting to their numbers and strength (being 4000 choice men) defended the breach valiantly, and repulsed the Christians; who, nothing daunted therewith, resolved either to die honourably, or to enter the Town: the which they did upon a second assault, not without some loss. There yet remained two Castles to force; the which, the valour of the soldiers, and the indiscretion of the Bege of Fillec, made easy: for, in the beginning of the siege he had go forth to seek for aid, and had brought with him the Bassa of Temesuarre, and 18000 men. The General of the Christians, knowing that his intent was to force his Camp, went in the night and charged him, overthrew his Army, slew some thousands of them, and the Bassa himself, The Bassa of Temesuarre with an Army of Turks overthrown. with the Bege of Fillec. And from thence they returned to Fillec; where having taken one of the Castles by force, the other yielded upon composition to departed with their lives without Arms, they being in number 800 good men. The prey which they took in the Turks Camp and in the Castles, was very great. After the taking of Fillec, the Castles of Dylin and Homasck were abandoned: they took the Towns of Setschin, and Bravenstein, and Salac, which the garrisons had left and fired. PALFIUS in the mean time took Pregel and Palanc. Samose a strong Castle yielded, with Aruac and Holac. Thus, by the great bounty of God, a great part of Hungary was freed from the Turkish slavery: after which, the unseasonable weather forced them to go to garrison. A while after, the garrisons of Petrina, Sisseck, Castrovits, and other near to them, to the number of 3000, went forth to spoil the Christians Country: but GRASVINIUS, meeting them with 900 men, set upon them, and slew 500, and forced all the rest in a manner to flee into the river of Collapa; so as few escaped. The divers victories and rich spoils which the Christians had gotten, gave great cause of joy to the Emperor and his brother MATHIAS: to whom they sent Ordinance, Turkish horses, with many other rich Presents to Vienna. This year, one thousand five hundred ninety four, the Archduke MATHIAS brother Novagrade taken by the Christiant. to the Emperor, was made General of the Christian Army, against the Turks: who having intelligence by a Turk which was their captive in the Christian Camp, that Novagrade, a strong Town within three miles of Buda, was but weakly manned, they resolved to besiege it. The Garrison, seeing the Army approach, remembering that the Bassa of Buda had promised to relieve them, they prepared themselves for defence; but finding the Town too weak to be defended against so great a power, they retired into the Castle, the which was strong both by Nature and Art, built upon a Rock, with thick walls and high, the ditch was exceeding deep, cut out of the Rock. Right against it there was another hill, upon the which the Christians with great toil planted their ordinance, with which they battered the Castle, and withal set fire on their fortifications; wherewith being much terrified, they offered to treat: whereupon the Archduke gave them leave to departed only with their swords, there being 450 good soldiers in the Castle. The Governor going to Buda was committed to prison by the Bassa; & not able to purge himself was afterwards hanged, for that he had yielded up so strong a place, without loss of men. The Emperor finding the burden of the Turkish wars to be heavy, he demanded aid from the Duke of Muscovie, the Polonians, and Transylvanians. The Muscovite received his The Emperor craves aid from the Muscovites and Polonians. Ambassador honourably, and dismissed him with great hopes. The Polonians, although they were in peace with the Turk, yet they promised the Emperor all the assistance they could: And the Transylvanians desirous of liberty, and to purchase the Emperor's friendship, did willingly embrace the occasion. The Earl of Serin and Nadastius, having gathered together some small forces, went to the Castle of Precenit and Segestan which they found set on fire by the Turks; but Serin besieged Babottes, a strong Castle seated in a marish ground, the which the Turks basely abandoned. Novagrade being taken, DIFF●…NBACH went with twenty thousand men to Hatuan, a strong Town six miles from Buda, the which he battered furiously, and brought to despair of all safety, if they were not speedily relieved by the Bassa of Buda, who had gathered together an Army of fifeten thousand men, past the river Sava, and marched to charge the Christians behind; which the General understanding, he left the siege, and put his Army in order, taking The Turks defeated by the Christians. some places of advantage: the Armies met, and the encounter for a while was furious; but in the end the Christians put them to flight, and took their ordinance and munition, with seventeen ensigns. After this battle they took jasperin, which was abandoned by the Turks, in which they found good store of corn, great ordinance and munition for war. The Turkish Garrison which remained in Zaboll, hearing of the overthrow and death of their men; being terrified, abandoned the place, without any necessity: the which for strength and bigness is compared to Toccai or Agria. The Archduke MATHIAS encouraged with this good success, resolved to besiege Strigonium, the which would open the way to Buda: whither bringing Strigonium besieged, in vaint, b●… the Archduke. his Army, he battered it furiously, yet could they not keep out the succours which were sent unto them: notwithstanding they pressed the siege, and the Turks defended it valiantly; but the City being terribly torn with their continual battery, and in danger to be lost, news came unto them that Sinan Bassa approached with a great Army; which did much revive the besieged, and made MATHIAS for fear to raise his siege, contrary to the advice of many of his commanders, whereupon he passed the Dannow. During this siege at Strigonium, the Emperor assembled a Diet at Ratisbone, at the which he assisted in person, making them acquainted with the whole progress of the Turkish war; that The Emperor●… speech at a Diet at Ratisbone. in the year 1591. he had by his Ambassadors concluded a truce with the Turkish Emperor for eight years; yet, contrary to his faith, he had in hostile manner spoiled Hungary and the neighbour Provinces, taking many places, and carrying away 5000 Christians into servitude: that he had often complained thereof to AMURATH by his Ambassador, and required restitution: but he could have no good answer; yea, ASSAN Bassa, the Author of all this war, was honoured and advanced: whereupon he fell to open war, and besieged Sisseck. Being again put in mind of the truce, he invaded Hungary with a greater Army, forcing the poor peasants with fire and sword, to pay him an excessive tribute; that contrary to the law of Arms he had c●…st CRECOVITZ his Ambassador into bonds; who being brought captive to Belgrade, he there in great misery ended his days in a filthy loathsome prison. That he for his part having drawn his forces together, had overthrown his enemy in some battles, and taken diverse Towns and Castles from him. Yet it might be well conjectured, that he was not grown so weak but he could soon repair his forces; yea it did appear plainly, that the Turk would employ all his power, to revenge his former losses and overthrows. He had therefore called that assembly with the consent of the Prince's Electors, to the end they might confer of those things which did belong to the preservation of the Empire, but especially of the Turkish wars, how it should be managed and with what supplies: Whereunto the Archbishop of Mentz (after conference with the Electors, and Princes of the Empire, and with the other orders as well Ecclesiastical as Secular) told the Emperor, that he should have aid against the Turks, and that Ambassadors should be sent unto foreign Princes, to invite them to put to their helping hands, to suppress the common enemy of Christendom. DIFFENBACH was still at the siege of Hatuan, and had brought them to that extremity, as they sent word unto the Bassa of Buda, that if they were not relieved within three days, they should be forced to kill their wives and children, to set fire on the Town, and to make their way through the midst of their Enemies, by the Sword. The Bassa, hearing in what danger the besieged were, having gathered together many thousands of Turks, marched towards the Christians, whom DIFFENBACH went to encounter, with five thousand horse; and charging them on the sudden, slew five thousand, and returned to the Camp with rich spoils, whereupon they were in hope the Town would have yielded; but the besieged endured a fresh assault: wherein, the Christians being repulsed, they lost 1000 good men, wherewith The Christians raise their siege from Hatuan. they were out of hope to take the City; wherefore fearing jest the Bassa should return with new forces, the Christian Army, being much wasted, DIFFENBACH was forced to leave the siege. SINAN Bassa, in the mean time, entered Hungary, with an Army of 125000 men, his first attempt was upon Tatta, a Town lying betwixt Strigonium and javerin, which yielded: From Sinan Bassa comes into Hungary. whence he marched to javerin or Rhab, which is twelve German leagues from Vienna, the Christian Army lying in sight on the other side of the River Dannow; but they were so weak, as they durst not pass it, to fight with Sinan; daily expecting new forces: and the rather for that they heard, there were 2000 Italian foot come to Vienna with 90000 ducats from the Pope, for the Hungarian war. In the beginning of August, the Archduke MAXIMILIAN took Castrovitz, having The Christians take some forts. put all the Turks and Null to the Sword; from thence he went to Petrinia, a Fort built some few years before by the Turks, upon the Emperor's territory: this Castle had six strong Bulwarks well fortified, which made it seem inexpugnable; yet MAXIMILIAN battered it in such sort, as the Garrison being terrified, set fire on the Castle, every one escaping away as he could, leaving it to the Christians; and in like manner▪ they of Sissecke, setting fire of their Fort, abandoned it. After which exploits MAXIMILIAN retired to refresh his Army. In the mean time Sinan Bassa pressed the siege of javerin (in which Count HARDECK was Governor) battering it with sixty pieces of great Ordinance, but he prevailed little. The besieged The siege of javerin. made many sallies, in one of the which they slew two thousand Turks, with the Governor of Greece. There were great difficulties both in Armies; the Enemy's forces were much decayed, both by sickness, and their daily excursions, wanting victuals. The Christian Army was much weaker, wherefore they were forced to keep themselves within their strength: but being not so vigilant as they aught to have been, the Turks suddenly cast a bridge over the River, and invaded the Christians Camp; where, aften some resistance, they were forced to fly fearfully, to Altenbourg. The Enemy took that day great store of money, brought for the payment of the Army, all the furniture of the Camp, one thousand Wagons, two hundred Barks laden with Munition, and ten Galleys. SINAN still battered the Town, and gave assaults, and was still repulsed with loss, so as within two day's space (as some writ) there were twelve thousand Turks slain. The report was, that when SINAN could not take the Town by force, he sought to corrupt the Governor Count HARDECK: the which he embracing, he ever after, secretly, favoured the Enemy's attempts, by the which they took away some of their Bulwarks, whereby they had small hope to defend the Town. HARDECK conferring with some of the Captains, resolved to sand Messengers to SINAN to crave a Truce for some days, that they might in the mean time treat of the conditions of yielding: In the mean time, fearing they should be taxed with infamy, if they should yield up a Town so well fortified, without necessity; they wrote Letters to the Barons of Hungary, to excuse themselves, and to justify their action. After this protestation, hostages were sent on both sides, and in the end it was concluded, that Count HARDECK, with his Captains and Soldiers should departed with bag and baggage with their full Arms and colours flying, and be conducted safely to Altenbourg. Thus the strongest fort of all Christendom, by the treachery of Count HARDECK was yielded up to the Enemy, being abundantly furnished with Wine, Corn, and all munition for War. For the which, the Earl, coming to Vienna, was committed to prison: and the year following, by the sentence of certain Commissioners, who were chosen for that purpose, he had both his hand and head cut off; which was a just reward for so foul a Treachery. SINAN, full of joy for this victory, presently repaired the ruins, and fortified the Town: after which he resolved to besiege Gomorrha, seated in the Island four miles from javerine; in 1594 Gomorrha besieged by Sinan Bassa. which ERASMUS BRUNNEUS commanded with a strong garrison. SINAN, remembering how well he had sped with Count HARDECK, sent Letters by a countryman to BRUNNEUS, promising him mountains of gold if he would yield the place: but he would not look on the Letters, commanding the messenger to departed presently; saying, that he had no skill in the Illirian Tongue; neither was he made Governer there to confer with the enemy, but to fight; and that SINAN was deceived if he thought to find a HARDECK in Gomorrha. After which answer SINAN began to press the siege with all the speed he could. The Archduke knowing, that after the loss of javerine, all the hope of miserable Hungary, next under God, consisted in the preservation of this place; having gathered together a good Army of Germans, Hungarians and Bohemians, went with all speed to Nitrea, not far from Gomorrha: which the enemy The Turks le●…ue the siege of Gomorrha. understanding, having set fire on his Camp, he left the siege, and went to javerine. The Archduke entered into Gomorrha, repaired the ruins, fortified the defences, and caused new bulwarks to be made. This year 1595, AMURATH the second Emperor of the Turks, son to SELIM, left his life and Empire; whom succeeded MAHOMET the Third: whom all men supposed would The Princes of Germany assist the Emperor for the Turkish wars. continued the war against the Christians with more violence. Wherhfore the Emperor, besides the aid which was granted at the Imperial Diet, desired an extraordinary supply of horse and foot; the which divers Princes willingly brought at their own charge. From the upper Saxony came 1200 horse; from the lower, 600; from Franconia, 1000 horse. Suevia sent 4000 foot; Austria, 2000 horse and 6000 foot; Tyrrel, 4000 foot; Bavaria, 3000; Westphalia, 500 horse and 1500 foot: the Silesians, Moravians, Bohemians and Lusatians, sent great supplies. Besides the Pope, the Dukes of Florence, Ferrara and Mantua, the Emperor required the Polonians to join in league with him, and to make a social war against the common enemy of Christendom. This proposition was much debated; SAMOSCIUS and many other holding that they should not violate the peace, which had continued firm 75 years betwixt them and the Turks, and draw upon them an unnecessary war; yet for that they would not utterly deny aid unto the Emperor, they let him understand, that they held it fit, that the Pope, the King of Spain, and the rest of the Christian Princes should join in a firm league against the Turk: that these counsels should be imparted to the Prince's Electors, to the end the league might be made, not with the Emperor alone, but with the whole Empire: and soon after, the Emperor's ambassadors coming to Cracovia, Commissioners were appointed to treat of the conditions of the league they were to make with CAESAR and the Empire. SIGISMOND BATTORI, Prince of Transiluania, having wrested many Forts from the A league betwixt the Emperor and the Prince of Transiluania. Turk, did this year annoyed them with many incursions: and the better to fortify himself and his authority against the common enemy, he resolved by all means to join in league with the Emperor, sending a stately Ambassage to Prague: where a league was soon concluded upon certain conditions: that the Emperor should constantly prosecute the wa●…; that if he should conclude any peace or league with the Sultan, he should impart it to SIGISMOND, and comprehend The articles of ehe league. Transiluania, Moldavia and Valachia therein; that SIGISMOND should promise' and confirm by oath for himself and all his subjects, to continued the war against the Turks, and not to conclude any peace with him without the privity & consent of the Emperor; that SIGISMOND BATTORI should enjoy Transiluania, with those parts of Hungary, as his Predecessors had formerly done, with all their rights and revenues, acknowledging the Emperor's majesty and his lawful successors for their lawful Kings; for the which they should take the oath of fealty when he should enter into the possession of the Province: and if the Prince or his Successors should die without issue male, than Transiluania should be annexed to the Kingdom of Hungary. There were many other Articles set down in this league, the which to avoid prolixity I omit. The reasons which moved the Transiluanian so much to affect this league with the Emperor, was the treachery of the Turks against his own person, and the excessive tributes wherewith The Turks seek to surprise the Prince of Transiluania. his Country was oppressed: for, in july 1594, the Tartarians, who had been drawn down to aid the Turks against the Hungarians, were sent into Transiluania to seize upon that Province by the Sultan's commandment, and to expel Prince SIGISMOND, or to sand him captive to Constantinople. It was not unknown, that he sought to fall from the Turk to the Roman Empire, by reason of the intolerable tribute: which desertion many Noblemen of Transiluania fought to hinder; who, conspiring with the Tartarians, undertaken to deliver them the whole Province, and to sand the Prince captive to Hust, where they were encamped: whereupon they persuaded the Prince, that the great Chancellor of Poland attended him on the confines of the The Transylvanians conspire against their Prince. Kingdom with a great Army, to treat with him upon matters of importance, delivering him sergeant Letters from the Chancellor; whereunto giving credit, he began his journey: but being on the way, he was advised by some that were more honest and faithful, to proceed no further; and that he was not expected by the Polonians, but by the Tartarians, who were resolved to deprive him of his estate. Being amazed at the news, he retired with his company into a place of strength, until he had drawn his forces together: and then he called an Assembly of all the Nobility to Clausenbourg, dissembling the treason intended against him; where at a banquet he apprehended 14 of the conspirators, and put them to death. After which, he carried open Arms against the Turks. The league being concluded betwixt the Emperor and the Prince of Transiluania, the war grew hot in divers places, and the Christians recovered Vascia with a rich prey. SINAN, resolving to go from Belgrade to Constantinople to salute the new Emperor, and to present him with the treasure which he had taken, was intercepted by the Null, who defeated his troops, and took all his treasure, he himself with some few others escaping the danger. MAHOMET hearing that the Null, being his tributaries, were now become his enemies, was much incensed; sending MICHAEL the Vaivode (who was of that Nation) with great forces to invade Valaehia, and to keep it for himself. MICHAEL goes with his Army of Turks into Valachia: but, before he would attempt any thing, he attended the Tartarians coming out of Hungary; but first the Null and Transylvanians met with them before they could join, and slew eight thousand, the rest being put to flight: and then they attended MICHAEL with great resolution, who contained himself within his Camp. After which, CHAMOS the Tartarian, by the commandment of MAHOMET, entered Moldavia and Valachia with a great Army; whom AARON the Vaivode fought withal in three several battles, and slew twelve thousand Tartarians. SINAN Bassa, being at Belgrade, called to him certain servants of the Ambassador CRECOVITIUS, who (as you heard) died there miserably in prison; telling them, that if their master The fraudulent propositions of the Turks. had lived, he would have set him at liberty as he did them, having brought him thither only to treat of a peace betwixt the Sultan and the Emperor: but he being dead, he would sand his servants to CAESAR to let him understand, that MAHOMET had given him charge to besiege Vienna, the which he knew was fare more easy than javerine. He extolled his Emperor's power, and disgraced the Germane, wishing that the Emperor would in time advice (before the Army should march) how a peace might be made. He then sent them to Buda to his son, being Governer of Greece; who, calling the Secretary before him, he made many complaints of the wrong done to the Turks: he put them in hope of liberty, sending in the mean time one to the Emperor, with conditions where by he said a peace might be concluded; that is to say, If the Emperor would restore all the Castles and Forts which he had taken, and their Territories; if the Christians would leave Sisseck; if CAESAR would not take into his protection the Transylvanians, Null and Moldavians; and, lastly, if he would duly pay the annual tribute that had been for many years omitted. These conditions were given to one in writing, with this condition, that if he returned not The Emperor's answer to the Turks propositions. with an answer in 25 days, the rest should die. BARLING returned from the Emperor with this answer, that he never had other intent but to maintain a firm peace with the Sultan, having always sought it with such conditions, as their subjects might be freed from that fatal war. And making a repetition of their injuries and the success, he said, that the Beglerbey was much deceived, if he thought the Roman Emperor were reduced to those Straitss, that he would accept of any conditions of peace, how unjust soever; and the Turks should soon know, that he neither wanted force nor courage to defend himself, and to recover that which had been lost by treachery: and as he had been always careful of the quiet and good of his subjects, and to avoid the effusion of innocent blood, so would he not now be averse from a peace, if SINAN would restore those places which he had taken. That the Transylvanians, Moldavians, and Null, had for many ages past, been united to the crown of Hungary, as the members to the body: and therefore the Turk should not take it ill, if the Emperor undertook their protection, but rather promise' never to invade those Provinces in hostile manner. If they performed this, and made satisfaction for the wrong done unto his Ambassador (which all Princes did detest) and set his servants at liberty, there might bosom means for a Peace, but if they did otherwise, there were no way of reconcilement. CHARLES Earl of Mandsfeld, son to PETER ERNEST (having spent many years Count Mandsfeld goes into Hungary to command the Christian Army in the wars of Flanders and France) was by the Emperor (with the King of Spain's good liking) called into Hungary, to govern those wars under the Archduke MATHIAS: he carried with him two thousand horse, and six thousand foot, most Walloons; with these forces he came to the Prague, where the Emperor did him much honour, after which he began to reform the martial discipline, and to lead the Army with more circumspection then formerly it had been. He marched, being accompanied by the Duke of Ferrara and Mantoa, and others of great note, from Vienna to Altenbourg, with fifty thousand foot, and fifteen thousand horse, and laid siege Strigonium besieged by the Christiant. to Strigonium, where at first assault he took the old town; the Turks flying into the new: then he planted his Ordinance, with the which he so battered the new Town, and Saint THOMAS Fort, as a small breach being made, they entered, and put all to the Sword: then planting three batteries, and making a large breach, he commanded an assault to be given to the Castle; but they were repulsed with great loss. The Beglarbie or Governor of Greece, drew together a great Army, to relieve the besieged: approaching near unto the Christians, MANDSFELD went forth to meet them, having put his Army in battle: but the Bassa of Buda, seeing himself inferior, both in valour and multitude, retired confusedly, and the Christians pursuing them, put the whole Army to flight; but coming again to renew the battle, the Christians were disordered and fled: Count MANDSFELD, knowing that he must either vanquish or raise the siege, resolved to give them battle with his whole Army, in which (having made a great slaughter of the Turks with his ordinance) both Armies coming to join, he defeated them quite, and slew six thousand; among whom died the Bassa of javerin and his son, and the Beglarby of Greece (being sore wounded) fled to Buda. The next day Count MANDSFELD summoned the Town to yield, whereunto they answered: that although they despaired of all help, yet they had resolved to prefer a glorious death, before an ignominious life; whereupon the Christians (being incensed with this answer) returned again to a fresh charge. Count MANDSFELD did not live to enjoy the first-fruits of this victory; for, having spent his force and his spirits in the battle, playing the part of a commander Count Mand●… field dies. with his tongue, and of a soldier with his hands, sweeting and distempered, he called for drink, so as he fell into a Fever, whereof he died soon after, at Gomorrha, before the yielding of the Town. The siege was still continued with great violence; the Archduke MATHIAS coming to the Camp: so as in the end, being brought to despair, they compounded to yield the Town, and the soldiers to departed with their swords by their sides, every one carrying a pack at his back. Before the yielding of the Town SINAN Bassa prepared a great Army to invade Valachia, Sinan Bassa enters Transiluania twice. Moldavia, and Transiluania: who hearing of his intent, raised an Army of twenty thousand men, and charged the Turks at the passage of a River, where there was a long and furious battle, being doubtful to whom the victory would incline; but on the sudden there came a supply of six thousand horse to the christians, which did much relieve those that were tired with fight, by whose help they obtained the victory, making a great slaughter of their enemies, and many being drowned in the River of Dannow, the bridge breaking, with the weight of those that fled. The German Chroniclers writ, there were 25000 Turks slain, and half as many Christians. SINAN having recovered a new Army of seventy thousand foot and horse, he passed the River of Dannow, upon the confines of Moldavia, near to the town of Giorgum, lodging part of his Army in the Castles and Towns, upon the borders of Valachia and Moldavia. Thither came unto him HASAN Bassa, MICHAEL the expulsed Vaivode of Transiluania, with many other Turks and Tartarians of note. SINAN with the rest of his Army went to Tergivist, a famous Monastery; which he converted into a Castle, and fortified it with all things necessary; resolving, not to departed before that he had subdued those Provinces: but the event proved otherwise. In Hungary, HEBERSTAIN, Governer of part of that Country, burned the Towns of Cheringa, Maslona and Bellahina; where he slew many Turks, and carried away many prisoners: among the which there were some of great authority. And at the same time the Haiducs took the Town of Wakaner on the other side of the river of Dannow, where they found a great prey. And about the same season, ALDOBRANDIN General of the Pope's forces, and PALFI, besieged the Town and Castle of Visigrade, lying betwixt Buda and Strigonium, upon the right bank of the river Dannow, where in ancient time the Crown of Hungary was usually kept: this Visigrade taken by the Turks. place the Turks held invincible, neither could they force it in the year 1543, when as Strigonium was made subject to the Turkish yoke; but two years after, the Christians abandoned it for want of victuals. Having planted their Ordinance, they battered it incessantly; and having made a large breach, the soldiers lodged under the walls: which the besieged perceiving, they began to faint; which fear opinion increased that there was no relief to be expected. Wherhfore, on the twenty fift of September, they made a sign of parley; and being admitted, they offered to yield both Town & Castle, so as they might have the same conditions the Turks had at Strigonium; but it would not be granted: only they had leave to departed with their lives, without Arms or baggage; which they accepted, and yielded the place. The Turks, which were under the command of the Bassa of Bosna, had an intent to spoil The Turks slain in Croatia. Croatia near to Petrina. The Christians living in those parts, hearing of their resolution, making a body of ten thousand soldiers, meant to encounter them. The Turks being twenty thousand (if that were true which themselves report) coming to fight, the Christians shown such resolution and courage, that they slew the greatest part of the Turks, the rest fleeing away. The Christians returning from this expedition, their forces increased, many fresh supplies being comn unto them: and there joined with them the horsemen of Croatia, Carinthia, and the neighbour Provinces, and the Baron of Herbenstein, with certain Hungarian Troops. All these forces being united, they came to Petrina, which they battered for the space of two hours, and lost Petrina besieged in the assault 120 men. And finding that they should not prevail without greater Ordinance (the which was hard to bring through the mountains) they desisted, and retired to Sisseck, there to consult what they had to do. The same night, one BRIBEG, very familiar with the Bege HURSTAN, fled out of Petrina; giving them to understand, that the Bege being shot into the body, died soon after; that if they returned to Petrina, without doubt they should take the town, for that the Inhabitants were so amazed, that upon sight of the enemy they would all forsake the Town. The Christians with this hope marched speedily away, and came to Petrina, which The Christians take Petrina. they found abandoned; the which they entered, and fortified with a good garrison, wherein they found ninety barrels of powder. Whil'est that these things passed in Hungary, the quiet of Moldavia was disturbed by SAMOSCIUS the great Chancellor of Poland, who sought to expel the Vaivode whom the Transiluanian had appointed, and to bring-in a new, besieging the chief City of Moldavia. He was twice beaten and put to flight by the old Vaivode: in which encounters the chief Authors of that counsel were slain, and the new Vaivode expelled again. The Archduke MAXIMILIAN was then called with his whole Army into Transiluania. This summer, not only men, but even the elements did fight against the Turkish Sultan: for, after many defeats, another mischief followed; for, Rhab being set on fire, most of the Towns victuals were burnt: and NADASTI, meeting with a convoy of corn going to Rhab, he slew the soldiers, and carried away all the corn. After Count MANDSFELD's death, his Netherlands and Walloon soldiers fell into a mutiny. MANDSFELD had brought them into a Country which did not abound with gold and silver, like to the Belgic Provinces; but desolate, exhausted and wasted, where there was nothing to be expected but blows, wounds, and death. They often complained of this in his life time: but they durst not, by reason of his severe discipline, threaten any open defection. Being now in a mutiny, the Captains laboured fourteen days together to pacify them, and to contain them in their duties. In the mean time, many fleeing away, some were brought back and imprisoned, others were slain by the peasants. On the tenth day of October, four and twenty foot and horse came to Vienna: being letin and lodged, they were sought for, and at length found. In the beginning they defended themselves valiantly; and one of them shot himself through. At length they were taken, and delivered over to the judge as Traitors. MAHOMET, having received so many losses, especially by those who were wont to be his Mahomet and the Transiluanian prepare to Arms. friends and confederates, was wonderfully transported with rage and indignation; swearing by his sceptre, and by his Prophet MAHOMET, that he would revenge those injuries, and prosecute war against the Transiluaniaus, Null and Moldavians, until that he had slain them all; sending forth into all places to levy men, and to make provision of corn and munition. SIGISMOND the Transiluanian, being advertised hereof, fortified his Army with new supplies: he caused five troops of Silesian horsemen, which were upon the way, to advance; and, to have the greater forces to encounter his enemy, he granted to a certain people of his Country, called Dockeieri (who had resolved to forsake the Turk) their ancient liberties, rights and privileges, giving them withal great possessions; but, upon these conditions, that during the wars they should entertain 40●…00 armed men at their own charge, and yearly every house should pay a dolor, with a certain measure of wheat, oats and barley; and if the Prince had a son which did succeed him, than every family to contribute a fat Ox. These conditions pleased them well; and withal they promised a good donative at the birth of a son. These things were proclaimed in the Camp of the Dockeieri; which, all did confirm by oath: and having but 25000 men in their Army, they sent to levy the other 15000, the which was soon effected. The Prince, finding in his Army 80000 foot and horse, left the delights of Court, and went to Camp; where his only care was, how to intercept and overthrow the enemy. Being advertised by his spies, that SINAN and HASAN Bashaes', with the fugitive Vaivode of Moldavia, were encamped by Tergovista, and threatened utter ruin to his Countries, the Prince resolved to fight with them. Wherhfore, having commanded all to Arms, he put his Army in battle, and marched towards the enemy. Being come near to Tergovista, the Prince called a Council, to resolve (by their advice) what was fittest to be done. In the afternoon, two Christians (which had been freed from the Turks) were brought to the Prince; who told him, that there had been such an amazement Fear in the Turks Camp. for two days together in the Turks Camp, that no man could easily believe such an alteration: for they, which but few days before had devoured the Prince in hope, and had resolved to meet him with his whole Army, were now stricken with such fear, that, had not SINAN stayed his janissaries within the Camp both by threats and promises, yea and by force, all had fled away: but some hundreds brake out in despite of SINAN. In the end, SINAM, no less terrified Sinan flies. than the rest, fled with his whole Army, leaving in the Camp his tents, ordinance, warlike preparation and victuals; carrying nothing with him but what was most precious. He left HASAN Bassa and MICHAEL the Vaivode in Tergovista with 4000 horse and foot, promising to sand them speedy supplies: after which, he fled in all haste to Bacaresta, a day's journey off, to attend the event; writing Letters presently to HASSAN, and advising him if it were possible to defend the Castle, or else to provide in time for his escape: which Letters were intercepted by the Christians. The Transiluanian, hearing that the Turks meant to sand away 4000 Christians, men, women The Transiluanian takes Sinans Camp. and children, by the bridge into Turkey, sent 500 choice foot men to pursue them, and to free the Christians; who got before the Turks, slew them all, and freed the captives. The Prince of Transiluania entered SINAN's Camp, and enjoyed what they had left. Than he summoned HASAN to yield Tergovista; who, considering of SINAN's flight, of the great power of the Christians who had spoiled his Camp, resolved to yield the place, and to save himself and his soldiers: but the janissaries (who were 2000 in number) would not consent to the Bashaes' advice, but prepared themselves for defence. The Transiluanian presently overthrew the walls, and assaulted the Town and Castle; the which within few hours he forced, putting all the garrison to the sword: he spared the Bassa (whom he had taken with his own hands); and MICHAEL the Vaivode (who was turned Turk) was slain in the fight. SINAN a little before his flight had sent four thousand men forth to spoil; who returning to the Camp (being ignorant of what had past) were slain by the Christians, losing all the booty they had taken in Valachia. The Prince, leaving a good garrison in Tergovista, marched with the rest of his Army to Bucaresta, hoping to find SINAN there. But he, hearing of the loss of Tergovista (doubting of Sinans second flight. his safety) left the place, with nine and thirty pieces of great ordinance, and great store of powder, victuals and other munition; and fled to Zorza or Georgia. The Transiluanian took Bucaresta without any loss or labour; and sending some Troops of horse before, he slew many Turks in the flight, himself following SINAN with his whole Army: but before his coming he had removed his Camp toward the river Dannow; which seeking to pass, in this tumultuous flight the bridge broke, where many Turks were drowned. SINAN himself was carried into an Island from whence the year before he had expelled the Christians, and in the Sinans third fight. night escaped by boat. The Transiluanian after this happy victory, besieged Georgia: the which he battered continually, Georgia taken by the Christians. and having made a breach entered it by force; in which were slain 30000 Turks which could not follow SINAN in his speedy flight: they found in it 40 pieces of Cannon, with such store of Arms, and munition, as would suffice two kingdoms. They took many ships joaden with stuffs and other commodities; many Captives were freed, with which the Prince triumphing returned to Bucaresta. It is written, that the Ottoman house for many ages, never received so great a loss. For which victories, the Prince commanded public thanks to be given to God, throughout all the towns of Transiluania. SIGISMOND Prince of Transiluania, Valachia, and Moldavia, and Earl of Doccai, wrote The Prince of Transiluania sends to the Pope. Letters unto the Pope, sending him certain Tartarian and Turkish ensigns, making a relation of the victories which he had gotten, by the overthrow of SINANS Army: wherewith the Pope was greatly pleased, promising unto the Prince all assistance of men, counsel and money: and if need required he would sand him his Army which was in Hungary. Soon after the Pope sent a Nobleman, to the King of Poland, to persuade him not to suffer his Chancellor, to The Pope sends to the King of Poland for the Transiluanian. molest the Transiluanian in Moldavia and Valachia, but especially to persuade Cardinal BATTORI, to forget the hatred which he had conceived against his Nephew SIGISMOND, being most unworthy in a man of the Church; and that he should ask the Prince forgiveness both with tongue and hart. The Emperor sent an Ambassador, with the like charge to the Polonian, and the Pope wrote his Letters of admonition to Cardinal BATTORI, and cited him to Rome. SAMOSCIUS the Chancellor, puffed up with ambition, without respect of religion or Samooscius troubles M●…ldavia. honour, sought to effect his designs. He persuaded himself that Moldavia did of right belong unto the Kingdom of Poland, persuading the King and the states to suffer him to invade that province, to expel the old Vaivode, and to constitute another at his pleasure; giving them many reasons, which had more appearance than truth. The Transiluanian he said was inferior to the Turk in power; and therefore it was to be feared, he would be expelled out of all his countries, and Moldavia become subject to the Turkish tyranny: whereby Poland should have a treacherous and troublesome neighbour. Wherhfore it were better they should take it, who could better defend it, whereby the Turks might be kept fare from the Polonians: promising unto himself such favour with the Turkish Sultan, as the Polonians should easily enjoy their desires in this point. The Polonians being persuaded with these and such like reasons, gave him commandment to proceed: whereupon he expelled STEPHEN the old Vaivode and subregated a new, who should be for ever a tributary client to the crown of Poland. After this he sent to SINAN Bassa, entreating him not to take it ill, that he had seized upon Moldavia, and instituted a Vaivode, but rather would get his institution confirmed by his potent Emperor: promising that Moldavia should be subject unto him, as it had been, and pay a greater yearly tribute. SINAN (whom ambition and pride made to dare any thing) answered the Chancellor, that it was not his Emperor's pleasure, the Polonian should invade Moldavia, and that the Sultan was able to defend it, without his help. That he had given it formerly unto CZARI the Tartarian, who was now coming with many thousands of men, women and children, to enjoy it; but yet the Chancellor desisted not from his enterprise. The Prince of Transiluania soon after (finding that the Polonians had some secret intelligence with the Turks) assisted STEPHEN the old Vaivode of Moldavia with good troops of horse and foot, to see if he could expel the Polonians and recover his lost dignity. Coming to fright the Polonians had the victory: and STEPHEN defending himself valiantly having had two horses slain under him, and being upon the third, in the end was taken fight: whom the Polonians afterward murdered cruelly. The Turkish Emperor, having received so many overthrows the year past, from SIGISMOND Prince of Transiluania, he resolved to bend all his forces against him; who (hearing of this Turkish preparation) assembled the estates of his Country; whereby a general consent they resolved to prepare to war, to repel this common enemy: and to the end that they The Emperor prepares to war. might have the Emperor an associate with them in this difficult war, he resolved to go to him. He came to Prague in Feb. where being met by the Emperor's Nobles, he was conducted to the Archduke's Palace. The Emperor, understanding what preparations the Turk made, sent to the Prince's Electors to require money for the levying of an Army; the which was granted, and forces were accordingly made ready: but there wanted some one of great authority to command it. ALFONSUS, Duke of Ferrara, offered to be the Emperor's Lieutenant, and to entertain eight thousand men for a year, if the Pope would grant the investiture of Ferrara to his brother's base son: whereto he would not yield. Wherhfore the Archduke MAXIMILIAN was made General, the Germane and Hungarians pressing it, for that they desired not to fight under a stranger which differed from them in tongue and manners. The Emperor concluded with the Transiluanian, that, having gathered together a good Army, An accord betwixt the Emperor and Sigismond. he would join with him; and he bound himself by secret Articles, to entertain every year two thousand horse and three thousand foot in Transiluania: for the payment whereof, he should give monthly four and twenty thousand dollars. And if SIGISMOND should be expelled his Country by the Turkish Tyrant, than the Emperor did promise' to give him land in Silesia with an honourable pension: and the Pope's Nuntio promised forty thousand ducats monthly, with some Italian Troops towards this war. SIGISMOND having settled his affairs after this manner with the Emperor, he returned speedily unto Vienna; where the people flocked in the streets, to see this young Prince who had won so many noble victories against the Turks. In Croatia there is a kind of people who know no other art but stealing; wherein they exceed all mortal men, being Christians in show: these, being gathered together in Troops, had concluded with two Christian Renegadoes to surprise Clissa, a very strong Fort in Illiria; the which they effected, and slew the garrison. The Turks presently drew their forces together to recover this Town; where the Croatians annoyed them much, neither did the Bassa of Bosna see any means to prevail but by treason or famine. The Besieged were so oppressed with hunger, that they sent word to the Emperor's Lieutenant in Stiria, that if they were not presently relieved, famine would force them to yield; so as he presently gathered an Army together, and provided shipping with victuals, landing his men within four miles of the Turks Camp, marching speedily to charge them; who, being terrified with their sudden approach, fled. The Illirians and Croatians who were in the forward, breaking their ranks, fell to spoil; which the Bassa perceiving, commanded his men to return to the charge: in which, the Christians, who were the cause of this disorder, were slain; and the rest, being amazed, were put to shameful flight. After which, Clissa (despairing of all succours) yielded, upon condition to departed with bag and baggage. The garrison of Totta drew the Turks of Comorrha by a stratagem into an ambush; in which the Governor was slain, with all his Troops: and the same day NADASTI, who commanded in the lower Hungary for the Emperor, having lodged 1500 horse in a wood, sent some of his Troops to javerine to get some prey, and to draw out the Turks: who, following the Christians that fled, fell into the ambush, and were most of them put to the sword. The last year, the Transylvanians having taken Lippa, the Turk sent forty thousand men to besiege Lippa besieged and left by the Turks. it. The Transiluanian sent 5000 men to relieve it; who valiantly defended the Town, and made great slaughter of their enemies. The Bassa of Temesuarre fearfully raised his siege by night, leaving all his warlike instruments. The Hungarian and Germane Writers say, that there were 4000 Turks slain at this siege. Lippa being freed, the Transiluanian besieged, Themesuar sending forth 2000 horse and foot Themesuar besieged by the Christians. to discover and spoil; these brought him word, that a certain Bassa, with his wife and children, with great store of commodities, lodged in a poor Town, the which they scaled in the night, put the soldiers to the sword: gathering together the prisoners and spoils, they set fire on the Town, and departed. The garrison of Nicopolis, hearing which way the Christians marched, went to encounter them, where there was a cruel fight: but in the end the Christians had the victory, and slew 3000 Turks, and so returned to the Camp at Themesuar with their spoil and captives. The Barbarians, drawing all their forces together, came to charge the Transylvanians, where at the first the victory was doubtful: but in the end the Christians prevailed, having A great slaughter of the Turk●…. slain about five thousand of their enemies; but yet they were at length forced to raise the siege. MAHOMET conceiving that his Commanders had either been negligent or unfortunate in the wars, and resolving to ruin the Christians, came in person to Belgrade, where he drew together an Army of 150000 men, with which he besieged Agria; the Governor NIARIUS having been a little before supplied with men and victuals by the Archduke MAXIMILIAN. There was a Town and two Castles: the old stood upon the declining of a hill; and the new on the top. The Christians left the Town, and retired into the old Castle without any force; which the Turks having battered, they left this also, and fled into the new Castle: where they carried themselves no more valiantly than they had done before: for, after they had endured some assaults, and repulsed the Turks, the soldiers would needs yield to have their lives saved, contrary to the will of the Governor and Captains: but the Turks, violating their faith, having kept the Governor and other chief Commanders, slew all the soldiers, but such as impiously, to save their lives, would abjure their religion. The Archduke MAXIMILIAN, General of the Emperor's Army, having joined with the Prince of Transiluania and the Hungarians, and making an Army of 60000 men, resolved The Archduke Maximilian fights with Mahomet. to give battle to the Turks, contrary to the advice of his counsel. After divers skirmishes the Turks past a river with part of their Army, and came in good order to charge the Christians; who attended them resolutely, and repulsed them valiantly, forcing them after great slaughter to turn their backs, and repass the river, the Christians following them even unto their Camp: where falling greedily to spoil, and busying themselves in MAHOMET'S Tent, to free the Governor of Agria from bonds, they were set upon by CIGALA, who led the rearward of the Turkish Army, and put to the sword whilst they were busy in spoiling; so as by their greedy desire they lost the glory of a famous victory. MAHOMET, having not been so fortunate in fight as he expected, and being weary of the Hungarian wars, returned to Constantinople to his delights and venery: and the Christian Army was dissolved, and went to garrison. In the beginning of this year 1597, MAHOMET resolved to return again into Hungary as soon as the season of the year would serve, and to besiege Vienna: but all Turkey being oppressed with famine, and MAHOMET failing of a peace with the King of Persia, whereof they then treated at Constantinople, he was forced to desist from his resolved enterprise. And for that the defection of Transiluania, Valachia and Moldavia, did much trouble him, being very necessary for the feeding of his Countries and Armies, he therefore sent Ambassadors to the Prince of Transiluania with rich Presents, to the end he might draw him from all league with the Christians. The Turk seeks to gain the prince of Transiluania. The Prince entertained them courteously; and in the beginning answered them doubtfully, to the end he might protract the war, and discover the enemy's counsels: but hearing that the Turks were on foot, and marched towards Valachia, he drew his Army presently together, and charged them; at which encounter the Turks were in a manner all slain. After this exploit he went with 40 coaches to Prague; where having had secret conference with the Emperor, he received the Order of the golden Fleece, with many rich Presents; and then returned into Transiluania, the Emperor having promised to assist him with 6000 foot before the end of May. In May, PALFI, NADASTI and BERSTEIN, Bohemians, with some of the Emperor's forces, having by night forced one of the gates of Totta, a Castle in Hungary, they entered it Exploits of the Christians. without any loss, and slew the garrison. And the Archduke MAXIMILIAN, in August following, after six day's siege took Pappa; from whence he went to the siege of javerine: but hearing that the enemy came to relieve it with a good Army, he raised his siege, and went towards Vaccia; whereas MAHOMET Bassa offered him battle: but the Imperialists being far weaker, they kept themselves within their Camp; which, MAHOMET attempted to force, and was shamefully repulsed, with the loss of 700 janissaries, a Bassa, and many of his choice horsemen. The next day, having by his messengers obtained a treaty of a sergeant peace, with this subtle device he retired with his Army, and went to Beda. Soon after, the Turks returned to Totta or Totisa (taken a little before by the Christians) and laid siege unto it. CHRISTOPHER WEIDA commanded in this Castle with 250 soldiers; who although he performed the duty of a good Captain with great valour and resolution, yet in the end he was forced to yield, and to provide for his own safety and his soldiers: for, the Turks having b●…ttered it continually, and made a breach, they gave divers assaults, and attempted to force it; but they were always repulsed by the valour of the garrison. In the mean time they had undermined one of the Bulwarks of the Castle, and blew it up; which made a great breach. The soldiers being moved with this ruin, many of them being slain, some wounded, and some burnt with the fire, they persuaded their Captain not to cast himself and them away desperately: whereupon, in a tempestuous night they issued secretly by a postern gate, and went to the river Dannow. The enemy The Turks recover Totta. this while gives an assault, and enters the breach: but he found the Castle empty, the soldiers before their departure having laid a train of powder, which taking fire slew many of the Turks. In March 1598., the Earl of Suartzenbourg Lieutenant to the Archduke MAXIMILIAN, and the Baron of Palfi, laid a plot for the surprising of javerine: they brought ladders, bridges, javerine surprised by the Christians. and all other instruments of war, secretly by night to Comorrha, and prepared forces fit for such an enterprise, giving to every man his charge, exhorting the soldiers to abstain from spoiling, and to regard the general good of Christendom more than their own profits. The Earl having prepared all things ready for the execution, finding the drawbridge down, and the utter gate open, they made fast their Petard to the inner gate, which they forced. The soldiers which were in guard cried To Arms, and discharged their Pieces: but the Christians entered, seizing on the ports, ordinance, and places of strength, according to their directions. The Turks in this sudden amazement went to Arms: but they were all put to the sword, without respect of age or sex. The conflict lasted 5 hours; and the Turks fought with such obstinacy, that they willingly offered their throats to their enemy's swords: the Bassa, having defended himself long, was slain. SVARTZENBOURG (having got this victory, not without the loss of much blood) caused all the spoil to be gathered together, attending the Emperor's pleasure; who, reserving only the ordinance and warlike preparation, commanded all the rest to be given to the soldiers. The fame of this unexpected victory as it revived the spirits of the Christians, so it daunted the Turks, who relied much upon this place; as appeared by certain words graved in a stone, which were brought to the Emperor: that is to say, javerine a Town of the Turks is the key which can open all the Towns and Forts of the Christians. SVARTZENBOURG was made Governor of the Town, with a garrison of 10000 men; and PALFI FABACOURT the Petardier, a French Gentleman, with others, was honoured by the Emperor with the dignity of Knighthood, and had great rewards. In the mean time, SIGISMOND BATTORI Prince of Transiluania, who hitherto had The Prince of Transiluania resigns his Countries to the Emperor. fought against the Turks with great courage and valour, and faithfully entertained the league with the Emperor, whether now moved with the desire of a quieter life, or drawn by some other consideration, resolved to give-over the dominion of those three Provinces to the Emperor, so as he might have some duchy given him fit for his person within the bounds of the Empire. The Emperor accepted of this condition, and offered him a Duchy in Silesia; and the business was concluded in April, conditionally that Transiluania, with all the Towns, Cities and subjects, should hereafter acknowledge the Emperor and the Princes of the house of Austria, for their lawful Lords, and yield them all obedience due to their natural Princes; and that they should accept of the Archduke MAXIMILIAN, whom the Emperor had named, to be their Prince, and should enjoy their religion as they formerly had done. This being concluded; the Prince, calling his Noblemen together, acquainted them with this action: and, freeing them of their oath of allegiance, he wished them to obey the Emperor, and then went to possess his Duchy. In May, SVARTZENBOURG attempted to surprise Alba Regalis, but in vain. Having Alba Regali●… attempted by the Christians in vain. drawn together 8 Cornets of Austrian horse, joining with them of Hungary, and some footmen out of javerine, he marched secretly towards the Town: but this project was discovered to the Turks, so as the same night they fortified the Town with a stronger garrison, and kept good guards without it; so as the Christians understood by their spies, whom they had sent to discover, that there was small hope to take the Town. The Army was come within half a mile; and for that they would not return without some exploit, NADASTI was sent before with 150 horse to draw forth the enemy: whereupon, there sallying forth 600 horse, they pursued NADASTI; who drawing them into an ambush, there were above 250 slain. The Turks, returning to Alba, came forth again with greater forces: whom SVARTZENBOURG encountered, defeated and put to flight, having slain many, and taken some prisoners. The Prince of Transiluania, having taken possession of his Duchy in Silesia, was not much Sigismond returns again into Transiluania. pleased with that estate: but repenting him of his exchange, on the one and twentith of August disguising himself in a Friar's habit, he retired secretly with two more in his company into Tran siluania. And coming to Clausenbourg, he found his wife at her devotion; whom having kindly saluted, he took a new oath of the Citizens, and carried himself for Lord as he had formerly done. Than, sending messengers into all parts, he advertised them of his coming, requiring them to obey him as they had formerly done. He also sent Letters to the Archduke MAXIMILIAN, The Prince of Transiluania writes to the Archduke Maximilian. to whom the Emperor his brother had given the government of those Provinces; intimating, that whereas the Duchies of Opelia and Ratisbon, which the Emperor had exchanged with him, did in no sort equal his Countries, he had therefore great reason to return into Transiluania, and that he now held Clausenburg the chief city of that Province; that he neither could nor would yield it, or such other places as had continued in his power, or returned under his command, but would endeavour to defend them from all foreign force; wherefore he entreated him to desist from his intended enterprise, & not to attempt any thing against him in Transiluania, but rather to bend his forces for the recovery of Agria, jest he should force him by necessity (whilst he seeks to defend himself and his subjects) to deserve ill of them, to whom he wished all good. Moreover that he would honour the Emperor, and the whole house of Austria, with the majesty of the Roman Empire; and would endeavour to do any thing that might tend to their profit and good. His wife did also accompany them with her Letters, by the which she exhorted MAXIMILIAN, not to attempt any thing against her husband: which if he did, it would not only be hurtful, and dishonourable to himself, but also to the Emperor, and the whole Christian Commonwealth. Whilst that the Transiluanian was busy in settling of his estate, the Archduke MAXIMILIAN intercepted ceraine wagons loaden with silver and other rich commodities, the which he caused to be brought to Cassovia: the Transiluanian taking this very ill, laid hold upon certain Commissioners of the Emperors, which were then in Transiluania, the which he said he would not release, until he had restitution. This was the cause of great war, which not only afflicted those Countries, but bred great security to the Turks. The peace of Germany was much disquieted this year, by the Low Country's Army: for The estates of Germany in combustion. the Archduke under the command of MENDOZA Admiral of Castille, who had lodged his Army in Cleves, Westphalia, and the country's adjacent, taking many towns, and committing more than barbarous cruelties; the Duke of Cleves, who was a Prince of the Empire, complained to the Emperor and to the Princes and imperial towns, of the insolences committed by the Admiral and his Army: to whom the Emperor and the Princes sent often to demand restitution: which the Admiral neglecting, in the end the Princes raised an Army of 10000 foot and 3000 horse to force him to retire out of the quarters of Westphalia, and Munster; whereupon the Spaniard, fearing that this would draw all Germany into Arms, left those countries, which they had spoiled. MAHOMET to revenge the loss of javerin sent OSMAR Bassa with an Army of 60000 men to besiege Varadin a town in Transiluania, in which MELCHIOR REDER a Silesian Varadine besieged by the Turk in ●…aine. Gentleman, bred up in Arms, commanded: who seeing the town unable to resist so great an Army, set it on fire, and retired himself with all the victuals and munition unto the Castle, drawing in such inhabitants as would run the same fortune, making them swear, not to parley with the enemy nor to make any motion of yielding, upon pain of death, and he himself did likewise promise' to die with them. They endured a siege of six weeks, and repulsed many sharp assaults. The History commends him, to have by his valour and diligence recompensed the loss of about 13000 Christians before Varadine, with the death of 13000 Turks, and forced the enemy to retire with shame and confusion to Buda. The Emperor to encourage the Nobility to the like virtue, honoured REDER and his Lieutenant, with the order of Knighthood. On the other side, Snatzenbourg, and Palfi attempted Buda: they took the suburbs, with the fort of P●…tentiana upon the Dannow; after which they battered the town, and made such a breach, as the inhabitants, women and children, pressed the Bassa to enter into composition. But the Bashaes' of Buda attempted by the Christian●… in vain. Caramania, Anatolia, and Bosua coming to relieve them, and the continual rain having made their powder unprofitable, they were content to retire their troops in safety, having slain 15000 Turks at Buda. SIGISMOND BATTORI Prince of Transiluania, in the beginning of March resigned all his countries, unto Cardinal ANDREW BATTORI, showing a strange example of humane 1599 inconstancy: for a little before having sent an Ambassador to CESAR, desiring him to free his subjects from their oath which they had taken, and to restore Varadine with the country adjacent; the Emperor refusing this, he then sent unto him the Bishop of Alba julia, to renew the former contract, requiring to have the jurisdiction of Drebnits in Moravia, added to his two Duchies in Silesia, with a yearly pension of 50000 crowns, out of the Imperial chamber: That the estates of Transiluania should be pardoned, for their breach of faith to the Emperor, and The Prince of Transiluania resigns his countries to Cardinal Andrew Battori. have their liberties and privileges confirmed. But during the absence of his Ambassador, he makes transaction with Cardinal ANDREW, and causeth his subjects to swear obedience unto him. This new Prince sent presently to GEORGE BASTA the Emperor's Lieutenant in those parts, promising to ratify whatsoever SIGISMVND's Ambassador should conclude with the Emperor: That he would not attempt any thing, but what should be for the good of the Christian Commonwealth, hoping that BASTA would take his actions in good part, and attempt nothing in hostile manner against him. The Emperor was much distempered with these news, sending presently to stay SIGISMVND's Ambassadors who were but newly departed from Prague, and to put them in custody. The Ambassadors being comn to Terna, hearing what had passed in Transiluania, resolved willingly to stay there and attend the Emperor's pleasure. Cardinal BATTORI wrote Letters unto the Emperor, by the which he promised to do all good offices that might tend to The proceed of Cardinal Battori. his Majesty's service, and the Peace of Christendom. The Emperor delaying to make an answer, commanded BASTA to draw what forces he could together. The Cardinal being in some doubt sent to BASTA, letting him understand that he had need of a Patron, by whose help he might defend his Countries, and therefore he desired that the Emperor would explain himself, whether he would hold him as a friend and client, or as an Enemy: That there was a Turkish Ambassador then with him, who willingly offered him aid from his Emperor, & required but 10000 ducats for his yearly tribute; yet he had rather join his forces with other Christians, and do good and faithful service to the Emperor, then be guilty of betraying of Religion, and his country's liberty, to a cruel enemy; to which BASTA made no answer, but referred him unto the Emperor. The Turk, seeing that the great wars he had against the Persians', did exhauste his treasure, The Tartarians propound a peace to the Emperor. and that the Christians daily surprised places, and slew his men; he was desirous to have a peace with the weaker, that he might be able to encounter the stronger: He sent thirteen Tartarians to Vienna, to make an overture of peace; but this was to crave alms (as they say) by command: For, the Soldiers did not forbear to spoil the Country; and the Imperialists desired to have all violences and acts of hostility to cease: so as they carried no satisfaction to the Turk; but were sent away without any answer. This contempt thrust the Tartarians into rage, breathing nothing but rage and fury, putting all, as they passed, to fire and sword. A great convoy with victuals, money, cloth of gold and silver, and other sundry moveables, was coming forwards to Buda, for the furnishing of the new Bassa and garrison. ORSIPPETER, Lieutenant to the Governor of Strigonium, set upon them unawares, and A great booty tak●…n from the Turks. defeated them that guarded this convoy; making himself rich, both in honour and spoil. This victory begot a second: The Fort of Walls was fallen; he marched thither, defeated the garrison and the Governor, freed them of Bischiac, and carried a great number of sheep unto his Garrison. SWARTZENBOURG, General of the Christians Army, is commended, for that he had always his spirits banded to some new Stratagem. He had once failed to surprise Buda, and yet he would attempt it so often as he might advance the Emperor's affairs, by an honourable victory, over that strong Town. He drew together twelve thousand men, and lodged them closely in a valley, that he might surprise it at the opening of the gate: But the enterprise being discovered, the suburbs smarted for the Town; the enemy having no will to salie forth. And the next day he defeated a convoy, which carried pay for the Garrison of Agria, slew 400 Turks, and took the Bege, who was Governor of Hatuan. These victories made SWARTZENBOURG to attempt Buda the third time; but he failed to take the Town, though not the Bassa; who, walking abroad, was surprised, and sent for a trophy to the Emperor, with certain Ensigns, which the Barons of Palfi and Madasti, had taken from the Tartarians. The Turk was so oppressed, on the one side by the Christians, and on the other by the Persians', The Turks demand a Peace. as he would willingly have embraced a peace; but he would make it with such advantage, as he seemed to want neither force nor means to encounter both Enemies. The Turk demanded to have javerin, Fillec and Serchein, restored; and he offered nothing but Agria: whereupon the assembly broke off, without any effect; and presently after PALFI defeated seven hundred Turks; and the Hussars (which be Hungarian Knights) cut in pieces 3000 Tartarians near to Fillec. In the mean time Cardinal BATTORI, having gotten the government of Transiluania, Cardinal Battori makes a league with the Turk, and the success. thrust on with blind ambition, and the desire of command, treated with the Turk, and promised a certain annual tribute, so as he might be maintained in the possession of what he had usurped. Doubtless the nature of man is blindly furious, and mad, being once transported with passion. The Pope foresaw the Cardinal's ruin; and, by his Nuntio, laboured to retire him from temporal Arms to his profession: God beheld his enterprise, full of injustice and treachery, and stirred up a scourge to punish him. MICHAEL Vavoide, or Lord of Valachia, who wholly depended upon the Emperor, having levied an Army of 30000 men entered into Transiluania and took Cronstar to stop the Polonians passage, who he thought would assist the Cardinal. After which he came with his Army near unto the Cardinal's Camp, giving him to understand, that he came not to shed Christian blood, but would willingly spare it: but whereas he had refused to take an oath to the Emperor and to restore that which he had usurped, and being forced by no necessity, had craved aid from the Turk; for this cause if he did not presently yield himself into the Emperor's power, he would prosecute him by Arms. The Cardinal Cardinal Battori defeated and slain. refusing to perform this, the Vaivode led his Army against him, and the Cardinal did the like; in the beginning the fight was furious, but the victory inclined to the Vaivode, who sent to pursue the Cardinal being fled, and to bring him back: the Null overtook the Cardinal in the mountains, where they slew him and carried his head to the Vaivode. Which being done he brought all Transiluania subject unto the Emperor, whose Ambassador was received by them, upon condition to maintain them in their rights & privileges. Albina Transiluania set up the victor's ensigns, who fortifying himself in the strongest towns, ministered occasion to call the sincerity of his designs in question: which opinion was fortified when they saw the Turk seek his friendship, by an Embassy which he sent unto him; but he weakened that opinion by retaining the Ambassador, which the Turkish Emperor had sent unto him, whether it were that he doubted some fraud, or that he meant by that policy to cover the malice of his heart: but he gave some satisfaction, by putting to death certain spies of the Bassa's SERDER and delivering the whole estate of Transiluania into the Emperor's hands. In October SERDER Bassa made a great show to affect peace, sending Ambassadors to The turks sand Ambassadors to treat of a peace. the Archduke MATHIAS: whereupon a place of treaty was appointed, in an Island betwixt Strigonia and Visigrade, and Commissioners were sent on either side. The Turks demanded restitution of all those places which had been taken by the Christians, the last five years, especially Strigonia. The Christians yielded to all except Strigonia, which the Turks did urge much, offering Agria in exchange. In the end, the Emperor's Commissioners finding that the Turks meant nothing but fraud, they broke off the assembly and retired: yet soon after, SERDER Bassa sought to renew the treaty again, but it took no effect. MICHAEL the Vaivode of Valachia, having yielded the estate of Transiluania unto the Emperor, after the defeat of Cardinal BATTORI; The Turk knowing him to be a man 1600. The treachery of Michael the Vaiu●…de. of service, sought his friendship. And although that he endeavoured to free himself from all show of suspicion: yet GEORGE BASTA Lieutenant for the Emperor in Transiluania, had discovered certain secret intelligences which he had with the Turk, whereof he gave him notice. Soon after he gave over his secret practices, & received the Turks Ambassadors & his master's presents publicly: and caused them to be carried before them, entering into Cronstar with the Ambassador. And to the end they should give no sinister impression of his fidelity to the Emperor; he told his ministers, that his desire was to have that action performed, in view of the whole town; to the end they should not think, he would do any thing in secret to the prejudice of Christendom. And withal he entreated them to move the Emperor, to revoke BASTA'S Commission, for the private quarrels that were betwixt them, and to substitute some other of a more tractable disposition. The Emperor being advertised, that MICHAEL would escape from him if he did not stay him by some means, he sent him thirty thousand crowns in gift: but he thinking it too small His demands of the empire. a recompense for his services, told the Emperor's agents that Transiluania did belong unto him by hereditary right; wherefore he demanded, that he might enjoy it as his own; and for satisfaction of his services, he should give him Varadin, Hust, Nagban, and the confines of Hungary, with other demands which were so arrogant, and uncivil, as they did purchase him deadly hatred and were the cause of his ruin. After which he overthrew SIGISMOND BATTORI who sought to enter into Transiluania again, with JEREMIS the Vaivode of Moldavia; but being annoyed by the Chancellor of Poland in Valachia, he craved aid from the Lieutenant of the Imperial Army in high Hungary, and promised the Emperor by his Letters, to serve him faithfully in this occurrent, so as he would but call BASTA out of Transiluania. The Emperor would not that his vassal should capitulate with him. It was a precedent of bad consequence; and therefore he commanded him to obey BASTA. Afterwards he grew hateful to all the Polonians, BASTA pursued him, and surprised him being encamped at Visbourg with 18000 men, where he slew four thousand, and chased him into the Mountains, where he was reduced to that extremity, as he was forced to go●…an humble suppliant to the Emperor, and to offer his wife and children for hostages. The Garrison of Pappa, consisting for the most part of Walloons and French, fell into a mutiny for their pay, having also some scarcity of victuals; they made one called Lafoy MOTT their Puppa betray▪ by the garrison. Captain, forcing their companions to sign their revolt; they seized upon MAROT their governor, and of the other Captains: They set all the Turks at liberty (who by the counsel of these Traitors, carried every man his host prisoner to Alba Regalis, or to Vesperine) and withal, they promised to deliver them SWARTZENBOURG, lieutenant General of the Imperial Army, or to give them means to take him at Zolnock, when he should come with their pay. MAROT the Governor found means to advertise him hereof, and he went thither presently with nine thousand men; where, at his first coming, he took one of their Captains, whom he caused to be fleyed alive, and his head to be set upon a Pike, to terrify the rest; he took from them a Bassa, whereby they did hope to be relieved by the Turk; who could not assist them either with men or provision: hunger pressed them, and they grew desperate, having no hope of any humane aid; whereupon they salied out by night, and made a great slaughter in one of the Quarters; SWARTZENBOURG runs thither to repair this disorder, but he was overthrown with a shot and slain: his death caused great heaviness in the Imperial Army, and all Christendom had cause to lament his loss. These Wretches made a second salie; saying that before they would yield, they would feed upon their Governor MAROT, and their other prisoners. MELCHIOR REDER, who had won much honour in the defence of Varradine, had the charge of the Army, and pressed the siege, and the Traitors endured the last extremity. They had a postern gate behind, in which they did put all the hope of their safety, seeking to make dry a pool, which did environ the Town of the one side; but for that the mud would not easily carry them, they could not cover it so secretly, with hardles, straw, reed, and such other materials, but REDER was advertised. Hereupon he sent NADASTI the Earl of Thurne and Colonits': who overtaking them near unto a Wood, brought some of them back prisoners, and slew La MOTT their Captain, with some hundred others which would not yield; forcing the rest to keep themselves within the Fort. The Governor MAROTT with certain others, who had freed themselves from their bonds, came speedily unto the Campe. REDER then enters the town, kills some of the remainder, and reserves the rest for their deserved punishments, whom he sent into diverse garrisons: and that by the horror of their example The cruel punishments of the Traitors in Pappa. they might abhor the like treachery, some were impaled, others broken upon the wheel, or roasted at a slow fire, basted with Lord; others had their bowels pulled out of their bellies, and burnt before their eyes, their thighs, shoulders, and other parts being pinched with hot pincers: Some had their hearts pulled out of their bodies alive, others their throats and mouths stuffed full of Sulphur and Powder and then fired, and some were buried in the ground up to the neck, and their heads bruised with bullets. And thus were those traitors cruelly tormented by order of martial law. Pappa, a fort of importance, being then preserved, Babottes could not so escape: the town was strong, and fortified with five hundred men, having store of all sorts of necessary provision. But Babotts yielded basely ●…o the Turks. the Garrison (terrified by the descent of twelve thousand janissaries, sent from Constantinople) yielded it upon the first attempt; and by their baseness, made the loss of Canisa easy, the which followed to the prejudice of all Christendom. It was an ill precedent for the Governor of that place, being the strongest fort the Christians had in Stiria: an example the which, it may be, he would no●… so easily have imitated, if the Governor of Babottes had received that punishment which martial law inflicts upon those that yield up a place of importance, without extreme necessity; but the Christian Army, had need of a commander of greater authority, who by his presence might contain both soldiers and Captains in their duties. The Duke of Mercoeur, would not accept the charge of Lieutenant general of the Army of Hungary, but with the kings good liking: who having signified his pleasure, the Duke came into Hungary, and was saluted Lieutenant general of the Army in javerin; an Army weak in forces, but strong in courage and resolution, to fight for the defence of Religion. He marched with fifteen thousand men, of diverse Nations, to relieve them, being resolved either to lodge in Canisa, or to die in the field. The first of October, he gave a sign unto the besieged of his coming, and sought to keep from his enemy the knowledge of his small Army; Canisa was besieged by 50000 men under the command of the Vetzier Bassa. The Duke resolves to hazard a battle to relieve the Town. The Vetzier, understanding, by his spies, the weakness of the Duke's Army, advised him, not to oppose his small troops, against so great forces. The Duke made answer: That, he did not fear to assail a greater number of Infidels, with few ere Christians; and, that God favoured the justice of his cause. The Duke advanced towards Canisa, and the Vetzier attended him in his passage with a battalion of twenty thousand men, which came to charge him with their accustomed cries. The The Duke of Mercoeur repels the Turks. Duke's Artillery amazed their furious clamours, stayed their heat, diminished their numbers, and beaten them back towards their Trenches; the Duke, remaining master of the field, of two Cannons, and of many slain and hurt. The next day he seeks to draw them out of their Camp, and takes fourteen field pieces: and on the other side, the Turks intercepted the Christians victuals, coming unto them. The Vetzier, seeing that force could not prevail, sought to vanquish them by necessity. The Army being in great want, they cried out to retire: The General preached patience, and would not consent unto a retreat, until the Colonels and Captains had confirmed their opinions under their hands. In their retreat there fell a sudden amazement among them, which put the army in disorder: whereupon the Turks arrived, and put many Germans to the sword. The Duke rallied his men together, and encouraged them rather to dye honourably, then by flight to fall into miserable servitude. Thus, encouraged by the presence of the General, they returned to the charge, repulsed the enemy, and made the retreat easy. The besieged in Canisa dispaired of all succours, and PARADIS the Governor was easily persuaded by them to yield. Thus Canisa, one of the chief bulwarks Canisa taken by the Turks. of Christendom, was made subject to the tyranny of this barbarous enemy. PARADIS, presenting himself to the Duke of Mercoeur, he sent him to the Duke MATHIAS, who was Governor of the Country: And having no sufficient reason to excuse his cowardice, he was by the Emperor's commandment condemned to have his right hand cut off, which had signed the rendition; and to loose his head. This year the King of Persia sent his Ambassadors to summon the Emperor, the Pope, the King of Spain, and other Christian Princes, to invade the Turks estate with their joint forces, The Persian entreats the Christian Princes to war against the Turks. promising to assail him with 15000 horse, and 60000 foot; and to grant free liberty of Religion and traffic to their subjects in his kingdoms, so as they would not treat any peace with the Turk without comprehending him. The Pope and Princes did thank the Sophy for his affection to the good of Christendom; exhorting him to be a means, that the great Duke of Muscovie might give his consent and assistance to this general enterprise. MAHOMET, advertised hereof, sent his Physician, a Christian Renegado, into France, to entreat the King, to mediate a truce for him with the Christian Emperor; and to call the Duke of Mercoeur back into France: for (said he) the Turks do greatly apprehended one of their prophecies, which saith, that, The Sword of the French shall chase them out of Europe. The Transilvanians calling an assembly at Clausenbourge, SIGISMOND BATTORI was there proclaimed their lawful Prince, by such as favoured his party, and all men commanded to obey him, and the Imperialists were put in safe custody. They sent into Moldavia, to entreat SIGISMOND to come and take possession of his inheritance; and in the mean time they made ISCHIACK, an ambitious and cruel man, his Lieutenant General; who, in the beginning committed the wife and son of MICHAEL the Vaivode of Valachia to prison. BASTA, having no power to hinder this resolution, nor the effects, demanded leave of the Estates to retire; exhorting the Transilvanians to persist in the fidelity which they did own unto the Emperor. They, foreseeing that this act would be dipleasing unto him, sent STEPHEN CARKESY unto the Emperor; protesting that they were very sorry for these alterations: that having no Prince under whom they might be more assured, they had again opened their Arms to SIGISMOND BATTORI: That they would always yield that obedience and fidelity which they did own unto his Imperial majesty, and would not conclude any peace with the Turk, but upon such conditions as should not be any way displeasing unto him. BATTORI comes into Transiluania: from whence by his Letters to BASTA, he laments the miseries into which he had underseruedly been reduced. He craves pardon for that which had Battori returns into Transiluan. been done in his absence, to the prejudice of his majesty's service, and that he might be suffered to sand his excuses by an Ambassador to the Emperor. BASTA answered him, that all depended upon the Emperor's pleasure, whose commandment he attended. The Vaivode MICHAEL took the captivity of his wife and son impatiently. He pretended to be able to do the Emperor great service, if he would assist him with some forces, hoping soon to reduce the whole Province to obedience. This Valachian had his designs apart, fortifying himself upon diverse occurrents, both with the Turk and Emperor: But to reject the service of this Prince, were to thrust him into fury; and make him either seek unto the Turk, or reconcile himself with SIGISMOND, and so to cross the Emperor's affairs with their joint forces. The Emperor therefore furnished him with men and money, to join with BASTA, who had a watchful eye over his actions, jest he should attempt something to his master's prejudice. They had drawn together twenty thousand men, and camped upon a mountain, attending some horsemen from Silesia. SIGISMOND had eighteen thousand horse, and twenty two thousand foot, with the which he resolved to charge them before their supplies came; whereupon, both Armies joined battle; where, after a bloody fight, BATTORI was overthrown, with the loss of ten thousand men, forty pieces of great Ordinance, one hundred Battori def●…ated by the Vaivode and Basta and ten Ensigns, and all his baggage. After this, Clausenbourg was taken, paying three month's entertainment for the whole Army, and, likewise, receiving a good Garrison. The Valachian, in this battle, performed the part of a faithful servant; but he thought himself rather borne to command, then to obey; and thrust on by his natural ambition, he continued, secretly, his fraudulent intelligences with the Turks and Tartarians. BASTA informed the Emperor of all his actions, and namely of his rigour against the inhabitants of the champagne Country, under colour to revenge their disloyalty to the Emperor. BASTA persuaded him, in the Emperor's name, not to blemish his generous and well deserving acts, with the infamous name of cruelty. To whom he answered, proudly; That he would no more obey his commandments, or the Emperors; And that he meant to enjoy Transiluania, which he had gotten by his sword and valour; doing many acts of absolute power. Soon after, BASTA discovered by his own Letters, that he treated with the Bassa of Themesuar, and sought the friendship of BATTORI, to deliver the Imperial Army into the Enemy's hands. Hereupon the Council sent for him, meaning to sand him unto the Emperor; but refusing to come, Colonel PETZ was commanded to invest his Quarter, with his regiment, and some other troops, who coming into the Null Tent, and telling him that he arrested him as the Emperor's prisoner, he drew out his Sword, whereupon they presently slew him, and cut off The Vaivode Michael slain. his Head. They found in his Tent, Letters which did manifestly discover his treacherous designs: the which being imparted to the Null (who began to mutiny upon his death) they confessed that he had been justly slain. Most of them took a new oath to the Emperor, and enrolled themselves under BASTA'S Ensigns. BATTORI was again defeated before Clausenbourg, which he thought to surprise: and being pursued by BASTA, he fled, like a Vagabond, into the Mountains and Deserts. The Duke of Mercoeur having drawn together an Army of 18000 men, with Cannon and munition of war, necessary for a siege, gave it out that he would attempt Buda, yet holding Alba Regalis besieged by Duke Mercoeur. his enterprise so secret as the troops knew not where their General would employ them: until that after the taking of some Castles by composition, they found themselves in the suburbs of Alba Regalis, a small town, but of great importance, environed with a deep marish, which made the approaches difficult. Having observed the situation, he cast up a trench towards Buda, from whence they might be relieved; resolving first to assault the base town and the suburbs: where having planted his petardes and appointed a scalado at the same instant, the soldiers entered with little loss, forcing the Turks to retire into their chief Fort. Than he made his approaches: and having planted his battery, within six days he made two small breaches in the walls, commanding ROCHEVORMB Marshal of the Camp, with 1000 good soldiers to seek a passage through the marish, to one of the breaches, every one carrying a faggot in his hand, meaning at the same instant to give an assault to the other breach; ROCHEVORMB was discouraged by the Country people, who assured him that there was no passage that way: but giving no credit to their words, he sent to discover it, and they brought him word that the passage was difficult, but not impossible: whereupon at night they entered those fens which they found fare deeper than was related, almost with the hazard of their lives; but they vanquished all difficulties, and came unto the breach: which they entered, the Turks being busy to defend the other; whereupon the town was taken and most of them put to the sword, the Castle, and a great part of the town was blown up by certain trains which the Turks had laid. The which did so incense the victors, as they would not receive any to ransom, except the Bassa, and some hundred soldiers, which were retired into a Fort; who, making show to yield, had their lives granted them. The plague did much afflict the Duke's Army, who had retired two miles off, aswell to refresh it, as to observe the countenance of the great VETZIER, who resolved in the absence Alba Regalis invested again by the Vetzier. of the christian general to attempt to reduce that place under his obedience, before the ruins were repaired and the victuals supplied. The Duke advertised that the Bassa turned head towards Alba Regalis, he approached also with his troops: and taking with him some 120 French horse, he put himself into the town to assure them by his presence; where he was presently invested by 8000 horse, the whole Army (being 60000 men) following after. The Duke having giving order for the most urgent affairs of the town, returned by night unto his Army: the which did much revive their daunted spirits; where they performed brave exploits against the enemy, by their daily encounters and skirmishes, in which they took 9 Cannons and slew MEHEMET TICAIA a Bassa, the Bassa of Buda, 6 Saniacs, one CADIZ and many other men of note in the Army; whose heads were given in exchange, for many Christian prisoners. The rest of the Turkish Army being dispersed here and there, the Duke had liberty to assure his garrisons, and to return to Viena with much honour. In the mean time the Archduke FERDINAND went to recover Canisa (which had been taken the year before by the Turk) with an Army of 4500 horse, and 23000 foot: of which Canisa besieged by the Archduke Ferdinand in vain. the Pope and Princes of Italy had sent 12000, under the command of FRANCIS ALDOBRANDINE his Nephew, and the Duke of Mantua was Lieutenant General to the Archduke. Having planted their Cannon, they made a reasonable brcach, and summoned the besieged, with offer of all favour, if they yielded; but if they attended the extremity, they must expect no better usage than they of Alba Regalis. Their example did nothing terrify the Walloons, and Christians Renegades, which commanded in the place: they found easily by their weak attempts to force them, that either there was some trouble & bad intelligence in the Army, or want of that which was needful to give an assault; letting them understand that they had no more fear than if their walls were freed. There was great confusion among the Italians: which troubled the whole Camp. The bridge, which they had made to pass covered over the ditch, was too weak and short. They were annoyed with rain, snow, and tempest; and many other difficulties were in their Camp, so as many soldiers died without help, and there was no appearance to stay any longer, without a total ruin of the Army. Whereupon the Archduke FERDINAND resolved to retire, in the which he wonnelesse honour then in the siege; for wanting all things necessary to draw away their Cannons they were forced to break them, to burn their tents, and to abandon their sick men, to the spoil of their enemies. The Duke of Mercoeur having taken Alba Regalis the year before, it was now again made subject to the Turkish tyranny, whereas the garrison was all put to the sword; the governor laying the fault upon the negligence of the Soldiers. The spoil was very great; in which they found all the old Ordinance, with twelve pieces new cast, an infinite number of Swords, forty ton of powder, 200 ton of meal, eighty of Biscuit, with ten thousand Florins to pay the Garrison. After the death of the Duke of Mercoeur, RUSOURMBE was General of the Christian Army, preparing to relieve Alba Regalis, if he had not been advertised of the loss. And hearing that the Turks Army was dispersed (some go against the Scribiano, and others into Transiluania, against BASTA) he marched directly to Buda, the chief town in Hungary, with five thousand horse, and twenty thousand foot; having in his company the Duke of Nevers, a valiant Nobleman of France. At their first approach they attempted the base Town, by land and water, and took it by night. Buda was divided from Pesta, by the River of Dannow, having a bridge whereby they might assist one another. The Christians resolved to cut off this bridge, the which they effected; and whilst the Turks were busy in the defence of the River, they took Pesta by Scalado, and put all they encountered to the Sword: the rest being retired into Pesta taken by the christians. some places of strength, compounded for their Lives, Wives and Children; and promised to 'cause them of Buda to do the like; but there were more men, and they had greater courage. The Turkish Army hearing hereof, posted presently back to save Buda, leaving the designs The Turks raise the siege of Buda. of Transiluania. RUSOURMB being thus surprised, puts men into Pesta, and prepares for his reof Transiluania. RUSURMB being thus surprised, puts more men into Pesta & prepares for his retreat, having first battered the town, and made a small breach, at which there were 2500 Christians slain and wounded; and the Duke of Nevers performing all parts of a valiant Nobleman was shot in the left side, but it was not mortal. After which, the Army retired in safety. The Noblemen of Transiluania favoured SIGISMOND BATTORI their natural Lord: they seized upon Bistrick and vowed to defend it against all assailants. BASTA went speedily The Transilu●…nians oppose themselves against the Emperor. to besiege it, battered their walls, and gave an assault, but his men were repulsed with loss. To revive their courages he promised them the spoil of the town. The inhabitants grew amazed: and apprehending the insolences of conquerors, they declared that they would not endure the extremity of war, for the pleasure of some ill affected to the Emperor's service: they excused themselves to the General, that they had not consented to this rebellion, but by force, & demanded peace: the which he granted; but with such conditions, as the Magistrates would not accept. Whereupon BASTA renews his battery, and prepares for a new assault, the soldiers growing resolute with the hope of a rich spoil. BATTORI gives his word by an Ambassador, that he would not make war against the Emperor, and that the citizens of Bistrick should submit themselves upon reasonable conditions: whereupon he received the inhabitants, paying 30000 dallers for reparation, promising that all that would departed should be conducted to a place of safety with their goods, wives and children. Upon this assurance 300 men went out of the town with 100 wagons; the which were spoiled by some of the Army. BASTA detesting this treachery made diligent search for the Authors, restored what could be found, and punished the chief with death. BATTORI seeing his enterprises succeed ill, resolved to make his peace with the Emperor: and during this treaty (all things seeming to be quiet) MOSES Duke of Zeccleria took Basta overthrows Moses duke of Zeccleria. Arms; and foreseeing that BASTA would besiege him in Visibourg, he laid an ambush for him. After some messages passed on both sides, BASTA went and joined battle with him, in the which he slew 3000 of his men and forced MOSES to fly to the mountains. BATTORI seeing this faction overthrown, came speedily to BASTA, to purge himself of the revolt of MOSES: he entered with him into Visibourg, and submitted himself wholly into the Emperor's power, and so Transiluania was for that time pacified. 1603 This year the Emperor being daily annoyed with the incursions of Turks and Tartarians into his Countries, he called a Diet at Ratisbone: whither he sent the Archduke MATHIAS his brother, with instructions not only to acquaint the Princes and estates of the Empire, with the present necessities of the Turkish wars, and the daily incursions of the Tartarians; but also to require such aid as the turbulent estate of things did presently require: who after much consultation, granted a good supply of horse and foot. COLLONITS' a man of great service, and who had carried himself valiantly in the Hungarian The enterprise●… of Collonit●…. wars, did this summer take two strong forts, and had put to rout 2000 Turks near to Comorrha, and sent thirteen ensigns to the Emperor: he beat the garrison of Canisia, and resolved to attempt the town. There was a Frenchman in his Army a subtle fellow and daring any thing, who counterfeiting himself a Renegado, fled into Canisia and desired to be entertained by the Turks; the which having easily obtained, he laid trains of powder in divers fit places, all which should take fire at one instant, so as when the Turks were busy to quench it, COLLONITS' might assault the Castle. The Frenchman performed what he had undertaken, and the fire broke out with such violence as it consumed all the houses upon the South and West parts, yea the carriages of their Ordinance: but the Turks neglected the fire & observed the enemy; so as COLLONITS' being out of hope to take the Castle, left it wasted unto the Turks. By the like Stratagem, the Turks soon after sought to take Strigonium. The estate of Transiluania was much troubled by the Zecclerian; who thinking to revenge The exploits of Mos●…s' the Zecclerian. his last affront, crept into favour with the Turk, who promised to make him his Lieutenant general, as soon as he should reduce that province, under the Turkish obedience and religion. With this hope, he had appointed him 150000 men, for the recovery of Pesta and Strigonium: and nothing stayed the progress, but want of victuals in Turkey. Having received 10000 Tartarians, with a great number of Transylvanians, he besieged and took Visibourg, persuading all men to join their Arms with his, upon hopes of great favour, and commanding the soldiers to abandon BASTA'S Camp. BASTA was weak both of men and money. RADVI●… the new Vaivode of Valachia, remembering how BASTA had succoured him in his necessity against the Tartarians, came speedily with 8000 men to requited him: without which succours, he was in danger to have fallen into the hands of the Infidel MOSES. And BASTA armed speedily, to join with the Valachian, that they might make the body of an Army. He attended two thousand Silesian horse: which, MOSES resolving to defeat, sent some part of his Army to seize upon the passages, and to stop the entry into the Country. By chance, they encountered with 800 Null, led by Colonel MARSE: who, finding his troops weak, retired, and left his Camp. MOSES' men triumphed very much at this petty victory; and, thinking that MARSE was fare Moses' the Z●…cclerian defeated and overthrown by Colonel Marse. retired, neglected their guards. But MARSE returned presently, and fell upon them like a whirlwind, putting many to the Sword: the rest he chased to Themesuar, sending 25 Ensigns to BASTA. MOSES' himself, present at this defeat, was slain; his body being found upon search by the Null, and the Emperor advertised thereof by BASTA. ALBERT NASSIUS succeeded him: who, swimming in the Gulfs of Infidelity, like to MOSES, drew together 6000 Rebels, and other people of diverse Nations. BASTA sent to assail him suddenly by his Cavalry: who slew most of his men; himself escaping with some few. The general Enemy of the Christian name, might have been expelled Hungary, had the Emperor received the contribution money granted at the general assembly of Ratisbone in March last, to entertain an Army for six year and eight months. The Princes of Germany A great contribution, granted at Ratisbone, ill managed. had freely offered their contributions. The collections might have been made without grievance or oppression. But as the rich sought to ease themselves, and to lay it upon the weaker sort: so the effects did not second the hopes which were conceived. Some did contribute more than was demanded. The Elector of Saxony gave the Emperor twelve field pieces, with the furniture necessary for a year. The Duke of Brunswick sent 1000 horse and 2000 foot. Others assisted this public cause, with the like bounty. Some also, under that pretext, have extorted from their subjects fare greater sums than their tax, employing it to their own use; to the dishonour of their order, and against the dignity of their rank. Buda was much pressed with famine: they had eaten all their horses, and tumultuously carried away all the victuals in the Bassa's house: which threatened some dangerous effect, if shortly Buda pressed with famine. they were not relieved with sufficient provision. The great Vetzier brought them victuals: but, COLLONITS' with his horsemen by land, and SULTZ and ALTHEM with their footmen upon the River, were always watchful to intercept it. Victuals were so scant, as if the second convey had been lost, there had been no hope to have furnished a third. In the end, the Vetzier put it into the Town, but not without encounter and great loss of his men. And if SULTZ, fearing some ambush, had not by force retired his men, who pursued the beginning of a victory, they were likely to have reaped great benefit of that day's service: For these Barbarians carried with them one whole years entertainment, due to the Garrison of Buda. The Cham of Tartary returned much discontented: For, the Vetzier had quarrelled with him, as if by his negligence he had hindered the victualling of Buda, carrying great forces with him, notwithstanding that the Vetzier entreated him to stay in Hungary, wherewith the Turkish Army was much weakened, and disabled to do any great exploits this year. The Vetzier, after the victualling of Turk's defeated. Buda, sought to expel the Christians out of the Island of Adonis, making great preparation both by ships and bridge, to transport their men. RUSORMB●… encountered them with his troops: where, after a long fight, they forced them to fly to their ships in confusion. The Christians followed them unto the River Dannow: the which for many days after was died with Infidel's blood: and they, which ran by troops into their vessels being overladen, were drowned. There was slain in this battle a Bassa of great authority, the Bege of Belgrade, with many other of note, and 1500 janissaries: but the number of the drowned was far greater. Finally, it was known by a certain turk, who after this conflict followed the Christian party, that of 4000 horse & 6000 foot there were scarce saved 1000; & those returned without Arms. The Vetzier began his retreat towards Belgrade, and gius means to the Christians to assail Hatua; which hindered the victualling of Hatua taken by the Christians. of Pesta. RUSORMB, upon his approach, summons the town; threatening them that if they yielded not willingly (but taken by assault) they should suffer the like miseries and indignities, as before time; where the Walloons had committed unspeakable inhumanities'. The remembrance whereof made a great impression in these miscreants: whereupon, they yielded on condition to departed with their wives & children, and what goods they could carry. It was a town reasonable strong, well stored of corn, powder & cattles, with 24 pieces of Ordinance mounted. MAHOMET the Turkish Emperor having received many losses and disgraces in Hungary, and troubled with the revolts of Asia, he resolved to treat a peace with the Christians at what rate soever: he gave charge to the Vetzier, and to ACHMAT and MURATH Bashaes', to move the Emperor's Ministers thereunto. They had often treated, but the issue did show they Mahomet demands a peace of the Christians. proceeded with fraud: to free them from which fear the Bashaes' did writ unto the chief commanders, That their most mighty Emperor had a will to treat a firm and stable peace for the ease of the poor people and quiet of their estates: the which we in like manner did heartily desire. The which if you neglect said they, many provinces will be desolate. Whereupon Commissioners were sent by the Archduke MATHIAS, and they met in an Island above Pesta and Buda. The Turks entreated that ALTHEM might go to Buda; where he was received with great shows of joy: to whom the Bassa delivered great presents for the Emperor, and the Archduke MATHIAS, which were very rare and rich, and likewise for himself and the other Commissioners. The Bassa had reason to press a peace MAHOMET being Death of Mahomet. dead: and the new successor could not better settle his affairs, then by a peace, which his father had procured before his death. Whereupon the Bassa of Buda wrote his Letters to ALTHEM, that ACHMAT succeeded MAHOMET his father, not only in his estates, but in his intentions, for the settling of a good peace in Hungary; that he desired to understand what had been concluded, 1604. Achma●…s' son desire●… to continued the treaty of peace. that he might ratify it; that, if the business were not yet finished, they should use all diligence to bring it to a good end: but yet for that time it took no effect. Yet on the twenty fift of Feb. they returned to Pesta, with an intent to treat; whereas the Emperor's Commissioners feasted them solemnly in Tents without the Town, being 600 in number: but, going to repass the river, they attempted to surprise Pesta with the help of the forces of Buda; but they were repulsed with shame and loss, leaving their ladders behind them as witnesses of their treachery. The Bashaes' disavowed the fact, and entreated the Christian Ambassadors to come the next day to Buda: but they were advertised, that there was no safety for them. And thus the hope of this peace, which all Christendom expected, was lost. After this, they went to Arms. ACHMAT promised to go in person to the conquest of Hungary, Valachia, Transiluania, Vienna and Austria. He sends SIGALA against the Persian, and Achmats' great preparation for war. gives the Vetzier the charge of the Hungarian war. He commands the Beglerbey of Greece to levy 80000 men. He sends HASSAN Bassa towards Belgrade to provide victuals for the army. He draws, from Egypt to Belgrade, an infinite quantity of biscuit and powder: and it was conceited, that the Ottomans power was able to vanquish the King of Persia, and to prescribe a law to the King of Vienna (as he called him); but he was deceived in his account: for, the Persian defeated SIGALA, and took 80 Towns, with a great Country in Asia; who continuing the course of his victories, the Turk returns to his ordinary practices, and demandeth a peace of the Emperor: who although he knew there was little to be hoped for from so perfidious The Turks seek a peace, and their un●…ust demands. a Nation, yet he gave charge to some in Hungary to hear upon what conditions they would treat. The Bashaes' demanded, that the Emperor should pay yearly the tribute which had been formerly paid; that he should sand Presents to ACHMAT; that he should keep an Agent in Constantinople; that he should yield to him the places taken during this war of Hungary, with the Countries of Transiluania and Valachia: which done, they would sand to entreat the Sultan to restore Canisia. To which the Emperor answered: If they would have a peace, he would willingly embrace it, so as they would restore to him Agria and Canisia. I cannot abandon Transiluania, holding it by a just and lawful title: as for Valachia, there might happily some means be propounded, which might be accepted by both parties; so as they spoke nothing of any tribute, or of entertaining an ordinary Agent at the great Turks Port. The Emperor's answer was received with scorn from the Bashaes'. The Vetzier approached with 10000 janissaries, and a great number of Tartarians: they only sought to divert the Christians from all enterprises until their forces were arrived. JAGENREUTER a Germane, Governer of Pesta, hearing that the Vetzier had charge to recover that town with other places; growing amazed, he packed up his baggage, and retired without sight of any enemy, and went to Strigonium; having no other excuse for his desertion, but fear and amazement. ALTHEM the Governer put him in safe keeping until the Emperor had otherwise ordained. They of Hatua with the like baseness abandoned the Town: which made the Turks undertake the siege of Strigonium; the which was valiantly defended. They endured many assaults with the like valour. The janissaries, seeing there was nothing but blows and death to be gotten at this siege so obstinately defended, they forced the Vetzier and SERDER Bassa with threats to retire. BELIOGEUSE, Lieutenant to BASTA, had brought the forces of Transiluania for the succours of Strigonium, to his General, foreseeing no enemy in the Country. But he had no sooner turned his back but a new combustion forced him to return: for, BOTSCAY ISTVAN, a 1604. Nobleman of that part, had made a great levy of soldiers, and proclaimed himself Prince of Transiluania, and demanded aid from the Sultan for the conquest of the Country. BELIOYEUSE draws what forces he can together, and joineth with the Earl of Tampieri; whose Troops, being three thousand horse, were of BOTSCAY'S faction, and desirous to be freed from the Imperial yoke: who, when they came to fight, abandoned the Emperor's party, and went to BOTSCAY; yet the combat was long and furious. The Germane and Silesians performed their duties valiantly: but, wanting powder and shot, they were defeated; where there The Imperialists defeated by Botscay in Transiluania. were many brave men slain. BOTSCAY sent certain Ensigns to SERDER Bassa; who in recompense qualified him with the title that he affected under the Turks authority, upon condition that he should employ his Arms to reduce the Province under his obedience, he furnishing him with men and money. LIPPAY, who had been taken in the battle, and wounded, become BOTSCAY his Lieutenant; who, in the beginning of his new authority, made proclamation, that whosoever would undertake the defence of religion, should come and enrol themselves: so as in few days an infinite number both of the Nobility and others came unto them; all binding themselves by oath, not to carry Arms against the Emperor, nor for the Turk, but for the defence of religion. They seized upon Cassovia, took an oath of the Citizens, expelled the Imperialists, seized upon the Churches, drove away the Priests and Clergy, and laid wait to surprise BELIOYEUSE. BASTA, hearing of this combustion, posted thither with 14000 men, and summoned them by a Herald to return to their duties; but it was in vain: so as the enemy growing very strong, and winter approaching, he was forced to retire. ACHMAT, being much crossed by the dissensions of his Bashaes' in Asia, renewed the treaty Achmat renews the propositions of peace. of peace; and, to dispose the Christians thereto, he was content that all prisoners should be exchanged which had been taken for three year's space, suffering his subjects to carry all kind of merchandise to the Christian Towns. SERDER Bassa made the overture unto the chief Commanders in Hungary. At the same time, the King of Persia had sent an Ambassage with a small train to the Emperor and Princes of Christendom; protesting, that he was resolved to advance that war with all his power, entreating them not to make any peace with ACHMAT, and offering money for to continued the war, and to sand great forces to overthrow their common enemy. ACHMAT grew jealous thereat, and entertained better correspondence with the Princes of Christendom than he had formerly done. The tumults increasing daily in Transiluania and Hungary, BASTA admonished BOTSCAY by his Letters to lay down Arms, and to draw the seditious multititude, to the Emperor's obedience. Botscay his demands. BOTSCAY made answer, that he thought a peace might be made upon these conditions: that the whole government of Transiluania should be left to him; that he should be Lieutenant General in Hungary; that none but Hungarians should be there in garrison; that the Walloons and French should be retired out of Hungary; that the Hungarians should be maintained in their degrees and honours; that the soldiers should be duly paid; that there should be free exercise of the protestant religion; that BELIOYEUSE, and they which had been the causes of their troubles, should be delivered into their hands; that the Emperor should come in person to the States at Pounson; and that the Germane should contain themselves within their garrisons, and not go to the Viceroy. BASTA would make no answer to these demands, as being too rash. The Haiduques (for, so all BOTSCAY'S soldiers were called) continuing their enterprises, drew all the people of high Hungary and Transiluania into Arms: and BOTSCAY having the whole Country of Transiluania at his devotion, he called the Estates of Hungary to a general Assembly the last of April. As for BASTA, being sick; his soldiers, wanting pay, committed greater insolences in Austria and Hungary, than the Turks: they mutined against their General, and offered to force his lodging; and the Haiduques and Turks spoiled and wasted the Country as fare as Vienna; so as many which dwelled abode, were forced to retire themselves into the City. Neither was Moravia free from these common calamities, the Haiduques entering and putting all to fire and sword, carrying away four thousand prisoners to cell to the Turks. And in the midst of summer there was a troop of thiefs entered into Stiria; who, finding no man to make resistance, spoilt the Country, carried away their goods, and forced the poor country men, to fly into Gretz. In this present calamity and danger; the Earls of Serin, Nadasti and Buda, who had fought so valiantly many years against the Turks, for the Christian commonwealth, seeing themselves now reduced to the extremity of danger, yielded themselves and their fortunes to the mercy of BOTSCAY: BASTA, having recovered his health, drew his Army together, and raised the siege at Oedembourg, a place in the higher Hungary, then went to Camp near unto Comorrha. During the siege of Neuheusell, upon the Frontiers of Austria, and of Oedembourg, Hungary was wonderfully spoiled by the Haiduques, and likewise by the Turks: Yet the Imperiallists took heart and courage in many places, and there were many strong Towns and Forts which held for the Emperor in diverse Provinces. RADVIL the Vaivode of Valachia, a partisan to the Emperor, went to field, and seized upon the chief Fort which BOTSCAY had near unto Varadine, called Kercie▪ invaded his partisans; burnt their houses and committed strange spoils. BOTSCAY began to grow jealous of his Lieutenant LIPPAI, who was governor of Cassovia. Some, that envied his advancement, made BOTSCAY believe, that he went about to reconcile himself unto the Emperor, and for assurance of his Faith, to yield Cassovia unto his hands. He takes this advice, for a presage of what might happen. To free himself from this fear, and to pull so troublesome a thorn out of his foot, he holds it the best course to take off LIPPAI'S head, whom he caused to be executed, with 5 other Gentlemen of note, by the great Turk's consent seizing on 100000 Ducats, and seven chains of Gold, which LIPPAI had gotten being his Lieutenant. Lippa Lieutenant to Botscay beheaded. BASTA did still solicit BOTSCAY to forsake the Infidel; from whom he could expect nothing but false friendship, with a dangerous Catastrophe of his bad faith, which had been so often tried. The Archduke MATHIAS, sent commissioners unto him in the Emperor's name, to treat of a Peace: and he, to show himself a Prince that would not make the war immortal in his own country, referred this treaty to HELIE HASKAY; who, having A parley of a Peace betwixt the Emperor and Botscay. conferred with the Emperor's Commissioners, gave them to understand, that his master BOTSCAY would not refuse a Peace, if those conditions might be granted which had been propounded; demanding moreover, that in the Senate of Hungary, there should be but one Bishop, which should be Chancellor; that no man should be forced in Religion; and that none should be preferred to Bishoprics, if they were not borne in Hungary, and Noble; and that all that was passed should be pardoned & forgotten. If these things might be performed, he promised to procure a Peace betwixt the Emperor, and the Turk, with the best conditions he might. During this treaty which was somewhat long, ACHMAT sends a Bassa to BOTSCAY with a present of eight hundred thousand Florins to maintain the wars, with ten Horses of great price, and assurance not to fail him of his promise. In the mean time, BOTSCAY sends to the King of Polonia, to crave aid from him in this war, which he made for the defence of Religion. The King accepted of his offered friendship: But, he could not approve his defection from a house to the which he was so nearly allied; yet he would acquaint his Lords with his propositions: who afterwards decreed in Council, that no man should assist BOTSCAY, upon pain of death. In the mean time BOTSCAYES seditious Army joined with the Turks, being fifty thousand in their Camp, and besieged Strigonium in the end of August: they battered it with forty pieces of Ordinance continually during a month's space. Having overthrown all their defences, and slain nine hundred of their best men, with the Earl of Oetinge, than they attempted the Castle: the which they fired in such sort, as the soldiers were scarce able to quench it. Whereupon, they came running to the Earl of Tampiere, importuning him to yield it up: who refusing at the first, he persuaded them to remember their oath, and to continued constant with him in the defence of the town: but seeing the Turks press the siege more violently, and the Soldiers to cast away their Arms, he was forced to compound: And so on the third of October, they yielded up the Town and Castle, Strigonium yielded to the Turk▪ unto the Turks. All the Nobility of Transiluania, Moldavia and Valachia, having sworn to BOTSCAT, who had an Army of twenty five thousand men, he resolved during the treaty of Peace to take in the other places of Hungary. The Archduke MATHIAS had sent one of his chief ministers unto him; who returned with this charge: That the Hungarians required MATHIAS The Hungarians require Mathias for their▪ King. for their King; and that he should keep his Seat at Possonia or Vienna, and govern the affairs of the kingdom in person: and if they could not obtain this within one month, they would choose themselves a King. The Imperial Army had lain long about Comorrha, under the command of General BASTA: But, they were not able to give the Turks General battle, and to relieve Strigonium. Winter approaching, the Turks began to disband, and to retire towards Buda; and the Christians left their lodging near unto Comorrha. The 25 of November, 14000 Turks came and charged a Regiment of Reistres, which made their retreat: But, the whole Army turning head, they fled back to the mountains; but on the third of December, they came early in the morning, and charged the forward: but seeing the whole Army advance, they began to retire; and being pursued to the passage of a River, there were 1500 slain and drowned. In this charge the Earl of Laval, a young Nobleman of France, was shot; whereof he died, to the great The death of the Earl of Laval. grief of the whole Army. There was an ancient quarrel depending betwixt the Duke of Brunswick and the City, 1606. The Duke of Brunswick besieged the City of Brunswick. touching the jurisdiction. The Duke had formerly attempted to take it, by a Stratagem; where he lost many men: and now desirous to have his revenge, knowing they stood watchfully upon their guard for fear of surprise, he would try it by open force; and having raised a good Army came to invest the Town. The inhabitants grew amazed, and sent Ambassadors to the Duke: but they stood so stiffly upon their privileges, as the treaty was in vain. They complained to the Imperial Chamber; where they obtained Letters from the Emperor, commanding the Duke to give over the siege, and to retire his Army, upon pain of proscription: but he continued his siege. The Hanse-townes levied forces to relieve the besieged. Ambassadors came from the States of lower- Germany: who concluded a Truce for a month; promising to do their best endeavours to conclude this war. The Emperor did likewise sand his Ambassadors for the like effect: where, after some treaty, the Duke retired his Army, upon certain conditions. This year in May, a Tower in the Castle of Buda was set on fire: the which, being full of powder, flew into the air, and slew and hurt about 800 persons in the ruins. In the end of javerin attempted in vain by the Turks. the last year the Turks began to treat of a Peace with the Imperialls: how pleasing it was unto them, the Garrison of javerin did find upon the eighteenth of March. There was a day appointed at the Turks desire, where both parties might meet to advance the business: for which cause, there came not above fifty Turks to the Gate, desiring to be let in: The Garrison, doubting no fraud, prepared to open the Gates; when as suddenly a Sentinel espied three thousand Soldiers covered with a thick cloud: whereupon, he cried To arms, discovering the treachery of the enemies; who were forced to retire by the great Ordinance. Epper, a Town holding for the Emperor, was so oppressed by the seditious Haiduques, as no victuals could enter into it; hoping that being pressed by famine, and the want of all other necessaries, 〈◊〉 taken by the Haiduques. the Citizens would yield. By the same means they had taken Toccai not long before; whereas the famine was so great, as they not only boiled their boots and shoes to make food of, but the Garrison Soldiers had also slain two children; and some of them had cast Lots for the kill of themselves to make meat, until that extreme necessity forced them to yield. On the fifteenth of june, the Turkish Garrison of Alba Regalis, joining with some other Troops, made an incursion as fare as Mount Saint MARTIN: Where they defeated and took the Governor, and carried away many prisoners of all sexes and ages. The Governor of Breslay went presently to horse with his troops; and pursued them with such speed, as having overtaken them. he fought with them, and slew one thousand five hundred upon the place: He carried away three thousand prisoners, and freed six thousand Christians from these Infidels. HASKIE (who had been much employed for the treaty of peace with BOTSCAY) wrote letters from Cassovia to Vienna, giving them to understand, that BOTSCAY could perform H●…li Haskies' L●…tter to Vienna. nothing touching the peace, without the consent of the States; who had often told him, that They would rather seek protection from the Turks, then be subject to the servitude of strange Governors: Yet he would endeavour at the next assembly, to draw the States unto him; so, as what had been concluded at Vienna might not be retracted: many fearing, that, what had been promised for matter of Religion, would not be observed: and therefore they would not lay down Arms, nor renounce the Turks protection, until they had good assurance for the liberty of Religion, and their privileges. They would have no strange Governor, with whom they could not confer; nor suffer Clergy men to give their voices in matters of policy: wherefore he thought it necessary, the Emperor should gratify the Hungarians in this point; and leaving Transilvania to BOTSCAY, appoint such a Governor in Hunga●…y as the States should require. That the conclusion of a peace with the Turks, depended wholly upon a peace with BOTSCAY, and the Hungarians; whereof there was no hope, unless that BOTSCAY and the Estates of Hungary did finish the treaty. The grand Signior, being much troubled this year with the sedition in Asia, and the Persian wars; advertised also of the treaties of peace betwixt the Emperor and BOTSCAY, he sent his great Vetzier into Hungary, with charge to conclude a peace with the Emperor and the house of Austria. Being come to Buda, BOTSCAY sent Ambassadors unto him, to inform him fully of the propositions made for the peace of Hungary, betwixt the Emperor's Deptuys & his: And for that he would not infringe the promise which he had made to ACHMAT the grand Signior, not to conclude any peace with the Emperor RODULPH without his privity and consent, which he now summoned him to embrace, seeing that matters might be reconciled: he entreated the Vetzier, not to altar the affairs by any new siege; and to contain his Turks within their camp and garrisons. The Vetzier, who came to no other end, was glad to see it so well advanced: whereupon it was concluded, that BOTSCAY should sand Ambassadors to Vienna, to conclude this peace, and that of the Hungarians; and that the Emperor and the Vetzier should sand some of quality, to make a truce, whilst that the Deputies of either side should meet, for the conclusion of a general peace. Ambassadors came to Vienna, from BOTSCAY and the Hungarians, in September; and within few days after, the Articles of peace were signed by the Archduke MATHIAS, and Articles of peace accorded in the Emperor's name with Bo●…seay and the Hungarians. them. First, that they should live with liberty of conscience throughout all Hungary, where there should be no exercise of any other Religion, but the Catholic, the Lutheran, and the Calvinist. Secondly, that the Archduke MATHIAS should be Lieutenant general for the Emperor, throughout all Hungary; and carry the title of Viceroy. Thirdly, that BOTSCAY should be confirmed Prince of Transilvania, Earl of Sicules, and Palatine of high Hungary, to which principality and County, his heir's males should succeed; for want whereof, all should return to the Emperor's disposition. Fourthly, that hereafter the Palatine, Treasurer general, and all the Receivers should be chosen by the Estates of Hungary. Fiftly, that none should hold any benefit in Hungary but the natives. Sixtly, that there should be a general abolition of all that had passed during this last war. In the mean time, a Truce was accorded betwixt the Archduke's Deputies, and the Vetziers, and every one prepared to meet at the place appointed, near unto Comorrha: BOTSCAYES Deputies for the Emperor and Turk meet and conclude a general peace. Ambassadors returned to Neuheusel, six French-leagues from Comorrha; to be, as it were, arbitrators of such differences as might arise. The place of conference, was half a league beneath Comorrha, in an Island divided in three parts by deep Rivers, so as one could not go unto another, but by boat; being thus chosen to avoid all treachery. The Deputies for the Emperor, Grand-Segnior, and BOTSCAY, met often and treated, and in the end concluded a Peace for twenty years, contained in fifteen Articies; the which they signed the ninth of November. The same day the Articles were signed, the Bassa of Buda made a stately feast unto the Emperor's Deputies, giving to either of them a goodly horse, or some pieces of cloth of Gold, or of rare silks. The same day, he sent three Posts to Constantinople, to advertise the Sultan ACHMAT of this Peace; the which news he received with so great joy, as he went presently to a Mosque to give thanks to his MAHOMET, and the day following made a solemn feast. But BOTSCAY, after so many toils and labours, was no sooner acknowledged Prince of Transiluania by the Emperor, but (in stead of enjoying the Peace which he had propounded to himself, with hope to leave a posterity to eternize the memory of his valour) CATTAY his Bots●…ay poisoned by his Chancellor. Chancellor conspired to poison him; hoping, by the death of his Prince, to make himself heir of his Estate: BOTSCAY having swallowed the poison, which made him die languishing, discovered that it was his Chancellor's deed; whom he caused to be apprehended, and being convicted he cut off his head in Cassovia, giving that dignity to JAN JANUSI: but no pr●…seruativeses could prolong his life, but soon after he must go give an account to the Eternal, for so many ruins, and so much Christian blood, spilt in Hungary and Transiluania. The Haiduques which had been accustomed to live by Arms, some having neither lands nor goods to feed them; and other knowing no trade and being now to old to learn any, could not subject themselves to this peace; and, notwithstanding any commandments, they trouped together, living upon the Peasant, and left nothing but desolation where they passed: But being comn into the County of Bocotsi, having set fire upon three villages, the Commons came upon them with such fury, as there were many slain of either side in diverse encounters. BOTSCAY to redress these disorders, had appointed an assembly of the estates of further Hungary, at Cassovia in December: but feeling his death approach, he could not assist, but gave instructions to his Chancellor and others, what order they should observe, in the assembly of the States after his death; and what they should do for the tranquillity of Hungary, and for the commerce 1607 betwixt the Hungarians and Transylvanians; charging them not to infringe any thing of the peace made with the Emperor, and exhorting them to keep their faith with him. And so he died, the 30 of December, being much lamented by them of his party: yet soon after forgetting The death of Botscay. his advice, they made a change in Transiluania, for that he died without children. The estates of Transiluania presently after the death of BOTSCAY assembled at Clausenburg, where they did choose SIGISMOND RAGOTSI for their Prince, to whom they went presently and took the oath of allegiance in the great Church. After which, they sent Ambassadors Sigismond Ragotsi chosen Prince of Transiluania. to the Archduke MATHIAS, who made their excuse for this election, humbly beseeching his Imperial Majesty to believe, that they had done it forced by necessity, and to prevent the practices of many Noblemen of Hungary and Transiluania, pretending to seize upon that state: and that the election of RAGOTSI should be no hindrance, but that they would always acknowledge the Emperor for their true Prince. This RAGOTSI was a man admirable in bounty, and who had not affected this election, but did accept it for the good of his country, and left it again for the quiet thereof, as you shall hear hereafter. The peace was ill observed in Hungary of all sides. The Bassa of Buda wrote unto the Archduke MATHIAS, that he should be forced to take Arms if he did not hinder the courses of the Imperials, Peace ill observed in Hungary. the which he should be very unwilling to do, protesting to observe the peace. The Imperial garrisons continued their courses and Nehusel was sold and delivered to COLLONITS'. Some discontented Haiduques trouped together, and joined their numbers with some Turks, making a body of 15000 men, which spoilt all Hungary where they passed. The Bassa of Buda was the cause thereof, who gave the commander's money to entertain this mutiny. To prevent these disorders and the murmurings of the Barons of Hungary, who desired to have a King that might remain in the country, and not at Prague in Bohemia, who by his presence might disperse all these new alterations, the Archduke MATHIAS appointed an Assembly in the Emperor's name, whither the Deputies of Hungary came: and attending the Archduke MATHIAS long, in the end they made a solemn protestation, that having attended the said Archduke seven weeks in vain, they were forced to return to them that sent them; that if pleased the Emperor to assign another day for an assembly, and publish it, they would come: and if in the mean time their were any thing decreed contrary to the Articles of peace concluded at Viena, although the Emperor should ratify it, they protested a nullity against all that should be done in their absence. The Nobility of Hungary resolved to take Arms against the rebellious Haiduques, and Turks which were joined with them; and they sent to entreat the Bassa of Buda to retire the The proceed of the Haiduques. Turks. The Haiduques continued their hostilities, and proclaimed that they were friends to the Turks, and enemies to the Germans and Walloons: They sent to entreat HUMANOY Governor of Cassovia, to take the Diadem which had been given to BOTSCAIE, and to be their King; but he scorned their offer: saying, I will have no other King but CAESAR: finally, continuing their spoils (being assisted with some Cannon from the Bashaes' of Buda and Agria and with 300000 ducats) they went to besiege Fileck with 16000 men; BOSNIACK commanded in the place: who carried himself so valiantly against all their attempts as he forced them to raise the siege. During the Assembly at Presbourg the Archduke MATHIAS had called together the estates of Austria to Viena, where there were Articles propounded unto them in writing, touching An assembly at Viena. the estate of the Country, whereon they were to conclude; but there were resolutions taken by the practices of the Archduke MATHIAS contrary to the Emperor's intention. The King of Poland and his Palatines being at wars, the Palatines sent to ROGOTSI Prince of Transiluania for aid: who made them this answer; that it was a wicked thing to nourish wars betwixt Christians: That his Arms should never fight in a civil and unjust war: The answer of Ragotsi to the Palatine Ambassadors. 1608 that it was treacherous to Arm against ones Prince, and that they which did fight against their Sovereign were detested by their posterity, and their memory buried in infamy; as for such as aided rebels they deserved to be called impious, a surname which I will by no means purchase: obey your King and God will bless you. A Diet, at Ratisbone, fruitless. This year in the beginning of january, there was a Diet assembled at Ratisbone in which the Archduke FERDINAND of Gretz did preside in the Emperor's name; which bred some jealousy in the Archduke MATHIAS. All their deliberation was reduced to five Articles; whereof the first and principal was, To make provision against the Turks, in whom there was little assurance for the entertainment of peace: and therefore he desired, that the Princes of the Empire would furnish yearly a certain contribution to resist the Turks practices when there should be cause, or that all the Estates of the Empire should entertain 20000 foot and 4000 horse at their own charge▪ or else, that they would yearly lay by so much money as the entertainment of such an Army would amount-unto: but there was such dissension among the Deputies, that after four months' continuance they broke off, and concluded nothing. During this Diet at Ratisbone, the Archduke MATHIAS practised by what means he might make himself Sovereign of Austria, Stiria, Moravia, and of all that the Christians held in The Archduke Mathias practiseth to make himself a Sovereign. Hungary. He came to an Assembly of the Estates at Presbourg in the beginning of the year; where, to attain to his design, he propounded to the Noblemen of Hungary, that it would be very profitable to unite the Estates of Austria and Hungary by an offensive and defensive league; so as Deputies being appointed, it was concluded, that for the good of Austria and Hungary they should not altar any thing in the Articles of peace, made the year before at Vienna; and that an offensive and defensive league should be made betwixt the said Countries. The Articles of the resolution were set down by the Deputies, and they were signed by the Archduke MATHIAS, and proclaimed the first of February. The Archduke MATHIAS, being returned to Vienna, called the Estates of Austria together; to whom he imparted what had passed at Presbourg; and that what he had done was for fear that Hungary should be wrested from the Empire, as well by the Turks as by the Barons of Hungary, and that after this distraction the whole wars should fall upon Austria; advising them also to provide money for the entertainment of the Army which he must levy, if the rebellious Haiduques would not desist from Arms. The Estates gave him great thanks, promising to follow and assist him with their lives and goods. The Archduke MATHIAS (who knew that for the effecting of his designs he must have a peace in Hungary as well with the Turk as with the discontented Haiduques) gave charge unto HELI HASKAY, that at one Instant he should take order with the Turks for the reforming of the disorders which had happened since the peace, and to draw as many of the Haiduques as he could to his pay, to the end the rest should be forced to disperse themselves, or be careful to live in peace: wherein HASKAY earried himself so politicly, that he drew fifteen companies of horse to the Archduke's pay; and the rest in an Instant were scattered and dispersed. GABRIEL BATTORI, the right heir of the Princes of Transiluania, having retired himself to the Turk, was now restored to his principality. SIGISMOND RAGOTSI (who had been chosen after the death of BOTSCAY) yielded it willingly to him, and retired to Sarenta; assuring BATTORI by Letters, that he had not accepted the election but to prevent the combustions among great men, who pretended to usurp and trouble that state. The Archduke, seeing all things succeed according to his desire, sent commandment to The Emperor sends to the Archduke Mathias. have all his Troops come to the vendezvouz upon the Frontiers of Moravia by the foureteenth of April. The Emperor being advertised of these levies (which they gave out was for that his Majesty did not ratify the treaty of peace made at Vienna) he sent the Cardinal of Ditristein to the Archduke, with a ratification of the treaty; but with this clause, that he would have the offensive and defensive league, made betwixt the Estates of Hungary and Austria, dissolved: whereto the Archduke answered, it could not be; and so returned the Cardinal with certain The Emp. in fe●… of his brother Mathias. demands; who, finding that he had another design than he made show of, advertised the Emperor, that he might provide for his safety. The Emperor grows amazed: he presently calls the States of Bohemia to Prague: he summons all his forces together, lodges them about his person, and craves aid from the Electors, Princes and States of the Empire. The Archduke, hearing that the Emperor had taken the alarm, came into Moravia joining to Austria, with an army The Archduke Mathias enters Bohemia, and camps before Prague. of 20000 old soldiers and 28 Cannon. He sent to the Estates of Bohemia, commanding every Town to sand two Deputies to Czasla, where they should understand from his own mouth the cause of his taking Arms. The Emperor, hearing this, exhorted them to persist in their fidelity; so as no man went to Czasla, but the whole Country took Arms for the Emperor: who, hoping to stay him with his Army in Moravia, sent back the Cardinal to understand his complaints, being accompanied by the Pope's Nuntio, and the Ambassadors of divers Princes. But he marched into the Country towards Czasla; where the Ambassadors of Saxony and Brandenburg came unto him the ninth of May, entreating him not to pass any further, but to grant a truce for eight days, to the end this trouble might be compounded: the which they could not obtain by any importunities. The Archduke MATHIAS had a desire to see Prague; not as an humble Petitioner, but with a commanding power, being attended by 8000 horse, COLLONITS' the Marshal of his Camp following with the rest of his Army. The poor Emperor was in a strange distress: The Emperor in distress. he had two enemies to encounter and fight withal; without the walls his own brother, and within the town the assembly of the estates of Bohemia. And the deputies were of divers religions; where they importuned him with many Articles, both concerning religion and the state: all which he was forced to grant, except that which concerned religion, the which was referred to the next assembly at S. Michael. The Archduke upon a safe conduct from the Emperor and the estates sent his Ambassadors into Prague, who delivered his demands in writing to the assembly: whereupon a conference was appointed at Debrits; where after much debate, the Emperor obtained a peace of A conference at Debrits. his brother; but it was with the prejudice of his estate & honour: for he was forced to strip off his clotheses before he was dead, and to resign unto his brother the greatest part of his patrimonial 1608 in heritance. This peace was concluded in 17 Articles: whereof the chief were, That he should yield the A peace concluded betwixt the Emperor & Mathias. Realm of Hungary, and deliver the Crown unto the Archduke MATHIAS, freeing the Hungarians of their oath. That he should yield presently all the Arch-duchie of Austria unto him, and to his heirs males. That if the Emperor died without issue male, the Archduke should succeed him in the Kingdom of Bohemia, and carry presently in his titles, Designed king of Bohemia. And that he and his heirs should have the administration of Moravia, with the title of marquis, with divers others tending to the advancement of the Archduke MATHIAS. This peace being confirmed, the Emperor sent the Crown of Hungary, with all the Regal ornaments, to the Archduke's Camp: where they were received with great pomp. And King Mathias enters into Viena thus the Archduke, king of Hungary being pleased, raised his Camp and returned to Viena: where he made a stately entry, and was received with great pomp by all the estates of the country; who assuring him of their fidelity and obedience, congratuled his new sovereignty, and he gave them great thanks for their good affection. In October the estates of Austria were to take the oath of fidelity and allegiance to the king, as to their Archduke, the which was solemnly performed: but the protestants were not present, for that the king (by the advice of the Archduke, LEOPOLD, of Cardinal MELIM the Pope's Nuntio, and of Cardinal FORGATSI) had by an edict forbidden the exercise of the protestants religion in Austria. This bred new troubles, for that the protestants assembled at Horn, and made their protestation, sending a petition unto the King, signed by 150 Noblemen, governors and Captains; writing also to the New troops in Austria for religion. Catholics that if they took the oath of allegiance unto the said King Archduke, before the trouble of religion were pacified, they should not be able to excuse themselves to be the causes of the miseries that would ensue. The Ceremony being ended at Viena, King MATHIAS went to Presbourge, where on the 22 of October the Noblemen of Hungary received him with great state, there being above 10000 men in Arms, where soon after they presented divers Articles unto him conformable unto the edict of pacification made at Viena, but with some explication. The protestants of Austria, sent their requests unto the estates of Hungary, letting them understand, that king MATHIAS denying them the free exercise of their religion, they were forced to take Arms, requiring The Protestant's of Austria crave aid from the Hungarians. them to assist them with the succours which were promised by the offensive and defensive League. The Archduke MAXIMILIAN was entreated by the Hungarians, to intercede in this difference; who having conferred with King MATHIAS, brought them answer, that the king had never any intent to trouble the peace of Austria: but as for the free exercise of the protestant religion within towns, that his majesty could by no means grant it, partly in regard of his conscience, and partly for fear of his Holiness, and of the king of Spain: yet he had his majesty's word, that if the Protestant's of Austria would lay down their Arms, and acknowledge their fault, they should have liberty of religion allowed them out of towns; and as for public affairs his majesty would advance his subjects, without acception of religion. The Hungarians having received this answer, he persuaded them to lay down Arms, and to submit themselves to the Kings will, refusing the aid which they desired; laying before them the dangers of a doubtful war. The Protestant's returned to Austria discontented, yet afterwards by the intercession of the Moravians and others, after some little combustion, they obtained a peace and part of that which they demanded. MATHIAS was proclaimed King of Hungary in Presbourg, the foureteenth of November, Mathias crowned King of Hungary. HELY HASKAY being first chosen Palatine; and on the 19 day he was solemnly crowned. After which, beginning to order the affairs of the kingdom, he was forced by the Hungarian Barons, to dismiss all the Germans which had any offices in Hungary, and to advance others of the Country. It troubled him much, and his brother MAXIMILIAN that COLONITS' should be deprived of his office of Marshal of Hungary, having done so great services All strangers displaced in Hungary. for that crown; but he was forced to endure it in regard of peace. In the end of the year he returned to Viena, so as in seven months the Archduke MATHIAS caused himself to be crowned king of Hungary, and acknowledged Archduke of Austria and Marquis of Moravia, forcing the Emperor to make his Will before he was dead. This year the Turks notwithstanding the peace, attempted to surprise Fileck. The Bassa of Agria had corrupted ANDREW DRACO a Captain within the Citadel, who promised to deliver it for 20000 joachins: the hour was appointed at midnight, when as DRACO should The Bassa of Agria attempts Fileck. set certain houses of fire; and whilst that every man should be busy to quench it, he should give the Turks entry into the citadel, and so into the town. This enterprise was discovered, and DRACO quartered. The Bassa of Buda also seized upon above 400 villages, causing the inhabitants to take the oath of allegiance unto the Turk. The Emperor as we have said had given his brother MATHIAS what he demanded, and had pacified the estates of Bohemia as A combustion in Bohemia for religion. well as he could, suffering every one to live in the liberty of his religion, promising to set down an order at the next assembly, which was this year in january. The Catholics sought by all means to entertain the Emperor in hatred with the Protestant's, and to have that disannulled, which had been formerly granted; saying, that their opinions had been condemned, and that the exercise of their religion was but by sufferance. The Protestant's sent their Ambassadors to the King of Hungary, and to the Electors and Princes of the Empire, to intercede for them to his majesty, for the continuance of the free exercise of their religion. The Emperor having forbidden the Protestant's to make any assembly in the court of new Prague, they went unto him, and besought him to appoint them a place where they might assemble, and to writ their defence, and to present it unto him, and to let the world know the justice of their demand the which they could not obtain: So as on the eight of May, they resolved notwithstanding the Emperor's prohibition, to go and make their assembly in the court of new Prague; where they broke open the doors, and entered, putting themselves in defence, if any should come to assail them. The Emperor hearing of this alteration, sent the first Burgrave of Prague with his chief officers, who said unto them, that his Imperial Majesty had always had a will to love them as his faithful subjects; and that he was resolved, shortly to call an assembly, and to end that controversy touching the liberty of religions. The Protestant's made answer by the Baron of Budovits, that they thanked his Imperial Majesty for his good will towards them; and besought him to believe that they had been always faithful unto him: yet they knew well what had been treated hitherto in the states by some counsellors, who under pretext, of advancing the Catholic religion, were the cause of these troubles which had followed; and they did hope to let his Majesty understand, that the end of such counsels and practices, could bring nothing but ruin to Bohemia, and the loss of his Realms, and provinces. As for the publication of the assemby of the estates, they desired it might be within three days, to prevent many accidents which might happen. Both parties, both Catholics and Protestant's, remained 15 days in continual jealousy one of another, fearing surprises. But as soon as the Emperor had published the assembly, all was pacified, by reason of the Emperor's declaration; whereby he did avow, that what the protestants had done, was for his service and the good of the Kingdom. At which assembly, there was free exercise of religion The troubles in Bohemia for religion pacified. granted to the Protestant's, and Temples allowed them to preach in the vulgar tongue, declaring all them troublers of the public peace, that should any way infringe it. The jesuites were suspected to have been the cause of these broils: both Catholics and Protestant's complained, and presented a petition unto the King, that they being strangers, and A complaine against the jesuites. come poor into Prague, had in a short time gotten great possessions, yet paid no tribute or contribution, neither bore any charge like unto others: wherefore they required that hereafter they might bear the charges of the Commonwealth like others of the Clergy, that they should not purchase any more, nor accept any donations, by testament or otherwise, without his Majesty's permission. In March, WILLIAM Duke of juliers, Cleves and Bergh, Earl of Mark and Ravenspourg, died without children: to whose succession there were many Princes and Noblemen pretended; The death of the duke of juliers and Cleves, and the pretendents. which drew great miseries upon those Countries. Among the Princes of Germany, were the Elector of Brandenbourg, who was issued from MARY ELL●…NOR, eldest sister unto the said WILLIAM deceased. The Count Palatine of Newbourg descended from ANNE the second sister. The third Pretendent was the widow of the Duke of Deuxponts. The fourth was the marquis of Burgan, who married SIBYL the fourth sister. The Elector of Saxony pretended these estates to belong to him as masculine fees of the Empire; and that they had been given to his Predecossors, and to their Successors for the services which they had done to the Empire and Emperor, in case the Duke of Cleves should die without issue male. In France was the Duke of Nevers; who maintained, that he was the only Prince which carried the name and Arms of Cleves; and the Earl of Ma●…rier, who is the right heir of the house of Mark, whereof he carries the name and Arms. Every one maintained his pretention, fortifying themselves by Arms, and engaging their friends: the relation of which war I refer to diverse others which have written thereof; the cause being yet undecided. In October, there arrived at Prague an Ambassador from the grand Signior with many rich Presents to to the Emperor: among the which there was a goodly pavilion, set with many precious stones, four goodly horse, with rich comparisons, a Turkish habit whereon there was nothing to be seen but gold and stone, with certain other precious stones. Having presented hi●… Letters, and seen the Emperor confirm the truce, he returned with Presents. About the same time, the Prince of Anhalt came Ambassador to the Emperor from the Princes and Estates of the Empire; giving him to understand by his Chancellor, that the Princes required 1610 The prince of Anhalt sent ambassador to the Emperor from the princes of Germany. to have Donaverd in Suevia (which had been some years before taken by the Duke of Bavaria, by the virtue of the Emperor's Letters of proscription) restored again to the Empire and to the former estate, some burdens being taken away; that justice might be duly administered, and the peace of religion confirmed; that Prince's Ambassadors when they came, might be dispatched without delay; that suits in Courts might be amended: and for that Prince's Ambassadors had been much neglected in Court, they required that some Protestant's might be chosen into the Senate and Council. The Emperor heard the Prince willingly; yet excusing himself, that by reason of the troubles in Bohemia he could not then attend it, he promised that he would soon give the Princes and States satisfaction. This year there was an attempt against the person of GABRIEL BATTORI, Prince of Transiluania, by a Nobleman of that Country, being induced thereto by a wicked religious man: whereof the Prince being advertised, and of the day of the execution, he made show to go forth to hunt, having first laid an ambush without the Town; into the which he drew the undertakers, who followed him to execute their enterprise: whereas some of them were cut in pieces; and among them the religious man. Some report, that BATTORI banished the rest: and some being fled into Hungary, he wrote his Letters to GEORGE TURSON, entreating him to 'cause them to be apprehended, jest they should attempt the like there, being incited by the jesuits, and the hatred to religion. The spirit of division had set all Germany on fire, and drawn them into factions, for the defence of the Pretendents to the Duchy of juliers, either party seeking to fortify itself; for the effecting whereof, they made several Assemblies. The Princes Protestant's Noblemen, with the Deputies of fifteen Imperial Towns, holding the part of the Elector of Brandenbourgh and Assembly of the protestant princes at Halle. Palatine of Nevebourg, met at Halle in Suevia; where there assisted an Ambassador from the French King, who offered them protection in the King his Master's name; and to assist them with 8000 foot and 2000 horse, with cannon and munition, upon condition that they should not altar any thing in matter of religion within the Country of juliers, and that the Catholics should be maintained in the same rights and privileges which they enjoyed during the life of the last Duke. At the same time, the Princes and Towns of Germany, holding the Emperor's part, assembled at Virtzbourg in Franconia; where they resolved of the forces which every one should furnish The Emperor●… partisans assembled at Presbourg. for the Army which they appointed to raise: after which, they began to levy soldiers throughout all parts of Europe; what succeeded, you shall hereafter hear. The protestant Princes, having concluded of their succours for the war, published a declaration of the causes of their union; showing, That their confederation was for the defence of 1610 the glory of the name of God, and the maintenance of justice and peace in the Empire; and not contrary to their obedience which they did own unto the Emperor or against any estate of the holy Empire: beseeching his Imperial Majesty, and all the Electors, Princes, and States, not to give credit to such as had maliciously published, that their union was made in contempt of the Imperial Majesty, and to oppress the Roman religion, to profane the monasteries, and to take again with violence those goods which their predecessors had given to Churches, employed in pious uses, and to trouble the peace of religion. Finally (relating the estate of the pretendents of juliers') they concluded that they were united with them, to the end they should not be by force molested in their just possession of the estates of the house of juliers; entreating all Princes of the Empire, & others not to misconstrue their union; nor to hinder it, but rather to assist them, that all jealousies & distrusts being taken away, love & concord may be firmly settled hereafter. The Electors, Princes and Towns holding the Emperor's party, which had been assembled at Virtzbourg, made another general assembly at Prague, in which assisted the Archdukes, MAXIMILIAN An Assembly at Prague. & FERDINAND of Austria. The propositions were reduced unto 4. heads. 1. The reconciliation of the Emperor with his brother king MATHIAS. 2. The election of a King of the Romans. 3. The restitution of Donaverdt. 4. The composition of the trouble of JULIERS. The king of Hungary sent his deputies to this assembly: from whom the Emperor demanded the restitution of Austria, & Moravia. The Elector of Cullen, the Archduke FERDINAND, and the Duke of Brunswick, went to Vienna to acquaint the King with the Emperor's demand, and the proposition for the election of a king of the Romans. It was concluded in the assembly, that the Duke of Bavaria should leave Donaverdt to its former liberty, without any exception, paying him his charges. And touching IVLIER'S trouble, all the estates which had belonged to the last Duke JOHN WILLIAM, were conferred by the Emperor upon the Elector of Saxony, and his house; conditionally that the house of Saxony should prove that they had more right to the said estates than the Princes pretending; that they should altar nothing in the exercise of the Catholic religion; that the said Elector should satisfy the demands of the Duke of Nevers and the marquis of Burgau, and should pay the charges disbursed by the Emperor & the Archduke LEOPOLD in this war. The third of july a reconciliation was made betwixt the Emperor and his brother the king of Hungary, upon these Articles. 1. That king MATHIAS should acknowledge his brother RODULPHUS Articles of reconciliation betwixt the Emperor and King Mathias. for Emperor, and the head of Christendom, king of Bohemia, Lord of the Marquisate of Moravia, and the first of the house of Austria. 2. That yearly the said king should sand him 2000 vessels of wine and pay him 10000 florins. 3. That the said king nor the provinces granted unto him▪ should not make any alliances without the consent of the Emperor. 4. That the king should demand pardon for those things which were passed, of his Imperial majesty; the which he should give him, in a particular form. 5. That the soldiers of either pa●…t should be dismissed within one month. 6. That if it should be needful to make war against the Turk, it should be done by the Emperor's authority. 7. That Germans should be put in garrison in the forts of Hungary with the Hungarians: and that the Emperor should continued the ordinary payment, which Bohemia did furnish for the entertainment of the said garrison. 8. That the Emperor and King should hereafter join their forces, to punish rebellious subjects. 9 That if any of their officers did not 'cause the said Articles to be presently observed, they should be deprived of their offices. 10. That the Electors & Princes assembled at Prague should subscribe the said Articles, and that they should be signed by ●…ther part. 11. That the county of tirol should be left wholly to the Emperor, and that neither king MATHIAS nor the Archdukes his brethren and cousins should pretend any title unto it. Soon after, the protestants Princes of Germany, who were united in the behalf of the Princes pretending the succession of juliers, seeing that Duke MAXIMILIAN of Bavaria, the head The Protestant Princes sand to the Duke of Bavaria. of the union of the Catholic Princes, had levied many soldiers, they sent an Embassy unto him: where after many conferences, in the end they concluded, that by the first of November, the duke of Bavaria should dismiss his Army; but for that the Archduke LEOPOLD had great troops in his Bishoprics of Passau and Strasbourg, he might put part of them into garrison to be ready upon any new accident: moreover that all acts of hostility should cease, betwixt the subjects of the Archbishop of Cullen, and the States of juliers: and if there should happen any difference betwixt the said parties, they should agreed amiably, and not come to Arms. The Emperor having given no order for the payment of LEOPOLD'S Army (it having committed great spoils in the Bishopric of Passau) they entered into Austria, where they committed barbarous cruelties, being led by ROMEO. Many thought that he would pass 1611 Leopolds army enters Austria. unto Prague, to force the Emperor to pay his Army: Others were of opinion that LEOPOLD aspired to make himself King of the Romans, and that he would employ this Army to that effect. King MATHIAS (who was then disarmed) found presently that it was against him: wherefore he sent for all his subjects and friends, and sought to cross the Leopoldians enterprises: He wrote to the States of Bohemia, that he would never believe the Emperor would break the Peace, so newly sworn; yet he entreated them, if need were, to secure him in his necessity. The Leopoldians entered into Bohemia, and surprised Budevitz by policy and spoiled it, and then marched towards Prague. The Emperor (being required by the States) sent a Herald to the Archduke LEOPOLD, with commandment to retire the Army to Cruman, and there to attend their pay. Having delivered his charge in secret to the Archduke, he was brought to ROMEO; who willed him to return to Prague, and to assure them, that they were friends to all such as were faithful subjects to the Emperor, and were in Arms only to defend his authority; and that being entered into Prague (the which they hoped to do the next day) they would not wrong any man: After whose return, they marched to Prague. Many of the Emperor's Council had intelligence with the Archduke LEOPOLD, fearing King MATHIAS; and had gotten Arms into diverse Monasteries, providing for all occurrents. They were Armed, and had gotten a gate at their devotion, to draw LEOPOLD'S soldiers secretly into petty Prague; the which they surprised on the fifteenth of February early in the morning, by the treachery of the They surprise petty Prague. Porter: yet there was a great conflict in the Town, with loss on both sides; but, in the end, the Inhabitants were forced to yield. After which, the Castle of Prague was yielded to LEOPOLD, causing himself to be declared the Emperor's Lieutenant general, taking the oath of fidelity from all the Soldiers. In the mean time, the Nobility and Soldiers within old and new Prague, resolved to make a salie upon the Leopoldians which were in petty Prague: and they, on the other side, threatened to set fire on the Town. On the 18 of February, the Emperor sent a commandment both to the Leopoldians, and to the States of Bohemia and Nobility, to present themselves the next day in the castle of Prague, and thereto swear all obedience, and fidelity to his imperial Majesty, and to promise' not to offend one another by Arms. The Herald having published this command to the Lepoldians, the States would not suffer him to enter into the old Town; giving him charge to tell the Emperor, that he should proclaim a cessation of Arms for three days, to the end they might have time to consult of their affairs. In the end, it was concluded, that the old and new town They of Prague compound with Leopolds' army should give 200000 Florins, so as LEOPOLD'S Army would leave petty Prague, and departed presently out of Bohemia. During these combustions, King MATHIAS drew together his friends and forces: he had then two great affairs in hand. For GABRIEL BATTORI The Prince of Transiluania surpriseth Hermstad. Prince of Transiluania, in the beginning of this year, had surprised Hermstad by intelligence; carried away his Lieutenant prisoner; thrust out all his partisans; and placed 1300 Haiduques in Garrison. The which did much trouble MATHIAS, hoping to have had his revenge this summer; the which he might easily have effected, the Vaivode of Valachia and BATTORI being in war. But the King running to the nearest fire, caused his troops to turn head towards Bohemia, to secure the States which craved his aid. The Emperor hearing that his brother MATHIAS was entered Bohemia with an Army of 18000 men, to succour the States; he sent them word by an Herald, that if they would not take some course for the payment of LEOPOLD'S Army, that it might be discharged, he would deprive them of their liberties: But they, hearing of the King's approach, refused his demand. The Emperor, foreseeing the danger if these two Armies should meet, caused 300000 Florins to be given to pay the Army for three months: and so LEOPOLD retired away by night, and Leopold with his Army retires from Prague and out of Bohemia. recovered the Frontiers of Bohemia. ROMEO, Lieutenant to the Archduke LEOPOLD, would not leave Bohemia as he had done Prague, without the full payment of his Army. Whereupon, he fortifies himself within Buduits, and furnisheth it with victuals, Arms, and powder: he melts the Bells to cast Ordinance; Romeo fortifies himself in Budritz. and fortifies himself so well, as they must compound with him, before they get him out. As for King MATHIAS; hearing that LEOPOLD was go from Prague, he sent word unto the States, that he would not arrive there before the 24 of March. Before which time, diverse of of the Emp. Council were imprisoned; & among others, FRANCIS DENNAGEL who was also of secret counsel to the Archduke LEOPOLD. Being put to the Rack, he confessed the Archduke's designs, and that he had been sent by the Emperors to some Electors and Princes, to Demagels' confession. draw aid from them against King MATHIAS, they being at jar: That LEOPOLDS resolution was to change many things not only in the government of Prague, but in the whole Empire, and that some great men of the Emperor's Council must be dismissed. Whereunto DENNAGEL made answer; That it might be done in Italy, but that Bohemia was governed after, another manner. That the Archduke's intention was to seize upon all the towns of Bohemia, to unite his forces with those of Bohemia, to defend the Emperor, and to employ his Arms against King MATHIAS, whose entry into Bohemia they would hinder; And if this design had succeeded, then by an Imperial edict they would have forbidden the exercise of the Protestant's religion throughout all Bohemia. He also confessed that he was servant to the Archduke LEOPOLD, and that he would gladly have procured him the kingdom of Bohemia. King MATHIAS having discovered his enemy's counsels, marched on, and came within half a league of Prague; whither all the Nobility and others went to honour this rising sun, leaving the sun setting. He made his entry into Prague with great pomp: where after his arrival the Emperor sent to congratulate his coming, by such of his Council as he thought should be most pleasing unto him. The Elector of Saxony advised the states of Bohemia to be well advised in the pacifying of these troubles, and not to believe that the Emperor The Duke of Saxony writes to the states of Bohemia. (who had so peaceably governed not only Bohemia but the whole Empire these thirty five years) was the cause thereof; but that it proceeded from some busy and turbulent spirits, in the punishment of whom they must use moderation; not chastizing the innocent with the culpable; That the laws of Bohemia be not violated, and the Imperial Majesty with the dignity of the Electors, and states of the Empire wronged: That all their counsels should tend to obey the Emperor only, and not suffer his age to be oppressed with cares and discontents. By other private letters he advertised HENRY JULIERS' Duke of Brunswick, not to abandon the Emperor, nor to suffer any thing to pass prejudicial to his Imperial majesty, and admonished K. MATHIAS that all things proceeding with moderation, the house of Austria would be much contented. The Emperor assembled the States of Bohemia upon the twelfth of April: where he gave The Emperor's propositions to the states of Bohemia. them to understand, that he could not conceal the brotherly affection which he bore to MATHIAS King of Hungary his first brother, and his successor designed in the Realm of Bohemia: he entreated them to resolve he might be crowned in his life time, as many of his predecessors had done to their successors; but with condition to suffer him to enjoy the Realm during his life: As for certain differences betwixt him and king MATHIAS, that they should treat thereof at the end of the Assembly. In the mean time he required them to give him wherewith to entertain the Imperial Majesty; That his officers might be paid their wages; his counsellors imprisoned, set at liberty: And that all the power and royal authority in Bohemia should remain to him. The estates in their Assembly drew many Articles, which king MATHIAS was to swear Propositions of the states to Mathias. before his coronation; And they were read in the presence of the Ambassadors of Moravia: who also for themselves and the Silesians (who are incorporated to the crown of Bohemia) presented their complaints and grievances containing 49 Articles: And the inhabitants of Prague required the confirmation of eight Articles, before his coronation, the which concerned the private government of their City: all which I am forced for brevity sake to omit, and to refer the Reader to the original, whereby he may judge what the estate of Bohemia might be after those demands; the Emperor (who was the lawful King) having nothing in a manner but the title. He had a good heart; but his body was grown old and weak: He had the the greatness of courage of his predecessors; but crossed by fortune, he is constrained to yield to that which they desire: And he that presseth him to this consent, we see him (being half forced) to quit some of the flowers of the liberty of this crown, to those which did him homage, before that heaven had taken away him, whose successor he had been without condition. King MATHIAS having sworn to all their Articles, King Mathias crowned King of Bohemia. and the Emperor having freed all the subjects of Bohemia and incorporated provinces, from their oath of allegiance, they proceeded to the Coronation of MATHIAS; whom the whole court and the inhabitants of Prague honoured much, having much desired it. And after the Coronation, certain Deputies being appointed to end the differences betwixt the Emperor and King MATHIAS, they concluded (and signed unto) these Articles: Firstly, That the Castle of Prague should remain to the Emperor, and that the king should lodge near unto it, having the Church common to them both. Secondly, That 1611 the governor of the Castle and the guard should swear fidelity to both; and if there were any change to be made, it should be left to the Emperor's disposition. Thirdly, That the government Articles of accord betwixt the Emperor and K. Mathias. of the Empire should remain in the Emperor, and that he should not be disquieted in any thing that concerned the Imperial jurisdiction. Fourthly, That the government of Bohemia and the provinces depending, should be left to King MATHIAS, to whom the Emperor should yield all the right he pretended; but as for the difference for the title of king of Bohemia it should be referred to the next Assembly of the States. Fiftly, That in regard of the Session, which the Emperor made unto king MATHIAS of Bohemia and the provinces depending, he should pay yearly unto his imperial majesty 300000 florins, at two equal payments. Sixtly, That the Emperor should enjoy the Segniories, demeasus and revenues of Budovits, Brandesi, Lissau, and Petzerau, during his life; the which he should by no means engage, cell, or transport. Seaventhly, That the Emperor should have liberty to dispose by his testament of 200000 florins. Eightly, That the king should effect his promise made to the Emperor, touching the county of TYROL, and should satisfy his brother ALBERT, for his interest in Austria. Ninthly, That the Emperor should recommend king MATHIAS to the Electors and Princes of the Empire to be advanced to the Imperial dignity. Tenthly, That at the next Diet they should labour by all means to obtain contribution and succours against the Turk. Eleventh, That the privileges of the Arch-duchie of Austria should be delivered into the King's hands; with this condition, that if the Emperor had need, the king should assist him. Twelfthly, and lastly, That within one year the Emperor should give the investiture of Bohemia to the said king. The town of Aix (whereas the Emperor receives his first Crown) was in great combustions by reason of religion. The Catholic magistrate, by virtue of the Emperor's commandment, Troubles at Aix. had hindered the exercise of the Protestant religion within the town and territory; the which the others taking very impatiently, they fell into atumult and took Arms, seizing upon the town-house and whole town, and dispossessed the Catholic magistrate. The Catholics fled to the Archduke ALBERT and to the Elector of Cullen, for support: And the Protestant's sent presently to the Princes possessing juliers, for aid, and to sand some men of note to reconcile their differences. In the end by the mediation of the French Kings Ambassadors, there were certain Articles set down for their reconciliation, but they took no great effect. The Duke of Brunswick had (as we have said) besieged the city of Brunswick, but had left it by reason of the hope of a peace. This year the Duke was at the Emperor's court, to pursue Brunswick prescribed by the Emperor. the proscription of the said town, in case of disobedience. The Hanse-townes (fearing that his favour in court would prevail more than the justice of their cause) entreated king MATHIAS by their Letters, to favour the right of the town of Brunswick. But the Duke prevailed: for he obtained Letters patents for the proscription of the Senate and inhabitants of Brunswick, as violaters of the public peace; declaring them guilty of treason, and all their goods confiscate to the Duke, if that within one year they did not submit themselves under his obedience. Whereunto the magistrate and citizens published a declaration, containing a protestation of their innocency. About the end of September the Electors had called a Diet to Nurembourg: from whence they sent Ambassadors to the Emperor, who found not any person of quality but the Duke of An Assembly of Electors at Nurembourg. Brunswick about his Majesty. They acquainted him with the present estate of the Empire; telling him, That the Electors required, above all things, a reformation in justice; That he should make choice of more faithful officers and Counsellors than he formerly had done; That a general Diet might be called in the Spring following; That what King MATHIAS had Propositions made by the Electors, to the Emperor. done, was nothing pleasing unto them; That the reason of the bad government of the Commonweal, was, for that his imperial Majesty did not impart the important affairs of the Empire unto them, as his predecessors have usually done. They also besought him, in the name of the said Electors, that if he had no will to stay in Bohemia; to let them understand the time when he meant to departed, and the place where he would make his residence: And as for the Election of a King of Romans, they would not treat thereof without his consent; yet, not wishing that the Empire should go out of the house of Austria, they desired to know which of them he would have to succeed him. The Emperor made answer, That he had long projected to appoint a successor in the The Emperor's answer. Empire, but the troubles in Bohemia had diverted him; That he desired before they did treat of him that should succeed him, there should be a general Diet, where he might assist; That he was of the Electors opinion, concerning the necessity to proceed to the Election of a King of the Romans; but he advised them to give order, that he might tell them freely in the Assembly, what was necessary for the safety of the Commonweal. The Ambassadors being returned, with this answer, the Electors appointed a Diet to be held in April following, in the year 1612, to choose a King of Romans in the City of Frankford, after the accustomed manner. The Emperor RODULPH growing sickly (in the end of December, after the old computation) with extreme pains in his Legs (the which increased daily) he yielded his soul to God, on the tenth of january; having reigned Emperor above thirty five years. They The death of the Emperor Rodulph, thought to have kept his death secret, until the coming of King MATHIAS, and therefore they sent up his service at dinner time into his chamber, to the end no man should suspect it; but soon after, being known to TRANTMANSTOR●…, it was diuulged over all Prague, and in the mean time they sent Posts to advertise King MATHIAS, and the Electors of the Empire. THE LIFE OF MATHIAS, THE FIRST OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDRETH AND NINETEENTH ROMAN EMPEROR. AFter the death of RODULPHUS (according to the Golden Bull, made by the Emperor CHARLES the Fourth, 1612 in the year one thousand three hundred fifty six) the Emperor being dead, the Elector Palatine, and he of Saxony, were appointed Vicars, Governors, and administrators of the Empire, until there were a King of Romans chosen to be Emperor; either of them governing in his several jurisdiction. The elector of Mentz, according to his charge, gave notice to all the Electors to meet at Frankford in May, to proceed to the Election of a King of the Komanes; whither all the Princes came with their Trains: where, omitting the Ceremonies which were observed in that Assembly; In the end, they jointly concluded to choose King MATHIAS, for King of the Romans; who was crowned on the fourteenth of june, in the said City of Frankford with the ordinary Ceremonies; and on the sixteenth of june, the Queen, his wife, was crowned Empress, who was also of the house of Austria, and descended from the branch of tyrol. The Ceremony of his Election and coronation being ended with great magnificency; the Electors, Princes and Noblemen left Frankford, to retire home unto their houses. The Emperor, as Emperor and King of the Romans, hath not any City or Town within the Empire: The whole Territory of Germany, belongs to the Electors, Bishops, Abbats, The Emperor hath no Town in the Empire. Princes, Earls, Noblemen and Free Towns: yet if the Emperor had no place where to remain but within the Empire; the Bishop of Bamberg is bound to give him his Town, and himself to retire to Villac. Wherhfore the Emperor MATHIAS, who had kingdoms out of Germany, desiring to retire himself to Prague, the chief City of Bohemia, he parted from Frankford the three and twentith day of june, being accompanied by many Princes and Noblemen, and past by Nurembourg in the beginning of july; where he had a very stately and magnificent reception. Before the Emperor's departure from Frankford, the Citizens came and presented a Petition unto him; whereby they required that they might be made acquainted A controversy at Frankford reconciled. with the privileges of the City, which had remained wholly in the custody of the Senate; That the jews, whose number exceeded, might be expelled; That there should be a course set down for usury, and a meal market erected in the City. To whom the Emperor gave good words, and put them in hope: But when as after the Emperor's departure, the Citizens saw no point of their Petition performed, there grew a great dissension betwixt them and the Senate: the which would have grown to a great combustion, if some wise and temperate men had not interposed themselves. CAESAR advertised hereof, being yet at Nurembourg, he sent command to the Citizens to refer all controversies to him; who made choice of the Archbishop of Mentz and the Lantzgrave of Hesse, to hear the business, and to reconcile it; the which after many and troublesome treaties, by their wisdom and moderation, they pacified and gave contentment to both parties. The Emperor, leaving Germany, returned to Bohemia. The Estates, hearing of his coming to Prague, sent the Duke of Teschin with a thousand horse to receive him, being accompanied by the Duke of Brunswick, and many Noblemen of Germany, who conducted him to the Cathedral Church, and then to the Castle; where they made great shows of joy for his happy Election. Soon after, Ambassadors came unto the Emperor from the Persians' and Muscovites: The Persian, having delivered his King's Letters unto the Emperor, he persuaded him Ambassadors come from Persia & Muscovy, to Prague. to continued wars against the Turks, as the deceased Emperor had promised; saying, That if he could prevail nothing, he should then return speedily home, his King having also resolved to conclude a Peace with the Turk; having made trial, to his grief, that the Christians had made a peace with the Turks, at such times as they might greatly have annoyed them. The Muscovite Ambassador said; That the Muscovite entreated his Majesty, to be an Umpire betwixt them and the King of Poland; that he would procure a Peace to those Countries, and provide them a good and worthy Prince: That they had formerly required the King of P●…and's' son, to be their great Duke, and to that end and purpose they had diverse and sundry times, sent unto the King: but when as they found that he had no such intent, but that under the pretext thereof, he might the more easily subdue them, they fell from him again; and, joining battle not fare from the City of Musco, they slew many Polonians; after which, they had an intent to call-in CHARLES, son to the King of Swethen; but, if the Emperor could by any other means provide for them, they would most willingly obey him. News came then to Court, of a controversy grown betwixt N●…GRONIUS the Emperor's Ambassador at Const●…inople and NASSUS Bassa, about the confirmation of the Peace which had been made some years before. The Ambassador, persuading the Turks to entertain the Peace which had been made, NASSUS Bassa required him to show wherein the Emperor had not been satisfied: To whom he answered, That the sixt Article of the Transaction had been violated; for that CAESAR, as King of Hungary, having a lawful Title unto Transiluania, he required to have that Article ratified; the which NASSUS denied, affirming that Transiluania did properly belong unto the Sultan: upon which point there grew a great contention betwixt them, whereby it appeared the Turks sought nothing, but some colour to infringe the Peace. The Emperor, being advertized hereof, gave answer unto the Persian Ambassador, That he would by all means embrace & entertain the friendship, which the king his master had desired of the deceased Emperor his brother: who, although he had resolved to continued the war against the Turks; yet, being hindered by the seditions of Hungary, he was then forced to make a Peace; but now seeing the Turks (having seized upon Moldavia and Valachia) to practise to invade Transiluania, he would confer with the Princes and States of the Empire, and advertise the King what was to be done; persuading him in the mean time to continued the wars. He answered the Muscovites, that he would interpose his authority, for the making of a Peace, betwixt them and the king of Poland, and to provide a great Duke for those Countries. Soon The Emperor appoints a Dut at Ratisbon●…. after, the Emperor sent his Letters to the Electors and Princes of the Empire, complaining of the Turks injustice, and showing how dishonourable a thing it would be, for the Christian Commonwealth, to suffer so goodly a Province to be invaded, and spoiled by them, without any opposition: writing also his Letters to the States and Imperial Cities; That, being advanced to the Empire, his first and chiefest care was to settle peace and tranquillity, and that justice might be duly administered, and that all jealousies and distrusts being taken away by a firm and de●…ired concord, the states of the Empire might be ready upon all occasions, with their joint forces to resist the enemy of the christian name; specially when against the peace made with him (having gotten Moldavia and Valachia) he practised to make Transiluania subject unto him: the which being lost, Hungary, and the Empire would be in great danger; and that having made a peace with the Persian, he had not desisted to call the treaty of peace in question, and to make a challenge to Transiluania. Wherhfore if he should violate the peace, it were necessary they should have forces, and the sinews of war ready, by a bountiful and necessary contribution; for the effecting whereof he appointed a Diet to be held at Ratisbone on the 24 of April, 1613. The Emperor going from Prague to Viena, GABRIEL BATTORY Prince of Transiluania standing in fear of B●…THLEM GABOR (who they said had craved aid against him of the Battori sends 〈◊〉 sergeant Embassage to the Emperor. Turks) sent his Ambassadors; and craving the Emperor's assistance, he promised him all subjection, and obedience: and withal he sent him many rich presents. Whereupon the Emperor advertised the Bassa of Buda, that this attempt of the Turks did manifestly impugn the articles of peace, by the which it was provided, that the state of Transiluania should not be molested. To which the Bassa made answer, that the Christians had driven away much cattles from javerin: That the king of Poland had violated the peace; and that it was to be feared, that he would seize upon Transiluania with Valachia and Moldavia; and therefore his Emperor was not to be blamed, if he did seize upon this province, which did immediately belong unto him. Soon after, the Emperor's Ambassador at the Sultan's Port gave him to understand, that he did nourish a monster, and that BATTORI had also sent Ambassadors to the Sultan, and had secret treaties with the Bashaes'. There came also unto the Emperor certain Deputies from the Saxons The cruelty of Battory against the Saxons in Transiluania. which live in divers cities of Transiluania who stole away in rustic habits, jest they should have been discovered, complaining much of the tyranny and cruelty of BATTORI; and that contrary to his faith, and the oath which he had taken, he had deprived them of their privileges, and had in a manner ruined them. That from the first year of his tyrannical rule and government, he had practised to extirpate and to root out the ancient families of the Saxons, making a relation of all his insolences and tyrannies: the which I cannot set down in particular, being tied to straighter bounds. They also understood that BATTORI did crave favour and aid from the Turks against the Saxons of Transiluania, excusing himself that he had sent Ambassadors to the Emperor, being forced thereunto by fear, and that he had sought to pervert and divert the Emperor's mind with presents. CAESAR hearing all this, bid them be of good hope, promising to provide a remedy for their miseries, at the next Assemby of the States of Hungary and the Empire. The Emperor called an Assembly of the states of Hungary at Possovia or Presbourg, whither An assembly of the states in Hungary. he went in person, during whose absence SIGISMOND BATORY sometimes Prince of Transiluania, having lived some years a private life at Prague, died there of an apoplexy, where he was honourably interred. At the assembly at Possovia, there was much contention, for admitting of German soldiers into their frontier garrisons of Hungary. There was great reason to endure it, for that Hungary could not be defended against the Turks without the help of Germane; and that an infinite number of all degrees and qualities, had lost their lives in Hungary, it being commonly called the Churchyard of the Germans. The Hungarians refused to subscribe to this request: but in the end the mayor part yielded; but with a limitation, that both Germans and Hungarians should be equally admitted; and whereas the Governor was a German, his Lieutenant should be a Hungarian, and that there should be an equality observed in their pay; that Walloons, Italians, Frenchmen, and other strangers, should be held for The Emperor's wife crowned Queen of Hungary. spoilers rather than defenders of the country, and be wholly excluded. And after the conclusion of all this, the Emperor's wife was crowned Queen of Hungary, with great pomp & state. In the mean time, the Turks notwithstanding the peace had fired and spoilt many villages and carried away many Christians into captivity; committing many acts of hostility, so as all 1613. The Turk, meaning to war in Hungary, is diverted by his rebels. men feared a new war in Hungary; but it happened by the providence of God, that the people of Anatolia in Asia broke out into rebellion, and burnt and spoiled many places: And in Arabia a certain seditious fellow usurped the title of a King, having drawn unto him 50000 AEthiopians, and seized on the strong Fort of Aden, upon the read sea: this was a great prejudice to the Turks, and very beneficial to the Portugals and Persians'. Whereupon, the Sultan, being incensed with this new rebellion, and an indignity which the King of Persia had done him, revoked his forces that were appointed for Transiluania, to be employed against the rebels of Asia and the Persians'; disposing of an Army in the garrisons of the Frontiers of Hungary, commanding them to contain themselves: so as at this time the Hungarians were freed from the fear of war. The day for the Assembly at Ratisbone being comn, all the Princes and States of the Empire repaired thither, and went forth of the City to meet the Emperor; whom they conducted into the City with great pomp, as you may read at large in divers Authors. In the beginning of this Assembly, the Emperor delivered to them the chief points and reasons why he had called them; setting down at large the Turks practices to seize upon Transiluania contrary unto the Articles of peace; the spoils which he had done, and the preparations which he had made for war: Moreover, although there were no fear of the Turk, yet it was necessary to levy money to supply the frontier garrisons with munition, and for the building of two new Forts in Canisia. Wherhfore, he entreated the States, that, considering the common danger, they would consent to make some contribution for the five next succeeding years, recommending this to the Electors, Princes and States. Before they came to the conclusion of these heads, the Deputies of the protestant Electors, Princes and States of the Empire, presented a petition of their grievances unto him, requiring The Protestant's prefer a petition of their grievances to the Emperor. to be eased (as they had often done to the Emperor RODULPHUS) but could not obtain it: But now, seeing that his Majesty did so much desire to settle a peace in the Empire, he would also be careful to remove all obstacles that might hinder it; being the only thing they desired, that, being eased of their grievances, they might live friendly and quietly, with the rest of the Electors, Princes, and Estates of the Empire. After which, they made a particular relation of all their complaints, concluding again with a petition to the Emperor for the same; and that if they might be eased thereof, they promised to be ready to advance any thing that might concern the public good or his Majesty's dignity. The Emperor made answer to the Protestant's petition, that he would take consideration thereof; yet admonishing them not to prefer their own private interest before the general good of the state: but they entreated him, that he would not take it in ill part if they preferred a petition of their grievances; which they could not avoid, for that in the year 1608, when they would not take knowledge of their grievances, the Diet proved fruitless. Thus they pressing relief, and the Emperor standing firm to his first answer, they forbore to come to the Assembly; so that nothing could be concluded. After which the Catholics made a declaration for the defence of their league, and delivered it to some of the Council; wherein they inveighed much against the Protestant's of the Union, and laboured to lay the blame of all the miseries on them, making a long repetition of their grievances: which contentions troubled the whole assembly for a long time. During these fruitless contentions at the Diet of Ratisbone, news came unto the Emperor, that the Turks had made an irruption into Transiluania. We have formerly made mention of the tyranny of GABRIEL BATTORI in these Countries, and how much he had oppressed the Saxon Cities: wherefore, having by this means diverted the minds of the Nobility and others, BETHLEM GABOR, who (fleeing his cruelty) had lived hitherto in exile, embracing this occasion, repaired to the grand Signior, and solicited him to expel BATTORI out of Transiluania, and to substitute him in his place; promising to be his vassal and tributary, and Bethlem Gabor is madam P●…ince of Transiluania by the Turk. to deliver into his hands Lippa, Geneu, and certain other Forts. The Sultan, yielding to his request, commanded SAUNDER Bassa to expel BATTORI: whereupon, he entered Transiluania with a great Army, and took divers places, being accompanied by BETHLEM. BATTORI, advertised hereof, sent ISTVAN his General with a great Army to encounter him: but, being terrified with their numbers, he returned, persuading BATTORI to provide for his safety. There entered another Bassa into Transiluania, by the straits of the mountains not fare from Cromstad, having defeated the Zecclerians who kept those passages; so as in a manner 1613 all Transiluania was in the Turks power. In the mean time, the Turks in Hungary forced many villages to take the oath of obedience to the Sultan; carrying away all their goods and cattles that refused it. The Bassa of Agria having notice that they cried To Arms in Hungary, Bohemia and Silesia; to suppress these insolences, sent an Ambassador to Cassovia to FORTGATSI, General of the Army; assuring him, that all these things were unknown to him, and that he was willing to entertain the peace with the King of Hungary & the Roman Empire; that BATTORI had been the cause of all these troubles; whom the Sultan required to have punished for his tyranny: but he would not attend and fight with the Turks, but fled unto Varadine; saying, that he did it to the end that he should not fall away from the Emperor, whose aid he had implored. The Palatine of Hungary and FORTGATSI sent him some succours, but not such as were able to restore him; and the rather, for that the whole Province depended now upon BETHLEM GABOR: who soon after was appointed Prince of Transiluania by SAUNDER Bassa; with this admonition, that being taught by the example of BATTORI, he should not follow his steps; that he should choose his Counsellors out of Transiluania and Hungary, and should do nothing without the Sultan's privity. He laboured to free the further Hungary from the fear of invasion; the Bassa writing to FORTGATSI, that he had only charge from the Sultan, to expel BATTORI out of Transiluania. The Diet at Ratisbone having been prorogued until the thirtieth of September, the Emperor The Emperers speech to the States at Ratisbone. came and made an ample relation of all that had passed in Transiluania. He earnestly entreated all the Electors, Princes and States, that as he himself had so much preferred the public good o●… the Empire, that leaving his own hereditary Provinces, he had come thither not without the hazard of his life by reason of the plague; so they would fall into consideration of their common danger, and raise a certain sum of money for forty months, to resist the common enemy; who, hearing of their readiness, might be diverted from his enterprises: but, after much debating of these businesses, the Assembly was prorogued till another meeting. The Emperor remaining with his Court at Lintz, an Ambassador came from Muscovy; who, having delivered his Presents, said, that MICHAEL FENDROVITIUS the great Duke of Muscovy, issued from the great Dukes of Muscovy, and chosen to that Empire by the general consent of all the Nobles, desired to continued the love and friendship which the Emperors his Predecessors had with that state; and that he would dissuade the King of Poland from his unjust attempts against Muscovy; and be a means that (having released some Noblemen which he held prisoners) he would live in peace with them. The Emperor, promising to be a mediator betwixt him and the King of Poland, dismissed his Ambassador with rewards. BATTORI continued at Varadine. The Governor of Toccay brought him succours in the King of Hungary's name; who, hearing what numbers he had brought, said, that they would prevail nothing against the Turks forces; sending presently messengers to Tirnavia and other places for greater supplies. In the mean time he disdained the Governors company; resolving if he could obtain no greater forces, to make his composition with the Turks, and to yield them that Fort for his restitution. The Governor, understanding this, conferred with his friends; where they resolved to cut off this encumber, dealing with the Groom of his chamber to kill him as he slept: but when that succeeded not, he persuaded him to go out of the gates to view the Army; where he was shot by his own soldiers. The tumult being ended, they took consultation with the Governor of Varadine to preserve the place for the Emperor: yet he persuaded Gabriel Battori, Prince of Transiluania, ssain. them not to put any garrison into the Castle, jest the Turks should come and besiege it. Yet soon after, he yielded it up to BETHLEM GABOR. BATTORI being slain, the Turks left Transiluania. BETHLEM GABOR called the Estates Bethlem calle●… the States to Clausenbourg. to Clausenbourg: where they first of all restored all men that had been banished by BATTORI. They concluded free exercise of religion; that the Prince should acknowledge the Sultan for his superior; that he should entertain peace with his neighbours, especially the Roman Emperor; that he should make a league with the Princes of Moldavia and Valachia; that he should choose his Council out of three nations, and do nothing without their privity; that he should maintain all the ancient privileges; that he should maintain justice; and that he should not hinder the free election of a Prince whom the Sultan should confirm. There were many other Articles concluded at this Assembly, which are too long to relate. After which, BETHLEM wrote Letters to the Palatine of Hungary, of all his proceed in this action; concluding that he was advertised, there were some that presumed to invade some places belonging to that Provinces the which he admonished them not to attempt, seeing that he was ready to perform all good offices, to the Emperor, and King of Hungary: But, if they did continued in their designs, he would not dissemble; but that he, and the Sultan in like manner, were bound by oath to defend them, who would have as great a care as himself of the Province, and would never suffer any thing to be drawn away. Wherhfore he entreated him, for the love of his Country, and of Peace, to command all his Governors and Captains, not to attempt any thing, whereby any combustions or alterations might arise, but every man to enjoy his own in Peace. There were some yet remaining in Transiluania, who, allied to BATTORI, had raised some tumults; and some, desirous to draw that Province to the Emperor, had taken Hust and The Turks admonish the Stat●…s of Transiluania to yield obedience to Bethlem some other places in his name. The Sultan, hearing this, sent his Lrtters to the Noblemen and States, letting them understand, that when as Transiluania yielded obedience to his predecessors and him, they lived in quiet; and had often craved aid from him, and obtained it; concluding that he had made BETHLEM GABOR their Prince, to govern the Province under his protection: But, hearing there were many things done on CAESAR'S side against the Peace, and many Towns and Forts taken; he had fully resolved not to spoil any Fort in Transiluania, nor to do wrong to any man, nor yet to suffer any man to do it, but would defend that Province with all his power. Wherhfore he desired the Emperor should know, that if he would have this Peace inviolable, he should presently make restitution of the said places, to the Prince of Transiluania, or else signify his mind unto him by Letters. The Emp. continuing at Lintz, called an Assembly of his hereditary Country's & Provinces, viz. Bohemians, Austrians, Stirians, Carinthians, Carniolans, Silesians, Lusatians, Moravians, An Assembly made by the Em peror at Lintz. and Hungarians: To whom he propounded, that the Peace had been broken by the Turks, by their many incursions, carrying away men and cattles, and committing many other insolences in hostile manner: And the rather, that besides Valachia, and Moldavia, they had now of late seized upon Transiluania, and forrified it with Garrisons, under the command of BETHLEM GABOR; that they had assembled the Estates, and admonished the Emperor by Letters not to meddle with it. In the end, he made mention of BETHLEMS' design, having made himself a vassal to the Turks, to the end the Province might be united unto them. Wherhfore considering how prejudicial it was to the Christian state, and behooveful for the Turks, he held it necessary by all means to be recovered, seeing the time was very fit to make war upon either of them. It was further demanded, seeing the Sultan did challenge this Province as his own, and would not suffer the Germans, to prescribe any laws to the Transylvanians, what he should answer in this point, That if a Turkish Ambassador, contrary to the express conditions of Peace, and instructed with no charge, should come, and that the Sultan should refuse to confirm the sixt Article of the Transaction; whether this Ambassador were to be admitted, and his Letters to be accepted by the Emperor. The last question was, whether they should make a new Transaction with the Sultan, when as he would not stand to the first; and how they should proceed in the business of Moldavia, Valachia and Transiluania; and what they should do, if Hungary in like sort should be invaded before an Assembly. The Hungarians made answer, that they thought it fit to device some means how the Transaction made betwixt the Sultan, and the deceased Emperor might stand firm, and the Emperor's authority maintained; and as for future necessity, it was fit some means were provided for necessary defence. The inhabitants of Worms had many years complained of the intolerable usury of the jews: The Citizens desired much to be freed from this unnecessary load, and to be unburdened of their Interests; entreating the Senate, to punish their frauds as it was fit. The Senate therefore, The jews expelled at Worms. meaning to set down some course, made a new Edict: but the jews desiring to prevent them, sent a Petition to the Emperor; who, desiring to be better instructed in the cause, required to have all the Acts sent unto him, with the privileges of the City concerning the jews, which had been granted by former Emperors. In the mean time, the cause was referred to the imperial Chamber; and a penal injunction sent, to pay again unto the Citizens, whatsoever they had exacted, contrary to the constitution of the Empire. In the end, there was a decree made, whereby the Senate was ininjoined by the Emperor's authority, upon a penalty of 10000 marks of Gold, presently after the receit theof, to reduce all usury, both future, and that which was past, and not paid, to five in the hundred; and that they should suffer them to make a defalcation of that which was past, 1615 unless they would incur the said penalty. This Edict was published in October the year before: which put the Citizens in good hope that all things would be well compounded. But finding their hopes frustrate, in the end they resolved to cast all the jews out of Worms; the which they put in execution upon the seventh of April, being Easter Monday: at which time, some 300 of them coming together into the market place, they sent seventeen into the jews street, to let them understand, that they must presently departed the City, carrying with them what they held most precious, the rest should be put in Inventory; and whatsoever they had recovered by judgement, should be restored to them. Having received this message, they packed away within one hour, much lamenting their hard fortunes. The Magistrates blamed the Citizens for this attempt; and they constantly maintained the action: and after their departure they ruined their monuments, their Temple, and whatsoever belonged to the jewish Ceremony. In May, the Emperor being at Vienna, there came a Turkish Ambassador, attended with a The peace reconfirmed betwixt the Emperor and the Turk. great train. Being brought to the Emperor, he delivered his Presents which were many, with his Letters; containing in substance, that the Sultan desired much to maintain the peace with the Emperor, and that he should sand Commissioners to the Frontiers, as he would do, to take view of the wrongs which had been done on either side, and to make satisfaction. The Emperor, having heard his Ambassage, went to Prague, and left certain Counsellors to treat with him touching the confirmation of the peace; who said, the Sultan had given him great charge to advance it, for that, being engaged in divers wars, he could not attend all together; that the sons of EMIR, Governer of Saida, relying upon the Persians' aid, had lately slain the Bassa of Damascus; and the son of NASSU●… Bassa had been strangled in Asia, where they put all to fire and sword. The King of Persia in like manner did not abstain from Arms: and the Cossacks of Polonia did much annoy his subjects. Being thus assaulted by many, he was forced to retire his soldiers out of Hungary to sand them into Asia, and to desire a peace with the Emperor; the which was concluded upon these conditions: that the treaty of peace, made in the year 1606, should stand firm; and for that, since the time of that treaty, there had been many controversies for the space of eight years, it was agreed, that the peace should be continued for twenty years longer; that, for 150 villages belonging to the Archbishopric of Strigonia, and had been formerly demanded by the Sultan, there should be sixty delivered; that all controversies upon the Frontiers should be compounded within four months by Commissioners; that the goods taken from the Turks at Pallantua by the Haiduques, should be restored, and the Authors punished; the prisoners on either side should be released, and the Forts built, during the last eight years ruined; that Priests, jesuits and Monks, might repair their Churches in the Turks Territories, and celebrated divine service; that merchants might freely traffic to Constantinople, having the Emperor's Letters-patents to show to the Governors of the Frontiers and to the Ambassador and Consul residing there; that the tribute once paid, the party might pass on freely, and be no more questioned; that a merchant dying in the Turks Kingdom, his goods should be delivered to the Emperor's Ambassador at Constantinople. These Articles were signed by the Commissioners, and were to be confirmed by both the Emperors. The Empire, after the peace concluded betwixt RODULPHUS and Sultan ACHMAT, had not been afflicted with the heavy burden of foreign wars: yet was it not free from intestine combustions. The pretensions for juliers had drawn all the Electors, Princes and States of the Empire, into factions: and the troubles of Brunswick, with the mutinies of Frankford and Worms, had much troubled the Quiet of Germany. The Duke of Brunswick being dead, there was hope of a reconciliation betwixt his son and the City of Brunswick, by the mediation of the Duke of Wittenberg: but, it taking no effect, the Duke presently raised an Army, and besieged The City of Brunswick besieged by the Duke. it; and the Besieged defended themselves valiantly. The hanse-towns raised forces to relieve them, under the conduct of the Earl of Solmes; who, approaching with his Troops, was advertised from the Town, that, if they were not speedily succoured, they should be forced to yield: whereupon, he resolved to force his way by the sword; which after a long fight he effected, to the great comfort of the Townsmen. After which, there was a truce made for ten days, and in the end a peace concluded upon certain Articles; which were confirmed by the Duke and the Citizens. At the inauguration of the Emperor MATHIAS, there had been some controversy betwixt the Senate and the Citizens of Frankford; the which the Archbishop of Mentz and the Lantzgrave of Hesse compounded, under certain Articles: the which the Emperor ratified, and they promised to observe. In the year 1614, they fell into new combustions; so as a multitude, led by some of the base sort of the Citizens, came to the Senate-house, and forced the old magistrates to give-over their places. The Emperor, being advertised hereof, sent a Herald with commandment to restore the old Senate: the which the Citizens refused to obey, continuing constant in that resolution. The Emperor after this sent a proscription against the chief Authors of this mutiny: whereupon, divers of them were apprehended, and seven of the chief executed: some were whipped, and others banished; being all men of base quality. The Citizens of Worms having expelled the jews as you have heard, and continued all night in Arms, the Magistrates sent to the Elector Palatine (who hath always had a right of protection over the City of Worms, and in acknowledgement whereof they do yearly pay him a certain fee) entreating him to assist them to force the Burgesses to their duties. The Elector, considering the importance of this innovation, sent forces presently thither, invested the Town, and planted the cannon. The Burgesses cried presently To Arms: but the Magistrate pacified them, letting them understand that they were no enemies, but their best friends; assuring them, that there should be no wrong done to any man, nor their liberties infringed: whereupon, the gates were opened, and the guard thereof and of the walls given to the soldiers. After which, the Magistrates making search for the heads of this mutiny, there were twelve apprehended and put in prison. The next day, in the presence of the Electors Commissioners, the Inhabitants took a new oath of obedience to the Magistrate: and the Magistrate in like manner took the oath of allegiance to the Emperor and Empire. And thus the mutiny at Worms was pacified without any disorder or prejudice to any man. The year before, SIGIFRIDE COLLONITZ (a man famous for the great services he Collonitz put in prison by the Emperor. had done the Empire against the Turk) having called the Bege of Strigonia to combat for that he had willingly suffered the Turks to spoil his lands, was brought in disgrace with the Emperor, and committed to prison at Newstad: his servants were put in custody, and all his papers & secrets searched by the Emperor's command. But, finding nothing wherewith to charge him, he was released, promising to attempt nothing against the Emperor nor the house of Austria: but, seeking to be revenged of those which made spoil of his lands, he was taken again by the soldiers of Landau, and brought wounded unto Vienna; where he was again committed to prison. The Burgesses of Worms, who had been committed to prison for the former mutiny, did this year on the seven and twentith of May receive their Sentence, which was to this effect; that a Doctor of the Law, who had pleaded the Citizen's cause during the tumult, should bind himself by oath, not only to departed the City, but also out of the Palatinate and the Bishopric of Spires; and that he should pled no more, and moreover should pay 1000 Florenes for a fine: Of the prisoners, one of them should be shut up in his house during his life; yet he should have leave to go to the Church to hear divine service, and three should be whipped and banished the Empire. The Emperor MATHIAS, being without hope of any issue, was very careful to leave a successor in the Realm of Bohemia: wherefore he adopted FERDINAND Archduke of Austria The King of Spain renounceth his title to the Realm of Bohemia. for his son, recommended him to the Noblemen, and sought by all means to advance him to that Kingdom. Having imparted this resolution to the King of Spain, he easily procured him to renounce his right; the which the Earl of Ognate the King's Ambassador with the Emperor did by a solemn Act, in favour of the Archduke FERDINAND: and the Archduke FERDINAND in like manner by a solemn Act did promise' restitution thereof to the King of Spain, if he or his Descendants of the right line should die without issue male: which several Acts, being passed at Prague, the Emperor did ratify and confirm. The Emperor, having obtained this renunciation from the King of Spain, and from MAXIMILIAN and ALBERTUS his brethren, called an Assembly of the States at Prague: where The States of Bohemia assembled at Prague. the chief Chancellor made a speech unto them; that the Emperor, having found them so faithful and ready to do him service, would not only be thankful unto them during his life, but would also endeavour to settle a future peace in the Kingdom, all causes of discord being taken away. Considering therefore that he was mortal, and being dead the Realm with the Provinces annexed should be left without a King, whereby might follow dangerous innovations, he had therefore resolved (after the example of his Predecessors) to provide them a good and fit King. Wherhfore, seeing that MAXIMILIAN and ALBERT his brethren were grown aged, and himself not likely to have any heirs, he had thought it good to adopt the Archduke FERDINAND for his many good parts and virtues, that he might be sworn and solemnly 1617. crowned future King of Bohemia; and the rather, for that his brethren would not pretend any title to this Kingdom: and the whole house of Austrta had given their consents to his election. Wherhfore he desired them to choose FERDINAND for their future King, and that they would appoint a certain day for his Coronation; giving them to understand, that the Archduke FERDINAND was ready for his part to take the oath, to confirm their privileges, and perform all other things that former Kings were wont to do. The States, having consulted on this proposition, soon after on the ninth of june made answer to the Emperor; giving him first of all great thanks for his singular care for the peace and tranquillity of the Realm of Bohemia, and highly extolling the rare virtues of the Archduke FERDINAND. In the end they concluded, that they had chosen the said Archduke for their King of Bohemia, and that he should be proclaimed upon condition, that if his Majesty should die without any lawful issue male, he should then take upon him the government of the Realm: and the day of his Coronation was appointed on the 29 of june. Moreover, it was added, that he should confirm to the States before his Coronation by oath, to maintain all the privileges, charters, immunities, municipal rights, constitutions and customs, as the Emperor and his Predecessors had done; and for that this confirmation, during the Emperor's life could not be performed, but must necessarily be deferred till his death, he should a month after deliver it in writing to the chief Burgrave of Prague if he were then living, or to the first officer of the kingdom; Moreover, before his Coronation he should promise' to the States by writing, that he The Archduke Ferdinand chosen & crowned King of Bohemia. would not deal with the government, nor attempt any thing without the Emperor's consent, and the chief officers and Senates; that he should rest content till the Emperor's death, with the title of elect and crowned King of Bohemia: the which if he should infringe, the States should not be bound to yield him obedience. After which, the Archduke FERDINAAND was proclaimed King of Bohemia, and crowned with the accustomed ceremonies. This made the hundreth year complete after that MARTIN LUTTHER had opposed A jubilee celebrated by the Duke of Saxony in memory of Martin Luther the Romish doctrine, and propounded his questions at Wittenberg against TEZELIUS his indulgences, reducing all to the trial of God's word. JOHN GEORGE, Elector of Saxony, a Princeful of zeal and religion, in memory hereof commanded a jubilee to be celebrated throughout all his Electorate; writing to the Divines of Lipsick, that whereas 100 years before it had pleased God to stir up MARTIN LUTHER publicly to oppose the Popish doctrines, and to begin to reform religion, which had hitherto been maintained in all his territories against their devilish practices; He had decreed by good advice to institute a solemn feast, to thank God; the which should continued 3 days, from Octob. 31, till Novemb. 2, commanding them to give public notice in their pulpits, to the end the people might prepare themselves accordingly; that upon the Eve the Psalms should be sung, and preparation made to receive the Communion the next day; that on either of the feast days they should have two Sermons, one in the morning, the other in the afternoon, and their Text specially appointed out of the holy Scriptures to that use. Which jubilee was duly observed in Saxony; and in imitation thereof, at Heidelberg in the Palatinate, and in other Provinces and Cities of the reformed religion, was celebrated with great solemnity: and there were pieces of gold and silver coined, both by the Elector of Saxony, and by some other Towns, in memory of this solemnity. In the end of this year, the States of Hungary were assembled at Possonia or Presbourg. The 1618. Emperor went to Vienna with his wife and whole Court: but not able to assist at this Assembly by reason of sickness, he commanded FERDINAND, King of Bohemia, to supply his place. The reason of this Assembly, was, to redress many grievances, and to choose a King who might succeed the Emperor: in which, relation was made to the States of the Emperor's great love to Hungary, and his desire to have been there present, if his infirmities had not prevented his resolution; telling them, that as the peaceful government of that Kingdom had been always dear to him, so he would use all means, that (peace being settled at home and abroad) all interrupting occasions might be taken away. And considering his great age, and the many infirmities which did accompany it, he feared that the estate of Hungary would be very miserable, if he should die before a new King were chosen to succeed him, of whom the safety of the Country might depend; which otherwise might be subject to popular tumults and the incursions of their neighbours: the which the Emperor desired might be prevented. Imitating therefore his predecessors, he requested they would prevent the calamities of future times, by their present counsels, and choose a King to succeed him, and to take upon him the government of that Realm, if his Maiésty should die without any lawful issue male: for the effecting whereof, 1618. MAXIMILIAN, and ALBERT Archdukes of Austria his brethren had not only renounced all their pretensions by Letters to the crown of Hungary, but had often entreated him, that (forasmuch as they were aged and without children) he would provide for the necessity of that kingdom, by some other means. Wherhfore he held it just, profitable, and fit for the good of the State, that FERDINAND king of Bohemia, his cousin German (whom his Majesty for his excellent parts, had adopted for his son) should be chosen, proclaimed, and crowned king of Hungary by the States. Wherhfore he entreated them lovingly (the former reasons conesidered) that they would choose and proclaim his dear chosen son, King FERDINAND, for king of Hungary; assuring the estates that King FERDINAND should promise' faithfully by his reversal Letters, not to meddle with the government of that Realm, without his majesty's express will, and the advice of the Hungarians; but should content himself with the bore title of king of Hungary, until that his Imperial majesty should otherwise dispose or die; and if he should attempt any thing to the contrary, the States should be freed from their oath of obedience. Moreover: that he should do any thing for the confirmation of the privileges of the kingdom, liberties, immunities, and all other things thereunto belonging, as the Emperor, and other kings of Hungary his predecessors had formerly done. Whilst they are about this proposition at Possovia, the Protestant States of Bohemia, made an assembly at Prague, the Emperor being absent at Viena, for that his Letters Patents had been violated. The Archbishop of Prague, having caused some of the Protestant Churches to be ruined, and the subjects who had complained thereof put in prison; some Counsellors which remained at Prague, excused the fact, maintaining that there was nothing done against the Emperor's Letters, nor the provincial constitution. The Emperor being advertised of this assembly, admonished them by his Letters to forbear, hearing that this assembly was made against his person: That what had been done by the Archbishop was by his command: That they had The Emperor complains of the Protestant States of Bohemia. exceeded the bounds of his Majesty's grant, and had presumed to take upon them the protection of others subjects, in an unjust cause against his sentence: That they had complained of his Majesty's Letters for the abrogating of the transactions, and bringing in soldiers into Bohemia, whereby they bred jealousies in the ignorant people, and had brought him in hatred with his faithful subjects; whereby many dangers, and rumults, might arise in his absence, which he never had expected from some of them: That they had abused his bounty, and exceeded his grant: And that it was their duties to prevent all innovations and combustions. He had therefore resolved, after due inquiry to punish the authors. In the mean time he commanded them to forbear from all assemblies, until he himself were present, or did otherwise determine: That they should not meddle with other folk's business, nor minister any occasion of sedition and tumult. This admonition did so little prevail, as the States were the more incensed, seeking by all means to advance the Assembly, against those that opposed it. The day being comn, and the States being assembled, with some of the Citizens, out of all the Tribes of Prague, there was a Sermon in the Bohemian tongue for the preservation of Religion, and the Churches not only in Prague, but through the whole kingdom against their malicious adversaries who sought to subvert them. On the 23 of May, the Noblemen came on horseback to Court, every one having a servant with two pistols charged; where they delivered their grievances before the councillors and chief officers of the kingdom. The chief Burgrave, and POP●…LIUS the grand Prior of S. MARY'S, did seem to yield unto their requests: but SLABATA chief judge of Some of the Emperor's counsellors cast out at a window in Prague. the province, and SMESANSIUS opposed themselves; wherefore the States calling away the other two, they took SLABATA, SMESANSIUS, with a Secretary, and cast them headlong out at a window, into the court of the Castle, the which was very deep, yet by the will of God they were preserved alive. There grew presently in the castle a great amazement and tumult: whereupon some of the States, and among them the Earl of Thurn, went through the city on horseback, persuading the people not to fear, nor to attempt any thing, promising that no man should be wronged; and that they would maintain what had been done, and presently advertise the Emperor thereof. The people being pacified and the chief Burgrave conducted quietly to his lodging, the States did bind the officers of the castle, with the governor, and porters and all the inhabitants of the three towns of Prague, unto them by oath: and meeting daily in the provincial chamber, being guarded by 800 shot, they made a league, promising to fight against the common enemies of God, the King, and Religion; and in that cause to live and die; to which end they provided for the levying of a good Army. Having afterwards published an apology, and declared the reasons why they were forced to 1618. prepare for their defence, they sent Letters also to the confederate Princes and States of Silesia, Moravia and Lusatia; whereby they acquainted them with all things that had passed, and craved their aid in their future necessity. By the defence or Apology which they had published, his Imperial Majesty might understand Letters from the protestant states of Bohemia to the Ewperor. (said they) the reasons why they had attempted to punish SLABATA, SMESANCIUS and FABRITIUS, as troublers of the public peace; who by their traitorous practices sought to deprive them of all the liberties granted them, and confirmed by the Emperor RODULPHUS and his Majesty, and of all liberty of religion; practising such dangerous factions, that they had been able to overthrow the State if God had not prevented it; that they must necessarily proceed to the punishment of some other factious people of the same quality: where of they thought good now to advertise his Majesty, as having regard to the dangers which threatened him in particular, and them in general, having means in some fort to prevent these dangerous conspiracies which tended to deprive his Majesty, of the Realm, and them his faithful subjects of their liberties: They had sought the means to maintain the Realm of Bohemia belonging to his Imperial Majesty: and for that the States could not always continued united together at Prague, they had therefore chosen Directors of the State of the three Evangelicall Orders; that remaining still there, they might ordain what they thought necessary for the preservation of the immunities and privileges which his Majesty had granted: wherefore they hoped his Majesty would hold them excused, having not attempted any thing with an intent to offend him or any of his Catholic subjects that were lovers of peace; being ready to employ their lives and goods for the defence of his Imperial Majesty their sovereign Lord After this, they made a decree against the jesuits, as the Authors of all the miseries and afflictions The jesuits expelled Bohemia. which had happened in Bohemia and in many other Realms & States of Christendom; comparing them to the Templars, and saying that they had incited murderers to kill Kings, which would not live after their manner; that they meddled with affairs of State, and held all them heretics which were not Roman Catholics; that they had slanderously defamed the Protestant States, and had made an explication contrary to the Letters of pacification made in the year 1609; that they had drawn the whole Country into the hands of certain perfidious Catholics, by whose practices the Country was in danger of ruin. For which causes, they baninisht them for ever out of the Realm of Bohemia; enjoining them to departed within eight days, and never to return: and to keep them from spoil during the time prefixed, they set 50 musketeers before their College and Church. As for the other religious Orders, the said States took them into their protection; and the Earl of Thurn provided daily to have the begging Friars & the Cappuchens supplied with victuals. The Emperor, hearing of these alterations, wrote to them, that he could not allow of that Letters from the Emperor to the protestant states of Bohemia: which they had done in the Castle of Prague against the Counsellors of State, before they had been accused and heard; that they aught not to have made so great levies of soldiers without his privity (seeing that no man declared himself their enemy) nor by consequence to advance the ruin of Innocents', who knew not to what end all this tended; wherefore he enjoind them to dismiss their soldiers, and not to attempt any thing against the ordinances of the Realm; that he would not conceal, that, hearing of their preparation to Arms, he had also commanded levies to be made, as well for the defence of the Realm of Bohemia and of his faithful subjects, as for the maintenance of the rank & authority which he held: yet he assured himself, they would rather embrace peace than war, and not force him by their disobedience to come to Arms; the which he would willingly forbear if they would perform their duties. The Emperor, seeing he could prevail nothing by his Letters and declarations, and that the And to the princes and States of the Empire. Protestant States of Bohemia prepared still to Arms, therefore wrote his Letters to the Electors, Princes, and other States of the Empire, thereby to hinder them from making any levies in the said States; advertising them of all that had happened in the Castle of Prague; and that the authors of these combustions disdaining all obedience, and making no account of his remonstrances, persisted still in in their first resolution; and that to the prejudice and contempt of his Imperial Majesty, and of his sovereign dignity of King of Bohemia, they levied soldiers from all parts, yea in the Roman Empire: and for that they did it without his express command, and against the Edicts, he advertised all the States of the Empire to take order that no levies of soldiers should be made in the Towns and other places of the Empire. The Bishop of Spire had for some years laboured to fortify the Town of Vdenheim, seated upon the river of Rhine, with good walls, large ditches, and strong rampiers, against all external 1618. invasion. The Elector Palatine had often sought by persuasions to divert him from this work: and the City of Spire had a privilege, that no castle or fort should be built within three miles of their city. The report was that SPINOLA had been the Author of this fortification, and that he would man it with a strong garrison; it standing very commodiously in a marish ground, to hinder the free passage of the river of Rhine: The united Princes and States of the Empire after their assembly at Hilburne, sent 4000 horse and foot with 1200 Pioners to this Castle; which (being yielded unto them, without any opposition) they raised and laid even with the ground, the Elector Palatine soon after publishing a declaration of the reasons which had moved him thereunto. The Estates of Hungary proceeded slowly, and were in a manner in suspense, by reason of Ferdinand chosen and crowned king of Hungary. the troubles in Bohemia; yet in the end they proceeded to the Election of FERDINAND king of Bohemia for their King in Hungary; but with these conditions: That he should religiously observe and cause to be inviolably observed all the liberties, immunities, privileges, statutes, rights, and customs, of the Kingdom with the conclusions and treaties of Viena, with all the Articles comprehended therein, and all others concluded both before and after the Coronation of the Emperor's Majesty in the years 1608 and 1609. The which Articles, being many in number I here forbear to set down in particular, being tied to straighter bounds. Which Articles being ratified by the Emperor under his Letters Patents, they proceeded to his coronation according to the accustomed manner. All things tending to Arms in Bohemia, the Emperor sent Letters unto the Directors for The Emperor's letters to the directors of the States of Bohemia. the Protestant's Estates, whereby he assured them of his fatherly love and affection, and gave them means to suppress the disorders and combustions within the Realm; yet in the mean time he had been advertised of the attempts and violences committed by the Earl of Thurn, who marching with his Army to Budovitz, had summoned the Consuls and Senators, as he had done the Magistrates of Cromlan, to dismiss the Emperor's garrison, and to yield the town unto him, if not he would put all to fire and sword: That it was not fit that he being Emperor should endure these indignities: Wherhfore he was forced to command the Leaders of his Army to enter speedily into Bohemia, to defend his faithful subjects from all oppression: whereof he thought good to advertise them, that by the consideration of the ruins which would follow this war, they might desist from their enterprise, and thereby avoid the assured ruin, which threatened them and theirs. To this Letter the Directors made answer, protesting that the Earl of Thurn had not committed any spoils about Buduitz; but only advertised the inhabitants not to entertain any The answer of the directors to the Emperor's Lettere. strange soldiers; That he could not do less then signify these defences unto them, being conformable to the ordinances of the Realm; That in case they would dismiss their soldiers and receive no new garrison into their town, the estates would forget that which was passed; But having made refusal, and declared themselves enemies to the country, it was no wonder if the Earl had used some threats, although he had no intent to hurt them: Whereof the town of Cromlau was a good example, whereas they forced not any man, nor put any soldiers into the town, for that they had obeyed, and dismissed their garrison; and therefore it was not needful, that the Emperor should draw an Army into Bohemia, in regard of Buduitz, hoping that he would never willingly consent thereunto, not give way to the pernicious counsels of their enemies. After this there were other replies and answers, touching the bringing in of forces into Bohemia, which I cannot insist upon. The Protestant States having assured themselves of many towns and places within the Realm, resolved to make two Armies: the one under the leading of the Earl of Thurn, which The Protestant's Army in Bohemia. should lie about Buduitz and towards the frontiers of Austria, by the which the Emperor's troops might enter into Bohemia; the other under the command of the Earl of Mandsfieldt to besiege and force some towns within the Realm, which would not submit themselves to the Protestant's obedience. Finally their troops increased daily both of German soldiers and other strangers of their religion: And the protestant States of Silesia had levied 6000 horse and foot, for the guard (as they said) of their province; But in effect it was to enter into Bohemia and to secure their confederates. The Emperor's Army consisted of 10000 horse and foot, with many commanders and The Emperor's Army. Captains: as the Earls of Bucheim, Tampierre, and Colalte, HENRY JULES of Landemberg Prince of Saxony, Marada, and Molart. The Earl of Bucquoy was expected with some Troops, and should be General; the which in the beginning bred some jealousy, and crossed 1618. their designs. It was bruited they meant to besiege Prague; where the Inhabitants laboured daily in the fortifications of the new Town: yet this Army did nothing but preserve itself and Budvitz. The Earl of Tampierre had commandment from the Emperor to enter with his Army into Bohemia, and to cross the Earl of Thurn's designs upon Budvitz. Coming to Bistritz, it yielded; into which he put a garrison, thinking to do the like at Neuhaus: but he was prevented by a garrison the Earl of Thurn had put into the Town and Castle. Whereupon the soldiers fired the suburbs; giving new occasion of discontent to the Protestant's against the Emp. Exploits of the Emperor's Army in Bohemia Some few days after, he attempted to force Neuhaus by Petard: but he was forced to retire with the loss of 200 men. Notwithstanding this disgrace, he entered further into Bohemia, and took Pilgrum and Polna. He had a design to seize on some place upon the river Saslava, within 7 or 8 leagues of Prague, there to fortify himself, and to be daily at the gates of that great city: but the Protestant's meeting him near that river, there was a great skirmish and many good soldiers slain of either side. The Earl of Tampierre was forced to retire for want of victuals; who in his return lost many men, slain by the Peasants. These exploits did incense the Protestant's very much against the Emperor, for the ruins and the burnings which the Earls Haiduques had committed. But let us come to Vienna. King FERDINAND being returned thither with the Archduke Cardinal Cleselius sent captive into tirol. MAXIMIL. they took counsel to remove Cardinal CLESELIUS from Court, sending him word to come unto the Castle at two of the clock in the afternoon, on the 20 of july: whereupon he took his Coach with the Pope's Nuntio, having much private discourse with him; where being arrived, he dismissed the Nuntio, and went towards the Archduke's Cabinet. Being met upon the way, he was given to understand that the Archduke was not well, and desired to be excused; and being led into another room, he was told that the house of Austria had decreed (with the Pope's consent) not to suffer him any longer in Court, for his bad government in the Province, and many other causes: wherefore laying aside his Cardinal's habit, he should take an ordinary black gown (which was offered him) and should presently follow such as attended for him. The Cardinal (who could not avoid it by any protestations) was presently conveyed by a secret passage to a Coach, and so conducted unto the confines of Stiria, and from thence to tirol, with 200 horse. His secretary and servants (who attended for him in the Court) were called into the Archduke's Cabinet, where being commanded to deliver the Cardinal's keys, they were committed. This was done with such secrecy, as no man discovered it in Court, neither did the Cardinal's servants know it, until at night they saw their Lord's house searched, and his goods seized. The Cardinal being sent away; the King and the Archduke went unto the Emperor, whom they made acquainted with what had past. In Bohemia the Protestant States, seeing the insolences which the Imperialists had committed, wrote unto the Emperor, and to the Electors Palatine and of Saxony, and to the Protestant States of Silesia, to make their complaints of the insolences and violences which had been done: And they did also writ unto king FERDINAND, and to the Archduke MAXIMILIAN, to move his Imperial Majesty to give ear unto a good Peace. All the Protestant Princes and States of Germany, or neighbours to Bohemia, assisted them with men, money, or counsel, except the Elector of Saxony; who did all good offices to reconcile Princes and other States assist the Procestants of Bohemia. this quarrel, being a friend to the house of Austria. The Protestant's of Moravia and Silesia in the beginning sent Ambassadors to the Emperor and the Protestant Directors at Prague. The Moravians employed themselves effectually to procure a peace, and refused to aid the Protestant's of Bohemia: but at the years end they changed their opinion. As for the Princes and Protestant States of Silesia, they made show to have a particular interest in this war with the Bohemians; to whom they sent 6000 horse and foot. They published a declaration to justify their action; concluding, that they found this trouble was merely by reason of the contraventions and persecutions made for religion; the Catholics having razed the Protestant's Temples, and committed them to prison which had built them; that the Emperor's Officers, of causes of religion made crimes of rebellion; that the Protestant's of Bohemia had surprised Letters of the jesuits; containing, that The time was come that Bohemia would be assured for the Catholics, and that the Protestant's would be deprived of their privileges; and the edicts for the peace of religion, revoked: the which the said jesuits had often preached in their Sermons: that if the Princes and States of Silesia kad known there had been any other action against the Bohemians but for religion, they would not have succoured them; desiring above all things to be most obedient to the Emperor. The Prince of Orange and the States of the united Provinces promised to assist them both 1618. with men and money. The Earl of Hohenlo or Hollock brought them goodly Troops out of the The Electors and Protestant princes writ to the Emperor. Duchy of Brunswick. As for the Electors and Princes of the Union of Germany, who did much affect the Bohemians for their religion▪ they wrote to the Emperor, that experience and nature taught how precious a thing public peace was; that they could never have imagined, that his Imperial Majesty would have suffered Bohemia to have been engaged in so violent and cruel a war, seeing there had been means to preserve his royal authority, and to contain his subjects in obedience; that the success of civil war was doubtful, and the end ruinous and miserable; that it was greatly to be feared, that this civil war of Bohemia would set the neighbour-States on fire, and breed a great alteration during his Reign; that the question being touching privileges granted to the Protestant's of Bohemia for the liberty of their religion, they doubted not but if his Imperial Majesty would grant them a favourable hearing; all things might be well reconciled, seeing that many Electors and Princes offered to employ themselves: wherefore they entreated him to continued the proposition of peace which they heard he had made, to pardon his subjects offences, to restrain his soldier's violences, and to quench the fire which was in his State; it being also to be feared, that the Turk, embracing this occasion of civil war, would break the truce, and invade the rest of Hungary. Count BUCQVOY arrived in September with some Troops, and marched towards Budvitz; The Earl of Bucquoy enters into Bohemia. where, at his coming to the Army, he made a proclamation upon pain of death, that none should set fire upon any place, nor commit any violence. They writ, that, being at Vienna, it was ●…ould him that the rustic and new soldiers of Bohemia would be easily vanquished: but he found the contrary, being at Budvitz; where there were two Armies, one of either side the river of Maloz: the which made the Earl to contain himself within his trenches. The Emperor having resolved to refer the difference betwixt him and the Protestant's of Four Arbitrators appointed by the Emperor to treat a peace in Bohemia. Bohemia, to the arbitrement of four persons, two Catholics, and two Protestant's; that is to say, the Elector of Mentz and the Duke of Bavaria, Catholics; and the Electors Palatine and of Saxony, Protestant's: to them he wrote his Letters, entreating them to take some pains to reconcile this difference; appointing the place of their meeting to be at Pilsen. The Elector of Saxony sent one presently to Prague, to exhort them to accommodate themselves to the Emperor's intention. To whom they answered, that they would willingly refer themselves to those four Princes: but as for the place of meeting (having resolved to besiege Pilsen) they could not yield unto it, the Inhabitants being Catholics, and great enemies to the Protestant's; desiring him to consider, that the Directors absenting themselves, the Imperialists might make some enterprise upon the Towns of Prague; whereof the surprise which the Earl of Tampierre had lately made of the Town and Castle of Camnits, was a sufficient proof. The Earl of Mandsfeldt had commandment from the States to besiege Pilsen; and the Inhabitants, seeing the Army approach, set fire on the suburbs. The Emperor heerupon wrote to the Elector of Saxony, and taxed the Bohemians to have besieged the Town, which he had appointed for the conference; desiring, that the said Electors Ambassador should return to Prague, and propound a suspension of Arms in the Electors name to prevent the forcing of Pilsen, and to resolve with the Directors upon the assurance of the conditions and the place of conference. The Electors Ambassador went to Prague, where he had nothing but words from the directors. The Duke of Bavaria wrote also unto the said States, that if they continued this siege, they would show the contrary to that which they had formerly published in their apology and protestation. The Protestant's, growing then strong, made answer to the Elector of Saxony and the Duke of Bavaria, that they had not been well informed of the causes of the siege of Pilsen; the which they would not have undertaken, if there had not been great occasions offered; that the Inhabitants of Pilsen had promised to join with them in friendship, and had broken their faith, suffering The directors reasons for the siege of Pilsen. a new garrison to come into their Town; which had overrun the whole Province, taken many Protestant's of quality prisoners, spoiled the Country, and ruined the Farms of the Protestant Nobility; and seeing that no warning could divert them from these acts of hostility, they had resolved to present a siege to draw them to their duties: but they grew more insolent, threatening to ruin all the Protestant's houses within the Province: Whereupon, they had given commandment to the Earl of Mandsfelt to press the siege, that the Inhabitants might be forced to unite themselves with the other Towns of Bohemia, and to live in peace. The Earl of Thurn in the mean time going towards the Frontiers of Silesia to join with the marquis of jagerndorff and the Silesians, the Earl of Bucquoy made an enterprise upon the 1618. Town and Castle of Neuhaus, meaning to surprise it by night; but it succeeded not, for he found the garrison and inhabitants ready in Arms, so as he durst not attempt to batter it. The Earl of Thurn having joined with the Silesians, being within twenty four hours march, he returned with his troops to Buduitz. The Earl of Thurn having recovered Pilgram, with The Earl of Thurne comes to charge the Earl of Bucquoy. all the places which TAMPIERRE had taken at his entry into Bohemia, he made his Army to turn head, to charge the Earl of Bucquoy in his lodging at Camnits; whereof being advertised he caused his troops presently to return towards Buduits: yet he could not do it so speedily, but the Protestant's Forward came to skirmish with the Rearward of the Imperialists, whereas BUCQVOY had some difficulty to retire his Cannon: and if he had not broken a bridge, and lodged some Harquebuziers in a wood, where the Protestant's were to pass, he had been in danger to have been defeated. The Protestant's having past the wood, they returned again to fight: the which was valiantly maintained on both sides, during five hours' space; but if the night had not favoured the Imperialists in their retreat, the Protestant's had gotten an absolute victory. The loss was equal: but the Protestant's had the place of battle, and 200 prisoners. After this exploit the Earl of Thurne hearing there were 30 wagons coming from Viena Thirty waggone taken by the Protestant's. to Buduitz, with aconuoy of 800 men, he laid an ambush for them: which charging them within a mile of Buduitz, they put the soldiers to flight, and took the wagons. The siege continued still at Pilsen: where having made a breach they were upon terms of composition, but the inhabitants grew obstinate; whereupon MANDSFIELD doubted his batteries, and made a great breach right against a house which the Emperor RODULPHUS had built; the which the soldiers took by assault and lodged there. Yet the inhabitants and garrison annoyed them much from S. BARTHOLMEWS' Church, and began to set fire on their houses to keep them from passing: so as all things tended to a great ruin and desolation, if God in an instant had not mollified their hearts on either side. The Protestant commanders overseeing the ruin and inevitable loss of this town, and the Pilsen reduced under the obedience of the protestants. consequence thereof, sent to advice the Burgesses and soldiers not to loose themselves, and that there was means to give them an honourable composition: that the Burgesses should be preserved in their goods and liberties, joining to the union of the Protestant estates, carrying all their Arms into the palace, an delivering the keys of the towne-unto the Earl MANDSVIELD: As for the soldiers (if they would not serve the States) they should departed with their Arms and be conducted to a place of safety: and so the town was yielded the next day unto Count MANDSFIELD, and some of the soldiers followed the Protestant's Army. After the taking of Pilsen, all the towns of Bohemia yielded to the Protestant Estates, except Buduitz, and some few places thereabouts, which were covered by the Imperial Army: and the Earl of Bucquoy extending his limits took Cromlau, which he manned with a good garrison. Cromlau taken by the Imperialists. Winter being fare aduanc'r, the Directors lodged part of the Earl of Thurn's footmen in Newhaus and other towns near to Buduitz and Cromlau. With the rest (being in a manner all horsemen) the Earl transported the wars into Austria, making an incursion within nine miles of Viena, where they spoilt many Burrougheses, Monasteries and Churches, and among others the Abbey of Swethall (which was a retreat for the Austrian Boot-halers) in the which they found a great booty: they chased away the Abbot, who retired to Vienna; and having manned it with a good garrison, they returned into Bohemia with great spoils. The Emperor hearing that the Silesians were in COUNT THURNS Forward, he wrote unto the Princes and Protestant States of Silesia, that he would never have thought the Silesians would have attempted to come and spoil his faithful subjects of Austria: That the Protestant's of Bohemia having demanded The Emperor's complaint to the States of Silesia. succours to defend themselves, he would not believe that they would have employed them to wrong him out of Bohemia, and in the view of his capital City of Austria: wherefore he advised them to retire their troops. The Silesians desiring to be satisfied in this point, The Protestant's of Bohemia made them answer, that they were not to be blamed for this attempt, seeing that the Austrians had come into Bohemia, and committed horrible insolences, and carried away great spoils; the Abbey of Swethal being their first retreat; so as they had reason to seize upon that Abbey, to prevent their enemies entering into their country that way: That their enterprise to transport the war into Austria, was done for two ends. The first to force their enemies to seek a peace. The second, that there were many Protestant's in Austria which desired to unite themselves in the cause of religion with the Bohemians and Silesians, and to be assured of the liberty of Religion: That the same day they had received Letters from the States of Moravia, signifying, that they had dismissed their Governor and his Lieutenant, being Roman Catholics, and had established Protestant's, and that they desired to unite and combine themselves with all the other Protestant's of the neighbour Countries, for the defence of Religion. That they also expected Letters from the Protestant's of Austria, both above and beneath Ense, and their answer made unto the Emperor: wherefore they entreated the said States, and Protestant Princes of Silesia, not to give credit to their enemies; but to believe that the entry of their troops into Austria, concerned the general good of the Protestant's of all the neighbour Provinces to Bohemia. The Protestant's of Austria above the River of Even, having built a Fort upon the River of The Emperor's demands to the Protestant's of Austria. Dannow, to hinder the passage of the Forest by the which they entered into Bohemia, the Duke of Bavaria and the Townsmen of Passau, gave charge unto their Agents to make their complaints unto the Emperor: who at their request sent the chief Marshal of his Court to the said States, to persuade them to raze that Fort, to leave a free passage into Bohemia by the Forest; to carry themselves lovingly and friendly towards the Earl of Bucquoy, General of the Imperial Army at Budvitz; to relieve him with corn and victuals, and to suffer the Soldiers to pass 1 Answer. freely from Bohemia into Austria, and from Austria into Bohemia. Thereunto the said States made a long answer; That the Fort was built upon the lands of Austria, with no intent to offend any man, but only for the defence of the Country. That they were not resolved to open the passage by the Forest, by reason of the Neighbourhood of the Bohemians. That it would be dangerous unto them to have any familiarity with Count BUCQVOY, seeing they were so near to the Bohemians, who might easily invade and spoil their Country, as they had threatened by their Letters. As for the victual and munition which was demanded for the Army, they were ready to supply him, so as the Earl would sand for it and fetch it at his own peril. The Protestant States of lower Austria, being pressed by the Emperor to make head and resist the Bohemians, and to prefer the public good before their own private Interest, touching 1619 the point of Religion: they made answer, That they had great cause to complain of the 2 Answer. Catholics, for that they could not enjoy the free exercise of their Religion, granted by the deceased Emperor MAXIMILIAN: That they could hardly believe that his Imperial Majesty would ever have attempted a war against the Bohemians, without the general consent of the States of Austria, and without their approbation being then assembled, and having not made them acquainted with the causes of that Assembly: That whatsoever concerned this war of Bohemia, was kept hidden from them as a mystery, and that the Earl of Bucquoy General of the Army, and the chief officers being strangers, it had given them cause of discontent and jealousy: For that they could not obtain from the Catholics an answer to their just demand, for the free exercise of their Religion: That they doubted not if they had taken advice at the general Assembly of the States of Austria before the beginning of this war, all the ensuing miseries had not happened; as might be verified by former precedents: That his Majesty refusing in this action to follow the ancient precedents, and to give ear unto the wholesome counsel of the Electors and Princes, it was reasonable that the miseries which had happened should be imputed to those which gave him counsel to war, who should now find means to free their country from so many afflictions: That they would not advise his Imperial Majesty to begin a war, knowing that the end is always doubtful, and the errors irreparable: much less to such a war as this, in the which we may behold plainly the ruin of Bohemia, with the overthrow of justice, of the Laws, and all good constitutions, and which draws after it all sorts of miseries: That to divert all these great calamities, and more, which threatened those Countries; they could give his Majesty no better advice, then to make choice of some worthy personages of the States of Austria, to sand them unto the Directors of Bohemia, to exhort them to abstain from all acts of hostility; and that his Majesty for his part would do the like, and then call a general Assembly of the States of Bohemia, and there to consult of the means to settle a peace in their country. An enterprise upon Cromlau. On the 8 of january the Protestant's had an enterprise upon Cromlau, where the Hungarians were in Garrison: who were advertized of this plot, and were in Arms; so as they returned to their quarter near to Newhaus, without any exploit. In this return, the Earl of Bucquoy salied forth of Buduitz with 1000 horse, to give them the chase: but he found opposition and sharp encounters, so as the Protestant's forced the Imperialists to retire towards Buduitz: Some writ that there were slain of both sides 500 men, and that the loss was equal. In the beginning of the year, the Emperor wrote his Letters to the Directors of Bohemia, to induce them to a suspension of Arms; and the Elector of Saxony (to whom the Emperor had referred the conditions) sent his Ambassador also to the Directors, to know their will: But, 1619. they excused themselves, that they could not give any answer, without the advice of the States of Silesia: Yet afterwards they sent him an answer, and entreated him to consider well how this suspension might be made, and upon what assurance, that it should not be violated: For, all these troubles (said they) hay no other beginning, but for promises made and not observed: That the Earl of Bucquoy, General of the Army, was a stranger, and had no dignity in the Roman Empire: That having many times transgressed even the Emperor's commandments, and continued the burnings in Bohemia, he might when he pleased break the suspension: And that in the last troubles of Austria, during the Truce, the Earl of Tampierre had transgressed; to whom they only made a verbal reprehension. Hereupon the Elector of Saxony, seeing the Emperor with the States of Moravia, Silesia and Austria, desire a treaty for the concluding a peace with the Bohemians; he appointed the place of meeting in the Town of Egra, on the foureteenth of April: whereof he advertised the Directors of Bohemia. The Emperor was much incensed against Count ERNEST of Mandsfeldt, who had commanded Prescription of the Earl Mandsfeldt. the Protestant's Army at the siege of Pilsen: whereupon, he caused a proscription or banishment to be set up against him in all the public places of Vienna; intimating, that whereas by the Imperial constitutions, all men of what dignity or quality soever were forbidden to carry Arms against the Emperor, or against any State of the Empire upon pain of Proscription; to the end that the Peace of the Empire might be the more religiously observed: yet it was notorious, that ERNEST of Mandsfeldt had not only levied soldiers without his privity, conducted them into Bohemia, and employed them against his faithful subjects; but also had besieged and forced the Town of Pilsen, whereby he had incurred the punishments inflicted by the said constitutions: Wherhfore according to the same he declared him a Proscript and banished man, abandoning his life and goods to him that could take them. The Directors of Bohemia, being advertised that they levied in Flanders six thousand Foot and two thousand Horse for the Emperor, they sent forth a commandment, That all Bohemians, having attained the age of twenty years, should be ready in Arms; the Cavaliers with two horses, and the Soldiers with their Musket or Harquebus, and reduce themselves into companies. Moreover, they gave them to understand, that touching the suspension propounded by the Emperor, there had been nothing concluded by the Elector of Saxony, who had only said that the Assembly to treat of a Peace should be held at Egra, and that they should begin by a suspension of Arms; the which was not very certain to be concluded, for that the Earl of Tampierre, having levied new troops, had renewed his incursions; putting all to fire and sword as he passed, and that coming into the town of Graetsen, and not able to take the Castle, he had set fire of the Town. On the tenth of March one thousand six hundred nineteen, the Emperor MATHIAS died in his Castle at Vienna, being sixty two years old and fifteen days. After which FREDERICK the Elector Palatine, and the Electors of Saxony, being The death of the Emperor Mathias. Viceroys of the Empire during the vacancy, wrote their Letters unto all the Princes and States of the Empire, in their several jurisdictions, for the maintenance of the Peace of the Empire, until the Election of a new Emperor. The Protestant States of Bohemia, by their decree, had expelled the jesuites out of Prague, and out of the whole Realm, who retired to Brin in Moravia, which is a member of the Crown of Bohemia: Into the which the old Earl of Thurn was now entered with an Army, to draw them into an offensive and defensive league with the Bohemians; under favour of whose Arms the Protestant's of Moravia sent their Deputies to an assembly at Snaim. The Cardinal of Ditristein, who was great Master and Captain general of Moravia for FERDINAND, had called an assembly of the Catholic States at Brin, and with the said Cardinal joined the Senate, the The Earl of Thurn enters Moravia. Prince of Lichtenstein, the Baron of Tzerotine and others, who would gladly have maintained their Faith to FERDINAND, but they wanted forces to make good their authority: For the Burgessies' and Town-house inclined to the Protestant's, whose deputies came with a convoy of 800 horse from Snaim to the gates of Brin; where they entered the third of May, and went presently to Council: and soon after the Townsmen went to Arms, drawing in 7 Cornets of Germane horsemen: Than they seized upon the keys of the Town, the Ports, Bulwarks, and all the approaches. After this, the Protestant States came from Council to the marketplace: Where environed 1619 by the Townsmen they invited one another to take an Oath there publicly in the sight of heaven, to maintain the liberty of Religion, the authority of the States and their privileges. From thence they went to the Cardinal, to the Prince of Lichtenstein, Tzerotin, and other Noblemen Catholics, being in their several lodgings: who seeing this alteration and apprehending the danger, gave them to understand, that they desired Peace, and to maintain themselves united with the Protestant's, for the preservation of the authority of the States. But this could not satisfy them: For in the end they commanded the Cardinal to forbear to call himself Captain general of Moravia, or to execute the charge, which he promised to do; and also to sand back his Commission to King FERDINAND, and to remain united to the will of the States: And it is written that the same night of the third of May, they sent a Commandment unto the Cardinal and to TZEROTIN, not to go out of their lodgings upon pain of death, placing guards about them. Cardinal Ditristein and Tzerotin, detained prisoners by the Protestant's. The next day, they changed all the officers, deposed the Papistical Senators, and placed Protestant's. In ihe end, they made an irrevocable Decree to banish the jesuites out of Brin and Moravia, as the Bohemians had formerly done: And on the last of july following, a general League was concluded between the Protestant's of Bohemia, Silesia, Moravia and Lusatia, upon certain Articles, which are too long to relate. The Directors had resolved to press the States of Moravia to chase the jesuites out of their Province, for two reasons which moved them. First, That since they had been chased out of Bohemia, they had practised to break the union and correspondency which the State of Bohemia had with the States of Moravia, and their neighbours: And Secondly, That they animated the The jesuits expelled Moravia. people to hold good for the house of Austria. Whereupon, the Directors of Bohemia made a Proclamation in Brin with the consent of the Magistrate, that the jesuites should departed out of Moravia within fifteen days, upon pain of corporal punishment: But, for that it was not made in the name of the States of Moravia, the jesuites regarded it not. Whereupon the Directors of Bohemia sent two Commissaries, who (favoured by the Magistrates of Brin) went directly to the jesuits College; and finding them ready to sit down to dinner, commanded them in the name of the States of Bohemia to departed the Town presently. The jesuits desired leave to take their refection: which being denied, they were forced to pack up their baggage and begun. Before they were a league out of Brin their College was on fire, and burnt with such violence as it was wholly consumed, and some twenty houses adjoining. The Protestant's said that it was a practice of the jesuits to ruin the Town of Brin: and the jesuites on the other side affirmed, that the Protestant's had set it on fire to incense the people, to massacre both them and the Catholics. The Earl of Thurne after the Emperor's death upon an advertisement given him by the Protestant's of Austria, of an enterprise upon Vienna (which they held assured by reason of the great intelligence they had with them of their Religion) being entered into Austria, he The exploits of the Imperials. was advertized upon the way that the enterprise was discovered: which made him return into Bohemia, having received some loss by the Imperialists. The Earl of Bucquoy, being in Buduits, with some forces more than ordinary, having received the Troops of Hungary, and 1000 horse from the Low-countrieses, he resolved to go out Budvitz with his Army to assail the Castle of Natolis; the which being summoned yielded presently: After which, he went and forced the quarter of Count MANDSFELDT, and defeated all his troops being 3000 men; at which charge they took seven Ensigns, two Cornets, the one being Count MAMDSFELDTS, Count Mansfelts qurter forced by Bucquoy. three pieces of Ordinance, eight or nine hundred slain, one thousand four hundred prisoners; among which there was a Captain of Horse, seven of foot, four Lieutenants, six Ensigns, and the Sergeant Mayor to Count MANDSFELDT: And so having taken a great booty, they returned to Budvitz: Herupon the Protestant's, being with their Army within two leagues of Budvitz, retired in order of battle, towards Verinau and Newhaus. The Directors of Bohemia, seeing the Imperialists fortified, and to have had good success in some enterprises, they sent unto the Protestant States of Moravia, Austria, Silesia, and Germany, for succours: and withal they wrote Letters unto BETHLEM GABOR Prince of Transiluavia, acquainting him with the estate of their affairs, and the cause of their wars; entreating Bethlems' Letters to the Directors of Bohemia. him to assist them in the general defence of Religion. To whom he made a long answer; assuring them, that for the pacifying of those combustions in Christendom, he would not be an idle spectator, but would employ both heart and hand, to found out fit and wholesome remedies: But for that his Country lies in the very mouth of the Turk, who in his Connsells (like unto the waves of the Sea) is never quiet, but still watchful upon the lest discord of Christians 1619 (and the rather now, when as all things were pacified in Asia and Persia) to take from them all means to annoyed, and to invade the neighbour Provinces, and (the division of Christians being speedily suppressed) to settle a more firm security, he had propounded unto himself two things: The one, to procure the favour and good liking of the Ottoman Emperor, for the working of this reconciliation; the other, that he might truly understand the state and intent of the States of Bohemia: wherefore by the Providence of God, these occasions did so concur, as he understood by their Letters of the seventh of August, how they stood affected unto him: And in like manner, on the seventeenth of the same month, he had received from the Sultan, his consent and favour (beyond his expectation) for the preservation of Christian affairs. Whereupon, he promised to be with an Army the next month upon the confines of Moravia, unless some great cause should stay him in Hungary; persuading them to preserve their forces together, and not to hazard any battle before his coming. Bethlin goes which an Army into Hungary. The Directors having sent an Ambassador with Letters in answer of his; upon the receipt thereof, he presently gathered together a great Army at Clausenbonrg: with the which, he marched into the higher Hungary, with eighteen Cannon: Where, the people being terrified, he reconciled the Noblemen unto him, HUMANOI only excepted; who, being too weak to make resistance, fled into Poland. He sent part of his Army to besiege Cassovia: the which being unable to make resistance, Cassovia taken. and out of hope of all succours, yielded unto him, taking an Oath to BETHLIN, and the States of Hungary. This strooke a great terror into the Hungariaus, and made the jesuites and Clergymen to fly the Country. THE LIFE OF FERDINAND, THE SECOND OF THAT NAME, AND HUNDRETH AND TWENTITH ROMAN EMPEROR. THE death of the Emperor MATHIAS being published; the Elector, Archbishop of Mentz, Chancellor of Germany (according to the duty of his charge) gave notice thereof to the rest of the Electors of the Empire; and appointed a day for their meeting at Frankford upon Mein, on the tenth of july this year one thousand six hundred nineteen, for the choosing of a new King of Romans: Wither, FERDINAND King of Bohemia, with The Electors meet at Frankford to choose a king of Romans. the Electors of Mentz, Cullen and Treves came in person: but, the Elector Palatine, the Duke of Saxony, and the marquis of Brandenbourg, sent their Ambassadors. Before they fell to the Election, they entered into consultation touching the combustions of Bohemia; writing Letters to the Directors, importing that they were desirous to employ their best care and endeavours to compound the dissensions which had grown betwixt them and the deceased Emperor MATHIAS and their new king FERDINAND, according to right and equity, and to settle a desired peace in the kingdom; entreating 1619 them to come to Ratisbon the 20 of Novemb. following, removing all impediments which They writ uto the Directors of Bohemia. might make the treaty difficult; and in the mean time to abstain from all acts of hostility: but receiving no answer, they gave them to understand by other Letters, that FERDINAND (being chosen Emperor) had promised to be present at the treaty of Ratisbone, or to sand his Ambassadors: wherefore they thought good to admonish them, that they might prepare themselves accordingly; and so moderate their counsels, as all extremities being laid aside, all men might conceive an undoubted hope of the conclusion of a peace. The Directors of Bohemia were careful to sand 3 Ambassadors to Franckfort to the election; but, they were not suffered to enter into the town: whereupon, they retired to Hannaw: from The Bohemians oppose against Ferdinand touching the Electorship. whence they wrote Letters unto the Elector of Mentz, intimating, that King FERDINAND had no right to the Electorship of Bohemia, for that he had never been in actual possession of that kingdom; neither had the summation been made immediately to the residence of Prague as it aught to have been, but was sent directly to Viena. Wherhfore they humbly entreated him to impart their Letter unto the rest of the Electors, and take order that the Diet assigned might be suspended and deferred until the troubles and combustions were pacified, and the point of Election decided: If not, that they would be pleased to call the States of the Crown of Bohemia to the Diet, for that they pretended a proprietary right to the Election. But, this prevailed nothing with the Ecclesiastical Electors; who would needs proceed to an Election: so as on the 18 of August, FERDINAND was chosen King of Romans, and crowned the 30 with Ferdinand crowned king of Romans. the accustomed solemnity. This Emperor was called Arc-hduke of Austria of Grets in Stiria, to distinguish the Families. For, the Emperor FERDINAND the First had three sons. MAIMILIAN, the eldest (who succeeded him in the Empire) had divers sons; all which were styled Archdukes of Austria, without any distinction. FERDINAND, his second son, was entitled Archduke of Austria of Grets'; from whom this Emperor now living, descends. And CHARLES, the third son to FERDINAND the First, was Archduke of Austria of Inspruck. These civil wars of Bohemia troubled the minds of many Christian Princes, fearing that this distraction would open a gap for the barbarous Turk to advance his conquests in Christendom. Our King's Majesty of great Britanny (who hath always been a Prince of peace) desirous to see these dangerous wars suppressed in the breeding, by some good accord; sent an honourable Embassy by the Lord HAYS, Viscount of Doncaster, now Earl of Carlisle, to FERDINAND newly chosen Emperor, to treat of a reconciliation betwixt him and his subjects of Bohemia; but it did not sort with his Majesty's religious intent and desire; for in the Interim, the States of Bohemia (being distasted with the rejection of their Ambassadors at Franckfort, and before the receipt of the Electors Letters after the Emperor's Electors) being assembled together in Prague with the Deputies of the incorporated Provinces, concluded and protested by oath, never to acknowledge FERDINAND for their King, resolving to proceed to a new Election; so as on the 26 of August Stil●… vetere they made choice of FR●…DERICK the Fift Elector Palatine of the Rhine to be their King; whereof they advertised him by Letters, The Bohemians rejected king Ferdinand and chose the Elector Palatine. and that he had been solemnly proclaimed; yet he would not presently accept of this election, without the advice of the Princes and Protestant States of the union in Germany; whom he entreated to meet at Rottemburg, to assist him with their counsels: where they were all of opinion, that he should accept of this dignity, as necessary for the general good of Germany, and of other Princes and states their confederates. The manner of the Bohemians proceeding to win the Elector Palatine to allow of their Election and to accept of the Crown, hath not been written so particularly by any Author, as The manner of the Electors acceptance of the Crown of Bohemia. I have received it by the relation of a worthy judicious Knight, who was in those parts, and informed himself curiously of every circumstance how it past. The States of Bohemia (as he saith) having made choice of the Elector Palatine to be their King, sent their Ambassadors unto him being at Heidelberg in the lower Palatinate: whom although he entertained well; yet he gave them a dilatory answer, being not yet fully resolved: which was the cause of a meeting at Walsaxon in the upper Palatinate, betwixt the Elector Palatine and the Directors of B●…hemia. At this assembly, the Elector seemed not unwilling to embrace so brave and free an offer: yet he held it not fit to accept thereof suddenly and rashly; knowing well to what cares, toils, and danger, this dignity was subject: and therefore he entreated them to have patience and to respite him for a time, until he had acquainted the King of great Britanne his father-in-law, with their Election; whose approbation he much desired in the acceptance thereof: whereupon he sent CHRISTOPHER, Baron of Done, as his Ambassador, to acquaint his Majesty with their 1619 proceed; promising, upon his return, to give them a direct answer. The Lords of Bohemia held themselves no way safe, vutill they had prevailed with the Elector Palatin, and won him to accept of that Crown; being conceited that if he were once crowned, not only himself, but all his friends and allies would employ their forces, and be engaged in their defence. Whereupon, they took advice, what persons they might treat withal, and who had greatest power and interest in the affection of the Elector: In the end they fell upon CHRISTIAN, Prince of Anhalt; to whom they made such golden promises both for himself and for all such as depended upon him, as he forgot the duty of a true and faithful counsellor, and become one of their party; prevailing so much by his persuasions with the The Elector accepts of the Crown of Bohemia. Elector Palatin, as he yielded suddenly to accept of the Crown of Bohemia, before the arrival of his Ambassador into England. The offers which the Bohemians made to the Prince of Anhalt and the rest, were, That the Prince should be General of all the Army: That CHRISTOPHER, Baron of Don●…, should be Chamberlain of Bohemia; That TOTHOSIUS, his brother (who was afterwards sent hither as Ambassador) should have the best marriage in Bohemia; and (which was worst of all) that the Earl of Holoch should be made Lieutenant general of the Army. These great offers drew all these great persons (who aimed at their own private ends) to the Bohemians purposes: Besides, they gave way to others in both the Palatinats, to come into those places which these men had formerly enjoyed. The King being crowned, and these men possessed of those places, they did as needy greedy men use to do, looking only to their own profit, and neglected wholly the honour of the King and safety of the State; still disgracing Count THURN and Count MANDSFELDT, who were the only men that ever gave good counsels, or performed any worthy and generous Act during the war. The news of the Electors sudden acceptance of the Crown of Bohemia, were very distasteful to our king's Majesty, the Prince Palatines father in law; who held it a precedent of dangerous consequence for all Christian Kings, to avow this sudden translation of a Crown by the authority of the people; nor yet warrantable by the word of God, to transfer a Crown upon any pretext of Religion, being bound to obey our kings and temporal superiors whatsoever they be: and therefore he protested to remain Neuter touching the affairs of the kingdom of Bohemia. The Emperor, after his coronation, went to Ausbourg: and from thence (being accompanied by the Duke of Bavaria) he came to Munich, the Duke's chief place of residence; where he had a princely reception. During his abode there, as some writ, he had much conference with the Duke, touching the wars of Bohemia; promising, that if he would assist him in those wars, he would give him the Electorshippe of the Rind and the upper Palatinat, for a reward of his labour: and for such sums of money as he should disburse, he engaged unto him lands The Emperor's promise to the D. of 〈◊〉. in the upper Austria. This was a sweet bait, able to move any ambitious Prince to forget all the ties & bonds of blood and consanguinity, upon hope to add a Princely title to his own dignity, and a large extent of land to his Territories. You may presume by the future events what their conclusion then was: After which the Emperor went to Gretz and so to Vienna. In the mean time before the Emperor's return into Austria BUCQVOY having taken Pisseck in Bohemia, he resolved to go to Thab●…r: But, being prevented by the Bohemians, he went and encamped at Merovits. The Bohemians followed him, and campt opposite unto him, observing all his enterprises; so as they had many skirmishes: And the fourth of September, a troop of Spaniards, going somewhat fare from the Camp, were charged by the Bohemians, and five hundred of them slain. Thus the two Armies lay encamped; when as suddenly BUCQVOY received advertisement, from the Archduke LEOPOLD, of the unexpected Buc●…uoy goes out of Bohemia. coming of BETHLIN GABOR into Hungary; commanding him to man his chief Castles and Towns, and to return into Austria: But, before his departure out of Bohemia he took the Castle of Resemberg; and having fortified all the passages he left the Country. After which, the Bohemians sent part of their Army to recover Bechin: the which they forced with the petard, slew most of the Garrison, and took the Governor with his Lieutenant, and sent them to Prague. After which, they recovered Thin, which BUCQVOY had formerly taken: and in the mean time the Earl of Tampierre had taken Lundebourg in Moravia for the Emperor; but, with great loss of his men. GABOR, having settled all things at Cassovia to his will, sent RHEDI and SETSCHIUS 1620 with 1800 men, and twelve pieces of Ordinance to Fillec and other places; which yielded Fillec and other places taken by the Transiluan. unto them. Than writing their Letters to other towns upon the Frontiers, they exhorted them to submit themselves willingly to the Transiluanian; assuring them that this expedition was made with the knowledge and consent of many States of the Christian Commonwealth. After which, they subdued Vaccia, Tirnau, Neutra, Novigrade, Possinga, and others: The Haiduques of jermath delivered up their Governor with the Fort. After which, Neuheusal yielded, and the Governor was sent bound to Cassovia. The Palatine of Hungary wrote his Letters The Palatine of Hungary exhorts Bethlin to desist to BETHLIN GABOR, exhorting him to remember his Faith to the Roman Empire and his common Country, and to desist from his enterprises. And withal, writing to RHEDI, he wished him to consider how great the powers of the Kings of Spain and France were, who were so strictly allied to the house of Austria, and that the Electors of the Empire (some few excepted) would undoubtedly sand succours to CAESAR. Whereunto they answered, that they doubted not of the forces of the Kings of Spain and France, or of the assistance of the Electors of Germany; but they did hope before their coming all should be finished, and their dinner made ready. In the mean time there was an Assembly of the Princes and States, held at Preslave in Silesia, for the confirmation of that which had been concluded by the States of Bohemia at Prague; where they had concluded, that King FERDINAND, now chosen Roman Emperor, had deprived himself of the kingdom of Bohemia and the rest of the Provinces, and that the States and all the subjects were freed from their oath of obedience; whereby they had recovered their right to choose a new King; whereupon they had elected FREDERICK, the fift of that name, Count Palatine of the Rhine, Duke of Bavaria, and Elector of the sacred Empire, for their King. This was confirmed by all the States of Silesia; who exacted a solemn Oath from the Clergy of Preslave, that they should faithfully observe and keep whatsoever had been formerly decreed in the Assembly at Prague, and live a quiet life, free from all practices against the Protestant's: That they should attempt nothing against the Emperor's Letters-patents, touching the excercise of Religion; that they should respect no man's favour, nor hatred: that they should not be diverted from their Oath with any entreaties, or rewards, promises, or threats; nor with any absolutions, treaties, constitutions of Counsels, or Decrees Not to keep Faith with Heretics, or any other exception whatsoever. All which they did wittingly and willingly renounce, under the penalty ordained by God and the Magistrates, and the loss of all their benefices, faculties, and goods which they held in Silesia. The Elector Palatine having settled his affairs in the Palatinate, and committed the civil government to JOHN Duke of Dupo●…s, a Prince of that house, and the affairs of war to JOHN Earl of of Nassau the elder; he went with the Princess his wife, and children and his whole Court to Amberge, from whence he certified the Elector of Saxony by his Letters, of his resolution, and of the reasons which had induced him to accept thereof. To whom the Elector of Saxony made a general answer; concluding, that he referred all to the providence and will of God, wishing with all his heart, that he might embrace such counsel, as might be fitting for his Electoral and Kingly dignity, profitable to his subjects, honourable to the whole Empire, helpful to the kingdom of Bohemia and the annexed Provinces, and might tend to the procuring of a Peace, and the avoiding of all ruin and desolation. In the mean time, he would pray unto Almighty God to divert all danger from the bounds of the Empire, and that no occasion might be giventhe Turks, to obtain that which hitherto they could not do by Arms. In the beginning of October, a Colonel called GOLTSTEINE, entered Bohemia with 400 shot, committing infinite insolences and spoils in the territory of Satser: where the Countrymen fell upon them, and slew most part. Count BUCQVOY, being called out of Bohemia by the Archduke LEOPOLD, presently took Horn a Town in the lower Austria, The Transiluanans join with the Bohemians. and left it again, and then marched to Suam, a Town in Moravia, with nine thousand Horse and Foot; which he presently summoned: but the Garrison prepared for defence; and he, hearing that twelve thousand Hungarians and Transylvanians drew near, marched away by night, and went to join with the Earl of Tampierre. In the mean time, the Transylvanians joined with the Bohemians, and Moravians; and certain companies of the Hungarians left the Earl of Tampierre, to go unto the Transylvanians. The Earl of Thurn, seeing himself thus fortified, having six and twenty thousand men A great fight betwixt the Imperials and the protestants. in his Army; resolved, with RHED●…S' General of the Transylvanians, to go and fight with Count BUCQVOY; who, finding his forces too weak, left his first lodging, and 1619. went and encamped at the outward bridge of the river of Danuow: whither the Archduke LEOPOLD came from Vienna to view the Army. The enemy came with great fury upon the rearward, and slew five hundred of the Earl of Tampierre's men. LEOPOLD pressed Count BUCQVOY to fight: but he, finding his counsel to be very dangerous, contained himself within his Camp. In the evening they began to skirmish; the which continued almost till midnight, their ordinance playing continually, with no small loss on either side. In the morning, the Fight began again very furiously; where many were slain and murdered by the ordinance. The Earl of Bucquoy had a great loss in his Camp, there being three barrels of powder set on fire by negligence and carelessness, and very many slain and drowned in the river. The Fight continued until it was night: but, being overpressed by the Bohemians, they abandoned a Fort at the end of the bridge, and retired unto the other side, breaking the bridge after them. The number of the dead bodies was uncertain: but there were very many carried the next day unto Vienna in wagons, whereof most died soon after. Count BUCQVOY was shot into the arm; and his Lieutenant General had three several wounds, but they were not mortal. BETHLIN GABOR in the mean time marched with a great Army to Presburg, taking in the Bethlin takes Presbourg. way the Castle of Petronel, the which he burned. The news hereof being brought unto Vienna, they sent three companies of foot with three piece of ordinance by boat; which entered the suburbs of Presbourg on the 13 of October. The night was very tempestuous, rainy and windy; and the Transylvanians embraced this occasion, and surprised the soldiers, who slept without fear; whereof most of them were slain, and their Commander with some few others fled away. The suburbs being surprised, BETHLIN summoned the Palatine to answer him, whether he would defend the Town and Castle, or yield it without force. Having some days granted to consult with PALFI and other Noblemen; being not able to defend it, he resolved to yield it. In the mean time, the new elect King of Bohemia, with his wife, children, and whole train, came to Walsacken; whither the Ambassadors of Bohemia and the incorporated Provinces came unto him: whereas one, in the name of all the rest, delivered the reasons why they had rejected the Emperor's government in Bohemia, and made choice of him to be their King; giving him many thanks for his acceptance, and praying for his happy and long continuance. Which ended, he delivered unto them his reversal Letters: by the which he promised before his Coronation to take the oath after the example of his predecessors Kings of Bohemia, to confirm all the privileges, immunities, liberties, rights, statutes, and the ancient laudable customs of Bohemia; and especially the Charter granted by the Emperor RODULPH the Second, as king of Bohemia, to the States and Inhabitants of the said Realm, for the free exercise of their religion, or whatsoever else might concern the good of the Realm and the incorporated Provinces: which Letters of reversal were confirmed under his hand and seal; these being received by the Deputies, they returned to Egra. After which, the King with his Queen and whole Court passed on, and arrived at Prague the last of October. I may not omit the Elector Palatines course before his going into Bohemia. Having met with The Palatine to the Archbishop of Mentz, and his answer. divers of the confederate Princes at Rottenbourg, before his departure he sent to the Archbishop and Elector of Mentz; to whom he propounded, that whereas it had pleased God that he had been lately chosen King of Bohemia, and was resolved to accept thereof, he desired to know of his Grace, in what terms his estate stood with the Electoral house of Mentz; and whether that correspondency which had for a long time been maintained betwixt both houses, should continued still firm and inviolable: and whereas the Prince Palatine understood, that there were good forces near at hand, he demanded whither they went, and whether his Grace would vouchsafe them passage. To these the Elector of Mentz answered, that he would observe the ancient correspondency which the Electors of Mentz have had with the Electors Palatines, inviolaby in all lawful things; that touching that which concerned the tumults in Bohemia, he was appointed no judge, neither did they concern him; as for the Army, he knew nothing certain: that hitherto he had denied no man passage, and continued still in the same mind, so as they gave good security according to the constitutions of the Roman Empire, to repair all damages: yet he would confer touching this Article with the other Electors. And soon after, the Vicar general or Governor of Heidelberg had stayed all the revenues of the Clergy, which they of Mentz, Spire, Worms, and the Teuton Knights hold in the Palatinate. The Elector of Mentz, being moved with the many complaints of the Clergy, sent unto the Vicar general and the Council of the Palatinate, to expostulate with them for the seizure of the Clergies rents; adding withal, that hitherto there had not only a good concord 1619 been maintained betwixt the Electoral house of Mentz and the Palatinate; but, before the departure of the Prince Elector Palatine to Prague; he had sent an Ambassador for the confirmation and future maintenance of the said correspondency betwixt both houses, so as he never expected A complaint. this prohibition would have been made by so good a neighbour. Whereunto they made answer, That they were not ignorant of the promises made on either side; but, being advertised that the Clergy had promised a great sum of money to the Crown of Spain, for the oppression of the Bohemians, to whom the Elector Palatine was especially bound; for The answer of Counsellors of the Elector Palatine, to the Elector of Mentz. this consideration they had granted this inhibition of Ecclesiastical rents; neither were they to be blamed, nor any man of judgement would think it fit for aid to go unto foreign Princes, out of the territories of their own Prince, to subdue the Bohemians, and their Lo. the PALATINE: If therefore the Elector of Mentz, and others whom it concerned, would take a course that there should be no aids sent to prejudice the Bohemians, and their Lord the Palatine; then no other resolution might be expected: And soon after the Elector of Mentz, having written other Letters to the Elector Palatine, freed the Clergy from this inhibition. The Elect king of Bohemia (as we have said) being comn to Prague on the last of October, was met by the Directors and Nobility, with certain troops of horse and foot, and so was conducted into the City, they being all in Arms; where he was received with great joy and acclamations. The King of Bohemia enters Prague. After which, it was decreed by the general States of Bohemia, That the king should receive a moiety of the tributes, rents, and contributions; and the Queen, a fourth part; and every man should pay his due, yearly, at the feast of S. GEORGE: That the Directors should be freed from their Oath, and give an account unto the Assembly, of such money as they had disbursed for the Commonweal; That the Directors and Governors for the kingdom, should yield the government of Arms unto the king, who should employ them for the defence of himself, the kingdom, and incorporated Provinces; using yet the advice of the Governors of the A decree made. Realm and Provinces; That Commissioners should be sent out, to examine what harms had been done in the Countries, that consideration might be had thereof at the next State-assembly, &c. MANDSFELDT, meaning to recover certain places which BUCQVOY had taken, marched to Wintenbourg; where, the Governor refusing to yield upon summons, the Earl forced a Port with Diverse towns recovered by the Protestant's of Bohemia. the Petard; where, entering, he put all the garrison to the sword, except some few that were taken prisoners: After which, diverse towns and Castles yielded willingly, the garrisons departing to Buduitz. Than the Earl marched to Praguditz, where the garrison put themselves in defence; but he took the town by force. On the 24 of October the Army marched to Wodean: which they knowing was but weakly manned, and that two Noblemen of Bohemia (which had served the Emperor) were retired into the town, having stopped all the passages, they sought to force it; but the garrison made great resistance: yet the next day the Governor compounded to departed: the which was willingly granted, so as the two Noblemen might be delivered unto them, who were sent to Prague, and committed to prison. All things in the mean time were made ready for the coronation at Prague; a Theatre was erected in the Temple; no suspected person admitted; all cloisters and corners searched for fear of treason; the Canons and Clergy men removed out of the Cathedral Church, and another The coronation of the king of Bohemia, and of the Queen. appointed them for divine service, and a weekly stipend allowed them: They changed the Arms of the kingdom upon the newgate; and for those of the house of Austria which stood upon the breast of the Lion of Bohemia, they set the arms of the Palatinate. All things being thus in a readiness, FREDERICK was crowned King the fourth of November, all the Citizens and soldiers being in Arms. The office was performed by the Administrator and an Elder, who supplied the places of Bishops in that action, the which was performed with great pomp and zeal. The particularities whereof you may read at large in GOTARDUS. And on the seventh of November the Lady ELIZABETH, wife to King FREDERICK was in like manner crowned with the same ceremonies. After which, the King made public Public declaration made. declaration of the causes which had moved him to take upon him the government of Bohemia with the incorporated Provinces, sending it to all Christian Princes and States; and withal, writing particular Letters, That he had received the government and Crown of Bohemia with the incorporated Provinces, with the accustomed solemnities, and the general applause of all the States and people; That no private profit of his own had induced him thereunto; but, a desire to free the afflicted from a general ruin had moved him to take upon him their protection; and that he would equally defend both Catholics and Protestant's, in the free excercise of their Religion; hoping they would joyfully allow of his dignity, and not fail to assist 1619 him, with their counsel and aid, against the invasion of his Enemies. On the tenth of November there came an Ambassador from BETHLIN GABOR and the States of Hungary to Prague, who propounded certain Articles to the Council. First, They Ambassador from the Transiluanian and Hungarian to the States of Bohemia. required that there should be a perpetual League concluded betwixt Hungary, Transiluania, and Bohemia with the incorporated Provinces; and that they should fight with their joint forces for the common good. 2. That no Province should conclude a Peace or begin a war, without the privity and consent of the rest; and that they should not make any peace with the house of Austria, to the prejudice of the other part: But if they would make any league with other Kings, Propositions. Princes or States, it should be with the consent of the rest. 3. That they should continued the war against the house of Austria, at the common charge of the Provinces. 4. That whereas BETHLIN GABOR had assisted the Bohemians with his Army, to his great charge, and at their request, in consideration thereof, they should pay him 100000 Dollars. 5. That it being necessary in this dangerous Estate of affairs, that the limits and forts should be well manned against the Turks invasions; they required (for that the benefit redounded to the whole Christian World) that the Crown of Bohemia and the incorporated Provinces, should pay yearly 300000 Dollars. 6. That it was necessary, Ambassadors were sent in the name of the new King and States, with others from Hungary, to the Sultan's Port; and that the Prince of Transiluania was ready to undertake that Embassy. 7. That, whereas the treasure of Hungary was much exhausted, they required that the hereditary lands of the house of Austria (which in time might be conquered, in Stiria, Carinthia, Carniola, and other places) should be annexed to the Crown of Hungary. 8. That if the Polonians should attempt any thing against Transiluania and Hungary, in favour of the Emperor; then all the Provinces, especially Silesia, should be bound to sand aid unto that Prince. 9 That the States should move their King to confirm the said Articles; and that they should give caution for the performance thereof: and they in like manner should receive assurance from them. The King of Bohemia (before his going to the Assembly at Nuren; having heard the Prince of Transiluania's Ambassador) made answer, that he could not presently give him a full resolution; for that some of their demands concerned the whole Roman Empire: That as concerning the League, the Earl of Hohenloe should come presently to the States at Presbourg with full power and authority to confer with them touching the raising or levying of a great Sum of money. With which answer the Ambassador returned forthwith to Presbourg. The King of Poland sent unto the Bohemians to solicit them to a Peace with the Emperor, and they returned him in wrighting a declaration of their rejection; persuading the The Polonians persuade their King not to aid the Emperor. King and the States of Polonia, to remember their old treaties, and not to attempt any thing against them. Some Counsellors persuaded the King not to engage himself in these combustions; nor to attempt any thing against the Realm of Bohemia or the incorporated Provinces: That he should remember, that when as Polonia was on fire with intestine wars, they contained themselves: That they entertained friendship with the Turks and Tartarians: That the Hungarians, the English, the united Provinces, the Danes, with many other Princes and States were their confederates: In so much that it appeared plainly the war would be long and bloody, and dangerous for Poland, if they engaged themselves in it. In the mean time, there being rumours of great preparations for war in Polonia, and that HUMANOI (who fled thither from Hungary) would invade Silesia, Moravia, or Hungary, with a great Army; they commanded every twentith man in Silesia to take Arms, and had eight thousand choice men always in readiness. The lower Austria was wonderfully afflicted The miserable state of lower Austria. by the insolency of Soldiers, and the inhabitants were forced to fly with their wives and children. About Vienna, the Earls of BUCQVOY and TAMPIERRE, spoiled and burnt many villages, that they might not be of any use to the enemy; which bred a great dearth in Vienna, especially when it came to be besieged. BUCQVOY and TAMPIERRE, hearing that the governor of Heinbourg had been defeated by the Hungarians, they went to secure him with 6000 horse and foot, where there was a great encounter and many slain on either side; after which they returned to Vienna: but there were 1600 Hungarians forsook them, and went to their Countrymen. The fire of these civil and intestine wars of Bohemia, began to flame out in Germany; the Electors, Princes and Imperial Cities and States grew into factions, and made particular Assemblies, to provide forces to support their parties; either pretending a fear to be supplanted in their religion. And although I am tied to strict bounds, and cannot relate actions at large, considering the copiousness of my subject, and the short time this Emperor hath yet reigned, unless I should make it exceed the lives of many of his Predecessors; yet, to give the Reader the better satisfaction, I hold it fit to set down in particular how they were cantoned, as you may judge by their particular Assemblies. Assembly of the protestant Princes at Nuremb. The Electors, Princes, and Protestant States of the Union, met at Nuremburg in November; whither came in person the Elector Palatine newly chosen King of Bohemia, AUGUSTUS and FREDERICK Palatines of Newburg, JOHN ERNEST Duke of Saxony, WEIMAR, with his two brethren, ERNEST of Brandenburg, marquis of Olnosbach or Amsbach, with his brother; JOHN FREDERICK Duke of Wittenberg, with his two brethren; MAURICE Lantzgrave of Hesse, and FREDERICK Marquess of Buden: the rest sent their Ambassadors; namely, the Elector of Brandenburg, the Duke of Deuzponts, the marquis of Culmbach, the Prince of Lunbourg, the Duke of Brunswick, the marquis of Baden, the Earls of Veterovia, the Earls of Francovia, the Earl of Oetingen, and in the name of the Nobles and Knights. There came also Deputies from the Imperial Cities; as, Strausbourg, Francfort, Nuremburg, Worms, ulme, Spire, Rottembourg, Hall, Nordlingen, Landau, Vimpfen, Buren, and from the Protestant's of the higher & lower Austria: all these favoured the Bohemian party. The Catholic princes & states assembly at Virsbourg. The Electors, Princes, and Catholic States which adhered to the Emperor, met at Virsbourg in Franconia: whither came Ambassadors from the Emperor, from the Electors of Mentz, Cullen and Treves, from the Dukes of Bavaria and Lorraine, from the Palatine of Newbourg, and from many Princes, Bishops, Abbats and Prelates; as, those of Saltzbourg, Ausbourg, Virsbourg, Rotuil, Worms, Spire, Heildeshein, Constance, Strausbourg, Passaw, Ratisbone, Erisnigen, Basle, Munster, Paterborn, Liege, Fuld, Eluangen, Kepten, and others. Thither came also Agents for the king of Spain. In this Assembly, the means how to maintain peace in Germany were treated of, and how to defend themselves against the Arms of the Protestant Princes, and what levies every one should make; so as it seemed all tended to war in Germany, both parties being much incensed. The Emperor sends to the Assembly at Nuremberg. The Emperor sent the Earl of Hohensollern to the assembly at Nuremberg; who, making a long relation to them of the troubles of Bohemia, and of his Majesty's peaceable inclination, exhorted the Electors, Princes and States there assembled, to give credit to his words and promises, ra●…er than to false impostures and slanders; and not to suffer themselves to be corrupted by the false reports of the Bohemians; but rather to employ their counsels and care to prevent so many miseries as would undoubtedly grow in the Kingdom of Bohemia, if matters continued in the same estate they then were: the which might give a great advantage to the Enemy of Christendom, and be very dangerous for the Empire. Wherhfore, they should direct their consultations to some good end, so as the honour of the Imperial Majesty might be preserved; who protested, not to do any thing that were not just and honest, and worthy of his Imperial grace and favour; promising to recompense the pains and merits of such as had employed themselves to end so great occasions of trouble. Heerto the Assembly at Nuremberg made answer, that they were glad of his Majesty's good Their answer. resolution, conformable to theirs, which was only to prevent the miserable estate of the sacred Empire. They made repetition of the dissensions of the Empire, and of the grievances of the Protestant's; which I must for brevity's sake omit. But, touching the affairs of Bohemia, they said that they were not to be blamed, if, seeing the Catholics begin motions of war, they were careful of the welfare of their subjects, and prepared themselves to some kind of defence; knowing, that they are not only bound to chase away the danger out of the frontiers of their Country, but also to secure the Protestant's; yea, even the Elector Palatine FREDERICK, chosen King of Bohemia, especially when he shall be molested in his lawful inheritance and seigneuries in Germany; being bound thereto by the Imperial constitutions, and by their Union. They therefore besought his Imperial Majesty to dispose his counsels for the pacifying of the present troubles in Bohemia, and to be careful that no disaster might fall upon the Empire. As for them, they would never suffer themselves to be won by any contrary persuasion; hoping, that his Majesty would not give ear to those which were more desirous to entertain foreign forces in the Empire, than to seek the safety and authority of the Emperor; and that he 1619 should rather give ear to the just reasons of so many Electors, Princes, and States of the Empire, then unto the discourses of certain men, who breathed nothing but war, and a desire to ruin and root out those whom they falsely called Heretics. By this answer the earl of Hoensolemn finding that this assembly at Nuremburg was wholly bend An apology made for the Emperor. j to support the Elector Palatine in the possession of his new Election to the Crown of Bohemia against the Emperor; hemade a long Apology, and presented it to the same Assembly. It contained a short relation of all the troubles of Bohemia, during the life of the Emperor MATHIAS, with answers to their oppositions against the admission of King FERDINAND to the Election of a new Emperor, and to their declaration touching their rejection of FERDINAND, and their Election of a new king: finally, his conclusion was, that the States of Bohemia had no free Election to choose a king if any male or female of the blood royal were living, which hath been the occasion of all their wars: a point which I will not decide, but leave it to AENEAS SILVIUS DV BRAVIUS, and others which have written learnedly thereof. The Prince of Transiluania after the assembly at Presbourg, made an incursion with his Army Exploits of the Transiluanian. towards Viena, putting all to the sword: He took Ebersdorf, with other towns and villages, spoiling some and wasting the rest by fire, and then returned to Presbourg. In their retreat, they writ that Count BUCQVOY and TAMPIERRE charged the Rearward, and slew 2000 Hungarians. The Emperor commanded the States of high Austria, to sand their Deputies to court, to take their due oath of allegiance, whereby they might prevent the imminent danger, and The Emperor requires an oath from the States of high Austria. give no cause of greater miseries: But they delaying to make any answer, he sent other Letters unto them, signifying, That they had not only forborn to sand him an answer, but had also made an incursion into the lower Austria, and surprised certain towns; which were apparent signs of hostility. Wherhfore he admonished them again to sand their Deputies to take the oath; to call back their soldiers; and to desist from their enterprises; if not, he would use other remedies. About that time there came out of the Duchy of Milan, into the Bishopric of Passau (having past the Alps through Switzerland) 9000 soldiers, leaving behind them mournful marks of their bloody cruelty; who having no means to pass into the upper Austria, The Emperor's edict against the Bohemians. the countrymen having stopped up the passages; part of them past into Bohemia towards Buduitz, under the leading of Don BELTHAZER: who being entered, caused the King's edict to be set up in all places written to this sense; That it was known to all men, how that his subjects of Bohemia, partly through their own malice, and partly by the persuasion of others, had run into rebellion, violated the oath which they had taken to him, being their elected and crowned King, and had presumed to choose them another King, and settle him in his throne. Wherhfore to preserve his right and to defend his subjects from ruin, he had been constrained to sand in new forces; That he doubted not but there were many who either not pleased with these attempts, or changing their opinions, would perform their due obedience to their lawful King; admonishing all others, that remembering the oath whereunto they were bound, and having a care of their wives, children and families, they should speedily return to their obedience, and give in their names, to such commanders as he should have in the Country, and thereby preserve themselves from ruin; promising pardon to all that should demand it in this manner. The Emperor being come to Viena, the Hungarians and Bohemians marched with a great Vi●…na besieged by the Hungarians and Bohemians. Army towards the City; they took Ebersdorf, and then laid siege unto Viena, spoiling all the towns and villages round about. The Country people flying into the City, there grew a great dearth of corn, which made the enemy hope that in short time they should force them to yield by famine. In the mean time HUNNAVOI made an irruption into Hungary with 8000 Polonians: but he was encountered by RAGOTZI, whom the Prince of Transiluania had left at Cassovia, and received a great overthrow. Than joining with Radul, and the Earl of Althem, being in all three or four thousand men, they encountered the Polonians again: where there was a A great slaughter of Polonians and Hungarians. cruel combat, the which continued almost the whole night, there being slain on either part three thousand men. The Polonians retiring, made a show of of slight; whereupon the Hungarian footfell presently to spoil: but the Polonians returning suddenly (the Hungarian horsemen flying away) they were for the most part slain. RAGOTSI having escaped, cried presently Bethlin Gabor leaveth Viena. To Arms, to repair this loss: and BETHLIN being advertised thereof, he forbore to press Viena; and sending part of his Army into Hungary, to Rheda, he returned to Presbourg, having taken Edinburgh, and manned it with a garrison of 400 men. The States of the upper and lower Austria, had many consultations for their defence against the incursions of BETHLIN GABOR Prince of Transiluania. Under the pretext of this defence, the Protestant States levied forces: and having drawn together some thousands of horse and foot, they seized upon Lipsa, which they ruined for that the citizens had made resistance. After which they took Sibilsberg, Leisdorf and Bechling; and then they marched to the Monastery of Melcha, which was very well fortified. The Abbot offered certain thousands of florins, to have Diverse towns taken by the Protestant's. his monastery spared, but he could not prevail: they having three several batteries, they cut off the water from the Garrison: and the soldiers which fetched it from the river of Dannow, were much annoyed by the shot; but it was relieved by BUCQVOY. Not long before, the Earl of Mandsfield had recovered Pisseck, after a month's siege, being valiantly defended by Don MARTINO a Spaniard; who was taken prisoner with divers other Captains, and sent to Pisseck taken by C. Mandsfeldt. Pilsen. The soldiers, being 400 in number, and many of them sick, were let go freely with their baggage, and conducted to the frontiers of Austria. Pisseck being taken after this manner, the Emperor's soldiers left all the garrison towns in Bohemia (except Buduitz & CROMLAV) retiring into places of more safety, and carrying with them what they had gotten. There was such a stink in Pisseck, by reason of the dead carcases of men and beasts, that both soldiers and citizens were forced to leave the town: the which, MANDSFIBLED caused to be repaired, and manned with a good garrison. BETHLIN GABOR (as we have said) being retired towards Presbourg to resist the invasion of HUMANGI, and the Bohemians being go towards Moravia; Count BUCQVOY, embracing this occasion, followed the Hungarians towards Presbourg: Where having taken some places which had revolted from the Emperor, he slew one thousand five hundred Hungarians. And the Emperor, hearing there was some small difference betwixt the Hungarians & Bohemians, sent his Commissioners to the Hungarians to persuade them to obedience, and to dissuade them from entering into League with the Bohemians. During these several actions in several places, the provincial States of Moravia met at Olmus; whereas they seized upon all the goods of the Clergy, amounting to many millions, and put all the plate which was in the Roman Catholic Temples into coin; wherewith they paid their soldiers. And the States of Lusatia were also assembled to provide for the necessity of the province: who with the protestants of Austria (hearing that there were 12000 soldiers come out of Italy to Passau for the Assembly of the States of Moravia & Lusatia. Emperor) drew all their forces towards those frontiers for their defence. The King of Poland, meaning to assist the Emperor conditionally, made a declaration; That for as much as the troubles of Bohemia concerned Religion, and that the Bohemians with The Poland promiseth to aid the Emperor conditionally. their confederates, had expelled a Bishop out of Silesia, and burdened the Clergy contrary to their privileges, liberties, and immunities; he was therefore resolved to assist the Emperor with thirty thousand Soldiers. But if the Bohemians and Silesians would restore their Bishop, Clergy, and other Roman Catholics to their former dignity, and maintain them in their privileges, and withal reverse what they had done against the house of Austria; he was then resolved not to meddle any more in those quarrels; yet, notwithstanding, he kept his forces ready, attending a final resolution of the Bohemians. In the beginning of November, certain troops of the Earl of BVCQVOY'S meaning to surprise Odenbourg; BETHEIN GABOR posted thither, and entered the Town, and manned it with two thousand Hungarians. That month, JOHN CHARLES the Emperor's eldest son died at Gretz; and within few days after, JOHN SIGISMOND marquis of Brandenbourg left this life. On the one and twentith of this month, all the images in the Church of the Castle of Prague, were demolished by the king's commandment; and on Christmas day, the king's Preacher made a Sermon, proving by the sacred Scriptures, That images were not to be allowed in Temples: After which, the King, with his brother, and the whole Court, received the Communion. On the seven and twentith of November, the Lady ELIZABETH, Queen of Bohemia, was delivered of a son, to the great joy of his majesty, and the whole court. The chief officers The Queen of Bohemia delivered of a son. of the Crown of Bohemia came unto the King to congratulate the birth of his new heir, all the Bells rung, and the ordinance of the town often discharged. This year in December 1620 the Earl of Fustemberg Ambassador from the Emperor arrived at Paris, where he was received The Emperor's Ambassador comes to Paris. with great state, defrayed at the King's charge and served by his officers. The subject of his Ambassage was, To demand aid and assistance from the King against the Elector Palatine 1620 who had invaded his Realm of Bohemia; from the which the Duke of Bovillon by his Letters did seek to dissuade the King; showing, that those troubles grew not from any question of religion, but from matter of State; hoping withal, that his Majesty would not favour and assist the house of Austrta against a Prince of the Electoral house of the Palatine, always allied unto his Crown and house; by whom the Kings, his Predecessors, and especially his father of happy memory, had been assisted in the defence of his house and person, and of his lawful succession. The King desired to let the Emperor and Germane Princes know, that if he intermeddled in their quarrels, it should be only (after the manner of his Predecessors) in sending an honourable Embassy; which, visiting the Emperor, and the Princes and States of the Empire of both the Unions, should labour to reconcile the troubles of Bohemia, and the combustions which began to grow in Germany among the Princes. The Emperor had great succours promised him by the King of Spain: and the Pope commanded a great contribution to be made by the Clergy throughout all Italy, Spain, Brabant, Flanders; and other Provinces, for the payment of the Emperor's Army. And in the mean time the Elector of Saxony (jest he should seem to be too secure) took order for the levying of certain troops of horse and foot, and the providing of sufficient Commanders. Count BUCQVOY, making an expedition towards the upper Austria, took the Town of Lipsa, being without a garrison. Before his coming, STARENEERG, chief Governer of that Province, having left the siege of the Monastery of Melcha, marched towards the Frontier with his Army, to attend Count BUCQVOY. The peasants in the mean time, coming from the upper part, moved with the zeal of religion, slew and put to flight all the Italians which remained of BALTHAZAR'S forces. The lower Austria was much afflicted with hunger and other miseries. The States of upper Austria were pressed daily to come to Vienna to take the oath, the Emperor offering them victuals and a safe conduct: but they protracted the time from day to day. In the mean time, the A league concluded betwixt Hungarians and Bohemians. Hungarians, with the Bohemians and incorporated Provinces, being assembled at Presbourg, they concluded a perpetual league upon certain Articles; which I am forced to omit to avoid tediousness. The Archduke LEOPOLD went from Vtenna into Alsatia; where he levied many troops of horse and foot for the Duke of Bavaria: and, there coming into those parts five hundred Venetians which desired passage, they were denied it, and sent to the Duke of Bavaria to serve in his Army. There were also great forces levied for the Emperor and Duke of Bavaria in the Bishopric of Cullen and the Territories adjacent. To prevent these levies, the States of the united Provinces wrote to the Electors of Cullen and Treves, exhorting them not to suffer any thing to be attempted against their confederates, especially against the Elector Palatine and his Territories, unless they would have the like done in their jurisdiction. Part of these forces when they could not get passage through Hassia and the County of Nassau, they entered into Franconia, where they were forced to stay some weeks, being hindered by the Princes of the Union: and in the end they they were constrained to repass the river of Rhine, and to return the same way they came. The Duke of Bavaria, being advertised hereof, he sent to the Deputies of the united Princes and States: where there was a transaction made for the passage of these Troops, the number where of was certainly known; and that the united Princes and States should have also free liberty to pass through Bavaria. The conditions were, that they should pass away within three or four days; the footmen by the Diocese of Bamberg, and the horsemen by Wisburgt that the Army should commit no insolences in the estates of the united Princes: that they should march on with speed towards Bavaria, and should pay for that which they took in their passage. After this, there followed a truce betwixt the Emperor and BETHLIN GABOR Prince A truce concluded between the Emperor & Bethlin. of Transiluania, the which should continued till the Feast of Saint MICHAEL following; that the Realm of Bohemia and the incorporated Provinces should be comprehended in that truce if they would; and all troubles ceasing, a treaty should be made for the conclusion of a peace: that, during the truce, all things should remain in the same state they were in, and BETHLIN should hold the Countries, Castles, Forts and Towns which he had subdued, until it were otherwise disposed of; that an Assemby should be appointed at Neuheusall by the Emperor's consent and authority, and there all grievances repaired, and all dissensions betwixt the Emperor and the States of the Kingdom compounded; that the commerce should be free in all places, and the passages open; that the soldiers of Polonia should forbear to enter into the Realm of Hungary; that the truce and league should be inviolably kept and observed, and all acts of hostility 1620 cease. This year in january (for, they begin to accounted the year from the birth of CHRIST) the States of Austria met again at Horn; where the Emperor sent to press them to take the oath The Archduke Leopold raiseth forces in Lorraine. of allegiance: whereto they consented, so as the soldiers might be dismissed, the league betwixt Hungary and Bohemia confirmed, and a firm peace concluded, if not, they were not bound to do any more. About the same time, the Archduke LEOPOLD searched all the storehouses in Alsatia, drew out great store of ordinance, and caused many troops of horse and foot to be levied. He gave commission to raise 1500 horse in Lorraine, and some thousands of foot there, and on the the frontiers of France; and appointed money for the payment thereof. In February, the Emperor held a secret Council at Vienna; where there assisted the Pope's Nuntio, the Ambassadors of Spain and Florence, the Earls of Bucquoy and Tampierre, with other Commanders at war; where they consulted of a new enterprise against Bohemia: For the recovery of which Country, the Emperor protested, that he would spend the last drop of his blood; and the rather, for that the Florentine Ambassador had brought eight hundred Soldiers to his Majesty; and moreover, there was promised from Spain, Italy and the Lowe-countries three millions of gold, with the which the Emperor thought to perform great matter●…. During this consultation, Niclasbourg in Moravia was besieged by the Moravians; and in the Niclasburg taken by the Moravians. end the town was taken; but, the Castle held out, and was battered continually for sixteen days together. The Cardinal of Dietherichstein, was much perplexed, and grieved, pressing the Emperor to sand forces to relieve this town, for that the Emperor and others had carried much wealth into it, as into a place of safety. Whereupon, the Earls of Bucquoy and Tampierre, resolving to take it from the enemy, cast a long bridge over the river of Dannow: but they were so hindered by great frosts and cold that they were forced to desist from their enterprise. This month of February, the King of Bohemia went into Moravia, being accompanied by his brother and other Princes: he made his entry into Brin; where he was received with great pomp by the Senate and States, who conducted him to the jesuites Church: where having heard Divine service, he went to the Palace, and their received the oath from the States, and confirmed all their privileges: after which he took his way towards Silesia. He was scarce gone out of Moravia, but there entered 4000 Cossaques from Dolonia: yet they stayed not long there, but marched day and night until they came into Austria, sending some which knew the Country, to discover, breaking all the bridges behind them as they passed. In their passage, they spoilt many villages and towns; and among others, Meserits, where at that time there was celebrated a very solmne marriage: but, they marred the feast, and carried away their ornaments; which they sold afterwards at Viena for a little money. The Horsemen of Moravia, being advertised hereof somewhat too late, followed them with all speed; and, overtaking them in Austria about midnight, near unto the banks of Dannow, they: slew 1000 of them, the rest passing over the River unto Vienna. These Soldiers afterwards committed horrible murders and spoils in the lower Austria: they wasted fifty villages belonging to the Protestant's; forcing many of the inhabitants to fly into the woods with their wives and Children, where they perished with hunger and cold. It was reported, that 8000 more followed them. Whereupon, the Silesians and Moravians went to Arms, and sent to Bethlin for aid: who gave notice to the King of Polonia, that if he attempted any thing against him or his confederates, he would 'cause the Turks and Tartarians to invade Polonia: and withal he sent word unto Viena, that unless they discharged the Cossaques (whom they had drawn in, contrary to the truce) he would presently assist the oppressed with 16000 Hungarians. At the same time Count BUCQVOY (having received some loss by the Bohemians at Chiese) went with 8000 horse and foot to Langelos; where there were seven companies of the Earl of Mandsfeldts in garrison, he himself being go to Prague. Coming to the town he sent some troops before, and laid the rest in ambush: The garrison sallying forth fell into this ambush, where there was a great fight: but the Bohemian horsemen being dispersed, there were 900 footmen slain, where the Imperialls also lost 400 men. Some writ that this enterprise of the Earl of Bucquoi's was upon a quarter of the Bohemians Army, where the Baron of Fettz Martial of the Army commanded, and who in the charge was slain and their troops put to rout; That there were slain upon the place 600 horsemen and 300 foot, among which were many Noblemen, Captains & Commanders, and namely a Duke of Saxony who served the Bohemian party. There were almost 300 prisoners taken; most gentlemen and officers, and as they writ BUCQOIS loss was very small. Some few days after, they charged a troop of the Earl of H●…lochs and slew 600. So pursuing their victories, they forced Laam, and slew 200 which were there in garrison. The Earl of Tampierre, hearing of this success, joined his forces with Count BUCQVOY: and then they resolved to go to Prague, commanding the soldiers to make sufficient provision of powder and victual for six days. But the Prince of Anhalt, having presently gathered together the Bohemian and Moravian forces at Egenbourg, stopped all the passages; commanding all the officers and soldiers which were in Prague, to return to the Camp within 24 hours. The Spaniards, which came under BALTHAZAR, made an incursion towards Wodian, and Pragodits, spoiling the country with fire and sword. After which they went to besiege Muldau: but, the garrison, not able to keep it, yielded it upon composition. Whereupon, there was a new commandment, that every twentith man in Bohemia should be always ready in Arms. FREDERICK K. of Bohemia coming to Pressau, the Princes and Noblemen of Silesia met The king of Bohemia enters Vratislavia. him with a great train: entering into the City, there marched before three Senators, with many citizens, who had presented him with the keys of their City by their advocate; after whom, followed the Gentlemen of Preslave; then the Barons, and after them, the Princes of Selesia: After whom came the king's brother, betwixt the Duke of Lignits, and the marquis of jagerndorf. The Marshal of the Realm, carrying a sword, marched alone: and the King followed him; and after him, the whole Train. There were 50 shot at the gate: and all the Citizens were in Arms even to the King's court. Coming to the market place, there was a triumphant Arch, with very rare music. From whence, the king was conducted to S. ELIZABETH'S Church; where he was entertained by the chief Pastor, with an Oration in Latin: and having heard Divine service he went unto the Palace; where, on the seven and twentith of February, he received an oath of the Noblemen; and the day following, four Canons, the Abbats and Priors of the monasteries, came to court and took the same oath: after whom, the citizens did the like. All this being happily performed, and certain Deputies being appointed by the Princes of Silesia to go in Embassage to Constantinople and Poland, in the behalf of the Realm of Bohemia and the incorporated provinces; the king having viewed the city and the bishops Palace, and confirmed all their privileges, he prepared to go unto Lusatia: but, hearing of Count BVCQVOI'S attempts, he deferred that journey and returned to Prague. The Bohemians having resolved to assemble the States at Prague, by the king's commandment; Count Bucquoy defeated by the Prince of, Anhalt. the Emperor resolved to do the like at Buduitz, to hinder and direct the assembly, meaning to prosecute all the States which should not come to Buduitz with fire and sword, and in like manner to besiege Prague. BUCQVOY and TAMPIERRS marched forward with their Army meaning to seize upon Horn, and the Castle of Echenberg, places near adjoining; but being ready to assail the castle, the States of that province thinking it would be very prejudicial unto them, entreated the Prince of Anhalt (General for the king of Bohemia) to relieve the said Castle: who although he were inferior in number to the Imperialists, yet knowing how much it did import, he resolved to stop BUCQVOIS passage towards Buduitz: to which end he marched forward with his Army being fortified with certain troops which came unto him, so as he was esteemed to have 12000 men. The 10 of March the Armies met and joined battle. BUCQVOY thought to terrify the Bohemians with a stratagem, causing the bodies of trees to be laid upon carriages, as if he had had many Cannons; which at the first sight amazed the horsemen: but having discovered his sleight by their nearer approach, they charged valiantly. The Prince of Anhalt used another policy, causing his Artillery to be charged with small shot behind his horsemen; who were commanded after they had set upon the enemy, to open their ranks in the midst: which being speedily executed according to direction, all their ordinance was discharged together, which made a great spoil upon the enemy's horsemen, and forced their Army to retire into a wood. Whereupon the P. of Anhalt, finding his advantage, planted his ordinance upon certain hills; which did so annoyed the enemy as he forced them to leave the wood, and at their coming out pursued them so hotly, as they were forced to fly to Crembs a Town 15 English miles from thence: the pursuit continued diverse days. By report of prisoners they lost above 2000 men most Polonians and Cossacks, with their munition, baggage, bullets for Cannon and many horses. The Sergeant Mayor of the Army was slain, with the General of the Cossaques with his Lieutenant, and divers other Captains and officers: The Earl of Tampierres horse was slain under him, and he was relieved by a Cossaque who mounted him upon his own. At his coming to Vienna he made great complaints to the Emperor 1620 of Count BUCQVOY; who they writ was so much grieved for this loss, that he would not for three days together speak with any man. It is thought, the Bohemians lost not above 100 men in that fight, and some hurt. In the mean time, there was an Assembly of the States at Prague; where they consulted of An assembly of the States at Prague. the confirmation of the league with the States of Hungary and the Prince of Transiluania, and to offer it to other Princes and States, for the sending of an Embassy unto the Turks Port, and to make a perpetual peace with the Sultan; to provide for the charges and presents of this Embassy; to provide money for the necessary defence of the frontier Forts in Hungary every year, for the punishing of those traitorous rebels of the Country, which refused to acknowledge the King for their head; for the repelling of the enemy's forces, and refuting of Edicts published within the Realm; for the providing of present money (after the example of the united Belgic States) for the payment of soldiers; for the providing of a storehouse with arms, victuals and horses for public service; for the making of hospitals for sick and wounded soldiers; to make a necessary provision against all unexpected eruptions, to prohibit the insolency of soldiers, to reform the provincial constitutions, to appoint a place for the keeping of the Crown and Regal ornaments, and to assign revenues for the King, after the precedents of former Kings and Princes. This year in February, the Emperor sent forth an Edict against the election and crowning of the Elector Palatine K. of Bohemia; in the which, after a long deduction of the troubles and tragedies An edict against the King of Bohemia. committed in Bohemia, and of the insolency and rebellion (as he terms it) of the Bohemians, both against his Predecessor the Emperor MATHIAS and himself, notwithstanding their fatherly care and affection to the good of their subjects, and their desire to reduce them to their obedience by all mild and friendly courses; which they had obstinately refused, and (contrary to all law and equity) had rejected him for their King, and chosen them another: this their election by his Imperial and Royal authority he disannulled, and declared voided and of no effect; protesting before God and the world, to bend all his thoughts and means to recover the Provinces usurped from him by force and rebellion, and to revenge his Imperial and Royal Majesty so much wronged in his authority. Lastly, he implored the favour and aid of all Kings, Princes, and Christian Potentates, to whom the news of this dangerous example of the rebellion of these traitorous subjects should come. But chief he exhorted and required the Electors of the sacred Empire, with the Princes and States thereof (much wronged in this election, made against all justice) to give him aid and assistance; promising to require them with the like favour and courtesy, and to employ his Imperial authority for the defence of their estates & segniories. This year, the Electors and Princes of the Empire, adhering to the Emperor, assembled at Mulhus in Thuringia: whither came in person the Electors of Mentz, Cullen and Saxony; and he Assembly of the Catholic Electors at Mulhus. of Treves sent his Ambassador: the like did the Duke of Bavaria, and LEWES Lantzgrave of Hesse. Being come together, they treated of the means to free the Empire from so many dangers which seemed to threaten her ruin; sending their Letters to all the Princes, States and Their Letters to the States of the Union. Imperial Towns whom they held opposite to the Emperor; namely, to the Elector Palatine (whom they did not style King of Bohemia in their superscription) to the States of Bohemia and incorporated Provinces, to the Princes of the Union, to the States of Austria, to the Earls of the Vet●…ravia, to them of the country of Suevia, to the whole Nobility of the Rhine, Franconia and Suevia, and to the Imperial Towns of Nurembourg, Strausbourg, Vlme, Spire and Worms (all, Estates depending upon the Empire) and likewise unto the States of Hungary: All which Letters were dated upon the eleventh day of March, and did wholly concern the great troubles of Bohemia. In their Letters to the Elector Palatine King of Bohemia, they made a relation of his acceptance of that Crown, contrary to their former admonition and expectation; whereby he had To the King of Bohemia. approved the Bohemians attempts against the Emperor whom they had wholly rejected. They exhorted him to consider of the great error he had committed, being the first Elector; who had never been wronged by the Emperor, but rather honoured; having chosen him with the other Electors to treat of the peace of Bohemia: the which charge he had accepted, and often promised to perform; being his duty to aid the Emperor his fellow Elector, and to endeavour by all means to see peace maintained throughout all the States of the Empire; wishing him to consider what prejudice might befall the Roman Empire and the neighbour Kingdoms, especially that of Bohemia, by this rejection and the new Election, which could never be approved either by God or men. That his posterity thereby would receive infamy, and his family in general 1620 danger. Lastly, they exhorted him, that as a Christian Prince born of Germane blood, and an Elector, to consider carefully of these things, and not to give way to these miseries, but rather apply his counsels, that the Bohemians might lay down Arms; that all levies of Soldiers might cease; That Bohemia and the incorporated Provinces, might be restored to the Emperor; That all things might be again compounded by a friendly Peace, according to the wishes and desires of all good men; and that he, being Elector, would make it appear to the World, that he had more regard to the safety of his Country, than his own particular. The Electors Letters, to the States of Bohemia and the incorporated Provinces, were to the To the States of Bohemi●…. same effect; wishing them to give way to their wholesome admonitions; and not to give ear to those who (rather seeking a remedy for their crimes and offences in confusion) had more respect to their private profit, then to the public good of their Country: which if they did, it was to be feared that the other States, faithful to the Empire, by the Emperor's commandment, would seek means to revenge the loss of that kingdom of Bohemia, and free the Empire from danger and ruin, Their Letters to the Princes of the Union did import; that They did not believe that, being Princes, they were pleased with these combustions, hoping they would not do any thing To the Princes of the Union. which might increase them, or hinder the Emperor from recovering his Realm of Bohemia; being bound, by the constitutions of the Empire, to assist the Emperor as sovereign head of the Christian World; That it was a dangerous thing, if they allowed of this rejection, and the new Election which the Bohemians had made; That if they continued these troubles, not only Bohemia would be ruined, but also Hungary lost; and, in the end, Germany itself exposed to the spoil of the Barbarians, at the tyrannous discretion of the Turk. In the end, they entreated them so to employ themselves, both to the Elector Palatine and the States of Bohemia; that the miseries, which threatened these Realms, Provinces, and Frontiers of the Empire, might be diverted; and that the complaint might not pass to their posterity, that they had been the cause that their country had been shamefully reduced under the yoke of the Ottoman servitude. FREDERICK Elector Palatine, chosen King of Bohemia, made answer to the Electors Letters, The Electors Answers. whereby he complains that they had not given him the Title and quality of King; That the Emperor could not be judge and party in his own cause; That they should forbear to counsel him any more to quit the Realm of Bohemia, and that they should assure themselves he would not forget any thing to preserve the right of his vocation to the said crown. The The State's answer. States of Bohemia made answer; That by the Letters sent (as well to their King lawfully chosen, crowned, anointed and sworn, as to them and the States of the incorporated Provinces) appeared how diversely the Electors and Princes assembled at Mulhus, had thought of the State of Bohemia, after so many publications made by Letters and Apologies, which justified the equity of their cause; That they had seen threats made to their King, and them contained in the said Letters: But the question being now not only touching the preservation of their Country and Liberty, but also their Religion and Consciences; they would not resolve alone, but as all things had been formerly managed by their common consent with the incorporated Provinces, so they would attend to sand them an ample answer, with their joint advice. What answer the Protestant Princes made unto their Letter, you shall hear hereafter from the Assembly at ulme. After that unfortunate battle with the Prince of Anhalt; the Earl of Bucquoy, being returned to Cremau, the Cossaques went to their ordinary spoiling in the lower Austria: where, sparing neither Catholics nor Protestant's, they grew so odious to all men, that their own fellow Soldiers, namely the Walloons, slew some of them, and carried some Captives to Cremau, for the Sacrileges which they had committed. The Emperor, publishing another Edict, The Emperor calls the States of Austria to take the Oath. commanded the States of Austria to appear at Viena on the 8 of April, there to take the Oath of obedience; saying, that he had now obtained from the Archduke ALBERT, a full session of his right; threatening, that he would hold them for treacherous contemners, if they appeared not, and would force them to obedience. The soldiers, which had remained in Veteravia, and could get no passage, came into the territory of Treves, being very troublesome to the inhabitants: and, seeking in vain to pass into the territory of Cullen, the Peasants armed withstood them: and though they had set some villages on fire; yet they, neglecting the fire, slew many of them, and put the rest to flight. Many which had got passage, being come to the confines of Bavaria, fell into a mutiny, who tearing their colours asunder, went to the Marquis of Onoltzbacs' camp, and 1620 most of the rest returned home. The marquis of Durlac commanding the Army for the Princes of the Union, went and planted his Camp betwixt Brisac and Fribourg, giving notice to the neighbour States, that he had received commandment not to suffer any soldiers to pass into Asasia. There went before in this expedition, three troops of horse, with four piece of ordinance, and 100 Carts full of Arms. Than followed four troops of Armed men four companies of foot, with ●…0 Carts with Arms, and then three troops of horse, with 150 wagons loaden with Arms and other warlike instruments; amongst which there were some wagons with six wheels to turn every way. Soon after, the Archduke LEOPOLD sent to crave passage for these troops: to whom the marquis made answer, that it was not in him to grant; that they must go to Onoltzbacs, and that having obtained leave there he would not oppose. The Christening of the King's Son of Bohemia, was performed with great solemnity on the last of March. There were present the King himself, his brother, two Princes of the house of The Christening of the King's son at Prague. Saxony, the Prince of Anhalt, the Earl of Hohenlo, with many other Noblemen. There were Deputies sent to be the Godfathers for the Duchy of Silesia for BETHLIN GA●…OR Prince of Transiluania, for the States of Bohemia, and for the Marquisates of Moravia and Lusatia. On the thirtieth of April, the Emperor sent out his monitoriall Letters to the Elector The Emperor's monitoriall Letters to the King of Bohemia. Palatine, for that the Bohemians had chosen him their king: where after relation of the whole proceeding of these Bohemian troubles, by his absolute power and Imperial authority he did ●…njoin & expressly command the Elector Palatine, upon pain of his indignation, and the rigour of justice, and the laws and constitutions of the sacred Empire, to lay down Arms and cease from all Acts of hostility towards his Imperial and Royal Majesty; and by the first of june next coming without all delay to relinquish all pretensions and wholly to abandon the said Realm of Bohemia. And if after that time expired, the said Count Palatine should continued obstinate and refractory, he was then resolved to proceed against him according to the constitutions and ordinances of the Empire. And to the end he should not have any excuse or pretend any cause of ignorance, he sent unto him a copy of the said Letters. There were also three other Monitoriall letters. The first directed to the Protestant Princes and States of the Empire which did adhere to the Bohemian party; containing, that against the Edicts of the deceased Emperor MATHIAS, some Princes and Estates of the Empire favoured his rebellious subjects of Bohemia, and assisted their new King unlawfully chosen, with men and money: and contrariwise would not give passage to such soldiers as he had levied for his just defence, and to recover his realm: To prevent the which he might justly in this rebellion execute that which was ordained by the Imperial constitutions: But he preferred his clemency before rigour, admonishing them to abandon this faction, especially of the Elector Palatine their pretended head, and rather strive to maintain the imperial authority. The second Letter, was to all the Colonels, Captains and Officers atwar, following the Bohemian To the Colonels and Captains of the Bohemian party. party, enjoining them to abandon it, & to return unto their houses, upon pain of proscription and the loss of life and goods. And in the third, he admonished the Imperial Towns, that having been advertised that some of them did aid his rebels of Bohemia and the Palatine there head, with men, money and means, and to that end had levied contributions upon the inhabitants of their Towns (a just subject for the which they had incurred the penalties of the Imperial constitutions) preferring his clemency before his justice, he admonisheth them hereafter to give no succours nor aid in any sort whatsoever to the said Elector Palatine & Bohemians, upon pain to incur the said Imperial punishments. The Prince Palatins answer to the monitoriall Letter. To this declaration or monitoriall Letter of the Emperor, the Palatine chosen King of Bohemia made an ample answer, containing diverse points, which in brief are these: That the Emperor hath not any right to the crown of Bohemia but so fare fourth as it is a fee of the Empire. That the judges of the Emperor's court are no competent judges in the cause of the Bohemians, neither can they determine of the right of the Princes and States of the Empire. That the Emperor cannot 'cause his pretensions to the crown of Bohemia to be decided before his counsellors, but must seek the jurisdiction of his adverse party and there demand judgement: when as any one commenceth an action against the Emperor as he is Emperor the action is judged by the Elector Palatine. The Emperor according to the constitutions of the Empire cannot denounce banishment or proscription before the parties be first heard. The Elector Palatine as King of Bohemia is not bound to obey the Emperor's monitoriall Letters. This he thought good to make known unto the world, as he aught, for his necessary defence: 1620. That he hoped that such as should know the vanity of this the Emperorus Edict would not undertake the execution thereof, if he commanded any, nor employ the charge, but rather refuse it; remembering what one owes unto another being unjustly oppressed in the Empire: that is, that they should repel all violence from their Provinces, and do their best endeavours to maintain the Country in peace: which he required of all the Electors, Princes and States of the Empire. On the twenty eightth of April the States of Bavaria having ratified the league between The State of Bohemia declare the king's son his successor after his death. them and the Hungarians▪ in the presence of TURSO Ambassador to Prince BETHLIN and the States of Hungary; it was propounded in council, that their King having a son of six years of age, he should be declared King of Bohemia, after the decease of his Father; the which would for ever assure the peace, prevent all troubles, and settle the State of Bohemia: The which the Deputies aswell of the States of Bohemia, as of the incorporated provinces thought expedient to be done: whereupon they made a decree which they caused to be proclaimed. Their King was so well pleased with this declaration made in favour of his Son, as feasting the States the next night at supper, he caused all the Cannon at Prague to be discharged in sign of joy. Soon after there happened a strange sedition at Tabor in Bohemia; for many thousands of A sedition at Tabor pacified. Peasants being drawn together, demanded either to be discharged from soldiers, or that they should prescribe them laws whereby they should abstain from all force and violence to their wives and children. Commissioners were sent from Prague who reduced them to their duties. They also required to be freed from all impositions, alleging that it was offered them by the Emperor; the which they verified by Letters which they produced: Moreover, that part of the jesuits goods and others, which had been wholly confiscated, should be appropriated unto them. The first point of their demand was granted, and likewise the third: As for the second it was refered to another consultation: By which means they were pacified, & returned to their country labours; many of them enrolled themselves and become soldiers. MANDSFIELD seeing his troops increased by 2000 Hungarians, made a road towards Buduitz, where he took great store of Cattles, and entered into the Abbey of Guldencrone and took the Town of Thein: the Hungarians, committed great insolences, and entreated the Monks and Churchmen very roughly. The war continuing in the lower Austria, the Earl of Tampierre of the Imperial party, The Bohemiant defeated Carstein▪ hearing that 5 companies of Bohemian foot and 2 of horse were lodged in Carstein, he went from the Imperial Army with 1000 horse and 1500 shot, making such speed, as entering the Town by night, he put all to sword which he found in Arms. Some seeking to save themselves in the Castle, he pursued them so hotly, as the bridge being drawn many casting themselves into the ditch to avoid the sword were drowned. On the other side the Bohemians encountering a great number of Cossaques seeking for spoil after their accustomed manner in Gillesdorf, they charged them so furiously as there were 200 slain upon the place and the booty The Cossaques defeated. recovered. The Walloons and Cossaques of the Emperor's party, running between the frontiers of Hungary and Moravia, surprised Marcoucen, belonging to the Baron of Landau, which they wholly spoiled. Soon after on the eightth of june, the Baron recovered it again, and put all the Imperial Garrison to the sword. In like manner the Moravians being advertised that in Sonneberg there lodged a Convoy of many carts which went unto the Imperial Army under the escorte A Convoy of the Imperials taken. of 200 soldiers, who being so near unto their Army, thought themselves to be secure; they made such speed as they surprised the town by break of day, slew all which made resistance and carried the convoy to the Bohemians Army. The Inhabitants of the lower Austria, bearing the whole burden of the war and sustaining Lower Austria's complaints to the Emp. great losses by both parties, made the States of that Country to sand Deputies to Viena, to present a Petition unto the Emperor, showing their complaints against the ruins, spoils, burnings, murders and rapes, committed by the Walloons and Cossaques: and therein they represented the ruin of Stoccerau which was wholly inhabited by catholics, and did belong to his Imperial Majesty, whereas on the fourth of May after that the Walloons & Cossaques had committed all the villainies that can be spoken, they set fire on the town and ruined it quite. They knew well his Imperial Majesty was not the cause of these miseries, but they besought him by the mercy of God and by the wounds of our Saviour JESUS CHRIST, that taking pity of his subjects, he would be pleased hereafter to free them from soldiers, that they might once again taste of Peace and quietness; but the Deputies, which presented this 1620 petition, were forced to return without answer, for that they joined in league with the Bohemians, & would not take the oath of allegiance to the Emperor; whereto they had been often called. The Earl of Strum, having levied 500 horse in the Territories of the united Provinces for the Bohemian party, matching through Westphalia, he was set upon by the Peasants of the country, who defeated part of his Troops: yet he continued on his journey with the rest, and came into Bohemia. Soon after, JOHN ERNEST of Saxony, Prince of Weimar, having also levied in the same Countries 200 horse and 2000 foot for the Bohemians, found not any one to oppose his passage, but only the Earl of Bucheim; who (being not able to make head) was forced to let him pass towards Bohemia: where he arrived without any let, and had his Quarter near to Egra; where the Peasants, discontent with such guests, would have risen. About the same time, Colonel GREY, a Scottish Knight, levied a Regiment of 2200 foot, Voluntaries, English and Scottish, for the King of Bohemia's service. They landed at Hambourg in a manner all together, of which there were not above eight hundred Scots. They marched unarmed, and, most, without Swords, through the Duke of Lunebourg's Country, where they found good usage; then they passed the River of Elbe into the Marquisate of Brandenbourg's, where they had very kind entertainment, and so continued their journey without any cross (but by their own divisions) until they came into Lusatia, where they reeceived their Arms, and so passed into Bohemia. The French-king being desired (by the Earl of Tustembourg the Emperor's Ambassador, as we have related, in the end of the last year) to give his Majesty aid and assistance; being resolved Ambassadors sent from the French King into Germany. to procure Peace, and reconcile the troubles in Germany, rather than to add matter which might entertain the war; he made choice of the Duke of Angoulesme, Earl of Annergne, base son to CHARLES the 9, to go into Germany as his extraordinary Ambassador, accompanied with the Baron of Bethunes and the Abbot of Preaux; to go aswell to the Protestant Princes and States (who are all ancient Allies to the Crown of France) as to the Emperor; to exhort them, first, to take some course that the said Protestant Princes and States, on the one side, and the Catholic Princes and States on the other, might not fall to war as it was very likely; and that they might only give succour to the Emperor, or the Bohemians, according to their affections, and that within the Realm of Bohemia and Austria, and not elsewhere. And, Secondly, to labour for some good reconciliation between the Emperor, and the States of Bohemia, and the Elector Palatine, whom they had chosen for their King. These Ambassadors, being honourably attended with 400 horse, parted, in May, and arrived Assembly of the Protestant princes at Vlm. at Vlme the sixt of june, where the Protestant Princes of the Union were then assembled. The French Ambassadors, coming into the Assembly, and having the place of precedence given them; the Duke of Angoulesme gave them to understand, that the king had commanded them to visit all in particular, and to assure them of his love as his good friends and Allies, and to let them know. That, hearing of the contributions in in Germany, he was desirous (like unto other kings his predecessors) to be a mediator in their controversies, and to let them know, as a most just Prince, that after he had given Peace to his own subjects, he would be most glad if he might procure it to his good friends, neighbours and Allies, whom he conjured to contribute what was necessary for their parts; considering, that if the General suffer by the fury of civil wars, whereas Religion and temporal interests have a share, with greater reason reason private men shall be much oppressed: A fear which should touch you near; seeing, that besides the miseries which are prepared for you by this present danger, the success is most perilous and without remedy, but by reconciliation; the which undoubtedly will come out of season if you suffer the Enemy of Christendom to make use of your divisions: It is in you, my Masters, to lay open unto us the means of your rest and Peace: the which we will gladly embrace, aswel to perform the commandment of the King our Master, as to discharge our Consciences for the general good of all Christendom, & the particular affection we bear to all your interests. The Princes having given thanks to the most Christian King, for his love and affection towards Their answer. them for the Peace of Germany; there were many propositions made, touching the grievances which they suffered, and whereof they had often complained to his Imperial Majesty, and to the Catholic Princes, whereof they gave instructions to the said Ambassadors, which was the subject of a second speech, made by the Duke of Angoulesine on this manner: My Masters, It were superfluous to offer any new matter on his Majesty's behalf; seeing that his intentions being so good, and his assurances so certain, there wants not any thing, but that his good offices might be seconded with a happy encounter, for the good and quiet of all Germany; which must be furthered by the just and reasonable propositions of the parties interessed, 1620 and not to stand upon such things, which only seem to colour the pretences of war, and to make it not only more bloody, but also less just in their eyes, which, having no passion unto the business but the general good, might rightly condemn them: That if the King had believed, that, from the complaints of the united and correspondent Princes and States, these present troubles would have sprung, he would not have failed to have carefully embraced any occasion to have used all good offices for remedy thereof; well remembering himself of the good affection and services which they have done to his Crown: Which, the more easily they may believe, seeing that (following the glorious actions of his Ancestors) as well in the case of weasel, as that of Gulich, he had contributed all the power and authority he had, and joined it with the king of great Britain; which had surely brought forth a profitable agreement for both parties, had not both the one and the other seemed unwilling to make any use thereof: a subject, verily, which might have occasioned the King to slight the course of their affairs, but that his bounty and goodness hath herein surpassed all common sense; for that being yet willing to do the like through all Christendom, he hath now sent us to procure the Peace and rest of all these people which are in combustion, and whose ruin is very near if it be not prevented. That to stand talking of grievances past, will no way provide for the cause present; and yet we will willingly receive your memorials, which promise' to give all your assistance therein: which, when the Emperor shall defer, the business will not be decided without an Assembly of both parties; in which, each forming his complaints, it will rather be a renewing of the causes of division, than a re-establishment of former order: That herein there is question of a Crown taken from off the head of a Prince who was in possession thereof; here is the ground of the business whereupon dependeth not only the Peace of Germany, but may prove the opening of a gap unto the general enemy of the Christian Faith: That the levying of Arms by the neighbour Princes on either part, do intent the defence of the Palatinate: That verily it would not be just the Emperor should be judge in his own cause, and invade the Palatinate, and forcibly appropriate it unto himself, without any other subject then by virtue of the Imperial Ban. But, in this Action, we must carefully observe by the progress of the business, who shall be in fault; from whom shall proceed the first offence; and, in a word, bend the eyes of equity and not of passion upon the first motive of these calamities. For, although it may be alleged that the Elector Palatine (without any practice of his) hath been chosen by the States of Bohemia for their King: yet it doth not follow, that, in receiving it, the Emperor hath not a just cause to seek a remedy for this mischief which so nearly toucheth him, transferring it upon him from whom he received it; seeing it depended upon the free will of the Elector Palatine, to refuse or accept the Crown as others had done: yea, BETHLIN GABOR Prince of Transiluania, shown himself more stayed; seeing, that refusing the Title of King, he only admitted of that of Prince; less significant, but as powerful: That for these reasons we need not doubt that the Emperor and all his house will sooner loose all they have, then leave things at this stay: That the enemies of your Peace and quiet will be very glad that the troubles of Bohemia happen to hazard that Crown, whereby they may have means to invade that which is next at hand and most commodious: That the foreign forces, whereof you make reckoning, some of them are without vigour, and the other without power; seeing that opposition in Arms will impeach the one, and the other will want means to entertain those which they have levied: That the zeal alone which we bear to their good, according to our King's commandment, hath given us this freedom of speech, which we pray you to accept as from your most affectionate friends and well wishers, as we have favourably received what was presented unto us by the Elector PALATIN Deputy: unto whom if our Presence might be aught available, and the causes why we do not visit him were removed, we should be very glad to assure him by word of mouth, of the King his good intention, and of the good affection which in particular we all should have, to do him service, as we will make known when occasion shall serve; assuring you that we will be ever ready to be of the like mind towards you all. The Duke of Bavaria, General of the united Catholics in Germany, having sent his Ambassador The Duke of Bavaria General for the Catholics, sand to the Assambly at Vlme. to ulme, they began to treat of the means how to maintain the peace in the Empire, and that the Armies levied by the Catholics united and the Protestant Princes (whereof the marquis of Anspach was General) should not encounter: In th'end by the mediation of the French Ambassadors, after a month's consultation, an accord was made, as you shall hear hereafter. There had been levied many troops of Horse and Foot by the Catholic Union, and the commandment of the Archduke LEOPOLD Bishop of Strasbourg and Passaw, to the 1620 number of six or seven thousand Foot, and one thousand five hundred horse, in the Countries of Tre●…es, Mentz, Luxenbourg, Alsatia, Lorain, and even in Flanders: But, GEORGE FREDERICK of Brandenbourg, marquis of Durlach (whose lands lie near unto Strasbourg) as Lieutenant to the Princes of the union, prepared himself to oppose their passage which they would make at Brisach, betwixt Basile and Strasbourg; and, having gathered some forces together, he went and encamped on the other side of the Rhine. The Archduke LEOPOLD, advertised of this contradiction, sent him many Letters; but had no other answer, but that he The marquis of Durlach in Arms to stop the Catholics. must obtain a passage from the marquis of Ansbach, General for their Union; which obtained, he would not hinder them: So as the Archduke was forced to sand unto the marquis; who, with the other German Princes (who are very wary in their resolutions) seeing that the Emperor had written unto them, that all the soldiers should pass without doing any wrong unto their Territories; they gave charge unto the marquis of Durlach, to suffer them to pass, according to the constitutions of the Empire: whereupon the passage was open for their troops, being seven or eight thousand men, who marched speedily towards Bavaria. At the same time the Princes of the Union, assembled at ulme, made answer to the Letters sent from the Electors and Princes assembled at Mulhus, to this effect; That the troubles and The Protestant's answer. dissensions happened in Bohemia, and which had spread farther, had amazed them, for the danger which might befall the whole Empire; wishing they had not happened or were pacified; That they had foreseen these inconveniences when the Bohemians were rejected at the Election of the Emperor, and were not suffered to enter into Franckfor●…: Which, being done contrary to the law of Nations, had incensed them, and given them occasion to choose another King; That, matters being as they were, there was no remedy: they were grieved, and left the event to God, who would call them to an account that were the cause of so many miseries; That it was a fearful thing (as every man might conceive) when as in matters which concern Conscience they found no ease, and yet they would have been glad they had applied milder remedies, to this evil, then that of War; being willing to have employed themselves therein, if they had thought their labours would have been taken in good part. To judge whether the rejection or election of a new King had been done according to the laws of the Country; they could not do it, being a point of too high a strain; neither would they, by their censure, prejudice the whole Roman Empire, leaving that business: yet, notwithstanding, they would preserve the authority of the Emperor, wherein their Union might assist him; That it had been more expedient for the Empire, if the Electors and Princes had suppressed all complaints, settled a general peace, and reconciled the troubles of Bohemia; That they were doubtful whether the threats, published against them, might bring any remedy; Finally, they did not see what might be desired more of them which directed all their actions to the glory of God, to the preservation of the Empire, and that justice and concord might be maintained throughout all Germany. The Duke of Bavaria, having drawn his Army together, being twenty five thousand Foot and Horse, passed the River of Da●…ow at Oonaverd. The marquis of Ansbach, General for the Union, having thirteen thousand Horse and Foot, marched towards them, being fortified by some other troops from Virtemberg and Vlms: The two Armies came so near together that they might talk one to another: In the mean time, this accord was made at ulme, by the mediation of the Ambassadors of France; We, MAXIMILIAN Duke of Bavaria, Count Palatine of the Rhine; and We, JOACHIN ERNEST, marquis of Ansbach and Brandenburg, make known to all men, that considering An Accord between the Princes of the Union, and the Catholics, made at Vlme. the disorders, miseries and calamities which are crept into the Roman Empire and neighbour Nations by means of combustions and wars, threatening a total ruin and desolation; by means whereof, not only the Electors, Princes, and Catholic States united, but also the Protestant's have taken occasion to make Levies and prepare to war: the which hath bred a bad intelligence betwixt them, mixed with jealousy and distrust; with this persuasion, that this raising of Forces by the Unions, is to molest one another, and so to disturb the common peace of the Empire, and to bring it to the extremities of war: To prevent the which, and to take away all occasions of bad intelligence, jealousy and distrust; by the mediation of the Ambassadors of the French King, they concluded these Articles following: First, We promise' for ourselves in particular, and for all the Electors, Princes and States associated of both the Unions, that not any of them (upon any cause or pretext whatsoever) shall 1620. assail or molest by way of hostility, force and arms, the persons and territories of the other party, nor innovate any thing concerning religion and the public peace. Secondly, it was agreed, that if any one upon urgent necessity should require free passage (giving good and sufficient caution, according to the constitutions of the Empire) for defence of his person and subjects, it should not be denied, provided the demand were made in time and place, and not suddenly when they are upon the Frontiers, or entered into another man's Country; which would be an oppression to their subjects. Thirdly, the Duke of Bavaria and the Catholic States united did exclude out of this Treaty the Kingdom of Bohemia and the incorporated Provinces, and did only comprehend the principalities, lands, countries and segniories belonging to the Electors, Princes, and States of both Unions; yea, the Palatinate and other lands adjacent and annexed by successive right, in regard of the good intelligence and correspondency which was between the said Palatinate and the other principalities (the continuance whereof is in a manner assured): and the said Treaty shall not extend further, or have any other interpretation. And We, JOACHIN ERNEST marquis of Ansbach, with the Electors, Princes and States united, refer ourselves wholly to the declaration which the Electors, Princes, and Catholic States have made, as also to the exception of the Realm of Bohemia and the incorporated Provinces; not meaning to comprehend them in this Treaty, leaving those affairs to their ordinary course. Fourthly, it is agreed, that in regard of the shortness of time, and the absence of the greatest and soundest part of the States of the Empire, both Catholics and Protestant's, they shall defer the restitution and compensation of losses and oppressions happened by reason of Levies of soldiers, to a more convenient time. After this accord, the French Ambassadors with their whole train embarked upon the Dannow the sixt of july, and arrived at Vienna the twentith; where they found a hundred caroches attending them, every one having six horses, which conducted them to their lodgings. As for their audience with the Emperor, their stay at Vienna, their mediation to accommodate the affairs of Hungary with BETHLIN GABOR, it belongs to the following History. In the beginning of june and during the assembly at Vlmes formerly spoken of, diverse reports went throughout all Germany of the preparation of 2 royal Armies to be levied in Flanders: the one under the leading of marquis SPINOLA consisting of 30000 men for the conquest of the Palatinate; the other of 12000 foot and 3000 horse under the conduct of Don LOVIS de Velasco to oppose the Prince of Orange and the States of Holland, in case they should undertake any thing in SPINOLA'S absence upon those places which the Spaniard holds in Cleveland or upon the Archbishopric of Cullen. Upon report of the diligence which SPINOLA made to compose his Army for to go into the Palatinate, the two Armies we formerly said were encamped near unto one another upon the other side of the Dannow; to wit, that of the Duke of Bavaria which was of 25000 at Vending: and the other of the Corespondent Princes led by the marquis of Anspach consisting of 15000 at Langenau near Vlmes, raised their Camps: and turning tail one upon another, the Duke of Bavaria marched along the Danube into Austria: and the marquis of Anspach advanced to get the Rhine, to the end he might come into the Palatinate to defend it if it were invaded. What followed you shall hear hereafter. The Emperor having received great forces both of horse and foot which had been levied Soldiers come to the Emperor's service into Austria. in Croatia, Istria and Carinthia, with those which were sent him from Italy; and the Duke of Ba●…aria approaching the frontiers of upper Austria, desiring (before he would use extremities against the Protestant's of Austria) to know whether they would persist in their rebellion, he sent them his monitoriall Letters; importing, That the Protestant's of the lower Austria having confirmed the League with the Bohemians (which was contrary to all divine and humane laws and the constitutions of the Empire) against him and the Princes of his house, there was no reason he should make any favourable answer, to their petitions, if they did not first desist from the said league with the Bohemians, and acknowledge it by some loyal action. Wherhfore his Imperial Majesty desired that without any further delay, the Catholic States should come to Viena, and the Protestant's sand their Deputies, to witness unto him by a public Act that they renounced the confederation and League of the Bohemians: This done, he would answer their petition to their contentment. Than the lower Austrians seeing no colour of using any more delays, perceiving the forces 1620 of the Emperor ready to execute his will upon them, both the one and the other sent their Deputies The Protestant●… of the lower Austria renounce the confederation of the Bohemians. to Viena. The Protestant's presented unto his Imperial Majesty, their Act of renuntiation of association with the Bohemians, and besought him to give them equality with the Catholics and free exercise of religion throughout all Austria. Upon this supplication they had answer, that they aught not to doubt, but that his Imperial Majesty would be a father unto his faithful and loyal States, and that he would spend his The Emperor gives them his word for the free exercise of the confession of Ausbourg. life to preserve and maintain them in peace one with another; And as for what concerned the free exercise of the confession of Ausbourg in Austria, he gave them his word it should be observed as it had been in the time of the deceased Emperor MATHIAS his predecessor. Having received this answer, the States of the lower Austria, both Catholics and Protestant's which were at Viena, stayed there to take the hereditary oath unto the Emperor as Archduke The Duke of Ba●…ria enters with his Army into the upper Austria. of Austria. As for the upper Austria, the Protestant States were assembled at Lintz to oppose themselves against the Duke of Bavaria: who before he would undertake any thing against them, sent a Commissary to let them understand that he was advanced with his Army by the Emperor's commandment to reduce them to their obedience, requiring them to renounce the League they had made with the Bohemians, and to take the hereditary oath of allegiance, giving them only five days to resolve. In the mean time he sent HASLANG the chief Captain of his guards with 1500 horse and a regiment of foot into the upper Austria: where having defeated 300 soldiers and many Peasants near to the castle of Hagen, he burned the village where they were fortified: the Castle yielded by composition. The Castle of Starnberg was also summoned, and the Captain threatened to be hanged if he yielded not presently: wherewith being terrified, he gave up the place; and so did many other Castles and Churches whither the Protestant's had retired themselves. At the same time, ERNEST LEWES Duke of Saxony, of the house of Lauvemburg, going down the Dannow by boat, having landed at Aschar four miles from Lintz, and telling certain The Duke of Lau●…burg slain by Peasants. peasants that they should shortly have other guests, they fell violently upon him, and murdered him. The Protestant States of the upper Austria, assembled at Lintz, sent to Count MANSFELT Marshal of the Bohemian Army, to entreat him to come thither in respect of the danger they feared, in regard the Duke of Bavaria was so near them with his Army. To whom he made answer, that, being so weak of men, he could not aid them; but that daily he expected greater forces, and then he would most willingly come unto them: whereof he advertised the King of Bohemia, giving him advice what was to be done for the fortifying of the Country; but his advice was not followed, there being envy and jealousies between the Commanders of the Bohemian Army. In the mean time, the Austracians seeing no hope of relief, and that their ruin was apparent if they made any show of resistance against the Duke of Bavaria's great forces, that they had no expert Commanders, and that their confederates of Bohemia would not be able to relieve them; they sent their Deputies to the Duke of Bavaria to crave pardon, and to intercede Submission of the Protestant's of the upper Austria assembled at Lintz. for them to the Emperor, that they might be entreated like to those of the lower Austria, and that they would renounce their confederation with the Bohemians. Answer was made them, that they should return to Lintz, abandon the Castle, dismiss their soldiers, and that every man should retire to his house. They of Lintz heerupon having taken up the chains which cross the river of Dannow, they not only opened the passage, but exhorted all the people not to resist the Duke of Bavaria, jest Lintz yielded to the Duke of Bavaria. they should cast oil into the fire. Thus, the Duke of Bavaria, having taken the chief Forts and Towns which the Protestant's held, seized upon all the passages, and defeated about eight hundred men which would have joined with the States troops: he entered Lintz with his Army the fourth of August, where the States excused themselves aswell as they could, promised to yield obedience, and took the oath of allegiance. Mean while, the Bohemian Army lay at Thyme; where they framed their camp and spent all the month of August unprofitably: during which stay the soldiers grew discontented for their pay, and Count MANDSFIELD much more; both for the vain promises he had received Discontent of Count Mandsfield & his troops. from the directors and officers at Prague, whereby he had been disappointed of means to effect his designs, and disabled to do any service for the crown of Bohemia in time to come; as also for an affront he had received in Austria, which was after this manner: The Baron of Feltz Martial of the Army having been slain (as you have formerly heard) Count MANDSFELD, General of the Artillery, pretended the place due to him by the order of war: whereupon, he wrote to his Majesty, to the Officers, and to the Prince of Anhalt Lord General for 1620 the same; the which was granted him, and he executed the place of Marshal of the Camp at Egenbourg, during the space of two or three weeks, without any contradiction. Soon after, the General, coming one day to visit him, told him, that in truth he had been made Marshal of the Bohemian Army; but, as touching the office of Marshal of the royal army, it was reserved for the Earl of Hohenlo or Hollock: whereupon, complaining of that wrong, he grew so discontent, that he desired the Prince to give him leave to departed, and to withdraw himself elsewhere; the which he could not then obtain. Shortly after, the Prince of Anhalt came again to visit him, persuading him to rest satisfied with that office limited as aforesaid, and to suffer Count HOHENLO to execute the charge of Marshal of the Army Royal: the which he wholly refused; saying, that if he were but Marshal of the Bohemian Army, he would go thither, and obey Count HOHENLO as Lieutenant General: and for that there were many brave Commanders in the Army, there was no great need of him; beseeching the the Prince again to do him the favour as to give him leave to departed: which he did. Count MANSFELD, being much altered with these discontents, and still oppressed with envy, resolved to retire himself. To this end he wrote to the King and the States; who made him a gracious answer, persuading him to continued their friend, and not to abandon them in so dangerous a time: yet after much importunity, and many messages sent by him, in the end they decreed, that he should presently receive two months pay for his soldiers, who should be entreated like to those of the Royal Army; that he should execute his office of Lord Martial as the Baron of Feltz had done, and not attend the command of any other than the Lord General: whereupon he resolved to continued in his Majesty's service till the end of October. So matters rested: yet his malicious enemies laid a foul aspersion upon him, that he meant to turn his coat and serve the Emperor; the which was generally bruited, and supported in Court: but the King would never harbour it in his thought, but still persuaded the Lord Marshal not to respect such malicious reports, assuring him of his royal favour. I have been bold to make this little digression, to show what jealousy and division was among the Commanders of the Bohemian Army; which no doubt was very prejudicial to the King's affairs and to the State. We have formerly made mention, that at the truce made between the Emperor and Prince A general Assembly of the States of Hungary. BETHLIN, it was concluded, that an Assembly of the States of Hungary should be held at Neuheusal to treat of the means how to reconcile the dissensions betwixt his Imperial Majesty and the States. It began in july; whereas Prince BETHLIN propounded the Articles following: that He BETHLIN GABOR, Prince of Hungary and Transiluania, desired nothing more than to settle a peace in the troubled estate of Hungary, and the liberty of religion: and to show that he desired nothing but peace, he had refused the Crown which had been presented Propositions made to the States of Hungary by Beth. Gabor. to him; that the ground of a peace was to ratify the league with the Bohemians; that the truce made with the Emperor, and that which should be treated of in that present Assembly, might help much to a peace; that during the truce he had justly assisted the confederates, seeing that the Emperor had refused them a truce at their request. As for the resolutions they were to take with the Emperor's Ambassadors, he desired the States to advice speedily; that he had always desired peace, but sincere and without fraud; that to obtain it, he was come to assist his confederates miserably oppressed and afflicted; that the Emperor desired not peace but war, the which appeared by many signs; yea, for that his soldiers the Cossaques had entered into Hungary, and ruined divers places with fire and sword: That the Emperor having stopped and denied all passage to the Deputies of Bohemia and Austria, they aught not to treat of any peace with him, but of war; that they should advice by what means they might conveniently begin it and continued it; how to find money, which is the sinews of war, to repair the Frontiers, and furnish them with things necessary; to sand Ambassadors to the Turk, jest that the States being employed elsewhere, they might receive some loss and prejudice that way; that it being lawful for the States according to the laws to punish their bad affected Countrymen who had done great harm to the confederates, they should do justice. The Emperor sent Ambassadors to this Assembly. They demanded to have the league, made between the Bohemians and their new chosen King with the States of Hungary and the Prince BETHLEM, broken: but it was in vain. The Ambassadors of France which were at Vienna, sent also Letters to this Assembly, making offer of their endeavour to reconcile the differences between the Emperor and them. But Prince BETHLIN made answer, that there was no appearance 1620 of speaking of peace, seeing that his Imperial Majesty having so great forces on foot, would employ them whilst they entertained them with an accord. It was therefore concluded The assembly resolves to begin war against the emp. in this assembly, at the request of the Ambassadors of Bohemia, that they should sand 10000 Hungarians to secure the Bohemians against so many Armies as were falling upon their Country; the which was speedily put in execution: That there should be no continuance of Truce with the Emperor; the which being ended, they should begin war in Austria against the Imperialls, to divert the Army marching into Bohemia: and that BETHLIN changing the name of Prince of Hungary which he had assumed in the beginning, should take that of King and be crowned at Presbourg in October. It is written, that the Turks Ambassadors assured the assembly that the Sultan would give consent to this coronation; but the chief Noblemen of Hungary Catholics opposed themselves, and continued constant to the Emperor. The Bohemians, seeing Austria wholly reduced under the Emperor's obedience, thought that the Duke of Bavaria and the Earl of Bucquoy joining their forces, and making an Army of 50000 men, would enter into Bohemia: They saw that the succours which they expected at need from the united Princes of Germany, would be diverted to defend the Palatinate against Spinola's Army: that all their Forces were but 20000 men (besides 10000 Hungarians which came to their aid) commanded by CHRISTIAN, Prince of Anhalt, General of their Army; in the which there were many Noblemen, but few good Commanders. Yet notwithstanding, they were of opinion that with these forces they should be able to hinder the Imperial Army from performing any great matter, if they did furnish their Frontier Towns with men, money and munition, to stay them at some Siege, which is commonly the ruin of great Armies: whereupon they commanded Count MANSFELD to march with all his Forces to assure the Frontiers of Bohemia against the Duke of Bavaria; assuring him that all the Country was in Arms, and that great numbers of horse and foot were commanded to join with him, near to Glats and Taux; but marching thither with his Troops, he found not any: and complaining unto the Officers, they made an excuse that they had been countermanded and employed in other places against Don BALTHAZARS forces. MANSFELD being disappointed of succours & followed close by the enemy, fearing they should take the way of Pilsen before him, he resolved to retire thither, which he did in the end of September. He found the Town full of wants, the fortifications little advanced, few labourers, and no money to supply all; wherewith he presently acquainted the officers & with the danger if they were not speedily supplied: he requested them to sand him some munition, whereby he might be enabled to hold out a siege, and money to satisfy the officer and soldier; who being already discontented, it was to be feared they might fall into a mutiny, to the great prejudice of the place and cause. To these Letters he had a fair answer, but no effects. In the mean time Count MANSFELD fortified the Town all he could, drawing-in what provision he might. The enemy was not idle but grew daily stronger, taking Vodnian, Prachadits, Winterberg, and Pisech with great effusion of blood: ofter which, Scottenhofen, Taux, and Glatta yielded by composition. The Elector of Saxony, who made great preparation to Arms, did much perplex the Bohtmians; The Bohemians sand Ambassadors to the Elector of Saxony. for being assailed by him upon the North side, when as the Imperialls should enter upon the South, they should then be shut up betwixt them. Whereupon they presently sent Ambassadors to the said Elector, with particular instructions, to induce the Estates of his Country to divert him from attempting any thing in favour of the Emperor, from whom he had received Letters for the execution of the proscription against them, giving him authority to do what he should think fit; to take Towns, punish rebels, and pardon those which should return to their duties and take the oath due to his Majesty, and not to forget any thing for the recovery of the Realm, and settling all in peace. The Ambassadors of Bohemia being at Dresda with the Elector, they entreated his highness to give their King and the States of Bohemia that contentment as to declare unto them his intention, touching the Letters of execution sent unto him from the Emperor, and whether he desired not to remain Neuter as he had hitherto The Duke of Saxonies' answer to the Bohemian●…. done. The Elector made a long repetition unto them of the progress of these troubles; concluding in the end, that he had accepted of this commission in regard of his duty: hoping that it might be executed without force or hostile attempts, if they would show themselves disposed unto peace rather than to war; That his only aim was to maintain peace, true religion, the privileges of the Realm, and the Imperial and Royal authority; That if the Protestant's amongst them had the like affection, it was the means to attain unto that end; That the Protestant's of high Austria had lately made proof thereof; who, accepting of the Emperor's pardon, had by the same means obtained the exercise of true religion, with all their privileges and immunities, 1620 and freed themselves from a thousand miseries which follow war. But if they did persist in their resolution, and continued the war (which he could not hinder) yet they should always remember his faithful advice: and it affairs succeeded otherwise than they expected, he was to be excused, having showed himself as well affected to their good as to that of his own subjects. marquis SPINOLA having levied a goodly Army in the Archduke's Territories under the Emperor's commission, but with the King of Spain's money, it bred a jealousy in all the Princes marquis Spinola marcheth towards the palatinate. of Germany, that it was to invade the palatinat, & such princes as did assist him. The K. of great Britanne, although he would not meddle with the affairs of Bohemia, yet always careful to preserve his daughter's dowry in the Palatinate, and the inheritance of her children who had never offended, sent an Ambassador expressly to the Archduke being at Brussels, to be informed of the subject of this great preparation: to whom answer was made, that these forces were levied in the name of the King of Spain, and that he might learn the cause from Marquis SPINOLA; who, being demanded, made answer, that in the Letter which he had received from Spain, he had found the Commission, but might not open it till he came to the place of Arms; wherefore if it pleased him to be there, he would impart it to him. In the mean time, on the eightth of August, he took his leave of the Archdukes, and on the seventeenth came to Aix la Chapelle; where he attended his munition and carriages coming from Antwerp, consisting of 350 wagons loaden with powder, bullets, boats to make bridges, and all other munition of war. He had forty cannons that came from Macklin, all with the Emperor's Arms prepared for this Army; ovens of brass, and mills upon wagons sufficient to make bread for 20000 men in four and twenty hours. All things being ready, he parted from Aix the one and twentith of August towards Confluence; where he mustered his whole Army, being six and twenty thousand foot and four thousand horse. Than he opened his His commission. Commission, wherewith he acquainted the English Ambassador; which contained a declaration to make war against all those which should be confederate and allied to the Bohemians, rebels to his Imperial Majesty. Having given his soldiers two months pay, he passed the Rhine upon a bridge of boats at Saint Sebastian's: the which being presently taken up again, coming to the head of the Army, he made an Oration to the Captains and soldiers, exhorting them to carry themselves valiantly; this war being for the defence of the Catholic faith and house of Austria: whereupon, they all cried out, God save the house of Austria, and discharged their muskets. From Saint Sebastian's, near to Confluence, he wrote particular Letters to MAURICE Lantzgrave He write●… to some Princes of the Union. of Hesse, and to some other Princes of the Union, advertising them of his going into the Palatinate, and that they should assist the Emperor in his just cause, or remain Neuters: In doing so, they nor their subjects should receive any harm from his Army: After which, he marched towards Franckfort. The Princes of the Union (who attended him in the Palatinate upon this side the Rhine, with an Army of twenty two thousand Foot, and four thousand Horse) hearing that he had passed the Rhine at Confluence, thought that he had a design upon Franckfort and the Palatinate beyond the Rhine; which made them to turn the head of their Army in all haste to pass the river of Rhyne, upon a bridge of boats at Oppenheim; which Town SPINOLA took soon after (the Princes being marched towards Worms, fearing it should be besieged) being yielded by 800 men there ingarrison, who departed without Arms. There was found store of Munition, Wine, Graine, and other commodities, sufficient for the Army for half a year; with much moveables, Tents, Pavilions, and other Implements. This Town of Oppenheim, is a very easy passage upon the River of Rhine, for entrance into the upper Palatinate. Whilst that SPINOLA busied himself to fortify Oppenheim, he sent forth his Commanders He takes towns in the palatinate with Troops, like Harbingers with Chalk in their hands, to mark out his lodgings, as if he had feared no Enemy. Don CARLO de Colonia, Governor of Mastric, and now Ambassador in England, went to Creutzenac; which yielded by composition. Don GONZALES de Cordua, seized upon Canb, Bacrac, and the Castle of Palft; and towards the River of Mozelle, Don JAQVES MESSIA, also, with his Regiment of Spaniards, took Tarbach and other places of importance: In these places, so taken, they put in Garrison some six thousand men: which the Archduke ALBERT understanding, and desiring that thereby the Army might not be diminished, he sent a supply of 6000 under the leading of Mounsieur de la MOTTERIE Governor 1620 of Mastric. Our King's Majesty, being assured that SPINOLA meant to invade the Palatinate, and desirous to preserve the inheritance of his grandchilds if it were possible, suffered a regiment of Sir Horatio Vere sent to the Palatinate with English Forces. 2200 Voluntaries to be levied under the command of that worthy Knight Sir HORATIO VERE their General for the Palatinate; being followed by two honourable persons, the Earls of Oxford and Essex with private commands, and divers gallant Knights and Gentlemen. These Troops passed into Holland; where having received their apparel and Arms, they marched up the Rhine till they came right against Wesel; whereas the Prince of Orange encamped with his Army, not far from Don LEWES de Velasco, who lay above Wesel with 12000 foot and 3000 horse, observing one another's actions. The Prince, doubting that the passage of Lip would not be very safe for those Troops which should go into the Palatinate, caused a bridge of boats to be made over the Rhine right against his Camp; where the English passed over with They pass the river of Rhine with Count Henry of Nassaw. Count HENRY of Nassaw, who (as some affirm) had 1500 horse and five hundred foot. After which, the Prince of Orange passed into an Island lying between Cullen and Bone: where he built a Fort called Pfaffen-mutz, which might have the command of the river, and annoyed those Towns. SPINOLA, hearing that Count HENRY and Sir HORATIO VERE marched with their Troops, had a desire to encounter them and cut them off in their passage (and for that intent he passed the Rhine with 9000 foot and 3000 horse) and likewise to see, whether they of Franckfort would give them passage through their Town, contrary to their promise: but he was deceived in his expectation, by reason of their speedy march (going some times twenty miles a day and more) and taking their way above Franckfort by the County of Hannaw: and so they drew near to Worms, where they passed the river, and in the end joined with the Princes of the Union. The day after the coming of the English and Prince HENRY to the Army of the Union, there was great expectation of a battle, for that marquis SPINOLA had drawn his Army The Army of the Union prepares to fight with Spinola. out of his strength, and could not well retire to his trenches without fight, for that the Prince's Army lay so near them. The Commanders therefore resolved to give him battle: whereupon the whole Army was put in order, the forward being given to Sir HORATIO VERE with his English Troops, being seconded by Count HENRY with his horse. Every soldier prepared himself to fight with great resolution, the English being encouraged by their preacher; who told them the cause was just, they fought for God and religion, for the honour of their Country, and to maintain the right of their Soueraign's daughter and her children. His speech so inflamed the resolute soldiers, that they cast up their caps for joy, attending but the signal for battle; but, their courages were soon daunted: for, the marquis of Ansbach, the General (instead of crying To Arms) caused a retreat to be sounded; whereby the enemy had occasion to recover his trenches, to the general grief of the English. He pretended this reason, That the day was too far spent: but, by the opinion of such as were there, they lost a fair advantage, and almost the hope of an assured victory; their Army being far greater than SPINOLA'S, his forces being divided. This retreat much blemished the reputation of the marquis: of whom men spoke diversely; some terming him a coward, others saying he was corrupted, and had betrayed the Army: but, doubtless, it much hindered the Palatinate's affairs, and gave the enemy means to advance his conquests; the Army of the Union retiring to Worms, where they were encamped: but soon after, it being winter, and the Germane heat abated, their army was garisoned. Prince BETHLIN, possessing Presbourg, and willing to bring the war on this side of the river Dannow towards Vienna, had caused a bridge of boats to be made there, with a Fort at the end thereof: upon which having past his Army, consisting of 10000 men, and his cannon, he went and besieged Hambourg; but the intelligence which he had with the townsmen being discovered, he planted his batteries to win it by force: but, after a breach made, and four assaults given, with the loss of a thousand Hungarians, he raised his siege, and retired to Volrburg. When the Imperials perceived Prince BETHLIN'S purpose to bring the war near Vienna, for that he had passed the Dannow, there was a goodly enterprise propounded in the Emperor's Council (if it had happily succeeded) to go and break the bridge of boasts at Presbourg: and whilst Prince BETHLIN was on this side of the Dannow (where he had no Town of retreat, or means speedily to repass it if this bridge were broken) to force the Castle and Town of Presbourg; The Earl of Dampierre propounded this exploit so easily to be effected, that the execution thereof was committed to him, though many held it a dangerous attempt: but he, having a great spirit thirsting after fame, and judging this would be a good means to reduce all Hungary 1620 to the Emperor's obedience by attempting only this hazard, could by no means be dissuaded. The execution of this enterprise being then resolved; the Troops of ANHALT, levied in the Country of Treves in the Spring, were embarked above Vienna at Grifenstein and Corneburg, together with those Troops which were always attending the said Earl, which were composed of French, Walloons and other Nations. Four Coluerings, twelve Petards, powder, wild fire, and other necessary munitions were embarked at Vienna; so as his Army was held to be eight thousand foot, forty ships and boats, and two thousand horse, which came through the lower Austria: neither could the extremity of the weather on the river of Dannow, nor the sinking of three boats laden with men and munition, lost under the bridge of Vienna, fear him from this enterprise. Those which were embarked above Vienna being come thither the 8 of October, TAMPIERRE set sail to go to Presbourg. When they were come beneath Hainburg, one of his boats wherein there were 200 musketeers was sunk: and thinking to arrive by break of day within two miles of Presbourg to put himself on shore, it was nine of the clock before he had landed all his troops. At his first approach he seized upon the suburbs, forced the Fort built upon the river of Dannow, and broke the bridge of boats. All which succeeding well, he resolved to attempt the Castle by Petard; conceiving that if it might be taken, the town could not long hold out. But being advanced before the Countercarfe with fifty musketeers and one of his Colonels called ESPAGNE, the Moravians which were within discovering him, shot upon him without intermission: eight of his men were slain near unto him, and a musket shot carried his hat from his head. Heerupon they told him, that he was known and leveled at from a certain loophole; which caused him to retire: but as he went off he was shot into the reins of the back; and being led away by two of his soldiers, one of them was slain, and the Earl shot into the right side; which slew him outright: whereupon, his Troops, growing amazed, retired Tampiere slain by two musket shot. with more confusion than good speed; which those of Presbourg perceiving, the Hungarians issued out and slew a hundred or sixscore of the hindmost of them: from whom they recovered the Earls body. Prince BETHLIN being comn again before Hainburg, and having won the same, he appointed this place for the French Ambassadors to meet at; who had sent unto him to know if Hainbourg rendered to Bethlin he would use their help for the pacifying of the troubles. And knowing that they parted the sixt of October to repair unto him, he sent them a convoy of four hundred horse: which being defeated and put to flight between that place and Vienna by the Imperialists, he forbore not for all that to sand forth another convoy somewhat stronger than the former, and to receive and entertain them two miles short of Hainbourg, by two hundred Gentlemen attired in cloth of gold, and with many precious jewels; who presented them with the Prince's caroaches, in the which they were conducted with no less than an hundred torches forth on to their French Ambassadors magnificently received at Hambourg. lodgings. On the morrow, the day of their Audience, they were with magnificence led unto the Castle through all the soldiers of the guard clothed in blue, and found the Prince in the Hall of the castle accompanied with 200 Gentlemen apparelled after the Turkish fashion with long robes of velvet and cloth of gold lined with sables; who after their reception conducted them unto his Cabinet: what passed in this first audience and in a second afterwards, is not known. A few days after they returned unto Viena; where they endeavoured themselves by all means to reconcile and bring to an end those cruel wars, not only with Prince BETHLIN and the Hungarians, but also with the Elector Palatine king of Bohemia: and to that end they sent one to Prague (who had been always Agent for France in the Palatines court at Heidelberg before he had accepted the crown of Bohemia) to treat with Sir Richard Weston, and Sir Edward Conaway, now Counsellors of State (who were sent Ambassadors from his Majesty unto his Son in law, and had charge to employ themselves seriously for the pacifying of those troubles) touching these alterations, and to understand from them what course they would take for the attaining unto a peace. But the battle being lost within few days after by the king of Bohemia, it changed the face of all those good intentions to treat of peace. Whilst they stayed yet at Hainbourg, this Prince sent for the body of the Earl of Tampierre from Presbourg, and caused it to be very honourably interred. The Baron de Prener, taking his charge, assembled 6000 foot of his routed Army, and all the horse; with which he stayed the courses of the Hungarians and Transylvanians, which made their incursions even to the 1620. gates of Vienna. Let us now observe what past in the other places, and what in the mean time the Elector of Saxony doth in Lusatia, and the Duke of Bavaria and the Earl BUCQVOY in Bohemia. The Elector of Saxony, having composed his Army of 20000 men with great store of cannon The Elector of Saxony enters into Lusatia, to execute the Emperors Ban. and munition for war, to begin the execution of the Imperial Ban in Lusatia, he sent to the States of that Province JAQVES GRUNTHALL, one of his Counsellors, to publish an assembly of the States of that Province in the Town of Bautsen on the seventh of September, old style, that he might communicate to the Emperor's commission. Whereof FREDERICK Elector Palatine being advertised; as king of Bohemia and marquis of Lusatia, he sent to forbid ADOLPH of Gersdorf, Governor of the province, to make any such convocation. And withal gave Commission to the marquis of jagerndorf of Brandebourg, to enter into Lusatia with 6000 men to reserve it against the forces of the duke of Saxony: which he executed with such diligence, as he was sooner at the gates of Bautsen than they had any news of his coming: where being entered, he seized upon ADOLPH of Gersdorf and GRUNTHALL with AUGUSTIN SCHMID, Agent for his Imperial Majesty: and some other Deputies which were already come to Bautsen. This done and having left 2000 men in garrison at Bautsen, and a new Governor, he went to Gorlitz where he did the like and in other places of this Province. Which the Elector of Saxony understanding, he enters into Lusatia with his Army, and layeth siege to Bautsen, where he was 3 weeks before it: and then taking it by force at the fift assault, he caused 40 of the principal rebels to be hanged. Thus was Lusatia reduced, and the marquis of jagerndorf constrained to withdraw himself into Silesia, having attempted in vain to relieve the Town. The Duke of Bavaria after his taking of Lintz as is aforesaid, having no more to do in Austria, and his Imperial Majesty being also desirous that the 2 Armies, that is to say, his own which the Earl of Bucquoy conducted, and was then upon the frontiers of Austria & Moravia, and the D. of Bavaria's might join together, to enter into Bohemia and march towards Prague: He turned about the head of his Army towards Snethall and went and joined it with the Earl of Bucquoy. Before he enters into Bohemia, he sent the Emperor's Letters-patents to the States; and by his own he exhorts them to accept of the grace offered to them, to appear before him, to satisfy his Imperial Majesty's Commandment; to provide better for their Kingdom, to receive their lawful King so liberal and benign; and to prevent greater miseries, if they loved their own good. To these letters the States of Bohemia made answer the 30. of August, sending back th'original of the Emperor's Letters patents; Letting him understand, that they would defend their party, to the hazard of their goods and lives: That they committed to God th'event, and did yet notwithstanding hope, that he whom they never had offended, but ever reputed as a friend, and a worthy and prudent Prince of the Empire, would not suffer himself to be persuaded to use any act of hostility against them and their Kingdom. The Bohemians, seeing their Army nothing equal to the Emperors and the Duke of Bavaria's being joined, they 'cause it to return out of Austria into Bohemia, to unite all their forces with The Bohemians Army retires towards Prague. the 10000 Hungarians which Prince BETHLIN had sent to their succours. The Prince of Anhalt in his retreat put garrisons into all places, and augmented those which were weak, that they might make some opposition against the Imperialists: but their Armies being thus joined, those which made any resistance found but bad usage. For after the taking of Horn, they made so happy a progress in Bohemia, that the Town of Vortsmits' having been succoured by them (which the Prince of Anhalt in his retreat would The Bavarians and Bucquois exploits in Bohemia. Taking of Horn. have forced) all the places between it and Badvitz were reduced to the obedience of the Imperial Majesty. The 25 of September they encamped before Budna, which they constrained to yield, having for a space held out with great resolution: From hence the Earl of Bucquoy went and assailed Phrahalits', which he took by force, as also Pisca which saw both the Armies before her gates; and in the end being also forced, they held on their course to Prague, and in the way recovered the towns of Risemberg, Sellettemhof, and the fort of Walern which MANSFELD formerly held, with Stratonitz, Glatau, Chiffenhotten, Gratzien, Schivising, Witterberg, Mabren and Grimbach, all places of Note, to assure their passage towards Prague, from whence both Armies were but two day's journey. About the 10. of Octob. the Emperor's army with the Bavarians, began to show themselves before Pilsen, and very near the Town. Their outworks were not yet defensible, neither had they forces sufficient to man them; besides many other discommodities 1620 which often happen where money wants: so as if the enemy at that Instant had attempted the place with his great forces, he had undoubtedly carried it, or put it to great extremity. MANSFELD intermitted no time to fortify his works, and borrowed what money he could to content the soldiers; so as within few days the works were in defence. The King was comn with his Army to Rokezan, two leagues from Pilsen, towards Prague, being 24000 men, besides 10000 Hungarians. Count BUCQVOY, seeing MANSFELD'S resolution, and that to force it would both loose time and very many brave men, sought to get it by policy, having good intelligence how all things were managed amongst the chief men of that party, and of the discontent given to MANDSFELD; knowing, that nothing can sooner put a Noble spirit from his posture than Bucquoy seeks to corrupt Mansfeld. envy. He therefore studies how to gain him that was most potent in that place, holding himself sure to effect it. His device was to sand JOACHIN de Carpzo a Lieutenant, Colonel of one of MANSFELD'S regiments (who had been taken prisoner the year before by the enemy) to persuade him to leave the place to the Emperor, in consideration of a great sum of money which he promised him. The Messenger accepts the Commission, and delivers what he had in charge to MANSFELD; who sent him presently to the Prince of Anhalt, who caused him often to be examined. MANSFELD by his Majesty's consent gave ear to BUCQVOY, and offers to treat with him; but on this condition, that restitution should be made to Captain LINSTAW, whose Troops had been spoiled contrary to the capitulation of TAUX, by BUCQVOYS soldiers; who, to further this treaty, endeavoured what he could to give LINSTAW satisfaction; wherein he spent much time: but, finding these practices not to prevail, he resolved to attempt it by force, and to give a general assault; yet, changing his mind, he departed with his whole Army about the 21 of October, and so marched towards Prague. His rearward being lodged but half an hours march from Pilsen; the next day the Earl of Hohenlo came with all the King's horse, as well Germane as Hungarians, and 3000 musketeers within one hours march of Pilsen; where Count MANSFELD meeting him, he propounded a means how to cut off the enemy's Rear: that if it would please him to advance his Troops, he would also join with him with the best he had in Pilsen; and so, charging the enemy together, they should either defeat his Rearward, or else greatly distress it: but the Earl thought it better to turn back and take the passage, to intercept the enemy's way to Prague. In the end of October the two armies lodged within a league one of another; where there were daily skirmishes with various success, according to the fortune of war: and so drawing daily nearer and nearer together, it was conceived that BUCQVOY would hazard a battle. Whereupon, the Prince of Anhalt invited MANSFELD to come and attend his pleasure; who thanked him, and assured him he would not fail to perform his command; assuring himself, he should be entertained as Marshal of the field, to command according to his charge; desiring his Highness to sand him word speedily, what his resolution was, and to that effect sent a particular messenger with Letters: but before he could be heard and dispatched, the overthrow of the Army decided the question. The Imperial Army advanced still, and no day passed without some action. On the fourth of The battle of Prague. November the Earl of Bucquoy was lightly hurt with a shot; which was so troublesome to him, that he could not well ride on horseback. On the 6 and 7 days the Armies were within cannon shot one of another. Coming within half a league of Prague, upon Sunday morning the eight day of the month the battle was fought; which I cannot relate in particular, being forced to use brevity. The Imperialists being resolved to fight, the Duke of Bavaria took the right wing, and Count BUCQVOY took the left; who, sitting armed in his caroche, went from squadron to squadron to hearten and encourage them to carry themselves valiantly. The Baron of Tilly, who was the Leader of the left point, having passed a little bridge and marish ground with the Bavarian Troops, was so welcomed and entertained by the Bohemians, that he was forced to sand for all the Bavarian Troops in the forward to come to secure and assist him: all which being joined, and under the Bohemians, the whole Imperial Army was constrained in the like manner to march upon the left hand; so as they were much annoyed, and received great loss by the Bohemians Artillery; which did so beaten into a battalion of Walloons, and the whole body of the Bavarian horse, that they were routed and put to flight. The danger wherein the forward of the Bavarians and the Baron of Tilly were engaged, forced Count BUCQVOY to second them▪ who (notwithstanding that he was wounded and weak) went to horseback to 〈◊〉 TILLY, who was in danger to be lost. In the end, having freed TILLY from the 162●… danger▪ he caused his Battailions to march directly against the Bohemians Army; who receiu●… 〈◊〉 so gallantly, that they were in some disorder and ready to disband, if Count BUC●… The Bohemian A●…mie defeac●…d at Prague. had 〈◊〉 all the ●…adronss into one body, and charged so courageously, as having overthrown 2000 Hungarians which were in the forward; and the Duke of Bavaria at the s●…me ●…stant causing the right wing of the Imperial Army to advance, charged the left of the Bohemians; who presently abandoned their artillery, and were put to rout: some writ, there were 5000 slain upon the place, and above 2000 drowned; most of them Hungarians, which thought to pass●… through the river of Molda which divides the Towns of Prague. The Imperialists took ten cannon, 135 Ensigns, with many Cornets, having lost (as they writ) not above 400 men. Thus I find this unfortunate battle written by some Authors: but LANDORPIUS maketh the loss far greater on the Bohemian side. It is an old and true Saying, Plus vale●… oculatus A new 〈◊〉tion of the battle testis u●…us quam aariti decem, One ey-witnesis of more weight than ten which speak by hearsay: for, f●…me increaseth as it flees. I have therefore thought good to set down what I received from a discreet Gentleman, an Actor in that day's service, and hath delivered it on his reputation. The two Armies having coasted one another for divers days together, about the end of October, the Bohemians came and lodged at Rockenzan; and the Imperials encamped in a wood so near them, that they played continually one upon another with their great and small shot; so as divers were slain and hurt: among which, one of the Barons of Donna of the Bohemian party was lost; and Count BUCQVOY on the other side wounded: but the Imperials, having resolved to march towards Prague, raised their Camp in the night; which the Bohemians perceiving, marched away with all speed to get betwixt them and Prague; which they happily performed: for, on the day of the battle (which was Sunday) having marched 8 miles, the Army came to a place within a mile of Prague, of great advantage, called the white Hill; where they encamped, and ranged their Army, finding the Imperial Army advanced with a resolution to fight. The Bohemians had a great advantage of the ground: for, their cannon might beaten into their enemy's troops from the Hill; so as at their first approach they were much disordered, and lost many men: beside, the Imperials had a marish ground and a bridge to pass; where the Bohemians had planted 3 pieces of Ordinance, with 700 musketeers to guard it: which passage if they had maintained, and kept their posture on the Hill, in the opinion of all martial men they could not have lost the victory. But the first step to their overthrow was the indiscretion or peifidiousnes of the Earl of Hohenlo or Holloc, Lieutenant General of the Bohemian Army, who drew away the musketeers which were set to guard the passage of the bridge; so as the Imperials, embracing this opportunity, passed over their troops, and turned those 3 pieces on the Bohemians. After this, they marched with great resolution to the charge. The young Prince of Anhalt on the right hand advanced with a great squadron of horse to encounter them: but they were scattered; yet not so routed, but he gathered his Troops again together to give a new charge, thinking to be seconded by the Hungarians which were behind him: where his Troops were overthrown, for that the Hungarians never advanced to assist him, but fled presently without striking stroke. Whereupon, the whole Army on that side fell into a confusion, every man abandoning his rank, and running away: only the Moravians, commanded by the young Earl of Schli●…, fought valiantly, and were most of them slain or taken prisoners. On the left hand the Earl of Strum, Lieutenant Colonel to C. MANSFELD's regiment of horse, charged valiantly with 3 of his companies and some others who helped him, on a regiment of the enemy's foot, and beaten them down to the bottom of the hill: but, being oppressed with multitudes, and left by the Hungarians who were to second him, he was forced to get off as well as he could. The Prince of Anhalt, with HOLOC his Lieutenant, fled with the first to carry news to Prague of this disaster. The old Earl of Thurn followed, but with more honour and better testimonies of his valour. The King of Bohemia (who had been a month together with the Army, and came but the day before the battle to Prague) was now going forth after dinner to view his Army, ignorant of what had past. Being some 12 score from the Town, he saw the Hungarians fleeing so fast, that he was forced to retire speedily, or else his person had been in danger to be oppressed by the multitude that fled. Touching the loss he affirms confidently, there were not above 3000 slain; whereof most of them, fleeing into the outworks of the Town (the gates being shut) were there slain by the enemy; that there were few drowned in passing the river upon floats of timber, and that the enemy's loss was no less than theirs. There were some companies of horse and foot which had retired themselves into Starpark, near adjoining to their Camp; the which that night or the 1620 next day morning were either slain or taken prisoners: among which, there was the young Prince of Anhalt, Captain of the King's guard, and other Commanders; who, sending a Drum to Count BUCQVOY, craved fair Quarter: which granted, they yielded themselves prisoners. In this great confusion and amazement, the King with his Queen and Court left the Castle The Elector Palatine, King of Bohemia, abandons Prague. which is in petty Prague, and retired into the old Town. The old Earl of Thurn with other Commanders persuaded the King to stay in the Town and defend it, wanting neither men, victual, nor munition; which they might well have done: but the King, considering that his soldiers were daunted with this overthrow, that the Inhabitants were light and inconstant, and would adhere to the stronger, that he was in a weak Town, and a victorious enemy at the gates, who no doubt would employ all his forces to make his victory absolute; resolved to retire himself, and give way to necessity: so as the next day after the battle he left the Town by seven of the clock in the morning; the Queen taking her caroche with her young son but nine months old, who was born in Prague. Coming to the Port, they found it shut, and the Burghers in Arms, refusing to let them pass; it may be with a hope to make their peace the better with the enemy upon their retention: but by the persuasions of the Burgrave and Chancellor of Bohemia who did accompany them; they opened the gates. Presently after, the Queen took horse, they being accompanied by Sir RICH. WESTON and Sir EDWARD CONNOWAY, Ambassadors there for his Majesty, the old Prince of Anhalt, two Dukes, of Saxony, of Weymar, the Earl of Hollock, the old Earl of Thurn, the Earl of Lavall, son to the Duke of Tremoville, a Frenchman, the Burgrave of Prague, and the Chancellor, with many others. That night they went to Limpurg, 30 English miles from Prague: where they arrived late, and entered with much difficulty; a long journey for a Queen great with child and unfit to travel, having no time to rest or refresh herself by the way. The next day they departed from Limpurg towards Silesia, and after eight days came to Preslaw: during which, that Noble and virtuous Queen suffered hunger, cold, the extremity of bad lodging (lying some nights on straw) the apprehension of a pursuing enemy, and the loss of plate and goods which were spoiled by their own soldiers that followed them: yet she bore all these crosses and afflictions with a generous resolution, to the admiration of all. The Duke of Bavaria and Count BUCQVOY entering into Prague the next day, they sent The Imperialists pursue the King of Bohemia. certain troops towards Brandiz fifteen miles off (a place of pleasure belonging to the Kings of Bohemia) to pursue them, thinking to find the Queen thereby reason of her disability to travel; where hearing what course they had taken, and how far they were advanced, they left pursuing them, and spent their time in spoiling of that place and the country thereabout. His Majesty's Ambassadors took their leave of the King and Queen going from Limpurg; from whence they gave the Duke of Bavaria to understand, that according to their duties they had accompanied the King their Master's daughter to Limpurg; desiring to have a safe conduct to return to Prague, which he sent them: where finding no means to treat with a victorious enemy upon any good terms of peace, they returned towards England. After this famous victory the two Generals marched directly to Prague. In the mean time, the Catholics wrote to the Duke of Bavaria, that they gave God thanks that he had given him victory; that they would rejoice to see him come triumphing into their Towns; that they offered to him both their goods and lives, and that they freely yielded themselves, beseeching him to exempt them from pillage and spoil. His Highness received them with all courtesy, and made a proclamation that no soldier upon pain of death should departed from his colours; and if any disbanded, their Officers should be hanged for them. The next day the soldiers began to scale the walls: but the Duke stayed their insolency, and set guards at the gates of petty Pragu●…, and upon all the approaches. The Inhabitants of the old Town dispatched a trumpet to his Highness, beseeching him to grant them three days space, in which time they hoped to give such answer as should content him: yet he would not hear their demand; but sent them word, that he would not grant them so much as three hours, but would have them presently come forth into the field; where like a Conqueror he would attend them to receive the obedience due unto his Imperial Majesty, in view of all the Army. The which they performed: and the 4000 soldiers which were there in garrison, submitted themselves, and were received into grace. The towns of Prague submit to the Emperor. After dinner the next day, the Duke of Bavaria and the Earl of Bucquoy entered the town with great solemnity: and coming to the Capuchins Church, they gave God thanks for this victory and unhoped-for conquest. The Officers, who had been difmist from their charges, came to do their duties with tears of joy. They writ, that after this reduction of the three Towns of Prague, the gates were kept shut the space of six days, to seek for the chief Authors of FERDINAND'S rejection: all that were found to be of that faction were spoiled, of what Religion soever. The Caluinists (who inclined most to the Elector Palatine) were entreated in the like manner, and deprived of the free exercise of their Religion: As for the Lutherans of the confession of Ausbourg, they were maintained. The wife and son of the Earl of Thurne, were committed to prison, with many others. After the reduction of Prague, many Towns of Bohemia came and brought their keys to the Generals, with all sorts of submission; there only remained Pilsen and Tabor, where Count MANDSFELDT commanded, with great Garrisons. The Generals, having restored the States to their ancient places, they caused them to writ unto the Count MANDSFELDT, and to his Captains and Soldiers, which were in Pilsen; persuading them to yield up the Town, with other places, unto his imperial Majesty, and they should receive a certain sum of money in hand, and the rest afterwards: Moreover, that The Imperials labour to have Pilsen yielded. seeing the King was now retired out of Bohemia, it was in the power of the said States to discharge him; seeing they had entertained him into their service, and to them he had taken his Oath. This offer did somewhat stagger them; yet, considering that these were not the same States which had entertained them (for, they were of the Religion; and these, Catholics) they thought it not fit to give care unto them: Wherefore he wrote to the King, & to the prince of Anhalt of all these proceed, made a Truce with the enemy, entered into treaty with him; and to that end sent JERONIMO de la Porta, to Prague. After this famous victory obtained by the Imperialists, and the reduction of Prague; the jesuites (who had retired themselves to Vienna) returned to their College; where they washed over their Temple and Altar with holy-water, and sanctified it with great Ceremonies: The like was done to the Church in the Castle; where the Images, the year before, had been beaten down by the Protestant's. And, about the same time, the States of Bohemia, to show their obsequibusnesse to the Emperor, and their inconstancy to their new elected King (whom they had lately chosen with such eagerness) being forced, as it seems by necessity, to submit themselves unto the cross; wrote a long persuasive Letter to the States of Moravia, and renounced their confederation, persuading them to do the like, and to obey his imperial Majesty in all The States of Bohemia renounce all confederations with the Moravians. things; with this commination, that if they should not give ear to their advice, but be the occasion of greater mischiefs, they would then prosecute them as public Enemies: But all this prevailed little with the Moravians, at that time, who proceeded in their hostile attempts. The Baron of Tilly being made Governor of Prague with a Garrison of 6000 Soldiers, the Inhabitants were quite disarmed: and, winter comming-on, the Generals, seeing no enemy in field, separated their Armies by troops; some going to refresh themselves, and others into Moravia. The Earl of Bucquoy had advice given him to take some rest for the recovery of his health. And the Duke of Bavaria took his way towards Munich, there to pass the Winter. In the month of january one thousand six hundred twenty one (for then they begin their computation) the Emperor sent forth a declaration of Proscription against the Elector Palatine, 1621. King of Bohemia, the marquis of jagerndorf, the Prince of Anhalt, the Earl of Hohenlo, The Emperor's Proscription against the Elector Palatine, and others. and the Authors of the Bohemian revolt: where, after a repetition of what had passed, he concludes; that desiring to prevent the like enterprises in time to come, made against the laws of the sacred Empire, by this Our present declaration of our imperial power, We have disannulled and revoked all privileges, grants, concessions, rights and graces, granted heretofore unto the said States of Bohemia, as well by ourselves, as by the deceased Emperors and Kings of Bohemia our predecessors; and likewise have decreed against all those which shall be found to have procured, counselled and favoured the said revolt, and drawn our subjects to war against us; to be proceeded against them, according to the constitutions of the Empire; declaring them fallen from all estates, honours, and prerogatives, and unworthy for ever of our grace and pardon. As for the Count Palatine of the Rhine, who hath usurped upon us the Title of King of Bohemia, hath made himself head of our rebellious subjects, drawn forces from all parts, and won unto him many officers and States of the Empire, whom he hath caused to enter into league to ruin our Authority, and to invade our hereditary estates; We have, by this our declaration, condemned the said Count Palatine, and declared him fallen from all his Estates, namely, from the dignity of Elector, and other honours of the Empire which he did enjoy; as also JOHN GEORGE the elder Marquis of Brandebourg and jagerndorf, Prince CHRISTIAN of Anhalt, 1621. GEORGE FREDERICK Earl of Hohenlo, and others which have favoured him in his designs, adheared unto his faction, entered into league with him against us, and assisted him with their Arms and persons in this enterprise. Also there was another proscription in particular sent out against JOHN GEORGE the elder Marquis of jagerndorf, CHRISTIAN prince of Anhalt, & GEORGE FREDERICK earl of Hohenlo of the same Tenure: commanding all the subjects of the Empire upon pain of the loss of life, honour, and goods, not to assist the three banished men above named, or to secure them secretly or openly, not to lodge them, feed them or furnish them with any secret retreat, or suffer them to escape; discharging them from all faith, homage, alliance, or intelligence which they might have with any of them. Great Levies of soldiers made by the Imperialists. The Emperor, the Elector of Saxony, and the Duke of Bavaria, made great levies of men in their States and countries, aswell to assail these places in Bohemia which would not yield obedience to the Emperor being under the command of Count MANDSFELD, as also in Silesia and Hungary: yet they did not forbear to talk of peace and to hold assemblies in diverse places upon that subject. As for the continuation of the conference with Prince BETHLIN and the States of Hungary; A conference procured by the French Ambassadors. it was so laboured by the Ambassadors of France, as at length it was assigned in the town of Hainbourg (which the Imperialists had recovered) whither BETHLIN GABOR with the states of Hungary should sand their Deputies to treat with the Emperors. On the 25 of january the French Ambassadors with five Deputies from the Emperor came to Hainbourg; and the next day there arrived six Commissioners from Hungary. They writ, that all the difficulty of the accord consisted on two points: first, that the Emperor would put his subjects of all nations into the forts of Hungary, and the States would have none but natives of the country. And, secondly, touching the restitution of Ecclesiastical goods. marquis SPINOLA, notwithstanding the coldness of the winter, took many places in the Palatinate, and drew great sums of money from the lands of the Princes of the Union. They say that the Countess of Hannau made a composition for 1800 Ricks dollars; and that The Protestant Princes assemble at Heilbrun. the Earls and other Noblemen of Veteravia paid the like sum. The Protestant Princes held an assembly at Hailbrun: where they consulted of the means to make their peace with the Emperor, and to preserve the lower Palatinate from utter ruin: necessity forced them, for that the Protestant Towns had sent them word that they would contribute no more: neither did they come to the assembly, or sand any Deputies but one from ulme; seeking every one in particular to make his peace with the Emperor: namely, those of Nuremberg and Vlme, who had sent their Deputies to Viena to that end. The Catholic States assembled also at Ausbourg in the month of February: whither the three Ecclesiastical Electors sent their Ambassadors, besides many Archbishops, Bishops and Prelates; but this assembly did not produce a peace nor stay the apparent ruin of Germany. In the mean time, Count MANDSFELD was in Bohemia alone, without any support, means or money to pay his soldiers: having settled his affairs there aswell as he could, he retired Mandsfelds' proceed in Bohemia. with his horsemen into the upper Palatinate; where he supplied his wants as he thought good: from thence, he went to the assembly of the Princes at Hailbrun with a small train and some hopes to draw succours from them: but, after some stay, he returned without any thing but bore hopes, prevailing nothing with such as seemed friends to the cause, and whom the loss of that kingdom might concern. The enemy during the time of his absence (prevailing nothing by force) sought to supplant him by policy. JERONIMO De la Porta, lying in Prague for his master, become a Traitor, being corrupted by their fair promises: And as formerly, in the absence of Count MANDSFELD, he had sought to undermine the fidelity of the Captains by secret Letters: so now he laboured to effect it by his ambitious practices; in which design, Colonel FRANK (who was Governor of Tabor, and had the chief command under Count MANDSFELD) was much engaged: giving free access unto all men on the adverse party to enter into Pilsen with as great familiarity as could be with friends of the same party. Having, after his return from Hailbrun to Amberg, discovered these practices in Pilsen, he wrote unto them to continued constant, assuring them he would find means to get them their pay and relieve their necessities. Hereupon, his Auditor, called LOMENGER, came from Prague; who told the Lord Martial that he must have a larger commission to continued the treaty. Whereupon, one was drawn, and his instructions renewed; adding unto the former Articles, that 1621. the upper Palatinate should be comprised in the said treaty. With this commission, he was sent to Prague, having charge to look carefully to the enemy's designs in regard of a special treaty they intended with the captains; and that he should persuade them to continued constant in his Majesty's service: he held him honest, for that he had found him faithful in other services: But he had supped the poison of infidelity out of PORTA his cup; and they both become Traitors to their master. By whose means, the Captains compounded secretly with the enemy for the yielding up of Pilsen, as you shall hear hereafter. The Turk in the beginning of this war had demanded of Prince BETHLIN the guard of the towns of Vac cia and Nehuso, upon diverse considerations, touching the war which was made in Hungary: but he (although the Turks vassal) fearing the Bassa of Temesuar, who long since hath had a purpose to deprive him of Transiluania, and foreseeing that if the Turk should hold Valaccia upon the Dannbe and Nehusol which is near the Carpatean Mountains which divide Poland from Hungaria, he should find himself shut up between the Turk and the Polander; he had always borne the Turk in hand he should have Vaccia, but never had any mind to effect it, because of his particular interest. But now his present weakness and of his confederates, after the loss of such a Battle, made him procure the Hungarians to deliver up Vaccia into the Turks hands for two reasons: first, to the end the Turk (who had lately gotten a victory upon the Polonians in Moldavia) should not attempt any thing in Transiluania and Hungary whilst that he was busied against the Imperialists: Secondly, to draw succours from the Turk if fortune should still favour the Imperialls, and that they should enter into Hungary. For these considerations Vaccia was delivered unto the Turk at his instance. The State of Hungary was full of combustions in the end of the year 1620; many great personages desired to be reconciled to the Emperor, their lawful king: but the greater number being Protestant's (as BUDIANY and the Earl of Serin) who held themselves irreconciliable to the house of Austria, desired rather to call-in the Turk and be under his protection, then to unitethemselues with the Christians. Mean while, the Emp. by his declaration disannulled the Election of Prince BETHLIN to the crown of Hungary, as unjust, violent, seditious, The Emperor's declaration against Prince Bethlin Gabor and contrary to the laws and customs of the Realm, and therefore without force and effect; making void also whatsoever had been concluded in the assemblies of Presbourg and Nehusol to the prejudice of his royal rights, the State of the Clergy, and the ancient laws and liberty of the crown of Hungary: and withal he did revoke the Title which he had given him of Prince of Hungary. When the Emperor published this edict, BETHLIN GABOR came to Presbourg: from whence he sent many troops to the frontieres' of Hungary, Moravia, and Austria to join with the Baron of Landau a Moravian Protestant, who committed great spoils upon the Catholics. Many of the greatest of Bohemia which had escaped from the battle of Prague, and fled into Moravia, joined with him, amongst others the Earl of Thurne, to make head against the Imperialls which pursued them after their victory. On the other side of the Dannow, Prince BETHLIN having repaired the bridge of boats at Presbourg (which TAMPIERRE had broken) he with his partisans, sent diverse troops to spoil and burn the Country, even unto the gates of Viena. But the Baron of Prener who had succeeded Tampierre made head against them, slew many of their men, and forced them to retire. In the mean time BETHLIN carried the crown of Hungary and the Royal Ornaments from Presbourg to Tirnau, and from thence to Altensol upon the river of Gran near to Nehusol, in the upper Hungary; whereof men have written Bethlin Gabor carrieth the crown of Hungary from Presbourg. diversely: but most men were of opinion that he desired to keep it in his possession, seeing that he had been chosen king of Hungary; a dignity which he would prserue until death: and that his often sending to Viena for a conference at Hainbourg (at the instance of the French Ambassadors) was not with any intent he had to make any accord with the Emperor, but by this delay to fortify himself with his partisans and the Turk, and to draw down the Tartarians; and also to attend the resolution which should be taken by the Elector Palatine and the Princes and States of Silesia and Moravia in their assembly; to whom he had sent a confident messenger to exhort them to continued in their confederation and to make head against the Imperialls, promising them all the assistance that both he and his friends could make. Let us see then what the Prince and States of Silesia did resolve upon in their assembly, being requested on the one side by the Elector Palatine and BETHLIN GABOR to continued their league: and on the other by the elector of Saxony to unite themselves under the obedience of his imperial Majesty. We have formerly made mention of the siege and taking of Bautsen, by the Elector of Saxony; who, being entered the Town, assigned a day for the renewing of the oath of Allegiance, 1621. the which was performed with great ceremonies: The Senate and Burgesses, entering, made The Inhabitants odd Baursen, 〈◊〉 themselves to the Elector of Saxony. their submission upon their knees; then delivering the keys of the Town and Castle into the Electors hands, being Deputy for the Emperor, as marquis of Lusatia, they were admitted to take the Oath: which done, the Elector told them that he had received their Oath in his Majesty's name; who would protect them in the liberty of their Religion; and maintain their privileges; and as for himself, he would be always careful of their protection. The Elector, camping at Bautsen, the marquis of jagerndorfe lay with his forces at Gorlitz in Silesia, being but half a day's journey off, yet they were divided by the River of Ne●…ss, betwixt whom there were daily skirmishes; but the Electors Army was greater, and he had more Cannon; yet jagerndorfe made head against him, and stopped his entry into Silesia: for, the Inhabitants of Gorlitz having refused to receive a Garrison from the Marquis of jagerndorf, they also made answer to the Electors Letters (who persuaded them to rceive him into their Town) that they would not suffer any one to enter to overmaster them, being sufficiently warned by the loss of Bautsen: But after the loss of the Battle of Prague, the Palatines party, in Silesia, began to decline much, and the Elector took diverse Towns. After the taking of Guben in view of the marquis; winter growing on, and being more annoyed with cold and snow then with any Enemy, he returned with his Army to Bautsen: from whence he wrote to the Princes and States of Silesia, assembled at Preslave, to resolve what answer they should give to the Elector Palatine; and to diverse deputies, who exhorted them to continued their League: He laid before Substance of the Electors Letters to the States of Silesia▪ them the miseries and calamities which had befallen Bohemia and the incorporated Provinces, by reason of the civil wars; and what pains he had taken, from the beginning, to quench that fire, both with the Emperor MATHIAS (beseeching him to prefer his clemency, before the rigour of justice) and with the States of Bohemia; putting them in mind of the obedience they aught unto their King: labouring also with the other Prince's Electors, to procure a conference, thereby to pacify these troubles by arbitrement, and reconcile the sovereign Prince to his subjects; which took no effect: The Bohemians rejecting all means to treat of Peace, and disavowing the Emperor FERDINAND their lawful King, made choice of another: whereupon the Emperor had sent him a commission to reduce them to obedience by Arms, whereof he sent them a copy, exhorting them to consider, First, how long their Country had been afflicted with civil wars; Secondly, what bad success the Bohemians had had in their Arms during these Troubles; Thirdly, that God had witnessed by the memorable victory at Prague, that he is the protector of lawful Princes; And fourthly, that they would, with one consent, take wise counsels to preserve their dear Country from the ruins which threatened it; the which they might now do by obeying his Majesty's commission, accepting his pardon, and acknowledging him Duke of Silesia, he which they had done before these miserable troubles; having taken the oath Allegiance unto him, as their true and lawful Prince. He protested that he had no other desire but to see them in their former Estate; freed from the continuance of so many ruins, and to enjoy their privileges by the free exercise of Religion, the which his Majesty had confirmed unto them at his coming unto the sovereignty of Silesia: But if they continued obstinate in their leagues and former resolutions, he could not but lament the miseries which would follow; being resolute to continued constant and faithful to his Imperial Majesty, and to do his best endeavour to maintain the obedience due to the lawful Magistrate, and that nothing should be attempted to the prejudice of the Empire. These Letters of the Elector of Saxony, and the copy of his Commission being read in the Assembly of the Princes and States of Silesia, those of the imperial Party were of advice, that, considering the state of affairs, it was expedient to sand an Ambassador unto the Elector of Saxony, to treat of their agreement: The others were of opinion that it was not fit to make too much haste; but, contrariwise, to make new levies of Soldiers in the name of the States, to make it appear, in case they should enter into treaty with the Elector of Sax. that it was neither for fear nor weakness: And to sand word unto all the Towns of Silesia and the higher Lusatia, to have great care, and in no wise to disunite themselves; because that in all treaties and accords, the preservation of privileges promised in general, is better maintained then by particular yielding. This later advice was followed: So as the Elector of Sax. having summoned Gorlitz and Sittau to yield obedience unto the Emperor, jest they should fall into the 1621. misfortune of those of Bautsen: he was answered, that the States of Silesia and the Deputies of the higher Lusatia were at Preslau to resolve touching the Letters which he had sent them, beseeching him in the mean time not to attempt any thing against their towns. At the same time, Count BUCQVOY, General of the Imperial Army, marching out of Bohemia, by the frontiers of Moravia and the Lower Austria, besieged and took Iglaw and Trebnits, frontier towns of Moravia. He forced Snaim with many other places to yield obedience to the Emperor: the which did so amaze the garrisons and soldiers which the Baron of Landau held in many places in the lower Austria, that they abandoned them to retire themselves into Hungary; whither the said Baron himself in the end was forced to fly. The States of Moravia assembled at Brin (who after the loss of the battle of Prague could not resolve to sand unto the Emperor to make their peace, for that the Earl of Thurn newly The States of Moravia yield obedience to the Emperor. returned out of Hungary stayed them with promises of a mighty Army which Prince B●…THLIN should bring to secure all the confederates) seeing the Imperial Army upon the frontiers; they sent the Earl of Sherotin with diverse others to Viena, to let his Majesty understand, That they had long time delayed to enter into league with the Bohemians and Hungarians: which they had not done, if they had not been forced by the Earl of Thurn, who was called in by some few which were Authors of the rebellion. 2. That they humbly besought him to impart his clemency to all his faithful subjects, the States and inhabitants of Moravia. 3. To maintain them in their privileges and the liberty of religion: And fourthly, to receive with the like clemency and grace all the Captains and soldiers which had been entertained by the said States; who altogether protested to be ever obedient to his Imperial Majesty, and to spend the last drop of their blood in his service. To whom the Emperor made answer, That forgetting what was past he received them as his other subjects into his protection, and would maintain them in all their privileges and the liberty of religion: but, seeing there were some few which were the Authors of the rebellion, That the Commissary, whom he should depute to be his Lieutenant in Moravia, should 'cause information to be made against them; after which the States should understand his pleasure. The Deputies being returned, the Inhabitants of Brin and Oldnitz (the two chief towns of Moravia) took a new oath of fealty to the Emperor; and so did the soldiers whom they had entertained: who▪ being mustered and receiving pay in the Emperor's name, went and joined themselves with Count BUCQVOY, who besieged Zradisch; which he took and thereby stopped the passage between Hungaria and Moravia: so as BETHLIN GABOR could not sand the succours which he had promised to the Elector Palatine; who was much afflicted for the news of this reunion, as you may judge by the following Letter written to the Earl of Thurne which was intercepted. I have received Letters from Moravia with great grief: the soldiers being in mutiny for want of pay: the States have sent to the Emperor to make their accord; but God be thanked the affairs in Silesia are in better terms. The Princes are resolute & have decreed to levy new forces; blaming the Moravians for their perfidiousness. And for my part, I doubt not but in short time they will receive the the due reward of their rashness. I did not constrain the Bohemians and Moravians to choose me for their King. I could have lived content in mine own Country: yet for all the pains and travail I have taken; these for whom I have ventured my life and goods, and the lives and goods of my friends and subjects, leave me, and even now treat about yielding themselves unto another. What right they have to do this, I will leave to the judgement of the whole world. I may truly say, that neither covetousness nor ambition caused me to come into Bohemia: and I hope, God will so guide me by his grace, as the suffering of so many calamities shall never make me do any thing against my conscience or honour. The fame of the happy success of the Imperial Armies in Bohemia, Moravia and Lusatia, caused the Silesians (which bore affection to the house of Austria) to take hart unto them and speak boldly in Preslau. The princes & States of Silesia being advertised that the imperial army was upon their frontiers, they held it necessary for them to prevent the ruin of their country, and to enter into treaty with the Elector of Saxony; unto whom his Imperial Majesty had given such commission as is before said: whereupon they concluded, to sand unto the King of Bohemia this resolution following. After that your Royal Majesty (our most gracious Lord) had had many consultations with us your faithful Nobles & States of Silesia touching the estate of our present affairs, and The resolution of the States of Silesia. the enemies proceed to cut off the assistance which the Silesians might expect from Mora●…ia and other their confederates; and having cause hereafter to fear the coming of so powerful an Army into our Country, unprovided of soldiers to make any resistance: It hath seemed 1621. expedient (we should advertise you that it is needful for us to treat with the Elector of Saxony his Imperial Majesty's Commissary: which we cannot do unless you give way unto the necessity of the time; retiring yourself, for your better security, into some such place as you shall think fittest. We hope, your royal Majesty will not take in ill part this advice which the Princes and States of Silesia do give you, and who protest to continued constant and loyal subjects unto you; but rather attribute it to the inevitable necessity of the time. Mean while, your Majesty may take order how to be relieved with succours from your own Subjects and friends. And whereas your Majesty hath desired, that if we treat with the Elector of Saxony, you might be also comprehended; you may believe that your faithful Nobles and States will let your Majesty understand all which shall pass in that treaty. We also beseech you to think of the confederation made with the Hungarians, and not to see us plunged into the like misery as the Moravians which have been threatened by the Turks and Tartars: As for the 3 months pay which your Majesty desires, as well for the mustering of 1000 horse of his troops, as for his footmen, it shall be resolved on in our first Assembly, and your Majesty acquainted with our resolution; the Princes and States desiring nothing so much, as to continued faithful unto you, and constant in their obedience. On the morrow, the King sent them his answer in writing; That he had received their resolution by their Deputies, and perceived thereby their good intention, and the affection they The Elector Palatines answer to the States. bore unto him; praying them to believe that his was no less: That having observed the daily falling away of the Moravians, and that the Provinces incorporated unto Bohemia, in that turbulent estate whereunto things were brought, could not for the present resist the Emperor's power, it was necessary he should withdraw himself into some place of safety, not fare from them; where he might observe what was done, and provide sufficient forces to defend them, giving way unto the Embassy they should sand to the Elector of Saxony. Before the king of Bohemia made his retreat out of Silesia, he sent the Earl of Hohenlo to the Elector of Saxony, to propound a Truce unto him for the obtaining of a Peace; with Letters to this effect: I doubt not but you have seen the declarations of the causes, for the which I have accepted the Crown of Bohemia: I have not done it by force nor practice; but fearing the Realm His Le●…tter to the D●…f Saxony should fall into the hand of strangers, and the Empire receive prejudice. I cannot believe but God called me to the government thereof, to the end they should not be deprived of the free exercise of Religion, and their privileges; but I have accepted it chief for two reasons: First, that it might not be hereditary; and, to the great prejudice of the Electors, fall into the hands of the house of Spain: And Secondly, that the election of the king of Romans, to be Emperor, might, by most voices, be in the power of the Protestant's; whereby they should no more fear to be under the yoke of the Roman Catholics. I was confident that all the Electors and Protestant Princes would allow of my intention, and find ●…eaness to satisfy the adverse parties; and that I should be maintained in the possession of the same Realm, by some good accord. I have never refused to enter into treaty; but seeing myself frustrate of my desire, I have been forced to take Arms to defend myself against the forces of Spain, and the Catholic league: But being still desirous of Peace, I have thought good to sand the Earl of Hohenlo unto you, to treat of the means whereby the Empire might be in quiet, his hereditary Countries (which the Spaniards had invaded) restored, all grievances taken away, free exercise of Religion maintained, with the free election of the Realm of Bohemia with the incorporated Provinces; and to provide for the defence of Hungary and Poland, to the end the Empire might not thereby receive any danger. To attain●… unto the which, I have given charge unto the Earl of Hohenlo to propound a general Truce unto you for a month or two, throughout the whole Empire, the Realm of Bohemia, and the incorporated Provinces; During the which time, there might be some course taken to treat of a general Peace. The Elector of Saxony made answer; That he would not dispute of the causes which had The answer. made him to accept the Crown of Bohemia; but he would tell him freely that he had never approved of the proceed of the Bohemians, and had written unto him to dissuade him from it, foreseeing that in this action some Princes would stand Newters, and others would follow the Emperor; That the Bohemians could not in Conscience proceed to a new Election, their king whom they had crowned and anointed being alive: that he had always desired he should not have engaged himself in the Bohemian affairs, nor trouble the Emperor in the 1621. Countries which he enjoyed: and that he should have given credit to his counsel and to the advice of many Princes who had always desired his happiness; but seeing he could not be diverted from the acceptance of the crown of Bohemia, he had left it to the will of God and time, doing his best endeavour to comfort the Emperor in his afflictions, until the memorable victory of Prague; whereby it appeared that God would protect the lawful Magistrate. That he could not deny but the Empire was in great danger, and that this war of Bohemia might open a gate to let in the Turk to become master of the frontier towns in Hungary. That he was the cause of all these miseries; the which might have been avoided if he had given way to his exhortation, and rejected that great desire to reign: That to prevent all these dangers and ruins, he must take a good and free resolution to renounce the realm of Bohemia and the incorporated provinces, to submit himself to the Emperor and to crave pardon: but if he did not take this course, it was to be feared he would draw himself and all his friends into great extremities; the Emperor being resolved to pursue his victory. The King of Bohemia finding no means to move the Elector of Saxony to procure a truce, and finding that the Princes of Silesia had deputed the Duke of Munsterberg and five other men of quality, to the Elector of Saxony; he resolved to retire himself into Brandebourg, a province joining unto Silesia; the which he did. It is written, that the Princes & States of Silesia before his departure sent the Duke of Oschatz unto him with a present of 80000 florins, and are much commended for the good offices they did him in his adversity. The Deputies which were sent from the States of Silesia to the Elector of Saxony delivered Articles unto him. 1. That they craved pardon of his Imperial Majesty, and besought him to Propositions made by the Deputies of Silesia to the Elector of Saxony. impart his grace and clemency unto them. 2. That they would always acknowledge his Imperial Majesty, for their lawful Sovereign, and King. 3. That they would confirm it by a new oath. 4. That they would defend the Roman Catholics and their rights. 5. That they would contribute 100000 ducats to pay the soldiers levied for the guard of Silesia, and renounce their new confederation. Hereunto, the Elector made answer: 1. That by virtue of the Emperor's commission, he would take the Princes and States of Silesia into his protection. 2. That he would be a suitor for their pardon and solicit the confirmation of their privileges. And, 3. If the Silesians did discharge their troops, his Imperial Majesty would revoke his. As for himself he promised them, That, if after the oath of allegiance taken and their due obedience performed to his Imperial Majesty, they were in any sort molested in the free exercise of their religion according to the confession of Ausbourg, he would then assist them with all aid and support. After 5 week's treaty at Dresda in Misnia (where the Elector keeps his court) and often sending to the Emperor, who by no means would have the Elector Palatine, the Marquis of jagerndorf, the Prince of Anhalt, nor the Earl of Hohenlo comprehended; In the end, the Articles of peace and reunion for the province of Silesia were concluded the eightth of February. 1. The Princes and States of the upper and lower Silesia should be pardoned for what was passed during the troubles, and no man questioned or punished. 2. They should love and honour the Articles of the Silesians rennion to the Emperor. Emperor FERDINAND their King anointed and crowned and sovereign Duke of Silesia, and should take a new oath of allegiance unto him. 3. That they should within one year pay 300000 florins at three several terms for the entertainment of the Emperor's troops. 4. That they should renounce the oath which they had taken to the Elector Palatine, and should have no farther intelligence with him. They should deliver into the Electors hands the league made with Bohemia, Moravia, Transiluania, Hungary, and others, the which should be canceled. 5. They should discharge their soldiers, and retain but 1000 horse and 3000 foot for their defence until the troubles were ended; the which upon no occasion should be employed against his Imperial Majesty or the Elector. 6. That the Elector should recall away his troops which he had then in the principality of Sagen. 7. That his highness would intercede to his Imperial Majesty, That all grants made unto the Silesians with their liberties and privileges should stand in force; All greevances repaired; The commerce allowed with the Moravians and Bohemians; All goods restored to the true owners; And the Catholics maintained in their churches, monasteries and possessions. 8. If happily the Protestant's should receive any opposition in the liberty of their religion, than his highness promised to undertake their protection & defence. 9 If CHRISTIAN Duke of Lignitz as General of Silesia according to his promise would be comprehended in that Treaty of peace, he might do it within six weeks, else it was in his majesty's power to dispose. 10. That JOHN GEORGE of Brandenbourg, marquis of jagerndorf, 1621. and CHRISTIAN Prince of Anhalt, who had been formerly proscribed by the Emperor, should not be comprehended in that Treaty; the which was signed by the Elector of Saxony and the Duke of Munsterberg with great ceremonies. Let us now look upon the estate of Bohemia. The Towns of Pilsen and Tabor would not be reduced under the Emperor's obedience: they depended upon the will of the Governors who were become Masters. Count MANSFELD was in Pilsen, as you have heard; and Colonel FRANK in Tabor: whom MANSFELD had placed there as his Lieutenant, making incursions into the Country, and committing great spoils, seizing on Tochau, Falquenau and Elenbogen: which he fortified with garrisons. After this (as I have formerly related) he went to Heilbrun; where he propounded to the protestant Princes, that, if he might have men & money, he would revive the Elector Palatine's party in Bohemia, and prepare work for the enemy for five years: that his Imperial Majesty had offered him a great sum of money to leave Bohemia, and yield up what he held there; but he had refused it, and would continued constant to death, and ma●…ntaine the faith he had given the Elector. They writ, that he found their intentions in this Assembly contrary to his; they aiming only at the means how to reconcile themselves to the Emperor, and preserve their estates. The King of Bohemia, hearing what MANSFELD had done in Bohemia in his absence, wrote to him in February after this manner: I have received much contentment to hear of the military The King of Behemias Letter t●… C. Mansfeld. exploits you have performed since my departure from Bohemia, of your perseverance in the oath of fidelity you have taken, and of so many Towns and Castles you have made subject to my obedience. I will assure you, that I will never yield up my Realm of Bohemia which I have gotten by so lawful an election; but will employ all my means, and that of my friends, to recover that by Arms which they have wrested from me by force: for the effecting whereof, I will speedily sand you both men and money. I hope, with the help of God, and the powerful succours of some Princes my friends, to do that shortly which shall be pleasing to God, terrible to my enemies, to the good of religion, and memorable to the whole world. You shall find me a Prince who will acknowledge your services with honourable favours. TILLY being left in Prague with 6000 men to preserve the Town and Country, the soldiers grew so insolent in their prosperity, that the Captains could hardly keep them in obedience: to prevent the which, and to restrain the incursions of MANSFELD'S troops upon the river of Egra, the Baron of Tilly sent forth part of his Troops to take some small Forts where the Mansfeldians were lodged: but being not able to recover Falkenaw and Elenbogen, they were put in garrison in the neighbour Towns, to stop their courses. The Emperor, having sent out his Letters of proscription against the Elector Palatine and Commissioners appointed to proceed again●… the authors of the troubles of Bohemia. the rest as you have heard, appointed commissioners to proceed criminally against the Authors of the troubles of Bohemia, according to the rigour of the laws and constitutions of the Empire. Some of them were fled into Hungary; and others were retired with the Elector Palatine: some were dead, and many had been apprehended at the taking of Prague, and committed unto prison. There were twelve Commissioners appointed to make their Process; who, coming to Prague in February, did personally adiourn all that had absented themselves after the victory of Prague, and had not taken the oath of allegiance to his Imperial Majesty, that within six months they should return & submit themselves to the judgement should be given against them in regard of their rebellion; with this clause, that appearing or not, they would proceed to judgement: and the heirs of those that were dead were summoned to appear to hear the prisoners examination, and the information against their parents deceased: you shall hear their execution in june next. The first of February, the Emperor sent forth four executoriall Letters of Proscription against the Elector Palatine, the marquis of jagerndorf, the Prince of Anhalt, and the Earl of Executoriall Letters against the Elector Palatine & others Hohenlo. The first against the Elector, for the lower Palatinate, was directed to the Archduke AL●…RRT of Austria, Prince of Flanders: the second for the upper Palatinate, to the Duke of Bavaria; that against the marquis of jagerndorf and the Prince of Anhalt, to the Elector of Saxony; and the fourth against the Earl of Hohenlo, to the Bishops of Bamberg and Virsberg; all four Commissions being of one tenor, only the names changed: whereby he commanded them to execute his Letters of Proscription against the beforenamed FR●…DERICK (who, as he said, termed himself Count Palatine) his adherents and favourers, and to do whatsoever they should think fit for the settling of a public peace in the Roman Empire, and the preserving of his Imperial authority. Wherhfore, he enjoined all men to hold the said FREDERICK 1621. for a condemned person; not to suffer him in their Territories and Countries; not to give him any succour or eounsell upon any pretext whatsoever; not to relieve or converse with him, nor to suffer their subjects to do it either publicly or secretly; but to assist his Commissary in the execution of his Commission. After the loss of that infortunate battle of Prague, the Elector Palatine had written to all his allies and confederates, imputing the cause of that loss to the want of men and money which The King of Bobemias' Letter to the united princes. had been promised, and that he could never persuade the Protestant's to join their forces to his, and make them equal to the Catholics. In his Letter to the Princes of the Union, he prayed God not to suffer them to be daunted nor dejected, and to give them grace to take good resolutions; that the united Princes had now more cause to resolve to war and to join all their forces together, like to the Catholic Roman league, and to attempt with all their power to chase SPINOLA out of the Empire and the lower Palatinate, a Country which was hereditary unto himself and his brother LEWES PHILIP; that the Treaty of Vlmes, although it was made in favour of the Catholic league, could not prejudice them, but rather open a way for the good of all Protestant's and the preservation of religion and liberty; that he doubted not but the Spaniards, seeing Bohemia and the incorporated Provinces subjugated, would draw their victorious Armies into the Empire, hold Diets by force, prescribe laws to the Protestant's, and constrain them to restore the revenues which had belonged to the Roman Clergy, and bring under their yoke all the Countries of the protestant Electors: wherefore they should resolve to follow the example of the Elector MAURICE, and prepare themselves to war, to shake off this yoke rather than to admit it; reason itself persuading them to continued their Union: the Imperial Cities should also remember what hath been done by the enemy in Bohemia and Austria; and believe, that if their Union did not subsist, they should not only be deprived of their wealth, but also forced to enterrain and feed soldiers, endure citadels, and be reduced into servitude ten-times more than during the Union; that if the Bohemians would have employed towards the charges of the war but the tenth part of that which they have since lost, they had easily prevented the miseries which have fallen on them: wherefore he entreated them to consider of all these things, to have his cause and that of the reformed protestants in recommendation, and to defend his hereditary Countries: the which they should do speedily, that they might transfer the war into their countries who had been the causes of so many miseries. Some Authors also writ, that our King's Majesty sent to the Princes of the Union to give The King of great Britanny persuades the Princes to continued their union. them to understand, that this loss should not 'cause their disunion, but rather make them resolve seriously to the continuation thereof: for his part he would never fail to assist them with men and money; whereto he was bound for the preservation of the Palatinate, which was the patrimony of his grandchildren. About the end of September 1620, LEWES of Hesse, Lantzgrave of Darmstat, had written to the Princes of the Union to persuade them to consider of the means whereby peace might be settled in the Empire, and they reconciled to his Imperial Majesty. To whom they made this answer; that The Princes of the Union had never opposed themselves to the Emperor, but had always honoured him; that they had faithfully observed the Treaty of ulme, and had not participated any thing with the troubles of Bohemia: and yet SPINOLA had not forborn to invade many places belonging to the Princes and States united, who never had any thing common with the Bohemians; where the Spaniard had used great exactions, which had forced them to take Arms: that the Lantzgrave should press his Imperial Majesty, to the end that SPINOLA with his forces might leave the Territories of the Empire, whereby every man might return to his own house, which would be the only means to settle a peace. The Emperor, knowing that the union of the Princes and States which had begun in the year 1610, was to end in May following, wrote to the Imperial Towns and Cities of this Union, The Elector of Mentz and the Lantzgrave of Darmstat made Commissioners to the Emperor. The Emperor's Letters to the Imperial towns. admonishing them to leave it, and not continued it. He sent these Letters to the Elector of Mentz, and to LEWES Lantzgrave of Hesse of Darmstat, to see them conveyed, and to require an answer; making them his Commissioners to treat with all the Princes and States that should reunite themselves with his Imperial Majesty. His Letters to the Imperial cities contained, that he doubted not but they were well informed why LEWES had persuaded the Princes of the Union to submit themselves, and to give care to some accord, for the settling of a Peace in their Country; That hitherto God had given him many victories, and might by the same favour hope for greater, being assisted by his kinsfolks and friends; yet, for the love and fatherly affection 1621. he bore to Germany their common Country, he was more inclined to Peace then War, so as they would give way to his admonitions; That the commendable design of the Lantzgrave, to procure some accommodation, had been very pleasing unto him: Wherhfore he exhorted them to forbear to entertain the War which was made in the Palatinate, under the name of the Princes of the Union; and withal, advised them not to recontinue their Union, which as he understood was to end in May following; hoping that they would give no more aid nor counsel for the continuance of such cruel war. And therefore he offered them pardon for all that had been done against him or his predecessors; promising to receive them all into his grace and favour, and not to suffer any one to be called in question directly or indirectly, or receive any loss from himself, his cousin the king of Spain, or from any other Prince of the house of Austria: but contrariwise he would give order that they should not be molested by garrisons or his Armies; but would defend and protect them in all necessary occasions. Moreover, that he would confirm all their privileges and immunities made for the Peace of Religion, and the State; having given full power to his commissioners to treat with them, and to give them all necessary assurances. These Letters being sent to Nuremberg and other Imperial towns by the said Commissionners Their answer. which had accompanied them, with their own; They of Nuremberg made answer, that during the present troubles in the Empire they could not have received any thing more pleasing than his Majesty's Letter, seeing that the things promised in them, should be confirmed by such worthy Princes. That they had also understood that many towns had received the like Letters and sent their Deputies unto them; That for their parts they would acquaint the towns of Franconia their associates with his Majesty's intention, and speedily sand their answer; desiring nothing more, then to continued obedient and faithful to the Empire. SPINOLA, notwithstanding the sharpness of the winter, had sent the General of his horse into the Palatinate, on the other side of the Rhine; where he had taken some places, and forced many Noblemen, Protestant's, along the river of Mein, to compound and give him great sums of money, to avoid their apparent ruin. The Marquis of Olnosbac, or Anspach, General for the Princes of the Union (who wintered with his troops at Worms and thereabouts) being go Westhof and Osthof taken by Spinola, & after burnt by the Princes. to their Assembly at Heilbrun, and having put 300 horse & foot in garrison, into Westbof: SPINOLA resolved to take this lodging from him; for the effecting whereof, on the 15 of March, having drawn together 2000 horse, with 4000 foot, he marched in one night with 6 cannons to Westhof, the which he took in 8 hours: The soldiers were sent out disarmed with white wands: the Captains and officers were put to ransom: the Inhabitants paid 16000 Florins; and they of Osthof 10000 Than he returned to Crutzenac, carrying with him 6 of the Burghers of Westhof, who were also put to ransom. This prize being reported to the marquis of Ansbach, he returned speedily to Worms, from whence he sent the Earl of Solms with certain troops to Osthof and Westhof; but, hearing that SPINOLA was to return and fortify himself there, they burned these 2 towns; to the great grief and lamentation of the poor inhabitants. About this time, there was an Assembly of the Protestant's at Segenberg, in Holsatia; where the king of Denmark, and the Elector Palatine were in person; others sent their Ambassadors, as the king of Swethland, the Elector of Brandenbourg, from the Princes of the Union, and the States of the united An Assembly of Protestant's in Holsatia. Provinces; from the Dukes of Brunswick, Holsatia, Lunebourg, Meclebourg and Pomerania, with other Earls & States of the Circle of the lower Saxony, which began and ended in March: They have written diversely of their conclusion in this Assembly. Some hold that it was resolved to assist the Elector Palatine with 2000 foot, and 6000 horse, to chase SPINOLA out of the Palatinate; but it took no effect. Others have written, and with more appearance of truth, that the king of Denmark undertaken to sand an Ambassador to Vienna, to beseech his Imperial Majesty to revoke the Proscription thundered out against the Elector Palatine, and to restore him to all his Estates and dignities; which would be the means to attain unto a firm Peace throughout the whole Empire. (This Ambassi was sent to Vienna, and we shall hear what answer the Emperor made) And secondly, that the said King should writ to SPINOLA to exhort him to retire out of the Palatinat, and the Territories of the Empire; the which he did as followeth. Letters of the K. of Denmrke to Spinola. I have understood with much grief and affliction of mind, by Letters from many Princes of the Empire, my Cousins, Allies and Friends, that you are entered, with an Army, into the heart of the Empire, and the midst of high Germany; whereas you have taken many towns, castles and forts in the Palatinate by force, and continued the like violence against the countries & territories of many other Princes, Earls, States and Towns of the Empire; yea, against those 1621. which belong to Widows and Orphans, who have no ways offended the Emperor; exacting grievous contributions: which hath made the neighbour Princes grow jealous, jest you should use the like violence against them, their countries, and territories, as they have been threatened by you, if they would not discharge the garrisons they entertained for the safety of their places & countries, if they did not renounce their unions and leagues (which have been always allowed by Divine and humane laws, and especially by the golden Bull of CHARLES the 4) and did not give free passage to your Army, both by water & land, and through your towns, castles, forts & passages, according to your will and pleasure. These proceed are not only repugnant to the imperial constitutions, the liberty of Germany, and the public Peace; but also to the Letters-patents which his imperial Majesty hath caused to be published for the public safety: wherefore it was not to be suffered, that the States of the Empire, our cousins, and kinsfolk, having done wrong to no man, should be abandoned for want of defence, under the yoke of an unjust oppression: And therefore we entreat you lovingly, that we may have no cause to undertake their just defence to free them from the violence which they suffer; but that you would desist from all these invasions, and abandon that which hath been taken by force from the States of the Empire, and restore it to their Princes & Lords: which done, posterity will commend you to have been a wise and prudent Prince, and all the Princes of the Empire, and myself will thank you. As for the Assembly of the Catholic Princes and States held at Ansbourg, and that of the Princes of the Union at Heilbrun, and their conclusions; may be seen in this Letter following, written by one of the assembly of Ansbourg. I am returned from the Diet at Ansbourg the 19 of March, where the Princes and Catholic States of the Empire have been assembled the space of 7 weeks: We have resolved a continuance of contribution for a defensive war, so long as the troubles shall continued; for the which there shall be an advance of 10 months, for the entertainment of 12000 foot, and 3000 horse, under the Duke of Bavaria their General. I can assure you that the said Princes and Catholic States are so well resolved as they were never; and that if they had been of the like mind some few years since, the Protestant States had been at a low Eb. They being assembled at Heilbrun, sent an Ambassage to our Assembly; the subject was, that having no other aim nor intent but Peace, which they called the observation of the treaty of ulme; the Catholics have granted them the said observation. They are all upon the point of reconciling themselves unto the Emperor & to abandon the Elector Palatine. My L. Bishop of Spire stands upon his guard on the defensive; because he is assured the said protestant Princes cry out against his Fort of Vdenheim, having caused the Elector of Mentz and D. of Bavaria to be moved to persuade him to give over that new fortification; but they have given them answer in writing, showing the just occasions and rights, for the which the said Bishop had reason to seek the assurance and quiet of his country, after so many oppressions and wrongs which he had endured from his neighbours. In the beginning of March, the Princes of the Union, and the Imperial Towns of their party, began to reconcile themselves unto the Emperor, promising to give no more succour unto the Elector Palatine, and not to prolong their Union, nor to make any new. There were some of them which treated for their own particular, being thereunto pressed; and the rest in general. And thus you see, that all they which had advised and persuaded the Elector Palatine to accept of the Crown of Bohemia, for the general good of Germany, as they pretended, and so engaged him in a most dangerous war, contrary to the will and advice of his best friend, when as he might have lived happy and peaceful days in his own Country, much honoured and respected; do now, after some frowns of fortune, abandon him and his, basely and cowardly, to the affronts and oppression of a proud and insolent enemy; who, no doubt, in time will make them know the danger of their dis-union, and repent their rash resolutions. MAURICE, Lantzgrave of Hesse, seeing SPINOLA'S expedition in the Palatinate; and his Army ready upon the first occasion to enter into his country; the tediousness of the Princes Maurice Lantz grave of Hesse submits himself to the Emperor. in their resolution to treat with the Emperor; and that he should be the first in danger: he was also the first which sent unto the Emperor's Commissioners, and to Marquis SPINOLA, touching his reunion. The place of treaty was at Bingen; where, after many consultations of their Deputies, in the end these Articles following were concluded. First, that Prince MAURICE, Lantzgrave, should promise', not to attempt by himself or any other, any act of hostility against his Imperial Majesty, or his Army; and not to give any assistance, directly or indirectly, of men, money, munition, victuals, or counsel to the Count Palatine; nor to the united Princes, and other Kings, Electors, Princes, and Estates which had 1621. relieved the said Palatine, and the Palatinate, the Realm of Bohemia, and other Provinces incorporate. 2 That the said Lantzgrave should withdraw his Troops and Soldiers from the Prince's Army, and from the Palatinate. 3 That by the fourteenth of May (which would be the expiration of their Union) he should sand an Ambassador expressly to give notice to the other Princes, that he did renounce the said Union, or any other new Union which might be made, against his Imperial Majesty, to secure the Palatine and Palatinate, and should keep these present Articles inviolable. 4. That marquis SPINOLA should also promise', that neither he nor his Army should commit any act of hostility, make any eruption, nor exact any contribution upon the Lands, Principality and Segniories of the said Lantzgrave MAURICE, nor upon his vassals, Ministers and subjects, nor their goods, movable or immoveable; but should keep them from all molestations, and suffer them to live in Peace, both for Religion and policy, according to the Imperial constitutions: But if any of the said Lantzgraves subjects should do contrary to this transaction, they should be excepted. And lastly, that this Treaty should be signed by marquis SPINOLA, and the Lantzgrave MAURICE; and that within three months the said marquis should 'cause it to be signed and ratified by the Emperor, and the Archduke ALBERT: which he should deliver to the Lantzgrave, and in the mean time these Articles which were concluded, the 23 of March, should be observed. The three chief Imperial protestant Cities, Strasbourg, Vlme, and Nurembourg, having at the Strasbourg, Vlme and Nurembourg, renounce the Union. same time sent their private Deputies to the Elector of Mentz, and the Lantzgrave LEWES, treated of their reconciliation with the Emperor, and promised to renounce the Union of the Correspondents: which was concluded and signed the 9 of April, and proclaimed afterwards in their Cities. They of Worms feared a siege, for the great preparations which SPINOLA made, so as they carried what they had, most precious, to Spire, as to a place of refuge: They would gladly have imitated Strasbourg and Vlme, but the Princes of the Union were too near them; who, desiring to treat in general, had sent their Ambassadors to the Emperor: but considering that the state of their affairs required a more speedy remedy then the return of the said Ambassadors, there was a meeting appointed betwixt the Lantzgrave LEWES, and the Marquis of Olnosbach, General of the Union, and JOHN FREDERICK D. of Virtemberg, at Veinheim; where, after many discourses of the means to treat an accord for the Peace of Germany, the D. of Virtemberg went alone to Worms, to impart it to the Marquis of Baden; from whence, being returned, they went all to Mentz; whither SPINOLA also came, and the Articles following for the Peace and reunion of the Princes and States correspondents were concluded and signed the 12 of April. First, it is agreed betwixt the above named Princes, that they shall forbear to use any acts of hostility one against another; that the Princes and States of the Union, and The Princes of the Union, reconciled to the Emperor. their Soldiers shall not offer any wrong to the Marquis SPINOLA or his Army and troops, nor to those places which he hath made subject to his obedience, or to any which are comprehended in this treaty, their countries and states. 2. They shall not give any succours of money or men, to FERD. Count Palatin of the Rhine, be it directly or indirectly, by themselves or by others in any sort whatsoever. 3. They shall not continued the Union heretofore made by them; neither in favour of the Palatine, nor hatred of his Imperial Ma.: Nor shall make any new; but they shall retire their troops out of the Palatinat by the 14 of May next to come; whether they belong to private persons or to the general, and they shall all continued faithful to his imperial Ma. 4. The Marquis SPINOLA doth also promise' not to use or cause to be used, any hostility against the Princes and united States Protestant's, their soldiers, officers, subjects, castles, towns, and territories. 5. That in this treaty of Peace shall be comprehended, as well those mentioned in the Treaty of ulme, as all the other Electors, Princes, States and Knights of the Empire; except the country 〈◊〉 territories of the house of juliers. 6. Touching the Count P. FREDERIC; the Mar. SPINOLA, having been required by the king of great Britan not to execute his commission against the countries which remained under the Palatins obedience, till the end of the union, which should expire the 14 of May, nor against his subjects or their goods; he promised that no Act of hostility should be committed by him or any other until that day; conditionally, that the Princes & united States shall take order that the particular troops now in the Palatinat and neighbour places, shall not attempt aught against the said SPINOLA or his Army, nor the Towns and places which he now holdeth, or against any State of the Empire that is faithful to his Majesty. Seventhly, and to the end that the neighbour Princes and States and their subjects may not be wronged by the Soldiers of either party; the Princes above named 1621. promise, every one for themselves, to hinder all incursions, robberies, and thefts, and to assure the highways for the free liberty of commerce. These Articles being signed and sealed by all the Princes; SPINOLA having promised to 'cause them to be signed and ratified by his Imperial Majesty, and the Archduke ALBERT; the elector of Mentz made them a stately Feast: and on the morrow after, SPINOLA did the like with great magnificence. But afterwards it was added to the said treaty; that if the King of Great-Brittaine should demand that the suspension against the execution of the Palatinat should be prolonged till the second of june; that SPINOLA would yield unto it, so as his Majesty did promise' that his son in law s●…ould not attempt any thing against those places which he held, nor against his Army. Moreover, if the King's Letters could not come by the foureteenth of May; that the marquis of Olnosbach, having given notice thereof to marquis SPINOLA, and if he required a longer delay of ten days, that he would grant it: the which was again signed by the two Generals SPINOLA and BRANDENBOURG OLNSBACH. After these treaties of Peace, MAURICE Lantzgrave of Hesse retired his soldiers from the Army of the united Princes; and they also countermanded their troops which were in the Palatinate under the command of CNIPHUS; so as for the guard thereof, there remained no Germans but OBERTRANT with his horse, Sir HORATIO VERE with his English, and some Troops of Holland, who were lodged in Heidelberg, Manheim, and Frankendale, where they fortified themselves against the enemy's attempts, as well as time and their means would give them leave. A bruit dispersed over all Germany touching a great Army which was levied in Denmark and the lower Saxony, in favour of the Palatine, was the subject of this following Letter; written by the Elector of Mentz, to FREDERICK VLRICK Duke of Brunswick. Being advertised A Letter from the Elector of Mentz to the D. of Brunswic. from many parts that there are great numbers of soldiers levied in the circle of the lower Saxony to go into the Palatinate; I thought good to advertise you of the treaty of pacification which hath been made betwixt the marquis SPINOLA on the one side, and the marquis of Olnosbach, with other of the confederate Princes on the other; whereby a Truce is concluded for the Palatinate, as you may see by the Articles I sand you. There is no man of judgement but foresees, if these soldiers (levied in base Saxony) shall go into the Palatinate, that all the pains so many Princes have taken to settle a Peace in Germany, and Truce in the Palatinate, will be vain and without any fruit; if we return again to war, and that the fire of civil dissension be again revived. We conjure and entreat you so to deal with the Princes and States of Saxony, that nothing may be attempted which may minister subject to break the treaty of Peace; in which you and all the Princes and States of the Empire are comprehended: you shall herein do a commendable work for the good of the commonweal, whereof we thought good to advertise you, &c. this 24 of April. The Emperor wrote also at the same time to the Duke of Brunswic, concerning the same subject, as also against those which had published in the lower Saxony, that SPINOLA'S intent was to march thither to dispossess the Princes of that circle of the Archbishoprics and Ecclesiastical revenues which they held: the which his Majesty, by his Letters, did aver to be a ●…launder; assuring him that his Majesty would maintain the Peace as well in causes of Religion, as of State, according to the Letters of assurance which he had caused to be published at his coming to the Empire: and as for the excess committed by SPINOLA'S Army, against some Princes and places in Veteravia, and upon the Rhine; he had written unto him to make satisfaction for the same, and to forbidden the doing of the like hereafter: wherefore he advised him not to believe such false reports, but rather to give credit to the words and promises of his Imperial Majesty; to keep himself in Peace and not to enter into an unnecessary charge; seeing the intention of his Majesty was like that of his predecessors, desiring nothing more than to continued his good affection unto the Princes and States of the Empire. Let us now return into Bohemia, and see what exploits were done there during the months of March, April, May, and june. The Emperor had caused two Armies to be levied, the The proceed in Bohemia. one on this side of the river of Molda, towards Pilsen, whereof the Baron of Tilly was General, to besiege such places as held yet for MANDSFELD; and the other beyond the River, commanded by Don BALTHAZAR, to set upon Tabor. MANDSFELD was returned from Heilbrun into the upper Palatinate to levy new Troops, and to attend others which the Duke of Weimar levied upon his Lands by order from the Elector Palatine, to join with him, and secure those 1621. places which held yet for him in Bohemia. The enemy made profit of his absence; and by the treachery of Colonel FRANK, JERONIMO de Porta, and LEMINGER his own instruments and servants, TILLY entered into a particular Treaty with the Captains for the yielding up of Pilsen, while that in outward show he seemed to desire a Treaty with Count MANSFELD: so as the Captains, having already past the bounds of duty, began to speak more openly. They wrote to their Commander Count MANSFELD, that they purposed to expect no longer, but would either be presently paid or assured of their pay; and, if they had not a speedy resolution, would provide for themselves. His Auditor LEMINGER, after conference with Monsieur TILLY about his last Commission, returned to the Lord Martial without any effect; excusing it, that he was sent back with threats, and denied audience; pretending, that the enemy took it ill, that, changing the Contents of his first Commission, he had inserted this last Article concerning the upper Palatinate (as you have heard) which had no dependency upon Bohemia. Being now assured of the Captain's dispositions, he had no will to treat with the Lord Martial; it being only to entertain time, and to stay him from further proceeding. LEMINGER, advertising him of this secret Treaty, and that his Captains inclined to the Emperor's party, did what he could to procure money to satisfy these traitors: but, all was in vain; for, those whom he trusted most, betrayed him: and the Letter which he sent to Pilsen to divert the Officers from so foul a fact, was intercepted by the enemy, and not delivered; so as on the twenty sixt of March, the treaty that Pilsen sold by the treachery of the Captains. had been long a-working was concluded at Mies betwixt the Baron of Tilly, General of the Emperor's Army, and the Captains of the Garrison of Pilsen: where it was assured, that in regard of their absolute departure from the said Town, the Captains should receive 140000 florins from his Imperial Majesty to be divided equally among the seven companies of the Regiment. Colonel FRANK made his treaty apart, and got a promise of 3000 pound starling for the restitution of Tabor; that all the soldiers, which would retire to Count MANDSFELD, should be conducted to a place of safety with their Ensigns, Arms and baggage; that in going forth, they should not molest the Clergy nor Inhabitants in any sort; and that they should leave all the cannon and munition within the Town in the same estate they were. Thus was Pilsen presently delivered, and these merchants received the price of their accursed sale; and every one departed whither he pleased. The Lord Martial, after the conclusion of this Treaty, wrote kind Letters, thinking to draw them into the Palatinate: but, their guilty consciences would not suffer them to appear before him. His Auditor LEMINGER, having received 4000 Ricks dollars (the hire of his perjury) thought to convey it secretly through the Palatinate; thinking by his wit so to justify the rest of his actions, that the Lord Martial should receive good satisfaction: but he soon discovered his money and his villainy; causing both the money and the man to be attached, and made him to be questioned at a Marshal's Court: where, being condemned to die, he was executed according to martial law. Colonel FRANK grew much amazed at his imprisonment. The Lord Martial, being come to Amberg, called him before the Earl of Solms, Lieutenant Governer of the upper Palatinate, and the Lords of the Council, to clear himself concerning the yielding up of Pilsen. Being summoned by the Lord Martial, he came thither in his caroche; but was surprised with such fear, that he returned presently with all speed, leaving both caroche, servants and baggage behind him. He got to Nuremberg, from thence to Regensburg, and after to Tabor, where he hoped to be received by the garrison: but he was prevented by the vigilancy of the Lord Martial, who sent a command to the contrary. Finding himself thus frustrate of his expectation, he went and stayed some time in the enemy's Camp, and then retired to Prague to make his apology. Some well-willers to Colonel FRANK, who presume to know him and his actions well, and were employed in those wars, said that these are scandalous aspersions laid upon him without cause. They confess, that he gave way to the enemy's Captains and Officers to come familiarly into Pilsen, where they had all good reception; which was only to prolong the treaty by delays, that in the mean time they might get some relief from the King of Bohemia or Count MANSFELD: but they absolutely deny, that he made any composition for himself upon the yielding up of the Town. They also confess, that he retired himself secretly from Amberg: and the reason was, for that, seeing how LEMINGER was entreated, he feared the like although he had not deserved it. And touching his retiring to Tabor, they say he came thither during the time it was besieged, and past through the enemy's Camp by night; where, coming to the Port, they would not receive him, having been formerly advertised to the contrary 1621. from Count MANSFELD; that in the morning the enemy discovered him, and took him prisoner: with whom he continued till the Town was yielded, and then was released, it being one of their conditions, because they then held him for an honest man. Thus have I written the opinions on both sides touching Colonel FRANK; the censure whereof I leave to the judicious Reader. The enemy seeing himself freed of this thorn, being master of Pilsen which had so much annoyed them; General TILLY led his Army to join with the Troops of Saxony which were come to the river of Egra, and had forced a Town of the same name to declare itself for the Emperor, and receive a garrison: which Town is the proper inheritance of the Elector Palatine. There remained no more on that side but Falkenaw and Elenbogen. They went first to Falkenaw, where Colonel GREY commanded with certain companies of English and others: they battered and assaulted it divers times; so as the Colonel, having defended it many days, and performed the part of a brave soldier, was forced to treat and departed with Arms and baggage. This place being yielded, there remained nothing in those Quarters but Elenbogen; being not great, yet strongly situated by nature. There were in it three companies of good soldiers, besides the Citizens, which were much affected to the King's party. Count HENRY of Ottemberg, a brave and generous young Nobleman, commanded in the Town by the appointment of the Lord Martial. The siege began the second of April, and continued till the six and twentith with as much resolution and obstinacy as could be devised, employing all their forces and stratagems. The cannon played continually, and they shot balls of wildfire incessantly: yet, notwithstanding all their fury, they within the Town, encouraged by their young Earl to continued constant in his Majesty's service, were not tired with any labour; but, the more the enemy pressed upon them, the more resolutely they carried themselves to repel them: so as, had they not wanted powder, without doubt they had made good the place. The Lord Martial, during the siege, did what he could possibly to secure them; still giving advice to the Earl, that (in case he saw himself pressed before that succours came) he should treat in time, rather than be brought to extremity, and loose the hope of an honourable composition to save the Troops. About the six and twentith of April the Lord Martial went with his Army (which was but small) with an intent to raise the siege at what rate soever. His Forward entering into Bohemia, they had news that the Town was yielded upon composition; the Governor being forced by the forenamed want and other inconveniences. The Articles were honourable: that the garrison should departed with bag and bagagge, bullets in the mouth, matches light, drum's beating, colours fleeing, etc.: but the enemy (accustomed to break his faith to those of the religion) used them as they had done others before at Tacchau; for, as the soldiers came out, they spoilt them one after another: which particular loss was very sensible to the poor soldiers. Elenbogen being lost, the Lord Marshal retired again into the upper Palatinat to go on with his Levies of soldiers, and to prepare himself for some better design. Some writ, that the Inhabitants of Elenbogen were taxed at 100000 florins by TILLY to redeem their Town from spoil, and that he seized on the chief Burgesses till the sum were paid. At the same time Don BALTHAZAR forced the garrisons of Varling and Clingenberg to yield those two places to him, upon condition that the soldiers should not thrust themselves into Tabor, but departed out of Bohemia, and should be conducted to the higher Palatinate with all safety: which was duly performed. There now remained no more in Bohemia but Tabor and Vitingaw, which fortified themselves to endure a siege wherewith Don BALTHAZAR threatened them: you shall hereafter hear what passed there. Let us now see the executions of justice which were done at Prague both upon the Directors and the chief Authors of those combustions and troubles. We have formerly related how that his Imperial Majesty had appointed the Earl of Lichtenstein and other Commissioners to proceed against the Authors of the Bohemian troubles. On the three and twentith of April, a Sentence was given against the deceased (who were then named) in the presence of their heirs; whereby they were convicted of high treason, and their memory for ever condemned, and their goods confiscate to his Imperial Majesty, as King of Bohemia: yet their condemnation should not touch their kinsfolks with any note of infamy; the which his Majesty of his special grace would have inserted. On the 13 of May, JOHN ANDREW Eearle of Schlic (one of the greatest Lords of Bohemia and chief of those combustions) being retired to certain lands he had upon the river of 1621. Egria, and from thence into Voyeland; he was encountered by the Elector of Saxonie's horsemen, who carried him prisoner to Dresda: which being known unto the Emperor, he sent to demand him of the Elector. Whereupon, he was delivered to his Commissary; who conducted him to Prague under sure guard: where his process was made with the other prisoners, they being in all forty five: whereof seven were condemned to perpetual imprisonment in Prague; two The condemnation of the prisoners of Prague. to be sent in chains to javerin; two to remain in prison for a year: three were to be hanged: three to be whipped and banished for ever, and one to have his tongue nailed to a Post for an hours space, and to be banished for ever to javerin: All the rest were to loose their heads, and many of them to have their right hands cut off, and set upon the towers of the bridge. All their lands and goods were by the same judgement confiscate to his Imperial Majesty; only their wife's dowries excepted. The manner of their execution I will be bold to relate more particularly, because it was The manner of the execution of the prisoners. somewhat extraordinary. After their condemnation they were returned to prison: where every man had liberty to visit them, and confer with them. They were all Lutherans, except one Baron (who was a Caluinist) and a Captain which was a Romish Catholic. There was a scaffold built in the accustomed place near unto the Town-house, four else high and twenty two spaces square, and bourded round about. This scaffold was afterwards covered with black cloth: upon the which, on the day of execution, there was a man set in a long black robe and his face covered, holding a Crucifix in his hand, to present it to every one of the condemned as he should come up on the scaffold. There were two others attired in like manner to receive the condemned as they went to die, and to spread before them a black cloth, whereon they kneeled when they were executed; and, thirdly, six men in like attire with their faces covered, appointed to take up their bodies being dead, and to wrapped them in the black cloth whereon they had kneeled, to deliver them to their kinsfolk. On sunday the 20 of june (the day before the execution) many of their wives and children cast themselves at the Prince of Lichteine's feet, to sue for their husbands: but he made them answer, It was not in his power, but only in the Emperors, to give. At five of the clock in the morning, at the shooting off a Cannon from the Castle, all the gates of Prague were presently shut up, and the execution began. First of all the Earl of Schlic, attired in a gown of black silk, holding a book in his hand, went up to execution. The man, appointed to that office, presented him the Cross: his servant unclothed him; and, after his prayers ended, the Executioner cut off his head: which done, his own servant laid his right hand upon a block; the which, in like manner, was cut off, and laid apart with the head: the body was wrapped up in the cloth whereon he had kneeled, and carried from the scaffold by those six men appointed to that purpose; so as the body was never touched by the Executioner. The like form was observed with all the rest which were beheaded. NICHOLAS DU●…IS, whose tongue was nailed for an hours space to the gallows, died with the torment within three days after. The Countess of Scklic, did so much lament the loss and death of her husband, as she did not survive him many days. As for the bodies of such as were executed by the sword, they were delivered to their kinsfolks & friends, to be interred some in their Segniories, and others in Prague. At the same instant, there was the like inquisition in both Austria's, against the chief which had held the Bohemian party. The Commissioners did summon many to appear personally before them at Lintz, to justify themselves. Some came: other (who thought there was more safety in absence) forbore. Some, which came in, were committed: against such as stood out, they proceeded, by seizure of their goods; the which, as LUNDORPHNIS writes, were restored for money, and upon other conditions. FREDERICK, Baron of Tieffembach, one of the chief actors in Moravia, had been taken at the Baths in the County of tirol: being brought to Oenypon●…, the Emperor sent Commissaries, who made his process, and cut off his head. The marquis jagerndorf (who had not been comprehended in the treaty of Silesia, but proscribed by the Emperor, and the execution thereof committed to the Elector of Saxony) thought, by these terrible executions at Prague, to put the Silesians in fear, and to make them return to Arms against the Emperor. At his departure out of Lusatia, he marched with his troops being 3000 men into the County of Glats; resolving, that the States of Silesia (in whose name, and for whom, he had levied these forces) should pay them what was their due. He 1621. required the States therefore to give him satisfaction: but, they so delayed him, as he well perceived they desired to be rid of him. The County of Glats is a frontier of Bohemia, Lusatia, Silesia, and Moravia. The river of jegerne, upon which lieth jegerndorf (that is to say, the Bourrough of jegerne) is betwixt Nisse, Tropau and Glats. This marquis seeing all the Emperor's forces employed either in Hungary or beyond the river of Molda, and that round about the County of Glats, there were none but enemies, where his soldiers might get good booty; he resolved to surprise some such places, as they should be forced to demand a peace of him: all which succeeded happily. For, the Elector Palatine King of Bohemia hearing of his design, sent him his Letters, by the which he made him Commissary General in his Realm of Bohemia and the incorporated provinces, with full power to govern those Countries according to his discretion; to make levies of soldiers, and to do whatsoever he thought necessary; commanding all his subjects to yield obedience and assistance unto the said marquis his Commissary. Having this Commission, he gave liberty The marquis takes Tropau and Nisse. to his troops to commit all acts of hostility: whereby his number so increased as he made himself Maiester of Tropau and Nisse, and forced the inhabitants of the whole Bishopric of Nisse to pay him 100000 dollars, and the four receivers of the Country (who were his prisoners) to furnish him with 10000 Hungarian ducats within two days. After which, going with his horse and some part of foot (being in all 1500 men) he entered into Bohemia: where he committed great spoils▪ and, making use of the Peasants which were in Arms, he seized upon diverse places. After which, he went to besiege Glats: which being yielded, he furnished it with 3000 good soldiers and 13 Cannons. The States of Silesia desirous to stop the course of these sudden incursions, and surprising of Towns, sent their Deputies to the Elector of Saxony, Commissary for his Imperial Majesty in Silesia. It was resolved betwixt them to levy an Army of 1500 horse and 11000 foot to stay the said Marquis. The Elector sent them 3000 foot & 1000 horse; the States of Silesia were to furnish the rest. They had resolved to recover Glats: but the Marquis had taken such order, and his new enterprises upon the territory of Preslau (from whence he drew 60000 dollars to retire his troops) made them in the beginning to stand upon the defensive, and to assure their other Towns without attempting any thing against the marquis: who having retired his garrisons from Nisse and many other places, which he held not able to resist their forces; he made the body of an Army; which he led into the principality of Tischin upon the frontiers of Moravia: where after great spoils committed by his troops, the inhabitants were forced to give him certain thousands of Hungarian ducats to leave them & to pass on to BETHLIN GABOR. Before he left the Country, he wrote two Letters to the States of Silesia touching the execution of the prisoners at Prague. The first did intimate that it was notorious to the whole The marquis his Letters to the States of ●…lesia. world, that the cruel and barbarous execution made at Prague of the chief Noblemen of Bohemia (the true pillars of the State) and of many honest and worthy persons and good country men, was only in regard of their religion and constancy to keep their faith unto their King, whom they had chosen: a cruel execution, which God would revenge upon the Authors. That he was truly advertised that the like would shortly be done to the chief of Silesia, at Preslaw and in other places (if God diverted not the design) notwithstanding the transaction and treaty of grace and pardon made with the elector of Saxony. That this cruel inquisition of Spain having no other end, but the oppression and extirpation of the Protestant religion, he thought good to advertise them all, and especially the inhabitants of Preslau and Schueitnitz, to be wise by other men's examples; and not so much to regard that which concerns their private profit, as that of the public; to the end they might maintain the faith given to their King, and to the league which they had sworn; and to join with him to free themselves from so many tyrannies: but, if (contrary to his hope) they would willingly remain in danger, let them accuse none but themselves to be the Authors of their and the Country's ruin, and the breach of faith which they had sworn to their elected King. And, withal, he advertised them, that if in his absence any violence were offered to any of his Counsellors, officers, ministers and subjects which were in Silesia, or to any Protestant in the Bishopric of Nisse, or if they did put any garrisons into the Towns which did particularly belong to him, or that they received any wrong; that they should assure themselves, that the administrators and receivers of the Bishopric of Nisse (who were in his custody) should have the like usage. The second Letter was to the same effect. The Elector of Saxony made answer to these Letters, showing the justice of the Emperors proceeding in the execution at Prague: And as touching the breach of the transaction which he The Elector of Saxony answers the Marquis his Letters had made with the Silesians, he gave them his word a●… Electoral faith, that it should be faithfully kept and observed; and that there was never any ●…tent, neither should their be any search or execution upon any colour whatsoever, so long as they contained themselves within the 1621. bounds of the said transaction. The Emperor also made answer to those Letters: by which, he assured the Silesians that he would never forget the grace and pardon which he had imparted unto them; promising, to maintain the transaction made with the Elector of Saxony: which he did confirm by those presents, so as they continued in their fidelity and obedience. He also exhorted the Princes, States and all his subjects of Silesia, not to suffer themselves to be seduced by the invention and fraud of that proscript or any other person; but, to remain within the terms of the transaction, and to employ all their forces to oppress that rebel and his partisans, by whom they had been often seduced; to the end that Silesia might be restored to her former estate and enjoy a full and absolute peace. The first of April the Emperor appointed a Diet of the Electors and Princes to be held at Ratisbone on Saint JOHN BAPTIST'S day following, to consult of the means how to settle a general peace in the Empire. The Elector Palatine King of Bohemia, advertised hereof, sent his Letters unto all the Electors and Princes which had been called thither; by which he complained that he had been advertised, how that some imputed unto him (that contrary to The King of Bohemia's Letters, to the Electors and Princes of the Empire. his Imperial Majesty's intention, who had called a Diet of the Electors and Princes of the Empire at Ratisbone on the 24 of june, to resolve how peace might be settled in the Empire) he was more pleased in the actions of war, then in treaties of peace; but contrariwise his conscience did witness unto him, that he rather desired an honest peace than war. That, touching the troubles then in the Empire, he had not engaged himself through ambition, or to wrong any private person; but by the persuasion and promise of a lawful calling and a just defence. That he confessed truly, and ingenuously, to own unto his Imperial Majesty, obedience and honour, as to the sovereign head of the Empire. That he was deprived (contrary to his hope and expectation) of his Electoral and hereditary countries, which was the cause of great inconveniences and prejudice to many States of the Empire, entangled in these wars; for the which he was much afflicted, especially for the great miseries which had befallen, the Turk preparing to enter into Germany. That he hoped, God would so direct the hearts of the Emperor, Electors and Princes which should assist at this assembly, that all their counsels and consultations would tend only to the restoring of peace in the Empire, to banish jealousies & distrust, and to settle a new confidence. That he doubted not, but in this Diet they would treat chiefly of the means of his reconciliation with the Emperor, as many kings and Princes have formerly done by their Ambassadors: to whose good counsels and advice he would always submit himself, so fare fou●… as his dignity and conscience might not be wounded. That he would always witness, and desired the world to know, that he never had a thought to offend his Imperial Majesty, but desired to yield all honour due unto him according to the constitutions of the Empire. That he hoped his Imperial Majesty would procure a remedy for so many mischiefs by a general Amnestia or forgetfulness; and so moderate all things, as the Princes and States of the Empire, his friends, counsellors, officers, and subjects might be freed from the insolency of foreign soldiers, and all things restored to their former state and liberty. This was the tenor of his Letter. Let us now see what passed at Viena. You have formerly heard how that the Princes of the Union had sent their Ambassadors to the Emperor, touching their reconciliation; which in the mean time was concluded at Mentz, with the Elector and the Lantzgrave L●…WIS: so as after their arrival at Viena, they had no other charge but to entreat his Imperial Majesty to confirm the treaty of reconciliation, and to command the Execution for the restitution of places taken and detained from the Earls and Noblemen of Veteravia: whereunto, according to their instructions, they added the restoring of the Elector Palatine to his countries, or to stay the execution of the Imperial proscription. Whereunto they received answer the sixt of May, That his Imperial Majesty was very well pleased that the Protestant Princes had abstained from defence of the Elector Palatine, The Emperor's answer to the Ambassadors of the united Princes. whom he had proscribed; and for promising not to continued the Union or to revive it any more; which will be a principal point for the establishing of peace in the Empire. That his said Imperial Majesty desired not to spare any pains for the restoring of peace, but could not yet see how he might satisfy their demand of reestablishing the Palatine, or at the lest to retract the execution of the Imperial Ban denounced against him. That although it be not 1621. lawful, by the constitutions of the Empire, to make intercession for a proscribed person; yet for so good a thing as the settling of peace in the Empire, his Imperial Majesty would be well pleased the said Princes should endeavour that the Elector Palatine should acknowledge his fault, crave pardon of him, and (as the said constitutions require in matters of less importance) make offer to satisfy the charges and loss he hath procured. That hitherto it hath not been observed that the Palatine is willing to take this good course; but, on the contrary, he saw both within the Empire and without, in Holland and other places, that through his practices and on his behalf, many levies of soldiers were made: which constrained his Imperial Majesty also to make preparation to keep the faithful States of the Empire from the oppression of the said Elector Palatines adherents. And touching the delay of the execution which they demanded, he did not think that all the Protestant Princes consented thereunto. And as for the restitution of the Towns and Castles which had been taken from diverse Noblemen of Veteravia, his Majesty had declared his pleasure by his Letters Patents, that he had no desire the innocent should suffer with the nocent; but contrariwise would repel the violence which had been done them, by force. That if they did not give them satisfaction accordingly, he would 'cause them to have all content. In the same month of May, Ambassadors came to Viena from the King of Denmark, with Ambassadors sent from the King of Denmark to the Emperor. instructions from the assembly at Seneberg, demanding a disannulling of the Palatines proscription and of all the rest, and that they might be restored to their lands and estates: without the which, there was no hope of any peace in the Empire. The Emperor, having sent this proposition to the Electors, and receiving their advice, made answer to the Ambassadors, that the proscription could not be made void, but rather to be executed with all speed according to the constitutions of the Empire. The Ambassadors replied, that their king's intention was not to meddle with questions of times; but only to procure a peace in the Empire, and a firm confidence between the head and the members: to which end the Emperor said, he had appointed an Assembly at Ratisbone, to resolve upon all things concerning that question. In the mean time, the conference at Hainbourg grew to such length, and both parties so full of distrust, as the French Ambassadors were not able to reconcile them. The Emperor had resolved in counsel, upon the seaventh of April, that he would accept of a peace upon these conditions: That BETHLIN GABOR should be again confirmed Prince of Hungary, and Propositions at the treaty of Hambourg. have for his entertainment 100000 florins yearly, and 100 marckes of silver from the mountain Townes. They writ, that Prince BETHLIN was content to accept of these conditions; but he demanded Cassovia and many other towns of safety, with these clauses: That his Majesty should pardon all the confederates of what province soever; who should be restored to their estates; and that no question should be made for what was passed; whereveto the Emperor would not yield; so as the conference broke off: before the which, BETHLIN GABOR was retired from Presbuurg to Tirnaw, and had drawn his Chancellor from the conference, upon some pretexts. His partisans said, that the Imperialists made show by their daily practices, to draw the Noblemen of Hungary to their party, and by the preparations they made at Viena, and by their prosecutions against their confederates in Bohemia, Austria, and Moravia, that this conference to treat of a peace, was but a snare to entrap them, and suddenly to shut Prince BETHLIN into Presbourg. The Imperialls on the other side gave out, that Prince BETHLIN, having carried away the Crown of Hungary, desired to have the title of King: and if he had had any good intent to make a peace, he would not have made levies of Transylvanians and Tartarians, which were marching into Hungary; writing his Letter unto GALGA Prince of Tartary: which for brevity sake I must omit. GEORGE SETSCHY, one of the chief Noblemen of high Hungary, who had been a powerful Partisan to BETHLIN (having made his peace with the Emperor) gathered together Setschy reconciles himself to the Emperor. two thousand men; and, upon the ending of the Truce, surprised Altensol and Vesprin, where he put all the Transylvanians which were in Garrison to the sword. It is an usual thing when treaties end, some change their party. The victory of Prague, and the Earl of Bucquoy (who had wintered upon the river of Marc a day's journey from Presbourg, making account to have twenty thousand men) was the cause that many Noblemen of BETHLIN'S party expected but an opportunity to reconcile themselves to the Emperor. The breach of the conference and of the truce, made Count BUCQVOY advance with his Army to invest Presbourg. Prince BETHLIN who was at Tirnaw, seeing SETSCHY fallen to the Emperor and joined with PALFY, and to be betwixt him and Cassovia at his back (who bragged he would take 1621. him alive and present him to the Emperor, or at the lest stop his return into Transiluania, and Count BUCQVOY to come in Front) relying upon the Garrison which he had put into the Castle of Presbourg, he resolved in this reviving of the war to stand upon his defence▪ to furnish the places he held▪ and to put himself into Cassovia, there to assemble the body of his Army, whilst the Emperor's men should cool themselves at some siege. Having left some men in Tirnaw, and STEPHEN TURSO with a strong garrison of Hungarians and Transylvanians in Neuheusol, he carried the Crown of Hungary to Cassovia. In the mean time, FORGATSY Palatine of Hungary, with other Noblemen which were in Presbourg, seeing themselves invested by Count BUCQVOY, desired to sand Deputies to the Emperor; which was granted: Who having obtained from his Majesty a treaty of their reduction, by the which they were all maintained in their Dignities▪ Estates and Offices, with abolition; the Town of Presbourg, was yielded to the Emperor the second of May; into the which they put a great Garrison. The Castle only remained; in the which there were many Presbourg yielded to the Emp▪ Germans and Hungarians, who demanded their pay and a general pardon. There were some hours of Truce to hear their demands: The which being ended, and nothing granted to the besieged, they shot continually from the Castle; so as many of them were slain and hurt. They defended themselves bravely for the space of ten days: but, on the tenth of May, seeing a new battery planted of seven double Cannon, they demanded a Parley; which was granted. After many contestations, they promised to yield the Castle, and they were suffered to departed with Arms and baggage, their matches dead, and their Ensigns folded up, the Hungarians to be conducted to Neuhusol, and the Germans to the Frontiers of Moravia. Count BUCQVOY having assured the Town and Castle of Presbourg with new Garrisons, Tirna●… yielded to Bucquoy. he led the Imperial Army (being two and twenty thousand men) towards Tirnaw: upon the way, diverse Towns and Castles submitted themselves. The Garrison of Tirnaw, finding themselves too weak to make resistance, accepted of a composition to departed with their Arms and baggage. Count BUCQVOY being advertized, that there was dissension between the Soldiers and the inhabitants in Neuhusol; it was resolved in Council to lead the Army thither: yet they which were of a contrary opinion, gave them to understand that the soldiers should find no Bucquoy 〈◊〉 Neuheusel. victual for themselves, nor forage for their horses, for that the whole Country was ruinated, and the Towns and Villages burnt: And in truth this siege had like to have ruined the Emperor's party in Hungary. In the beginning, the Imperialists had some advantage at their approaches: and the batteries being well planed, did somewhat annoyed the besieged; They mustered their Soldiers; and to put courage into them, they gave them three months pay. FORGATSI, Palatine of Hungary, was come unto the Army before Neuheusol, who wrote unto the besieged to yield; he entreated and threatened them; but all was in vain: for they made him answer, that they were true Hungarians, which would fight even unto the last drop of their blood, to preserve the honour of their Nation, and to free themselves from the yoke of the Turks and Germans. Thus were they in Arms in two places of the upper Hungary: that is, at the siege of Neuheusol, and towards Filec, whereas SETSCHY and PALFY made head against the Partisans of Prince BETHLIN GABOR, and defeated eight hundred men, which the Prince sent to Neuheusol, conducting a convoy of Victuals, Money, and Munition; but soon after they had their revenge. In the lower Hungary between the Dannow and S●…irria, BUDIANIS a Protestant and a Nobleman of great power, having made himself an irreconcilable Enemy unto the house of Austria, held many places upon the lake of Newdsiller, and the Rivers of Robniz and of Rechiniz, which did much annoy Vienna, by the incursions of the Budianits: to prevent the which, the Emperor sent the Earl of Colalte with eight thousand men, and some Cannon to take those places of retreat from BUDIANIS, who retired towards Canisia: from whence we shall see him return with Turkish succours, and fire diverse parts of Austria. During the siege of Neuheusol, the Imperialists were but ill entreated in many sallies by those that were besieged, the which had no want of anything; for the Gate towards the River of Ouiar was free; and on the other side of the river lay encamped ten thousand men come to their succou●…ss: that is to say, four thousand sent by Prince BETHLIN from Cassovia, and 1621. and six thousand which the Earl of Thurn and others (fled out of Bohemia and Austria) had brought. During the exploits of Neuhusoll where the Palatine FORGATSY died, Prince BETHLIN held an Assembly of the States at Perein, near to Cassovia, letting them see that he had the Crown of Hungary in his possession: the which encouraged them to follow his party; and it was resolved, first to free Fileck, besieged by PAIFY SETSKY and others, and to hazard a battle to raise that of Neuhusoll. The Barons of Palfi, Setsky and Posniasi, being lodged with their troops at Mitarlin a mountain Town, Prince BETHLIN entertained them with good words, touching a peace which he desired to make with the Emperor, and in the mean time surprised them suddenly; where, after a bloody fight, PALFY, was found slain upon the field, with two thousand Imperialls: SETSKY and the rest escaped; but wholly defeated. After this expedition, all the mountain Towns returned to BETHLIN's party. This was the first unfortunate cross of the Imperialls; let us now observe the second. The siege of Neuhusoll continued: The Port of Carniola towards the river of Ouiar was still free for the besieged, they being always relieved (when they had need) with 10000 men which lay encamped at their gate; who, when they passed the river, did so stop the passages and approached so near unto the Imperial Army, as nothing could be conveyed to them without very great forces. Count BUCQOY was therefore often constrained, for want of forage for his horse, to sand out many companies both of horse and foot. The tenth of july all his foot which he had sent a foraging (except two hundred musketeers) being returned with the Carts, and the horse being in number fifteen hundred, consisting of all the nations of the Army (except Walloons which they had left in Moravia for safeguard of the Country) being yet a Cannon sho●…e from their quarter, fifteen hundred Cavaliers Hungarians, divided into Troops, left their Camp and past the river of Ouiar, under the favour of the Town Cannon, and began to charge the Imperial horse. Upon this Alarm, Count BUCQVOY went to horse: and being accompanied by some officers, he came to the head of his Troops, to encourage them by his presence, to maintain the brunt of this important skirmish, and to avoid the disgrace of any ●…osse. Having observed the order of the assailants, he presently drew his men into diverse squadrons, and commanded the Earl of Torquaty, Lieutenant Colonel to the Earl of Valslein's Regiment (which consisted of low Dutch and the Emperor's troops) having the point of the vanguard, to go by charge: which he did resolutely, and forced into the enemy's squadrons being pell mell amongst them; But, the squadron, which followed, wheeled about; and discharging their Pistols, betook themselves to flight; whereupon the low Germans were enclosed and defeated, and Count TORQVATI and all the Captains taken prisoners: All the rest of the squadrons, appointed to second him on both sides, ●…ed also by their example; so as the Earl of Bucquoy was left alone. The Earl, seeing this disorder, did what he might to stay them, riding from squadron to squadron with his sword and Pistol in his hands, thinking to make these runnaways to turn head again: but, nothing could prevail. At the same instant the Earl of Bucquoy was invested by fifteen Hungarians which were best mounted; who charged him on all sides. He defended himself a long space very valiantly, until he had received a pistol shot through the body, and a blow with a Lance, which overthrew him from his horse. Hereupon, the marquis of Gonzagua, followed by some of his people, came in to succour him: and pressing in to the midst of these Hungarians, he slew two of them, and gave the Earl leisure to rise and to retire on foot some fifty paces towards the Army. But, the marquis being presently forced to retire, these Hungarians overthrew the Earl again with their Lances: and then discharging their Pistols upon him, they left this brave conductor of Count Bucquoy found dead w●…b 13 wounds upon him. Armies dead, with 13 mortal wounds. In the mean time, the said marquis, thinking yet to secure him once more and preserve him alive, joined himself with Mounsieur CAMARGVES and some of the low German troops formerly broken, and drove them back, piercing through them even to the place where the Earl was, but found him dead. Than did the marquis take time to alight, and laid the body on his own horse, and brought it to the Camp, where was great mourning and lamentation. The cowardice of these horsemen which had thus abandoned their General (unto whom their very enemies gave the title of incomparable valour) was even as much blamed as the courage of two hundred musketters which were with them, was highly extolled: for although they were in an open field, they defended themselves with such resolution, 1621. that the Hungarians were in the end forced to leave them, they receiving little loss. The Emperor, and all Kings, Princes and Catholic Lords, much bewailed this death of Count BUCQVOY: his body was carried to Viena; where on the twentith of july, it was sumptuously interred with all military pomp; which was a sad and heavy day there, both for these obsequies, as for two other heavy tidings: the one of raising the siege of Neuhusall the seaventeenth of july, the other the death of the Archduke ALBERT Duke of Brabant and Death of the Archduke Albert. Prince of Flanders, who died at Brussels, the 13 of the said month of july. It is observed, that in four years, five great Princes of the house of Austria have deceased; namely, PHILIP third king of Spain, The Emperor's eldest son, and three brothers, The Emperor MATHIAS the Archduke MAXIMILIAN; and this year, The Archduke ALBERT. After the death of the Earl of Bucquoy, The Hungarians, and Bohemians, Prince BETHLINS' Partisans, were much encouraged, and the Imperialists as much dejected. The continual rain also at this time, contrary to the season, seemed to augment this sorrow, and minister occasion of the loss of the Cannon which they left behind them at the raising of the siege of Neuhusall. RODOLPHUS TIEFFENBAC, a Lord of Moravia, whose father had been General in the wars of Hungary 1594, succeeded Count BUCQVOY, in his charge, and had been himself Sergeant mayor at the battle of Prague. Through the divisions which grew among so many nations which were in the Army; it was resolved in Council, that the siege should be raised, and that they should march towards Gutta upon the Dannow three miles above Comora. Moreover, upon advertisement that the Hungarians and Bohemians which were fled out of their country, being fortified with new Troops, were resolved to pursue them in their retreat; it was resolved they should abandon 15 Cannons which they had for that siege, to the end they might march away with the more speed; being impossible for them to draw them away by reason of the abundance of rain which had fallen, and spoiled the ways. On the 27 of july the siege was raised in a tempestuous rainy night, so as the Hungarians could discover nothing before the morning. This retreat hath been diversely related: and thus they writ on either side. At the rising of the Camp, the Hungarians (being fortified with new Troops) were resolved to charge the Imperialls, who had abandoned their Cannon, and to defeat the better part: but four hundred musketieres', Walloons, defended a passage so valiantly, as the whole Army recovered Gutta without loss: from thence they went to Presbourg and to other necessary places for the preservation of the Emperor's provinces. GOTHARDUS saith, That the Hungarians seeing the siege raised, pursued the Imperialls with great fury, who had set Captain MAREBREIN at a passage to favour their retreat; who after some resistance was forced and slain with three hundred of his men and some of the Rearward. The Army came to Gutta and was very well entrenched: yet many French and Walloons fled towards Presbourg: part of the Army was sent to Comora and the rest towards javerin. As for the fifteen Cannons which they had abandoned at Neuhusoll, they were carried into the Town in great triumph. All these happy exploits in favour of Prince BETHLIN made him to march speedily to Neuhusoll to pursue so many victories and to recover Presbourg: but he found a stop at Tirnaw, where there were four companies of Imperialls and five hundred horse in garrison: Tirnaw taken by Prince Bethlin. having planted his batteries, and made a breach, at three assaults he lost seven hundred of his best men. Afterwards the batteries being continued, the besieged observing that they might easily be forced, and knowing well they had small store of victuals remaining in the Town, they demanded composition: which was granted, and they departed with Arms and baggage. From Tirnaw, Prince BETHLIN went to plant his siege before Presbourg, whither all his Partisans with their troops came to join with him: The marquis of jagerndorf brought his from Moravia: the 19 of August he caused incursions to be made into Austria; whereas on either side of the river of Dannow, there was nothing to be seen but effusion of blood, flight of the inhabitants, spoil and fire; and of one day they might see from Vienna, on the other side of Dannow, 20 villages on fire: and on this side 14, by BUDIANY. This BUDIANY having drawn together 6000 Hungarians and Turks; seeing that COLALTE had been countermanded by the Emperor to put himself into Presbourg & to defend it, he followed him, and took from him one of the lodgings of his Rearward; committing so great cruelties and inhumanities', that they writ he ruined above a thousand villages in 1621. Hungary and Austria. As for the siege of Presbourg, it was continued by BETHLIN, whom the Imperials called ATTILA King of Huns, for that there was some conformity, being both Hungarians born, commanding one Nation, like in humours and conditions, both scourges to Christendom, having both put all to fire and sword as they passed. He pressed Presburg to yield; in which there was a great garrison of horse and foot: the besieged were forced to make sallies to fetch forage for their horses; where there were divers encounters, with variety of success according to the hazard of the war: but on the fifteenth of September, there entering into the Towna supply often Cornets of horse and two companies of foot, sent from Moravia, Prince BETHLIN with his Partisans was forced to raise the siege, and retire unto Tirnaw, sending to refresh their Troops in many places of high Hungary, for that they had ruined the champain Country. Let us now return to Vienna, and see what good success the intercession hath had which many great Princes made for the restoring of the Palatine to his hereditary rights. Ambassadors had been with his Imperial Majesty from the King of Denmark and the Princes of the Union, and received their several answers as you have heard, with small success. Our King's Majesty of great Britanne, who intermitted no care nor charge to repair this breach of disunion between his Imperial Majesty and his son-in-law the Elector Palatine, and to save his hereditary Country for his posterity, which now lay in danger to be ruined, being invaded by potent enemies, under the Emperor's Commission; he dispatched the Baron of Digbie, now Earl of Bristol, Vice-chamberlain to his Majesty, in ambassage to the Emperor; who, arriving at The Lord Digby sent to the Emperor. Vienna in the beginning of july with an honourable train, was received with great state, and had his audience on the fifteenth of july. Some Writers relate, that the two chief points of his embassy were, first, that the Elector Palatine, son-in-law to our King's Majesty, might be received into grace and favour with his Imperial Majesty, and restored to all his hereditary estates and titles which he had enjoyed before the troubles of Bohemia; and, secondly, that the Imperial Proscription given out against him might be revoked, or the execution suspended. Which being performed, the King's Majesty of great Britanne would 'cause the Elector Palatin to yield all due obedience to his Imperial Majesty, and submit himself to all honest conditions of satisfaction. To this demand he received an answer in writing, that his Imperial Majesty had a great desire to gratify the King of great Britanne, and other Kings and Princes who had made the like intercession for the Elector Palatine; but the whole business consisted upon two points: first, that he should 'cause the Elector Palatine to yield due obedience unto his Imperial Majesty; and, secondly, that he should make satisfaction. His Imperial Majesty having also, during these troubles, used the advice and counsel of many Electors and Princes, to the end they should not think that in this important business he would do any thing which might prejudice them, he had appointed an Assembly at Ratisbone; that he would let the King understand the resolution that should be taken touching this business by the common consent of the said Electors and Princes; that in this war which had been continued with justice by his Imperial Majesty, there was no proportion between the parties for the continuance of hostility; that there was a difference between his Imperial Majesty who was feudatorie and sovereign judge, and the Elector Palatine who was condemned; that, according to the King's request, his Imperial Majesty had granted a truce: but as soon as there was a suspension of Arms in the lower Palatinate, at the same Instant he caused war to be revived in the upper Palatinate; and persisting in his enterprises, he had sent his Commissions unto MANSFELD and the marquis of jagerndorf, to 'cause new combustions in Bohemia, Silesia and Moravia; that he left it to the Ambassador to judge whether he could do otherwise than oppose his just Arms against those who were raised against him: yet if FREDERICK the Elector Palatine did yield and consent unto the admonitions of the King his father-in-law, all matters might well be compounded; freeing his Imperial Majesty and the obedient Princes of the Empire from the jealousies which they had justly conceived. And thus much writes the French MERCURY touching this Treaty. There is another author (who hath written a discourse called, Viva Demonstratio) relates, that upon my Lord DIGBIES' second audience, his Majesty made answer; That touching the suspension of Arms, which was the ground of the treaty, there seemed many difficulties: First, that he was not well acquainted with the state of the lower and upper Palatinate; whether 1621. a Truce might be made without prejudice: for that he understood, in the lower Palatinate, Sir HORATIO VERE had invaded the Bishop of Spires Countries, and broken the Truce; yet, for that he would not omit any thing which might tend to a Peace, and satisfy the King's desire, he would presently writ unto the Duke of Bavaria for his counsel and consent touching this Truce; and Letters should be delivered unto the Ambassador for the Archduchesse at brussels; who should have full power to conclude a Truce, unless there were apparent cause of danger: Whereunto his Majesty did the more willingly incline; for that he promised, in the king's name, that as soon as a Truce were concluded, he would 'cause MANDSFELD to observe it: Or if he should commit any hostile Actagainst his Imperial Majesty, or the Princes of the sacred Empire, during the said Truce; both the King and his son in Law, would declare him an enemy, and assist his Imperial Majesty, against him: Moreover, he would procure, that if jagerndorf had any power and authority given him to offend or invade, that it should be presently revoked: But especially he assured, that the King his Master would so deal with his son in Law, as that Tabor and Vintsgaw, with all other places which were held by that party, should with all speed be restored to his Majesty. Furthermore, that if his Imperial Majesty would pass his promise, that the execution of the foresaid Proscription, in the upper Palatinate, should be suspended during this Treaty; he would faithfully endeavour, that all MANDSFELDS' Soldiers should be discharged, and Arms laid down; with this condition, that if the said treaty of Peace should not have a desired end, his Imperial Majesty (before he should go to Arms for the execution of the said Proscription) should be bound to give notice thereof, three months before to his Majesty. To this effect the Emperor wrote his Letters to the Infanta, and to the Duke of Bavaria; which Duke by his Letters, of the 27 of September, unto the Lord Ambassador, seemed to have no inclination to a suspension of Arms, as appears by these words contained in the said Letter. His Imperial Majesty, in the first entrance of our Army and beginning our work, hath given notice unto us of a motion for the suspension of Arms, and required our advice: but to return presently and suspend the business, it was neither safe, nor possible; especially for that the suspension was chief referred to the Infanta of Spain; neither have we conferred with those it doth concern, having also MANSFELD with an Army at our doors, who might invade our Province, and so object other difficulties to frustrate the said suspension. The Lord Ambassador did much press the Emperor and the Duke of Bavaria by his Letters for his suspension of Arms; but he prevailed little: for the Emperor changed his mind, as it appeared by his Letters unto the Duke of Bavaria, dated the thirtieth of September; by the which he commanded him to invade the Palatinate by virtue of his Commission, and to reduce it unto his obedience, and to take an Oath of Allegiance in his name. This Author writes much concerning this business, and of the transferring of the Electorate to the Duke of Bavaria, long before projected at Rome; to the end they might fortify the Catholic party, and have always an Emperor at their devotion. And, although they be Arcana Imperij; yet I hope I shall incur no blame, if I lay open The Pope sand to the Emperor touching the Electorship. what I find written by my Author. The Pope (much affecting this translation of the Electorshippe to the Duke of Bavaria) gave Commission to a Capuchin Friar called HYACINTHUS to go and treat with the Emperor at Vienna: He had Letters of recommendation from Cardinal LODOVIGIO the Pope's favourite; his charge was to persuade the Emperor to continued the wars, being against Heretics, dangerous enemies to the holy mother Church of Rome, and disobedient to his Holiness; and that the Emperor should confer the Electoral voice upon the Duke of Bavaria, for that he was a Catholic Prince, and had well deserved it for the aid and assistance he had given him in his wars against the Palatine; whom he entreated to dispossess of the Electoral voice, and to punish him as his rebellion and offence had deserved. The business being resolved at Vienna, the Friar was sent into Spain, and Letters of credit The Friar 〈◊〉 into Spain. sent after him, from the Emperor, writing to the King, and referring him to the Friets Commission; but especially to Don BALTHAZAR of Zuniga (a great Counsellor of State, who died lately, being Uncle by the mother's side to the Earl of Olivares the king's favourite) by the which he gives him to understand, that he holds it most necessary, for the preservation and greatness of the holy Faith, and consequently of the house of Austria, to transfer the 〈◊〉 ship upon the Duke of Bavaria; advertising him withal that he was so much bound unto the said Duke for his good deserts, and for the many promises he had made him aswell by word as 1621. writing, touching the translation of the Electorship, that he could not by any means retract it, without offence to God and a blemish to his honour, the which he hoped he would endeavour to preserve. This Letter bore date from Viena the fifteenth of October 1621. In a second Letter unto Don BALTHAZAR of the same date, the Emperor set down many reasons why he should not make a peace with the Elector, nor restore unto him the Electoral dignity: in the end he concludes, that before that famous battle at Prague, he had fully resolved, that the Palatine, being once proscribed, could not be restored to the Electoral dignity, without prejudice and danger unto all Catholics and to his house; That he had willingly offered it unto the Duke of Bavaria, a stout Champion of the Catholic religion, whose aid & assistance he had employed in the recovery of his Realms and provinces: wherefore the very time did seem to press him more than the Duke himself, that he should perform his promise without any further delay; and the Electorship being conferred upon him, the Palatine should be deprived of all hope, and they in like manner which had so earnestly desired his restitution, and his Majesty freed from further trouble. Which business requiring the King of Spain's aid (although he knew him to be well inclined to any thing which concerned the honour of God and the safety of their house) yet would he not loose this occasion to persuade him, not to neglect so fair an opportunity for the settling of their house and religion. And in a Postscript to the same Letter he adds another motive of no small consideration: which is, that by his translation they should have a Catholic voice more then formerly they had; whereby they should be assured, that the Empire should be always in the hands of the Catholics, and by all reason in their house; wherein the Duke of Bavaria would willingly concur, in requital of the benefit he had received, to be advanced to so great adignity, by an Emperor of their house. The Capuchin Friar HYACINTHUS, having received his Commission sent him into The Emperor's Letter to the ●…ryer. Spain, had a Letter of advice written with the Emperors own hand, whereby he wished him not to speak any thing in that Court, that the Duke of Bavaria had gotten the investiture of the Palatinate; but should persuade them to concur with him in his opinion, and give those aids whereby they might effectually attain unto it, being so profitable and necessary for the preservation of the holy faith, and consequently of their house; doubting that if he should say that his Majesty had given away the investiture, it would much prejudice the cause; knowing well, that if he should be abandoned by the crown of Spain, he should not be able with his own forces to effect that which he had promised to the Duke of Bavaria: And he was in a manner assured (according to the daily speech of the Spanish Ambassador there resident) that this would undoubtedly follow; that he should be abandoned by the crown of Spain, if the King should know he had given the investiture, before he had imparted it unto that Crown. The continuance of this war, and the translation of the Electorship, was much pressed by the Pope's Ministers and the Emperors. Cardinal LODOVICIO wrote his Letters unto the Pope's Nuncio resident at Brussels, wishing him to employ all his means and credit with the Cardinal Lodovicios' Leters to the Pope's Nuncio at Brussels. Infanta, that no suspension of Arms might be granted; adding withal, that touching the Palatines person, being justly deprived of the Palatinate, he might hold it for a great favour if he might be admitted to humble himself at the Emperor's feet▪ the which if he did, yet should not his children enjoy any part of his patrimony, unless they were bred up in the Catholic religion; being a capital error to restore those territories to heretics, especially in regard of the Belgic provinces to which they lie so near. The Pope's Nuncio at Viena, wrote his Letters to the Nuncio at Brussels; intimating that there was no doubt of the Emperor's inclination to confer the Electorship upon the Duke of Bavaria; The Pope's Nuntios Letters at Viena to the Nuntio at Brussels. but the business depended wholly upon the Spaniard: other●…wise, it had been before this time decided. The Spaniards oppose the Elector of Saxony against the Bavarian, making that their 〈◊〉▪ but the truth is, said he, they are not pleased with his greatness, and desire to retain the lower Palatinate without any further war. And for that they doubt that the Elector of Saxony, who desires to have the constitutions of the Empire (which admit no strangers) to be religiously observed, should oppose himself to their desires, they seek by all means to please him, and give him some colourable satisfaction: but, in case he should be withdrawn, and become an enemy, by their cunning they seek to persuade all the world, that this was not the true cause, that they have retained the lower Palatinate; but, for that the Electoral 〈◊〉 was conferred upon the Duke of Bavaria. To free them from this excuse; the Archduke CHARLES is go to the Duke of Saxony upon another pretext, and we shortly expect his answer. If it be indifferent or neutral, and not directly contrary, than it is thought (and 1621. I will do my best endeavour) that the Emperor shall declare himself for the Bavarian, without any further delay; especially for that the Earl of Ognate hath declared that the king of Spain would consent that the Electorship should be conferred upon the Bavarian, if the Saxon did not oppose. But for that we fear the obstinacy of the Count of Ognate (although the Saxon should not oppose) we have sent Father HIACINTHUS secretly into Spain to oppose himself against the actions of OGNATE and the Baron of Digby the English Ambassador, who is to go to that Court. It would much please the Spaniards, both to curb the power of the Bavarian, and to have the lower Palatinate at their command, in regard of the Belgick-warres: As for our intentions, it is all one whether he or any other Catholic Prince hath them. And although it may be doubled, that this may breed some tumults in the Empire; yet, matters standing as they do, there is not cause of fear: for as for the Catholics, BAVARIA (to do his own business) will easily pacify most of them, being Clergy men. The Caluinists are disbanded; neither can they hope for any succours from France or Holland, being in both places in danger of their own Estates. The Lutherans or Neuteralls have neither force nor courage: so as I think the Spaniards have a great opportunity to attain to their wished end: without the which, I cannot persuade myself, that they will ever suffer the Bavarian to obtain any thing; notwithstanding that marquis SPINOLA the last year at Mentz in the presence of the Cardinal of Z●…ern did affirm that the Catholic King did not affect the investiture of the lower Palatinat, which the Earl of Ognate did seek to procure him. But to conclude, it is thought the Spaniards (upon whom all depends) will give their consents upon these four conditions: First, that the Bavarian should restore the upper Austria. Secondly, that in regard of his expenses, he should have the Electorshippe, with the upper Palatinate; whose revenues did exceed his charges. Thirdly, that the Spaniard should have the lower Palatinate, and that the Bavarian should renounce all pretensions which he might have to that State in regard of the Electorship. Fourthly, that there should be an offensive and defensive league made betwixt the Catholic league, his Imperial Majesty and the King of Spain, against any that should oppose themselves. Thus I have set down the contents of several Letters touching the transferring of the Electorship to the Duke of Bavaria: for confirmation whereof the Reader may observe the events which have succeeded. After the taking of Pilsen, Ealkenaw and Elnbogen; MANDSFELD, having no more places of retreat in Bohemia, lodged, with his Troops, in the upper Palatinate; where, having joined with the forces of the two Dukes of Saxony and Weymar, he made an Army of eighteen thousand men, which he led into the Bishopric of Aichstat, and the Country of the Lantzgrave of Luchtenbourg. The Emperor, being advertized hereof, gave charge to the Baron of Tilly, to stop MANDSFELD'S courses: Also JAMES BAWER, of Essenet, General of the Bishop of Virsbourg's Troops, being joined with Tilly, they went to encounter MANDSFELD; who was camped and enrrenched at Verdha●…s: From whence he made incursions upon the Frontiers of Bohemia. TILLY and BAWER, having imbattailed their Army right over against his, seized upon a neighbouring Hill, and Wood; where they had many skirmishes together. Upon the conjunction of TILLY'S and BAWER'S Troops; MANDSFELD, as Commissary to the Elector Palatine in Bohemia, published a declaration against the Bishop of Virsbourg, and the Dean and Chapter of Bamberg, to this effect: Seeing it is well known unto all men, that the Troops of the Bishop of Versbourg were Mansfelds' Letters to the Bishop of Versbourg. joined with the Duke of Bavaria's, in the wars of Bohemia; and that they do give us occasion enough (as Commissary to the King of Bohemia) to pursue the said Bishop and Chapter by Arms, according to the Talion Law; I thought it better to use grace and clemency, than force, and to sand them a Trumpet to advertise them to call back their Troops from Bohemia, and to admonish and enjoin them not to meddle with secular affairs, but contain themselves within the bounds of their Ecclesiastical function: Which if they do, they shall have me their friend; otherwise they must expect that I will bring Fire and Sword into their Countries. MANSFELD, having intelligence that the Imperialists meant to force him in his Camp, resolved to prevent them, and to charge them in their lodgings, the 14 of julie: He began first with Heseldorf; where the horsemen salied forth with a hundred and fifty Musketier●… Germane, to defend the approaches: but the Mans●…eldians charged them with such fury, that they slew many, and put the rest to flight. Some of their chief commanders were taken prisoners in the Town; which they spoilt and burnt: From thence they went to their second lodging, 1621. which was at Saint CATHERINES; the entry whereof was more difficult by reason of fens and ditches which they were to pass, the bridges being also broken: In this place were five Mansfeld takes ●…dgingss from 〈◊〉 Imperials. hundred Soldiers: who, seeing themselves so resolutely set upon, abandoned the same, to retire themselves into a Wood; where twelve thousand of MAFDSFELD'S Soldiers pursued them so speedily; as, having no leisure to recollect themselves, they cast away their Arms and fled: in which flight, there were 300 slain, and many taken prisoners, with much cattles which they carried to their Camp. TILLY and BAWER, seeking to repair this disgrace, put all their troops in battle, on the sixteenth of july, with an intent to charge him; which, MANDSFELD finding, he did the like as well as he could in those mountainous places, having twenty Cornets of Horse, and fifty companies of foot: This day was spent in skirmishes from eight of the clock in the morning, until nine at night: but MANDSFELD, having four field-pieces, shot directly upon the Imperialists; who received a fare greater loss than the Mansfeldians, and yet they came not to a general battle: Some writ that MANSERLD lost but 100 men, and the Imperialists 1000, six Captains, and their General BAWER who was shot in the head, being afterwards General Bawer 〈◊〉. embalmed at Egra. As they conducted his body to Virsbourg with a small train, they were charged by the garrison of VALEXEN, who took all his baggage and thirty three horse. Afterwards, his body (at the request of the Bishop of Bamber) was delivered, and solemnly interred at Virsbourg with a military pomp. Upon the nineteenth of july, some of MANSFELD'S Army took a convoy which went to the Imperials; in which there was a good quantity of powder and other munition, with many carts loaden with wine, and sixty horse. On the first of August the two Armies stood in battle one against another, from noon till eight of the clock at night. General TILLY did what he might to draw the Mansfeldians to a general combat: but there was nothing but light skirmishes with many cannon shot; in which the Imperials had the better. Some writ, that a bullet of five and twenty pound weight fell so near unto Count MANSFELD (who was with two Princes of Weimar and the Earl of Solms) that it covered his horse with dust. The Emperor, being advertized of the war which MANDSFELD made in the upper Palatinate, caused a second Edict of Proscription to be published against him; containing, That it was well known to all the World, how that his Predecessor the Emperor MATHIAS A second Prescription against Mansfeld, had Proscribed ERNEST, bastard of MANSFELD for his felonies and crimes; and that the said MANSFELD, continuing his disobedience, threatened to put the Countries and Princes of the Empire (which had continued faithful in their obedience unto his Imperial Majesty) to Fire and Sword. That some Princes and States, against the constitutions of the Empire, favoured him and gave him passage through their territories; induced thereunto by the Palatine, an apparent enemy to his Imperial Majesty, and by him also Proscribed: Which Palatine, the said MANDSFELD, by his last Mandates, did still term King of Bohemia. That his Imperial Majesty had well hoped that hereafter the said MANDSFELD should not find any one to favour and protect him, fearing the punishment inflicted by the constitutions of the Empire; which had not succeeded. That to show his natural clemency, he thought good again to advertise all the Princes, States, and members of the Empire; that upon the Penalties contained in the said constitutions, they should not give any passage through their Territories to the said MANSERLD nor his soldiers. As for the Captains, Officers and Soldiers, which followed the said MANSFELD; that they should abandon him upon pain (for such as were subjects to the Empire) of the loss of all their dignities, privileges and immunities, and for those which were strangers, upon loss of life. The Town of Nuremberg having submitted itself to the Emperor's obedience (as hath been formerly said) would not suffer any soldiers to be levied, nor go out of the Town, before they ●…oiless committed by Mandseld about Nuembourg. had taken a new oath to the Duke of Bavaria in the name of his Imperial Majesty. Moreover, the Imperial Ban against MANSFELD had been proclaimed there; whereat he was wonderfully incensed: and, to take revenge, he went into the Territories of the City near unto it with 500 horse and 1000 musketeers on horseback; who, dispersing themselves round about it, and upon all the approaches, committed infinite spoils. The Duke of Bavaria was entreated by the Bishops of Virsbourg, Bamberg, and other States of the Empire, to free them from the oppression of MANSFELD'S incursions and spoils: whereupon, leaving his instruments of music (which is his greatest delight) he gave the Rendez-vous for all his troops, his cannon and munition, at Straubin, to march into the upper Palatinate. 1621. MANDSFELD (as we have formerly related) being encamped with his Army in the upper Palatinate, they were not only much afflicted with pestilent diseases, by reason of the dead carcases both of men and cattles, but the Bavarians did also much annoyed them with their ordinance and daily assaults. To repair which loss he gave money to certain Captains to levy new soldiers, and he took 4000 men, who hiding their matches under their hats, marched all night to surprise the Bavarians in their Camp: but it happened that being near, a Frenchman by chance discharged a piece, which made the whole Camp cry To Arms; so as this attempt being made void, he resolved to fire a wood which the Bavarians held, spreading great store of powder on the one side with pitch barrels burning: but there suddenly fell so great a shower of rain as it took no effect. The Duke of Bavaria, having prepared all things ready to march into the uper Palatinate, he parted from Munch or Munich on the 13 of july: and having past the river of Dannow and joined with TILLY his Lieutenant, he mustered his Army; in which were six and twenty thousand men. What his exploits were, and how MANDSFELD left the upper Palatinate you shall soon hear. In the month of May, the soldiers which remained in the Palatinate for the Elector, fell upon certain Towns and villages belonging to the Bishop of Spire: as Forced, Hochdorf, Niderkich, Stein surprised by the Spaniard Hamlot and others: and the twenty two of August following, Don GONZALES de Cordua, General for the Spaniard, put in execution an enterprise which he had, upon the Castle and Tower of Stein, a strong place, situated in a marish ground betwixt Worms and Germensheim; whereas fifteen Peasants which kept it were all slain. This Castle being one of the keys of the Palatinate on that side, the Army which was left for the guard of the Palatinate with fifteen hundred Boors, ran presently thither to recover it if they might: but they found that the Spaniard had fortified it well with a good garrison and munition. At their first approach they recovered a Ravelin: but most of them being forced to stand up to the waste in water, and so to fight with the enemy, being also beaten by three cannon which the Spaniard had planted on the other side of the Rhine, they were after three days forced to raise their siege, having lost 300 men, and 70 hurt. What number of Spaniards were slain is uncertain: there were many hurt in the Castle, which they carried away with them: and since, they have so fortified this place, that they have made it a receipt of contribution; to the which they have made the towns of Northeim, Wartemhem and Byblisc with their territories, subject. The Duke of Bavaria being entered with his Army into the upper Palatinate, hearing that MANDSFELD received most of his victual and refreshing from Amberg; meaning to deprive The Duke of Bavaria 〈◊〉 Chamb. them of those helps and to cut off that passage, he surprised certain rich monasteries upon the way, and went to besiege Chamb, which he summoned to yield by his trumpet. The Governor made answer he had no commandment from them of Amberg to yield; whereupon he battered it with four Cannon: whereupon the Governor mistrusting his forces began to persuade his soldiers, that it were better to depart with their lives then to endure the discommodities of a siege and prevail nothing; so as in the end they made their composition, and departed with Arms and baggage, and joined themselves to MANDSFELD with three companies of foot and two of horse. Having taken this Town, the Duke went on and made himself master of diverse others. In the mean time MANDSFELD having intercepted a messenger with Letters, whereby the Duke advertised the Lantzgrave of Luchtemberg that his intent was to sand certain troops of Bavarians to cut off MANDSFELD'S passage; hereupon The Lantzgrave of Luchtemberg taken by Mandsfield. sending some forces to Sfremds, he forced the Town and took the Lantzgrave in it; whom he brought to Amberg. The Noblemen and States of the upper Palatinate, seeing that they received more loss and prejudice from the Mansfeldian soldiers, who should have defended them, then from the Bavarians; having received monitorial Letters from the Duke, that they should abandon MANDSFELD, who would ruin their country, they resolved to leave him and to submit themselves unto the Duke; with this Proviso, that he should not altar any thing in point of religion nor policy. MANDSFELD knowing the resolution with the States of the uper Palatinate had taken, and seeing that his passage would be cut off by the Bavarians, and that he should find little means to relieve his Army: to avoid this danger, being pressed by a Potent adversary and in want both of money to pay his soldiers and of other means to relieve them, he made offer to submit himself to the Emperor's obedience, promising to serve him with his Army, so as he 1621. might receive a certain sum of money to give them content; whereupon, having received Mansfeld offe●…eth to submit ●…self to the Emperor. part, he delivered up his fortification at Verdhause (which he could no longer keep) to the Bavarians. This treaty of MANDSFELD hath been diversely censured. Some have thought that he did it in policy, only to entertain time and to find means to slip down into the lower Palatinate. Others affirm, that he treated seriously being in great wants; That his soldiers pressed him for money and were ready to mutiny, which might have been dangerous to his person; and that the Lord DIGBY his Majesty's Ambassador, having sent to the Duke of Bavaria, and finding no hope of any suspension of Arms, came by MANSFELD; with whom he had conference, putting him in mind of his oath to the Elector Palatine, chosen King of Bohemia, of the honour which he had formerly gotten by Arms, the which would now be quite blemished by this act of infidelity; persuading him to be constant, and withal supplying him with a good sum of money to give his soldiers some content: whereupon, he forbore to conclude the Treaty, until he had gotten a passage with his forces into the lower Palatinate. Being freed from this danger, he broke off the Treaty, and declared himself an enemy to the Bavarian Ambassadors who had still followed his Camp. This news did frustrate their joy at Prague which they had conceived for MANSFELD'S reduction to the Emperor. The Spaniards in the lower Palatinate under the command of GONZALES de Cordua, going out of Steim, and seeing that Sir HORATIO VERE had fortified Heidelberg, Manheim and Frankendale, with strong garrisons, went and took most of the Towns towards the mountains, and then returned to Luthra a Town not well prepared to endure a siege, nor the citizens enured to labour and danger: wherefore, the Governor and his garrison being let out at the upper port, they received-in troops of Spaniards. The truce between the Spaniard and the States of the united Provinces being now ended, marquis SPINOLA came down with a powerful Army, and lay near unto weasel, sending Count HENRY of Vandenberg to invest JULIERS a Fee of the Empire, disputed by the marquis of Brandenburg and the Duke of Nuburg, as heirs to the Duke of Cleves; but now held by the united States, as Cleves is by the Spaniard. There was a strong garrison in the Town; who, seeing themselves besieged, made a great salie on the four and twentith of September, and took their nearest Trenches in despite of the Spaniard. In the mean time there grew a great Fire in the Camp, many Tents were burnt, and the besieged annoyed them much with their Cannon; and, making a new salie, they spoilt Count HENRY'S quarter, carrying what they got into the Town. The Earl following them with most of his house, the Townsmen lost a Captain with thirty six horsemen; which, being slain, they had leave the next day to bury them. In the mean time, the Spaniards in the lower Palatinate took the strong Castle of Landstule; which having fortified with a great garrison and munition, they turned their forces to Frankendale, under GONZALES de Cordua's command; they being, as some writ, twelve or thirteen thousand men: They pitched their Camp on the twenty seventh of September, towards Spire and Manheim, and fortified themselves both against the besieged, or any foreign Enemy; which done, they began to plant their Ordinance. This Town hath been built of late years by Walloons, which were fled out of the low Countries for Religion, during the time of the Duke of Alu●…, when as the Elector Palatine protected them with their families, and gave them leave to build and fortify it, being before of no import. Upon the approach of the Spanish Army, the Town being under the command of the English, Captain BURROWS being Governor; Captain FAIRFAX, a gallant Gentleman, who was there slain, and buried in the bed of honour, having command of the outworks of the Town, encouraged his Soldiers, telling them that the Town was a part of the King of England's daughter's jointure; and the wars they undertaken were for two reasons: first, for that being Protestant's the Papists came to assault them, and to take the place; and, secondly, they were sent to defend her right, which was the place whereon they stood; and that for his part he would not loose one foot whilst he breathed, neither did he doubt but they would do the like: whereat they all protested they would die in her defence. The enemy, having made his trenches and fortifications, came late in the evening being very dark, and surprised a sentinel: who, being amazed, cast away his Arms and fled; and, mistaking the out-work from which he was sent, ran to the half Moon which lay under the Town-wals. They within the outworks, having no advertisement of the enemy's approach, were for the most part slain, being 1621. sixty English and Dutch. Captain FAIRFAX, then Sergeant mayor, hearing the alarm, came to the half Moon, takes a pike, asked what Gentlemen would go with him; and being in haste, went without his corslet with his pike and sword only, and entered the trenches, which he found strongly guarded by the enemy; where he charged and hurt divers: but, the night being exceeding dark, he was thrust through his buff coat into the left side, and was carried off by one of his Followers; of which wound he was soon cured. The enemy played upon the Town with his cannon: and on the thirtieth of September the besieged made a salie, overthrew their trenches, and had taken four pieces of ordinance if they had been assisted by any horse: but they were forced to retire. They continued their battery; but did not annoyed the Town, shooting still over it: whereof being advertised by two boys which went out to gather grapes, they planted their cannon lower, and did much annoyed their houses; so as they hoped it would so terrify the Townsmen, that they would soon yield. The enemy, having taken the out-work, approached near to the half Moon where the English lay; whither Captain FAIRFAX came, being somewhat recovered: where encouraging the soldiers, and offering to make a musket shot into the enemy's work, he had his thigh broken with a demi-cannon; wherewith falling down, he cried, Gentlemen, I have lost my leg: yet be not dismayed, but fight like brave Englishmen; for, my heart shall be always with you. Whereupon, he was carried away, and died that night, and was buried with an honourable funeral pomp, to the great grief of the soldiers and the Burghers of the Town: who, to show their love, erected a monument in remembrance of so worthy a soldier. The enemy (seeing he could prevail nothing by force nor by his cannon) upon the ninth of November began to shoot fiery bullets into the Town: but the Besieged with their wives and children used such diligence to quench the fire, that it proved fruitless. The same night they made an asault upon the Port of Spire: but it took no effect, being repulsed by the Besieged. The next day there fell a great rain, which was very prejudicial to the Spaniard: for, their trenches being made in a moist ground, and grown dry for want of water, their fortifications fell, and their trenches were full of water. In the mean time, Count MANSFELD came out C. Mansfeld resolves to relieve Frankendale. of the upper Palatinate with his forces and ten pieces of ordinance, towards Nuremberg; where hearing that the Spaniards had besieged Frankendale, he marched on speedily with his forces to relieve it. On the thirteenth of October the Spaniard sent a Trumpet to the Town to require them to yield in the Emperor's name, with promise that the Burgesses should enjoy their liberties with free exercise of religion; and that the soldiers should departed with their colours fleeing, their Arms and all their baggage: but they had an answer sent them from Captain BORROW●…S' the Governor, that the Town was not his, but had charge from General VERE to keep it, and that they must bring his consent from Manheim; that he could not trust their promises, having seen the contrary by the example of others. The Trumpet having received this answer, with many threats he returned to the enemy, who renewed his battery against the Town. The same night the Besieged heard a great noise of horses in the wood, nothing suspecting the Spaniards rising, who had so lately summoned them to yield: but they being advertised that Count MANSFELD and General VERE made haste to raise the siege, departed suddenly, leaving Frankendale rescued. many sick and wounded, with much Arms and munition behind them. At the break of day the English which guarded the outworks went into their Camp, where they found some Italians; whom they spared for that they were not Spaniards. The Spaniards being gone towards Worms, the Besieged threw down their fortifications and trenches. The Citizens were very resolute to defend the Town, sparing neither cost nor labour. Of the Spaniards there were slain 3000, by the report of some prisoners. The Besieged lost 109 soldiers: among which were Captain FAIRFAX and his brother, and the brother of the Governor BURROWS. During this siege of Frankendale, Don GONZALES drew out some of his forces to break off the Bridge at Manheim. Sir HORATIO VERE the General (who was never daunted at the sight of any enemy) commanded his men to come into the out-work before the bridge, and there to be quiet till the enemy's approach: who coming on with a great resolution, they gave them such a volley of shot, that they were forced to retire with the loss of many; yet being not daunted heerwith, they came to a second assault, where they were entertained in the like manner, and with as great loss: so as, despairing of any success, they retired, casting most of their slain men into the river of Rhine. Count MANDSFELD, being ignorant of the raising of the siege at Frankendale, marched over the bridge at Manheim with 108 companies of foot, 1621. 56 of horse, and four pieces, to relieve the Besieged; with whom joined General VERE, MERVIUS Governer of Heidelberg, OBEMTRAUD, and others with their forces. The Citizens of Frankendale gave to MANDSFELD 12000 florins for raising of their siege, to the end he might give some content to his soldiers. He followed the Spaniards towards Steim: but finding them well fortified, and not able to attempt any thing without danger, he dismissed General VERE and the other Commanders; marching himself with his army into the Bishopric of Spire, to get what he could. The Duke of Bavaria, seeing himself circumvented by Count MANSFELD (having taken an oath from them of Amberg, Newmark, and others) sent 47 Troops of horse and 85 companies Tilly sent into the lower Palatinate. of foot, under the command of General TILLY, to follow him into the lower Palatinate: whereof some Dutchmen ran away, others fell to robbing and spoiling without respect of friend or foe. At his first coming into the Palatinate, he took many places towards the Mountain: and, drawing near to Heidelberg, he sent Letters unto them; signifying, that he had commission from his Imperial Majesty and the Duke of Bavaria, to reduce the lower Palatinate to the Emperor's obedience; to the which end he had brought an Army: but before he would proceed to force, he would admonish and require them not to oppose themselves in so just a cause, whereby they should draw ruin upon themselves and the whole Province; that he expected a kind answer from them, hoping that they would willingly submit themselves to the Emperor's command; whereby he promised them all safety and good usage, and that they should receive no wrong from the soldiers, but should be defended like to the subjects of the upper Palatinate: but if they should do otherwise, and not obey the Emperor's commandment, he would join his forces with Don CORDVA, Lieutenant General of the Spaniards, and subdue them by force. The Citizens of Heidelberg made answer to these Letters, that they were much grieved to receive them by night by a Trumpet; that it was not in their power, neither could they by their oath resign a government to another which was committed unto them by the Magistrate: wherefore they did hope, that he would excuse them if they did not satisfy his desire; that they would speedily advertise their Magistrate thereof, and expect his answer: in the mean time they did hope, that he would not attempt any thing by force. This answer, being given by the Counsellors of Heidelberg, was not pleasing to the Governors, who, staying it, sent another to TILLY after this manner: that they had received his Letters which were sent by night contrary to the discipline of war, and seen with admiration what he desired from the Counsellors of Heidelberg; that the government was committed to them, but referred to them by General VERE their Commander; that they could not gratify him, nor dispose of any thing in so difficult a business without his consent, especially for that the whole Electorship was committed to General VERE, and the City of Heidelberg to their guard: the which they resolved to defend to their last gasp; that if he or any other desired to try their valour, they could not hinder it: but he might come and see whether there were less worth in the soldiers, than in the garrison of Frankendale. The Elector of Saxony, coming to Preslaw to receive the oath of allegiance in the Emperor's name from the Princes and States in Silesia, was received with great pomp, and brought into The Elector of Saxony comes to Preslaw to receive an oath of the Silesians. the City the 22 of October by the Princes of Lignits and Munsterberg. The next day, the Princes and States being assembled in the Castle, he caused the Emperor's proposition to be read unto them; whereby he let them understand, that his Majesty was glad the Princes and States of Silesia had so willingly come to that provincial assembly; neither could any thing have been more pleasing to him than to have been present there himself: but being diverted by many affairs of importance, he had committed that business to the Elector of Saxony to represent his person; the which, for his obedience towards his Majesty, and his love to the Princes and States of Silesia, he would not refuse. He wished them as much happiness as they had enjoyed in the time of his Predecessors: and seeing the Provinces were now settled in peace by the grace of God and his great care, he hoped they would continued constant, and give him aid to repel his barbarous enemies: to which end he desired a speedy contribution of 500000 dollars, for that many other poorer Provinces, and which had been much exhausted, had dealt bountifully; that they knew how much it concerned them to have the bounds of Hungary preserved. To the which end both their Ancestors and the States of Bohemia had spent much: and now the danger was very great: for defence whereof, the Emperor required 100000 dollars yearly for 6 years. As for the tribute or excise of beer for the maintenance of the Court, he desired they would 1621. continued it as they formerly had done, his treasure being exhausted by reason of civil wars. And for the removing of all occasions of war in that Province, he advised them not to entertain any more soldiers than were fit to defend their Frontiers, and to sand the rest against the Turk with a yearly contribution. The next day the Elector coming to the Castle, the Princes, States and Citizens, took a new oath to the Emperor. During this Assembly, the marquis of jagerndorf sent two Trumpets unto them, with Letters to persuade them not to take an oath to the Emperor, but to continued constant in the league The marquis dissuading from the oath. and faith which they had once sworn to FREDERICK their King, and not to hasten the ruin of their Country by an unnecessary defection: they could not be ignorant how grievous it would be to them who knew his good disposition, having defended Silesia from hostile invasions. And being bound to satisfy God and the league they had sworn, he persuaded them to sand their Deputies to BETHLIN GABOR, and to himself as Commissary to the King of Bohemia, within 14 days with a declaration of their intents. But if any thing happened to the contrary, he should be very much grieved for the ruin of the Country, but the cause should be imputed to them who had been the motives of these combustions by their ambition and covetise. Notwithstanding these threatening Letters, the Princes and States of Silesia made answer to Resolution of the States of Silesia. the Emperor's proposition, that they were ready to pay 400000 Imperials or dollars at certain days; that they would contribute 70000 dollars yearly during the space of six years for the defence of the Frontiers of Hungary: for the excise of beer they were content to supply his Majesty for ten years, and for their auxiliary forces according to the present estate of the Country. This answer being pleasing to the Elector Palatine, a general peace was proclaimed in Silesia. CHRISTIAN, Duke of Brunswick, and Bishop of Halberstad, cosin-germane to the Queen of Bohemia, having a desire to relieve the Palatinate, gathered what forces he could together in Brunswick goes into the Palatinate. the Lowe-countries, and on the 18 of October departed from Emericq with his Army. Having sent 2600 foot and 300 horse before into the territories of Minden, Hildesheim and Brunswick, they committed great spoils: and being commanded from the Bishop of Halberstats brother, the Duke of Luneburg, and the Administrator of Magdeburg, to remove their Camp, they would not obey; so as they were suddenly set upon by the soldiers of the Country, and most of them slain, losing their Arms and Ensigns. The Duke was not daunted for this misfortune, but continued his resolution to go into the Palatinat with thirteen companies of foot and five hundred horse. MAURICE, Lantzgrave of Hesse, at this time invaded the jurisdiction of the Earls of Waldec, for that they had demanded their fees from the Emperor, and not from him; as also for the ancient contentions for the City of Corbac. He took the Castle of Esingbourg, drove away the Governor, and manned it with a good garrison, leaving all to the spoil of the soldiers; who tare in pieces all their Registres, Letters, Seals and Documents which did concern Mentz, Cullen, Patterborn and Hesse, which had been kept there for many years in an original form. From thence he went to other Castles, Cities and Towns, making them subject to him. He called together the Knights and other States of Corbac; letting them understand, that the Earls of Waldec had lost their fee by their own fault: wherefore they should not assist them against the jurisdictions of Corbac and Hesse, but join with his Officers. The Earls in the mean time fled to some places of safety; one of them posting to the Emperor to acquaint him with the whole business. In the Palatinate, TILLY with his Bavarian Army made havoc in the mountaine-Countries, spoiling all places; so as the Inhabitants were forced to flee away for extreme want and penury. MANDSFELD committed no less spoil on this side of the river of Rhine in the Bishop of Spire's Country, causing the Town of Brugsel to redeem itself for a great sum of money. TILLY and CORDOVA with their joint forces might easily have relieved it: but there was some distaste between them; so as he had good means to escape them: and on the thirteenth of November, passing the bridge at Manheim, he besieged Didesheim, and took it, finding in it a great booty; committing the guard thereof unto the Duke of Lavenbourg of Saxony: after which he took the Town and Castle of Kerchweil; where the Captain and garrison followed his colours. Afterwards he seized upon Lawterbourg, which was very rich, because those which inhabited the Country had brought their wealth into it; all which he gave to the soldiers for spoil. Planting his Camp there, he caused 6000 foot and 16 companies of horse to be levied. 1621. The Spaniards and the Bavarians on the 21 of November, being 18000 men, marched towards Lavenbourg to recover that Town: to relieve which, MANSFELD posted thither with four pieces of ordinance; but seeing the Spaniards lodged upon advantage, he retired: after which the Town yielded. After Count MANSFELD'S departure out of the upper Palatinat, though the garrison of Tabor could hope for no relief, yet they refused to yield unto Don BALTHAZAR; protesting, that they would defend it to the last gasp. Having planted his cannon, he sought by all means to make a breach. The thirteenth of October, the Besieged endured an assault the space of three hours: they repulsed the Imperials with great loss, there being three Captains and many soldiers slain, and 200 sore wounded. They had resolved to defend it till S. MARTIN'S day, and to expect succours if happily any might come; as appeared by their Letters intercepted to Count MANSFELD. The day aforesaid being comn, and no succours appearing, the garrison being in great want both of wood and salt, and the Governor a little before dead, they did capitulate, and left the Town on the 18 of November, going out with their colours fleeing. Arms and baggage: which the Imperials manned with a strong garrison, the Citizens redeeming themselves from spoil for a sum of money: but yet they were not suffered to go out of the Town. The Noblemen of Bohemia which had fled thither, and continued there during the siege, were apprehended and put in prison. CHRISTIAN the younger, Prince of Anhalt, who had been hitherto kept prisoner at Newstad, Christian the younger, Prince of Anhalt, reconciled to the Emperor. after many intercessions was brought to Vienna the 26 of November with a convoy of fifty horse. He was lodged in an Inn, and had free liberty to walk up and down the City. The 12 of December he was admitted to the Emperor's presence, and humbly craved pardon for his offence; the which he obtained after some repetition made by the Vicechancellor. Some months before, CHRISTIAN the elder, Prince of Anhalt, sued to the Emperor for pardon, writing Letters to this sense: The mercy which his Majesty had showed to offenders against him in this Bohemian war, had made him (plunged in great miseries) to flee to his Imperial Majesty, hoping that the gate Christian the elder, Prince of Anhalt, craves pardon of the Emperor. of grace should not be shut against him; especially for that he had this more peculiar than the rest, having been neither the author nor beginner of these combustions, but was lately drawn into them: neither was he absolutely subject to his Majesty as a great number of others, but mediately as a Prince of the Empire; neither was he at that time tied to him by oath; that he could truly affirm, he came not to those wars with any bad intent to his Majesty, being his supreme Magistrate: but the care and love to religion which the Bohemians so much complained would be oppressed, and the faith which he had vowed for many years to the Elector Palatine, had engaged him in these miseries; neither had he ever any will to oppose himself against CAESAR, but only to prevent the falling of those countries into any stranger's hands, and to see the combustions pacified by some honest Treaty: to which end he had used many grave admonitions. But, all hope of composition being taken away, he could do no less than become the General of an Army; preventing as much as in him lay all unnecessary devastations and spoils, and preferring the recovery of peace and public safety before the discommodities of war. In the end finding that God had not only given CAESAR victory, but made it known to the world that he would not have religion always defended by the sword, he had speedily laid down Arms, and persuaded the Palatine to make his composition, although in show he had great means to renew the war. He would not deny, but the love of the reformed religion and of the Elector Palatine had drawn him into this error: yet it was true, no man lived without fault and never erred; God only was free from sin, it was not given to men. It was common for all men to err: if he in like manner had failed, he humbly besought his Imperial Majesty to cover his error with the cloak of his mercy and clemency, and to pardon all his offences, to receive him and his again into favour, and restore his captive son to liberty and his former dignity; which should be an honour to his Majesty, and bind him for so great a favour to do him perpetual service. The 21 of Novemb. the Spaniards (who lay claim to any thing lying fit for them) attempted the strong Castle of Reinsfeld in the Earldom of Catenelnbogen; which was out of the Palatinate, nor depended thereon, meaning to surprise it by night, sending certain companies of men with a guide who knew all the passages, & brought them by night to their fortifications on the other side of the Castle: which having surprised, and discharged some pieces, they required them in the Emperors and the King of Spain's name to yield: the Garrison, being moved at this sudden surprise and importunate demand, fell to Arms; and so plied the Spaniard with shot and wild 1621. fire, as they forced them to abandon the place which they had taken, and to retire. The Spaniard sought to excuse the fact, upon a pretence of the Duke of Brunswicks coming, desiring only to hold this Castle for a time, to the end they might stop his passage through Hassia. CHRISTIAN, Duke of Brunswick, Bishop of Halbarstad, passed on the eighteenth of November Brunswick spoils the Bishop Mentz country. through Hassia, into the Elector of Mentz Country; where he took Anenbourg by a stratagem. Whilst that the Captain treated with some Officers for the lodging of his Troops, certain soldiers going before with a guide, who knew the place, crept up a Hill, and got into the Castle by an old Privy which was ruined: Being in possession thereof and giving a sign to some horsemen which were near, they left their horses and went up with their pieces. The Townsmen, hereupon, went to the walls to defend themselves; but BRVNSWICK'S forces, sallying out of the Castle, took the Town; whereupon they fled, leaving a great booty unto the Enemy. After which they took Newstad, with all that tract, with some Towns belonging to the Lantzgrave of Darmstat, and other Nobleman's Castles in the valley of Busec, spoiling the Country thereabout. In the mean time LEWES of Hassia, Lantzgrave of Darmestat, sent his Deputies to the Datmstat send●… to Brunswick. Duke of Brunswick; signifying, that whereas he and the Elector of Mentz, had received great spoils by the passage of Soldiers; his Imperial Majesty had expressly forbidden, that no soldier should be suffered to pass, upon the penalties prescribed by the Imperial constitutions; persuading him to forbear to appoint them any lodgings, and that he should return the same way he came. The Duke of Brunswick made answer, that he would willingly (as much as in him lay) His answer. forbear his Country; yet he was advertised that he took Arms to oppress his Soldiers: which he could not believe, having not deserved it; but if hereafter any wrong should be done unto them, he would revenge it by what means soever. Hereunto the Lantzgrave made answer, that he was glad he would neither do wrong to Lodowick of Hassia denies passage to Brunswick. him nor his; yet he understood, by faithful relation, that his soldiers had entered into diverse places of his jurisdiction, slain his subjects, and spoiled them of their goods: which fact he also understood he had detested, and therefore he entreated him to seek out the Authors, and punish them for examples sake. Touching his resolution and end, he would speak nothing. As for his passage, so it was, that the General of the Burgundian Army, in the Palatinate, hearing that the Baron Dona was marching up with some troops against the Emperor, had entreated him and other Princes to be careful that no Army, opposite to the Emperor, should pass by the Rivers of Main and Rhine; whereby it may be easily gathered, that he makes himself a partaker of the wars which should give passage to strange Soldiers, and therefore he did advice DONNA, that he should not molest him in his passage; the which he easily obtained. The like cause he had now for this admonition, neither did he hope that he would willingly offer any violence to his Country: And whereas he had with the neighbour Electors and Princes, levied some Soldiers to prevent the imminent dangers which might ensue; he hoped he should be blamed no more than the Saxon Princes, who had denied passage to many. That the Spaniards and Bavarians, prepared themselves to meet him and stop his passage with all their forces, whereby his Countries might receive much spoil; the which he might easily prevent, if he would retire and leave those upper parts of the Rind: Wherhfore he entreated him that he would take the safest and most excusable way, and desist from his enterprise; That before he understood of his expedition, he had entered into treaty with the neighbour Electors and Princes, not to give passage to any Soldiers; wherefore he should not take this his declaration in ill part; wishing well to him and his whole family. That he meddled not with the affairs of the Palatinate, but sought only to stop the passage of Soldiers, which would be a prejudice to his Country. That he might turn his forces against the Enemy of Christendom, where he should reap more honour; for in these places he should but afflict his friends and innocent subjects. He entreated him therefore to change his mind and to return into the Lowe-countreys', and to free his territories from danger, not doubting but he would give more ear to his fatherly admonition (which honour he had once vouchsafed him) then to the persuasions of others which were not so well affected unto him. The young Duke of Brunswick expected another answer: but being moved therewith he wrote unto him like a soldier; that whereas he understood (beyond his expectation) that he with his subjects and other soldiers intended to stop his passage, he feared them not, nor the 1621. Spanish forces; but resolved to proceed in his resolution by the grace of God, notwithstanding any opposition: wherefore he should rest resolved, that if he or his soldiers should receive any wrong, both he and his posterity should repent it. Before the receipt of these Letters, the Lantzgrave had written unto MAURICE, Lantzgrave of Hesse, informing him how that he had advised the Duke of Brunswick to abandon those The Lanizgrave of Darmstats Letter to the Lantzgrave of Hesse. upper parts of the Rhine, and not to molest his subjects; which he seemed not to regard: it being therefore to be feared, that if he should continued in his resolution, and try the doubtful event of war, the seat of the war would be drawn into Hessia, and their Countries afflicted with all discommodities, he could not but entreat him to deal with the Duke of Brunswick, and to persuade him to departed; the which if he would effect, he would do his best endeavour to stay the Emperor's Troops, being ready to march into those parts against him: it being also necessary in these dangerous times that some agreement should be made between neighbour Princes, how passage should be allowed or denied, it agreeing both with the law of nature and of nations; and therefore he did hope, and likewise entreated him, if he should be any way pressed by the Bishop of Halberstat, or in danger, that he for their old contracts would come to secure him, as he would do for him in the like case. The Lantzgrave MAURICE made answer to these Letters, that whereas he entreated him to 'cause the Bishop of Halberstat to retire with his Army, thinking it to be in his power, he did Hi●… answer. not doubt, but he understood well by his former Letters, that those Troops were not only levied in the King of Bohemia's name, but by the States of the united Provinces, and sent to those parts: wherefore to set upon those soldiers, and thereby to offend such potent Princes, was not safe; that he was advertised, the Bishop was passing to another Territory; that he was unacquainted with his counsels, neither had he advertised him of his course; that it was not in his power to prescribe or command any thing to the Bishop of Halberstat in this action; that both they and all Hessia were bound by the duty of their fee unto the Palatine, of which see the said Lantzgrave LODOWICK was in possession: wherefore, as he desired not to meddle in the affairs of Bohemia against the Emperor, so he could not forget the oath he had taken to the Palatine. And whereas he required his aid against any force which should be offered him, according to the ancient contracts of neighbourhood and consanguinity, the like he expected from him to whom his innocency was well known; assuring himself, that if by the league of the Catholic Princes against the Protestant's he should be invaded, he would not fail to assist him according to the said Treaties: yet he could not forget, that of late he had been wronged by the Spaniards, who had attempted to surprise the Castle of Reinsfelt, and summoned them to yield in the Emperor and King of Spain's name; from the which they were forced to retire; for which attempt they had no colour, having never been wronged by him. He therefore entreated him to employ his credit with the Spanish soldiers touching this business, for that delays were dangerous; and that they would appoint a meeting for their Deputies. Many Letters passed betwixt them touching this action of the Duke of Brunswick; the which I must for brevity's sake omit. In the mean time, the Duke of Brunswick, hearing that the Baron of Anhalt approached with forces to stop his passage into the Palatinate, and to drive him out of those parts; being fortified with some troops from the Bishops of Mentz, Virsburg, and the Lantzgrave of Darmstat, and hearing that ANHALT approached near the valley of Busec, he attended him there in open field (the weather being exceeding cold, about the end of December) meaning to fight with him: but, finding his forces too weak, he retired, spoiled Anebourg, and burned Newstad, and then marched with his Troops towards Westphalia, as you shall hear. The Preachers and Ministers of God's word in Prague being taxed, that during the Bohemian combustions they had exceeded the bounds of modesty, and incensed the people by their The Ministers and Preachers of Bohemia banished. admonitions & preachings, and so made themselves partakers in these broils, were now banished the Kingdom of Bohemia, by an Edict made by the Prince of Lichtenstein, as followeth. For that the Ministers and Preachers of Bohemia had been the first sowers of sedition in the Kingdom, and published scandalous books both against the Emp. MATHIAS then living, and since against FERD. now Emperor, as also against his Lieutenants, Officers and Counsellors, and drawn the people into actual rebellion, and approved the election of a new King, labouring by all persuasions to have him crowned: for these & other causes specified at large, it was ordained, those seditious men (as they said) chief those who made the edict an. 1618., or approved the Coronation should be banished for ever out of Bohemia, the incorporated Provinces, and all the jurisdictions of the house of Austria, having deserved a far greater punishment; whereby they 1621. were commanded to departed out of Prague the day after the proclamation made, and within 8 days out of the Kingdom of Bohemia, the incorporated Provinces, and all the jurisdictions of the house of Austria, and never to return during their lives: yet they did them this favour, To suffer them to carry away their moveables; and, if they had any lands, they were suffered to cell them by their Deputies within three months. This clause was annexed, that If after the time prefixed any one was found in Prague or any place abovementioned, and convicted of these crimes, he should without all exception loose his head. The like punishment was inflicted upon all those who should entertain them, lodge them, or conceal them after the time prefixed. This Edict being proclaimed, there were fifty Ministers of the Hussits (whereof some were exceeding old) forced to abandon their Country. Count MANSFELD, hearing that Don GONZALES de Cordua (after the recovery of Did ●…heim) had put his Troops into garrison, marched with his Army towards Haguenaw; where Mansfeld takes Haguenaw. he forced from the Catholic Inhabitants and jews a contribution of above 100000 dollars: the which they were willing to pay, hoping to avoid any further oppression. But returning in 14 days with greater forces, he got entrance into the Town, the Citizens being unable to endure a siege; the which he fortified with a good garrison. Having got this Town without any loss of men, and thinking that others in Alsatia would follow their example, he sent a Trumpet to Elsaszabern, summoning them to yield: which they denying, he drew great store of munition from Haguenaw, and marched thither with his Army; which he battered with such fury, that he Mansfeld besiegeth Elsas●…abern. thought they would have yielded the first day: but, finding the Governor resolute to defend it, he continued his battery 12 days; having made a breach, but not fit for an assault. The Besieged defended themselves resolutely, and slew 300 of his men who had entered the suburbs, and in a salie took some prisoners, carrying some into the town, hanging others over the walls. The weather growing so exceeding cold that they were not able to endure it, having lost many brave men, there was a truce made for ten days at the intercession of the Duke of Lorraine; but with this condition, that they should choose whether they would pay him 100000 PHILIP'S dollars, or endure the extremity of a siege. The besieged accepted of this condition: but having in the mean time received a supply of 2000 shot, they sent an answer unto Count MANDSFELD (who was gone to Haguenaw) that they had bought powder and bullets with their money, and that he might return if he desired to smell of them. After which, they burned their suburbs, sent their wives and children into Lorraine, mured up all their Ports but one, and prepared themselves for a siege. Count MANSFELD, seeing the Town thus fortified, and that the continuance of a siege in so unseasonable and sharp a time of winter would be the ruin of his Army, lodged some of his Troops in those parts, and past with the rest into the further Alsatia and the hereditary Countries of the house of Austria: where he put all to fire and sword; and where he struck such terror into the Inhabitants, that they thought of nothing but flight, leaving much cattles in their stalls and stables: whereof some died for hunger, and others were carried away by the soldiers; which bred a great dearth of victual through all the Country, Colonel 〈◊〉 on the other side being in Brisgo, made an incursion to Brisac and Ensisheim; where he spoilt the Country, and put all the garrisons to the sword. Mean while, the Emperor sent out another proscription against Count MANDSFELD to this sense: that whereas ERNEST of Mandsfelt had some years before been proscribed by A Proscription against Count Mansfeld. the Emperor MATHIAS his Predecessor, for that he had presumed to take Arms, and been a chief actor in the Bohemian rebellion; hoping he would have acknowledged his fault, and yielded him due obedience as the supreme head of the Empire, to which dignity he had been advanced by the joint consent of all the Electors: yet it was known to all men how that MANSFELD had persisted still in his resolution, used all means to entertain the rebellion, giving all aid and assistance to the head thereof who was also a banished man, and after that memorable victory of Prague had not forborn to levy new soldiers, and to annoyed those who were faithful to him and the States of the Empire, especially upon the Rhine, with murders, spoils, burnings and grievous exactions; whereby it was easy to be conjectured, that he would never cease (although he had nothing of his own) to trouble the Empire during his life. Wherhfore to preserve his authority, to maintain peace in the Empire, and to free his faithful States from this his tyranny, he did admonish all Electors, Princes, and Commonwealths, to observe him carefully, and wheresoever they should take him to keep him safely, and not deliver him at any man's intercession without his command. He also commauded them not to lodge him, feed 1622 him or relieve him, and to call presently back their vassals and subjects which served under him, by public proclamation, upon pain of the loss of all their goods, privileges and dignities and the banishment of their wives and children. BETHLIN GABOR, in the mean time, having miserably spoiled Moravia, there being nothing left to relieve his soldiers, he retired into Hungary, where there was a treaty A treaty of peace between the Emperor & Bethlin Gabor of peace propounded between the Emperor's Deputies, BETHLIN'S, and the Hungarians at Nicholasbourg, upon these Articles following. That the Emperor should grant a general pardon to all the Hungarians. That BETHLIN should forbear to use the title of King. That he should restore the Crown of Hungary to the Emperor, restore the frontier forts, yield up the kingdom, and attempt nothing against the Emperor nor the house of Austria. On the other side, he should have from the Emperor the title of a Prince of the Empire with seven jurisdictions and the town of Cassovia during his life: he should also hold the Principalities of Oppell and Radiborne in Silesia; with the forts of Moncats, Toccay, Sagmary and Eschet for a certain sum of money, and 50 thousand florins yearly for the entertainment of his soldiers; but upon condition they should aswell be bound by oath to the Emperor as to BETHLIN. That the Crown of Hungary should be left in the Castle of Trinchin until the assembly of States. To the which, the composition for grievances and the admitting of Germans unto public offices should be referred. That matters concerning Religion should remain in the same estate, they were in, when the Emperor came unto the Crown. That the jesuites should be again received, but should enjoy no lands &c. The marquis of jagerndorf, being absent from his Camp during this winter season, the States of Silesia began to treat with his soldiers, persuading them to dissolve their Camp and The marquis of jagerndorfs Army dispersed by the Imperialists. be gone for a certain sum of money; but they requiring too great a sum persisted in their resolution. In the mean time there was so great a want of victuals among the Imperialists in Silesia, as they should be enforced to abandon their lodging or endure all extremities: whereupon the commanders resolved rather to die valiantly then to retire shamefully; so as on the sixteenth of january they marched away in an extreme cold night, with 30 companies of horse and foot, and four Cannon (besides six companies under Colonel BOD●…RHUS) and came early in the morning to Wagestad; where having seized upon all the approaches, they summoned the Town to yield: but the Governor making answer, the Town was given him to defend & not to yield; they began to batter it, the besieged answering them in the like manner. During which, they had news that two miles off, there lay certain of the marquis his soldiers: whom they suddenly surprised, disarmed, and bound them by oath, that for six months they should not carry Arms against the Emperor, the Elector of Saxony, the Prince of Bavaria, nor the States of Silesia, and so dismissed them. The next day the garrison of Wagestad yielded and took the like oath. After this they marched towards Odera, whereas there lay seven of the marquis his troops: but before their coming to the place, they had news by a trumpet, that if they might obtain the same conditions they would departed. The report hereof being brought to the Earl of Ortenbourg who lay at Tetschin with six companies of horse and foot, abandoning the place he departed. Other Captains and soldiers followed this example, so as in five days 40 companies of horse and foot were disarmed, and all those places except the Castle of Glats reduced under the Emperor's obedience. There had been a marriage treated of between the Emperor and ELINOR the Duke of Mantua's Sister, by JOHN VLRICK Baron of Egenberg. When as they had agreed upon the The Emperor con●…racted to the Duke of Mantua's Sister. conditions and dowry, the Duke of Mantua conducted her with 300 Noblemen and Gentlemen & a great band of soldiers from the monastery of Saint VRSULA to the Cathedral Church: where she receiving the keys of the City from the Bishop, as the Emperor's future wife, and the ceremonies being ended, on the 26 of january she began her journey with a great train, and passing through the Vene●…ian territories came to O●…ipont; whither also the Emperor came with a great Troop of Princes, Earls, Barons, and Noblemen: where finding his spouse the fourth of February, the marriage was afterwards solemnly celebrated with great Pomp. The King of Bohemia, remaining in the Low Countries, had resolved to return into the Palatinate, and to attempt if he might by force recover his inheritance & free his poor afflicted The King of Bohemia's Letters to the Protestant Princes. subjects from the cruelty of his insulting enemies. But before he undertaken his journey, he wrote Letters unto the Electours, to the Princes, and to the Protestant States, after this manner. 1622 He did not doubt (said he) but they all remembered what practices had been for many years against the Protestant Electours, Princes and States, and how faithfully his house had always opposed itself, and ever endeavoured to maintain the liberty of Religion in all assemblies of the Empire; his Father, Grandfather and great Grandfather, having nothing but the glory of God, and the public good, before their eyes; as did well appear by the Acts of the Empire. That he had followed their commendable example; and, as soon as he came to the Electorshippe, had directed all his counsels and actions to the same end, without respect of persons or private profit: Whereby he grew into great hatred of the adverse party, and so continued; until at last, the troubles falling out in Bohemia, and the alteration of that Crown, the States desiring and pressing it, he had accepted of that Kingdom; being conferred upon him with all their consents, coming into a void possession, not with any desire to reign; but moved with a friendly care to relieve so many Christians, and to free the Empire from greater dangers; and the rather, for that he was given to understand from many Protestant States, that these persecutions in Bohemia were for the common cause of Religion. And although there had been many things published in Print, whereby he had been taxed that he had not only engaged the Turk in these troubles of Bohemia; but also sought to expose the Roman Empire, in prey, unto him; yet he hoped no man should ever prove, nor would give credit unto those scandales. And so refuting those surmises, he said he would not then make any Apology of his innocency, but defer it unto another time; only he would make known unto the World, that as he never was ashamed of his actions; so after the taking of the Crown of Bohemia, he had always offered to submit himself to justice and right, and to yield due obedience unto the Emperor: yea, the Electors and Princes of the Empire, with other foreign Kings, for the settling of a good Peace in the Empire, had undertaken that he should accept of, and do any thing which he might with his dignity and Conscience; so as those places (which had been taken and spoiled in his Electoral Country) might be faithfully restored unto him. That it was never heard of, yea it was contrary to Law, and all the constitutions of the Empire, that without any citation or knowledge of the fact, any man should be proscribed, and the judgement begin by the Execution, invading his Countries, and oppressing his miserable subjects with hostile fury; having never imparted it to the Electors, and other States of the Empire, who have received much prejudice thereby. Seeing then the proceeding hath not been lawful; neither can the execution be just, nor restitution of the charges be demanded. Touching this execution, the capitulations were made with some few, who were partakers and advancers of these combustions for their own private profit; when fare lighter businesses were referred to Diets and Assemblies of the Electors: Neither should they make such haste to the execution, whereby the neighbour and innocent States might receive great loss, and many poor innocent creatures be ruined and slain. They to whom this execution was committed, might well have excused themselves; neither did he doubt but they would have done so, if they had not regarded their own profit and advancement, contrary to the treaty which they themselves had made; in the which the Palatinate was comprehended. To divert all these miseries, and to preserve the Empire from ruin, many Kings and Princes had interposed their Authority, but have not prevailed any thing; so as upon the treaty propounded by the Lord DSGBY although that the Emperor had yielded to a suspension of Arms in the upper and lower Palatinate, and MANDSFELD withdrawn his Army out of the confines of Bohemia; yet did the Duke of Bavaria invade and take the upper Palatinate, as may well appear by the Lord DIGBI●…S' Letters of complaint to the Emperor. At the same time CORDOVA, Lieutenant general of the Spanish Army (neglecting the Truce) took many places in the lower Palatinate, besieged frankendal (his wife's Dowry in case she survived him) and sought to force it. To excuse these attempts, nothing could be objected against him; but that in these grievous persecutions, he thought himself bound in Conscience to have a care of his afflicted Subjects, and had sought some help for them from other Princes, his Allies; the which being allowable by all divine and humane laws, could not be denied unto him; if there had been any excess committed by his men (whereof he was ignorant) they should have admonished him, and known if it had been done with his will and command. They sought a pretext, for that before these times, he had given Commission to the marquis of jagerndorfe, and the Count MANDSFELD, to do all things during his absence, in Bohemia and the incorporated Provinces, which they should think fit for his service; but no man that is impartial will miscons●…ue 1622 thereof. It is conformable to reason and equity, that a man should hold that which he thinks is his own, if he see that taken from him in another place, which is his without any controversy; until that having recovered it, all suits might be ended by some honest agreement. The vanity of those things which were objected against him might very well appear, for that they which laboured to persecute him, under a colour of settling Peace in the Empire, did so waste and spoil it in many places by war, as it would hardly be able to recover strength to make head against foreign Enemies; The affairs of Bohemia standing upon those terms, as there was no necessity to trouble the Peace of all Germany, it being only for a private pretention of the house of Austria, and might well have been determined in Bohemia: Touching those things which concern the Empire, they might have been compounded in a public Assembly of all the Electors and States with full knowledge of the cause. This hath not been done, but private treaties and leagues made and confirmed with hostile violence, and the fire of Bohemia dispersed over the noblest Provinces of the Empire; which were exposed to the ruins and devastations of Spanish Soldiers. The War being continued (to the end there might be some colour of justice) there followed a declaration of Proscription against him. He did not find, that since the making of the golden Bull, and the wholesome constitutions, as fundamental laws of the Empire, ever the like violent course was taken against the meanest State of the Empire; much less against an Elector, who had always submitted himself, and doth still, unto reason and equity. And it was worthy observation, that neglecting all the Emperor's promises, not to question any State of the Empire, which had not been an actor in the combustions of Bohemia; yet many Princes, Earls, and Noblemen, had been much oppressed and wronged, not sparing Widows and Electoral Pupils; among others, they dispossessed his brother of his inheritance, and lately forced his Town of Luthra, who had never meddled with the affairs of Bohemia, but had been declared innocent by the Emperor himself, notwithstanding the treaties of Vlmes and Mentz, and the consent of SPINOLA himself, at the laying down of Arms: whereby it appears plainly that they seek to draw the first Electoral voice from the Protestant's, and to transfer it upon a Roman Catholic. That the D. of Bavaria had planted the Mass in diverse places of the upper Palatinat; nor was their doubt but hereafter they would plant Popery by force, according to the resolution of the Council of Trent. That there was no liberty for the Protestant Religion, there being no respect of the Imperial constitutions, especially for that there was no regard had of the Emperor's promises by foreign soldiers, who hated the liberty of the Germans, and always pretended some colour of war. And matters were brought to that pass, that it was no more in the Emperor's power to make a Peace or Truce without the consent of his confederates, as might appear by his treaty with the Lord DIGBY; all which he left to their consideration: For his part he thought it most necessary, that to prevent the ruin of the Empire, the Protestant States should join their forces, and oppose them against this eminent danger. He entreated them that they would not only consult carefully of this business, but impart it to others, and especially to the Elector of Saxony; to the end they may oppose themselves to the pernicious practices of the adverse party; and so deal, that he being restored, that cruel war might be ended, and a desired Peace settled: But if all means of composition and reconciliation were denied him, and the gates of justice and grace shut against him; he entreated them to assist him with their counsel and aid; and likewise, that they would endeavour to divert the danger from themselves, and to preserve the liberty of Religion; which had been gotten with so much labour and cost. He wrote another Letter unto them, whereby he did intimate that the Duke of Bavaria had sent a great part of his forces into the lower Palatinate; that his General TILLY had summoned The King of 〈◊〉 second ●…ter to the ●…rotestantss. Heidelberg, the chief seat of the Electorshippe, to yield; that he had joined his forces with the Spanish Army, and had drawn so near unto the City, as they expected news daily of the siege; That by the copies of Letters, sent by the Emperor to the Lord DIGBY, and the Infanta of Spain, it plainly appeared what the intentios of the adverse party were; and under what pretext they sought to pervert all. That he had received many Letters signed by the Emperors own hand; the which he sent unto them, that they might see with admiration, what strange Counsels were treated of in the Empire, for the real translation of his Electorship upon the Duke of Bavaria. Yet he did hope, that God, who had so miraculously discovered it, would 1622 not suffer them to bring it to effect. In the mean time he entreated them to consider of the common cause, give away to his former admonitions, and assist him in his necessary defence. The young Duke of Brunswick, being fallen out of Hessia, and these upper parts of Germany, Brunswick invades the diocese of Paterborn. into Westphalia, he took in a manner all the Towns of the Diocese of Paterborne with the City itself; He suffered the soldiers to spoil the jews which dwelled there, and exacted a great sum of money from the Clergy, and found great treasure in the Cathedral Church, besides the patron of the Church called Saint Liborius which was made of pure gold. To stay his courses, the Elector of Cullen sent for part of the Bavarian forces out of the Palatinate and Veteravia, under the command of the Baron of Anhalt: who passing through the County of Nassau and Dillenbourg marched towards the Elector of Cullen; whose forces hearing of Anhalts approach, passed the Rhine, on the 21 of February, and joined with him, with 3000 foot and 600 horse. Having formerly made mention the last y●…re of the siege of juliers (it being a fee belonging juliers' yielded to the Spaniard. to the Empire though held by the united States) I hold it fit to speak something of the yielding of it. It having been long blocked up by Count HENRY VANDENBERG and the Spanish Army, and distressed for want of victuals, he summoned them to yield, threatening them that if they forced him to use extremity he would not spare any. PYTHANIUS the Governor answered, that he was but a servant and could not yield without the resolution of the united States, but they consenting he would use no delay. After this answer they fell to their Cannon on both sides: and being again pressed to yield, he said, they should expect it at Easter; yet he began to treat with the Spaniards on the 17 of january, sending t●…ree Captains out of the Town to that end. Having conferred with them, the Earl acquainted SPINOLA therewith, and in the end these conditions were concluded. 1. That there should be no alteration in religion. 2. That the Captains and soldiers should departed with their Arms, colours flying, drums beating, and their wives, children and goods. 3. That the Ordinance and munition should remain in the City. 4. That the Gunners, Armourers, Smiths, Carpenters, and others might departed with their soldiers. 5. That the Governor and Captain should have horse and wagons to carry their goods to Nemigen. 6. That the sick and wounded might stay in the Town until they were recovered, and then have wagons to carry them to Nymegen. 7. That the Captains and soldiers should have a whole year's liberty to cell their lands if they had any. 8. That the soldiers which were in any other Towns or Castles should have leave to come thither and bring their wives and children. 9 That all Arms and commodities belonging to the Town and Castle should be left behind. 10. That records and ancient writings in the Town and Castle should remain there still. 11. That the soldiers should not be arrested for debt. 12. That the beds which the soldiers had brought into the Town should be restored to their owners, and they bound to receive them. 13. That the Elector of Brandenburghs officers and ministerrs should execute their offices for the space of one whole yea●…e. 14. That the Citizens might departed the City and dispose of their goods within one year. 15. Thar there should be two hostages given on either side until the Articles were performed: all which being signed and sealed by the Governor, he should sand one to the Prince of Orange, and be bound to yield the place if they were not relieved within 12 days, with at the lest 300 wagons: which timebeing expired and no relief coming from the Prince, the Earl of Vandenberg sent 600 wagons to carry away their baggage, wishing the Governor to hasten his departure: who, sending the keys of the Castle unto the Earl, departed with all his soldiers and goods, leaving two within the City until the wagons were returned. PITHANIUS the Governor coming to the Hague, he was committed and called in question for delivering up the Town. The Emperor having consummated his marriage with the Duke of Mantua's sister at Oenipont The Emperor enters Viena with his Empress. (as we formerly related) he returned to Viena with his new Empress. Coming to the Town all the ordinance was shot off, and a guard set on either side from the Port unto the Castle. First, there entered six troops of horse, with many Townsmen: then followed the Emperor's servants and young Noblemen with the Emperor's horses, his officers, Senators and Counsellors in great numbers. Before the Emperor went five Heralds. LOSESTEIN Lord Marshal carried the sword, and with him went LEOPOLD ERNESTUS, his Majesty's eldest son. The Sindiques and Senators carried the Canopy. The Empress was in a rich Chariot, accompanied by CHARLES WILLIAM the Emperor's youngest son, 1622 and two of his daughters; being environed by seventy four Nobleman's children and many soldiers: after which, followed DETRISTEIN with some troops of horse. As this action was joyful at Viena, so was the funeral of the Archduke ALBERT of Austria, The Funeral of the Archduke Albert. mournful at Brussels: the which was performed with so great pomp, as those of the Emperor CHARLES the Fift were not ●…omparable, as some writ; whereof I must make some little mention. Omitting the ordinary ceremonies, I will only make relation of those things which were extraordinary. Before the Hearse there were 32 horses covered with black, having every one a Gentleman going before them, carrying the Arms of so many provinces. Every horse had two Gentlemen to lead them, with divers Heralds. After which the archiducal Diadem, his sceptre, the golden fleece, with two swords (whereof the one with a cup of great price was given him by Pope CLEMENT the Eightth) were carried by Noblemen. Betwixt these, and the body went a triumphant Chariot of Liberality, in remembrance of his great bounty, for that after the death of the Emperor MATHIAS he had freely given to the Emperor FERDINAND eleven Kingdoms: namely, Hungary, Bohemia, Dalmatia, Croatia, Sclavonia, Bosnia, Servia, Halisia, Lodomicio, Cumania, and Bulgaria, with the Arch-duchy of Austria, the Duchy of Silesia, the Marquesates of Moravia, Lusatia, and Burgau, the Earldoms of Habsburg, tirol and Ferret, the Principality of Swevia, the Marquisate of Alsatia, with other territories which descended unto him by hereditary right. In this Chariot sat Liberty (a beautiful Nyph) and before her an altar whereon were diverse Sceptres and Crowns with this inscription, His spretis obijt. About this Chariot were the Arms of 27 Kingdoms and provinces, which in his life time he had so bountifully bestowed upon the Emperor FERDINAND. This tiumphant Chariot was drawn by six horses, representing six virtues; namely, Nobility, Mildness, Wisdom, Love, Reason and Providence; whereon sat six boys, representing Nymphs. After the body followed the Pope's Nuntio, the Spanish Ambassador, Marquesses, Earls, and Knights of the Golden fleece, with the rest of the train, as is usual in such funeral pomps. The Duke of Brunswick, having taken many Towns in Westphalia (as was said) ERVITS (a Exploits in Westphalia. Commander of the Elector of Cullens forces) came by night with a thousand horse and some companies of foot, on the 8 of March, to Gisec: which he took, with some other Towns, by the secret practices of the Inhabitants; where they slew 900 of Brunswicks soldiers, and took some few prisoners. The Duke (to revenge this loss and disgrace) hearing that 8 troops of horse and four companies of foot, lay not far from Susat, he presently posted from Lippa thither, with his Horse. The commanders of the Cullen forces, seeing his furious approach, abandoned their foot and baggage, and fled. The foot retired into a Churchyard: whereof 200 were slain, and 748 with their officers taken prisoners. There were also 36 horsemen taken and four ensigns; which were sent unto the Elector Palatine. After which, the Duke recovered some places which they had taken, and punished some which had been authors of the Treason. The Town of Wittengau in Bohemia held yet against the Emperor: the garrison being without Wittengaw in Bohemia yielded to the Emperor. all hope of succours, pressed with hunger, and seeing all the passages stopped, they entered into treaty, and compounded to yield up the Town and Castle, and to departed with bag & baggage whither they pleased. But the Garrison of Clingenberg, although they saw all passages stopped, would by no means consent to yield. About the end of March, the Earl of Swartsenbourg, Ambassador for his Imperial Majesty, arrived in England: where he was honourably received, lodged in Denmark house, and defrayed The Emperor's Ambassador's speech to his Majesty. with his whole train at his Majesty's charge, during his abode in London. He had his Audience in the upper house of Parliament: where, after the ordinary compliments, he made an expression of the Emperor's love and zeal in particular to his Majesty; That he desired to enter into conditions of an everlasting peace, and to hold an indissoluble contract of perfect friendship with him; That it had pleased his Majesty to give him assurance of his sincere love & affection by many stately Embassies endeavouring still to settle the peace of Christendom; And, whereas some ill affected had sought to trouble the quiet state of Europe with combustions, none but his Majesty had endeavord to reconcile them, and like a rising sun to dispel those cloudy vapours of dissension, to the great honour of his royal name for so worthy a work: entreating his Majesty, in the Emperor's name, to continued still in the same course; that the Princes of Europe might not only enjoy peace by his means, but that he himself might have the fruition of his desire, and immortal fame. 1622 And, to let him understand how highly his Imperial Majesty did esteem of his love and affection, and his endeavour to gratify him, as fare as honourable correspondence might extend; he had sent him, as his Ambassador, to acquaint his Majesty with his gracious intent, and to assure him that he did affect the common good of Christendom, and especially the welfare of his Majesty's house. Although there had been some cause of discontent: ye●… it was part of his care, that the decayed peace (which had been interrupted by some turbulent spirits) might be restored; acknowledging, that those violent courses had been distasteful unto his Majesty; who out of his regal piety had always endeavoured to prevent those mischiefs, aswell for the general good of Christendom, as for the settling of a peace in Germany, which had been dismembered by dissension. And whereas his Imperial Majesty had taken Arms for his own defence and the maintaining of his honour and dignity; so he said he would be as easily entreated to lay them down again, and desist from all hostility, if others without any just cause did not show themselves refractory: to the which, he was the more tractable, for that his Majesty could so nobly act his part in defending the dignity of kings, and the prerogative of monarches. His conclusion was, that his Imperial Majesty had a worthy intent to treat sincerely, really and without fraud, with him about those affairs, that all might be firmly ratified and performed, whereunto the king of Spain was also willing; and that they were both ready to hearken to his Imperial Majesty's propositions, when his Majesty should think fit to treat about the same: neither did they doubt, but that the work being generally good, charitable and perfitable for all the Provinces of Europe, it would have a happy success; there being nothing intended but truth, sincerity, and the hope of an indissoluble friendship. His Majesty was well pleased with this proposition, and willingly embraced the offer of a Sir Richard Weston sent to Bruss●…lss. Treaty appointed at Brussels: whereupon, after an honourable dismission of the said Ambassador, his Majesty made choice of Sir RICHARD WESTON, Chancellor of his Exchequer and Counsellor of State, to be employed in this Action: whom he sent presently after him, to treat of a peace for the Elector, and restitution to his hereditary lands and dignities; and during the treaty to procure a cessation of Arms. And to the end all obstacles might be taken away, his Majesty soon after sent the Lord CHICHESTER, Baron of Belface, into the Palatinate, to acquaint his son in law the Elector with this treaty, that he might conform himself accordingly; whereby no exception might be taken: but there followed no such fruit of this treaty, as all good men did wish. For, there was neither any suspension of Arms, nor any peace concluded; but after six months treaty, his Majesty's Ambassador returned home without any satisfaction, as the world did conjecture. In this month the Duke of Bavaria sent an Ambassador to the Duke of Virtemberg, requiring The Duke of Virtemberg refuses to sand his Souliers to the Bavarian. him, to sand him those soldiers which he had levied (having no need of them) to be employed against Count MANSFELD. To whom the Duke answered, that he had no quarrel against the Palatinate, in the defence whereof MANDSFIELD was to be employed; and, beside, it was contrary to the treaty of ulme, by the which it was decreed that nothing should be attempted against the Palatinate. Moreover, the soldiers being levied by the States for the defence of the country, they could not be drawn away to any other place, without their consents. Count MANDSFELD, having spoiled Wansenau, and fortified Haguenaw with two Bulwarks, 20 Companies of foot and 4 troops of horse, he returned with his Army into Count Mandefeld takes the Castle of Maidebourg. the Bishopric of Spire; where he demanded a great quantity of corn, wine, and money from the Clergy: but, prevailing nothing, he caused the Castle of Meidebourg (into the which the inhabitants of the Country had carried great store of goods) to be besieged by the Earl of Loevenstein: the which was yielded the fourth of April. After this, TILLY cut down all the trees about Ladebourg, and overthrew the walls Tilly makes his way to Heidelberg. and ditches, and ruined Saint MARTIN'S Church without the Town: and that he might have the better means to besiege Heidelberg, he took one Town after another: and on the fift day of April (as GOTHARDUS writes) falling upon 20 troops of Count MANDSFELD'S horse and three thousand foot at Wingart, he overthrew them, took a hundred and fifty wagons with five hundred horses, and a great prey; the rest saving themselves by flight. To prepare his way (as I say) to Heidelberg, on the fourth day of April he laid siege to the Town of Necargemond being a mile from the same: and for that the garrison resolved to yield upon the first summons; the next day he forced them, and put them all to the Sword, with most of the inhabitants, their Wives, and Children; as he had done some days before at 1622 Obernhilsbae. The same day he sent to Dilsberg to summon the Castle in the Emperor's name: the Governor refusing to yield, TILLY marched thither on the 6 of April, with all his Dilsberg besieged in vain by the Bavarians. forces, and battered it the next day for the space of five hours; but the Governor of the Castle (whose name was BARTHOLOMEW SMID, borne at Sed●…n) defended it so valiantly, as having endured four fierce assaults, they were forced to retire with great loss, leaving great store of Arms and Ladders behind them. After this a Truce was made for the burying of their dead, and retiring of their wounded; TILLY sending a messenger to Heidelberg, with a promise that he had no intent to annoyed their Town, but only to force that Castle: whereupon they returned to Arms, on the tenth of April; where, continuing his battery from ten of the clock in the morning till six at night, he had made some breaches in the walls, the which the Garrison did resolutely defend; and the enemy ceasing to give any further assault, they were summoned again to yield: which the Garrison refused, requiring three day's respite to consult; which being granted, they sent a Messenger to Manheim & Heidelberg for aid; who returned on the 14 of April with these comfortable news: That they should not only have aid, but that the elector Palatine himself was coming into those parts. Being again pressed by General TILLY to yield; the Governor answered that he was yet ready to defend it 3 days longer, and then he would come to a treaty. In the mean time, they being advertised in the Camp that succours were coming, and that the Elector Palatine was arrived in his country; the Bavarian retired speedily, burned his Camp, and left much Munition, Corn, Wine and Meal behind him. The Elector Palatine king of Bohemia, having resolved to see his Country, and Subjects, which were ruined by the enemy; having no safe passage if he should be discovered, being to The King of Bohemia goes up to the Palatinat go through the enemy's country: he took a generous resolution, rather to hazard his life then to abandon his afflicted subjects; wherefore in March he departed from the Hague, embarked himself and arrived at Calais with a small company, he being disguised and attendant to one of them. He passed through part of France, went by Sedan and Lorrane: at Bitssi he (coming into an Inn) fell amongst some of the Archduke LEOPOLD'S soldiers; where, being at the table, he heard them rail freely at the Palatine, the which he swallowed up quietly. He passed from thence in the night, and never discovered himself until he came to Landaw, to GEORGE LEWES Earl of L●…uestein, who presently gave notice thereof to the Earl of MANDSFELD, who lay then at Germ●…rsheim, and was in treaty with an Ambassador sent from Brussels from the Infanta; who propounded many fair conditions unto him, as GOTHARDUS writes; namely that he should hold the Town and Province of Haguenaw in fee for him Offers made to Mansfeld by ●…he Infanta of Spain. and his heirs; That he should be a Prince of the Empire: that he should enjoy the lands of the Prince of Orange, during the confiscation; and, if a peace were made, than he should have the like yearly pension; or, if it might be redeemed from the Prince, he should enjoy it for ever in fee: that he should receive a great sum of money for the entertainment of his soldiers: that he should be Marshal to the Infanta, with a pension of 1200 crowns a month, and should be subject to no man's command but marquis SPINOLA'S. But receiving news of the King of Bohemia's arrival, he broke off the treaty with the Ambassador, who prepared to departed: but Count MANSFELD would not suffer him. The King of Bohemia arriving soon after, invited him to dinner; and told him, that, He laboured in vain in seeking to withdraw a faithful servant from him: that he had need of his help: that he was come to assist & defend his poor subjects, miserably afflicted; and, if he had any further charge he might freely deliver it. The Infanta's Ambassador being dismissed, the King of Bohemia and Count MANSFELD, with the whole Army, spoiling the Bishop of Spires Country, past the Rind, with an intent to charge the Bavarians, who were lodged near to Wishloch in a little wood, having fortified themselves upon an eminent place of good advantage, where they had planted six pieces of Ordinance, but did not much annoy the King's Army, which went and lodged near unto Mingleshen which was not above half a mile from the enemies Camp. On the sevententth of April Count MANSFELD marshaled his Army, and marched against the Enemy; but they, having advantage by reason of the country's situation, after a hot skirmish, valiantly maintained on both A defeat. sides, the Mansfeldians were forced to retire, with the loss of some few men. TILLY grew proud with this success, persuading himself upon this retreat, that he had already gotten the victory: whereupon he removed his Camp to pursue them, crying out in great bravery; March on, they are all ours. The weather was exceeding ●…oule: yet TILLY used such diligence, 1622 as he planted two pieces of Ordinance, which shot into the King's Army, but did not much annoy it, for that he could not well discover it. The General MANSFELD drew his Army out of Mingleshein, and put it in order of Battle behind the Village. TILLY, finding that the King's forces had left the Village, imagined that they were fled for fear; the which he believed the more confidently, for that Count MANSFELD had caused the Village to be set on fire, only to blind the enemy's sight, and to cover his army with the smoke until it were put in battle. TILLY presently seized on the Village, and drew all his forces over at a narrow Bridge to pursue the King of Bohemia's Army: which he imagined to be fled, for that he could not well discover it. The King's Army being in battle, he, and his General MANSFELD encouraged the Soldiers to show some testimonies of their valour, whereof the King himself would be a witness, resolving to fight in person: whereupon the Vanguard marched on and charged valiantly; yet seeming a little to retire, the enemy pu●…sued them, and were so entertained by Count MANSFELD'S forces, as they were forced to retire in confusion, hoping to save themselves by flight; but the passage of the bridge was so narrow, as within less than half an hour they were quite overthrown, and above 2000 men slain upon the place; where the Enemy lost many Cornets and Ensigns, with four pieces of Ordinance, and many prisoners taken. After this overthrow, the Bavarians which were left in Garrison in Wishloch, Snitzen, Hilspach, and some other places, abandoned them and fled; of which there were 150 slain by the marquis of Baden's Soldiers, and three hundred taken prisoners. On the 26 of April, General MANSFELD went to besiege Ladebourg; which, having battered with 7 pieces of Ordinance, he summoned to yield by his Trumpet: The Governor, Ladebourg besieged and taken by Mansfeld. whose name was EINET, gave him thanks that he thought him worthy to be visited by such an Army; yet he did not hold it fit to give up the Town so easily: That he was tied by oath to the King of Spain, that he should defend it to the uttermost of his power. MANSFELD, having received his answer, renewed his battery, sending for 4 pieces more from Manheim, wherewith after 3 day's battery he made a reasonable breach. He then sent again to the Governor, giving him to understand that unless he yielded, he would not spare the children in the mother's wombs: whereunto he answered, that he had no womb, yet he would not refuse an honest treaty, so as the Cannon might cease, that he might take counsel with the soldiers; promising to yield it if he were not relieved within 4 days, upon the same conditions that were granted to the Earl of Isenbourg at Didesheim, or else that he should sand Commissioners to treat, and he would do the like: the which was performed accordingly. In the mean time the Governor encouraged the soldies to have a care of their guard, and that the townsmen with their wives and children should carry wood, stone & other provisions to mend the breaches. During the treaty MANSFELDS' soldiers pressed the garrison to come unto them, if they would save their lives; wherefore seeing 7 Regiments ready to give an assault, the soldiers neglecting their captains command, for the most part went to them. BREDENBACH, who was sent from the Governor, returning from MANSFELD, told him they would treat with him in person; who, going out of the Port, and receiving the conditions, told them he would acquaint the captains therewith but in the mean time seeing MANSFELD'S soldiers make a violent assault at the breach, he protested against it, desiring they would stay a little till he were retired into the town. WALDMANSHUS, who was Commissioner for MANSFELD, did his best to stay this furious assault, but in vain: for being entered in troops, they slew all that bore Arms against them: the spoil was great; having taken 8 Ensigns, store of Arms, and 10000 Ricks dollars from the Spanish Commissary, and then ruined the town. CHRISTIAN D. of Brunswick & Bishop of Halberstad, greatly annoyed the Bishoprics of Patterborne & Munster, his forces increasing daily: from the citizens of Munster (where Bruswick gathereth great sums of money ●…n Westphalia. he burned S. MAURICES' Church, and other places without the town) he exacted 100000 Ricks-dollers: At S●…sat he had 100000 dollars, besides a great quantity of Hungarian gold, left there by a certain Bishop whose name was THEODORIC of Furst●…mberg. At Franc he intercepted 80000 dollars, belonging to the Abbess of Herseens: but hearing that the Earl of Vandeberg was coming with great forces to relieve them of Gise●…, he was forced to raise the siege, having lost many men. Of the money which he had gotten at Patterborne and in other places, he caused new dollars to be coined: on the one side there was an Army coming out of a cloud with a sword in the hand, and his name; on the other side an inscription, whereby he professed himself a friend to God▪ and an Enemy to all Papists. Before his departure from Westphalia, he wrote unto the Bishop of Virsbourg and Bamberg after 1622▪ this manner: That he had long observed (not without admiration) how that during these troubles The Duke of Brunswick writeth to the bishop of Virsbourg. in the Empire; against his faith given for neutrality, by the instinct of Satan and the jesuites his adherents, since that cloud in the Bohemian State, he durst not only sand his Army, remaining in his Diocese, into Bohemia, and to join with the Prince of Bavaria; but had endeavoured by all means to ruin the Protestant's; which was done to no other end, but to establish the Spanish Monarchy, decreed many years before, to oppress the liberty of the country and the Protestant States, and to bring in the Council of Trent, with the tyranny of the Inquisition. These counsels to the oppression of the German liberty, were not to be suffered; wherefore he could not but advice him to desist from those practices, and to call back his Army out of the lower Palatinat; where they had committed many outrages upon wives & virgins: and withal that he should remember, being a Scholar, that such tyrannies were hateful to the Heathen; and that it was his duty▪ as a Pastor, to reclaim his strayed sheep, rather by mild means and fair speeches, then by fire and Sword: That this his passage into the lower Palatinat was not only contrary to equity, but to the treaty of ulme, confirmed by all the Princes of the Empire; That his only end was to expel the lawful Electoral heir, and confer the dignity on some which were removed by many degrees; whereby they might have more voices in the Electoral College for the Bavarian party, and the Protestant States with the liberty of Germany be the more oppressed: That he had always disliked the Elector Palatines meddling with the affairs of Bohemia, seeking to take the Crown from the Emperor; neither should he now allow, that the Electorship should be taken from the Palatine, much less to cast oil into the fire with such violence; advising him to call back his army; with this protestation, that he would do him all good offices if he gave credit to his words; if otherwise he should suffer any one to be deprived of his possessions, he would use all means of defence for the glory of God and the liberty of Germany; calling God and posterity to witness, that whatsoever he had done or should do▪ was for the peace of their common Country. The Bavarians, after the above mentioned defeat at Mingelosheim, had their revenge of the marquis of Durlach▪ who lay apart with his Army between Wimpfen and Heilbrun. TILLY, having sent to discover his 〈◊〉 with CORDOVA'S forces, on the 25 of April he seized on a wood and hill which was of great advantage. Next day morning their cannon began to play on either side: but, DVRLACH'S forces, lying in open field, were much annoyed. Their Troops encountered, and maintained the fight valiantly with equal loss, the Bavarians still refreshing their men in the wood; which the marquis his soldiers could not do. After noon, ●…ending some troops of horse to charge them, they were repulsed with such fury, that they were routed and put to flight: whereupon, TILLY and CORDOVA marched against the marquis his forces with 6 regiments of foot and 800 horse; who attended them so resolutely, that they were forced to retire again to the wood: but returning again with greater fury, they put his horsemen to flight, the footmen still fight valiantly: during which conflict, certain carts loaden with powder were by chance set on fire; which greatly spoilt the marquis his men, and was the loss of that day's battle. There was a Commander called HELMSTET, who maintained the fight to the very end, and (as they writ) had got the victory if he had been well seconded by the horse. This battle continued from Sunrising till eight of the clock at night; there being slain on both sides, as the report went, 5000 men, and 800 of the marquis his men taken prisoners. The Spaniards opinion was of this and of some former actions, that if they had been entertained in the beginning with such encounters, they should never have been able to enter so far into Germany. During these exploits in the Palatinate, the Town and Fort of Glats seized on all the passages, repaired their Bulwarks, and fortified themselves with men and Arms against any enemy's invasion. The Elector of Saxony advised them lovingly to submit themselves to the Emperor's mercy; promising them by his Letters, to obtain them a free pardon for all that was passed: but the young Earl of Thurn●… returned him this answer, that they could not give any credit unto his promises; and therefore they were resolved to defend themselves to the last gasp. After which, the Townsmen took down the roofs of their houses, and covered them with earth, to prevent the danger of fire. And being supplied with new Troops which came unto them after the yielding of Wintigaw, they made a salie, and spoiled the Country four or five miles round about, carrying away all the cattles and victuals into their Fort: and by night they surprised Beurath, where there was a good garrison; whom they slew and set fire on the Town. At such time as Count MANSFELD was busy at the siege of Ladebourg upon the River of 1622 Neccar, the Archduke LEOPOLD taking advantage of the time, thinking the other busied, Haguenaw besieged in van by the Archduke Leopold. marched with an Army of 7 or 8000 foot, 2000 horse, and six or seven pieces of ordinance, and set himself down before Haguenaw, a Town belonging to the Bishop of Spires, lying very fit for his passage into the Palatinate. Having made his usual summon●… to yield, and the garrison refusing to parley, he fell to his battery, seeking to get it before they should be relieved: and, for the speedier effecting thereof, he wrote his Letters to them of Strasbourg, requiring them to sand him aid to force the Town. The Citizens (being very wary) forbore to answer him presently: yet they sent him some victuals and munition. Count MANSFELD had left within Haguenaw 4000 foot & 500 horse, who defended it valiantly til they might advertise their General of the danger; who upon the first advertisement posted out of the Palatinat with the king of Bohemia and almost 20000 men to relieve the siege. His coming was very seasonable: for, the enemy had gotten into the Town-ditches; so as it was feared they could not have held it above two days longer. LEOPOLD, having intercepted a Letter of advice which General MANSFELD had sent to the Besieged, and finding by his scouts that his Army was on foot the 16 of May, and seeing no possibility to take the Town suddenly, fearing to be hemd-in betwixt the King's Army, the river Rhine, and the town-garrison; he sent 1000 Croatian horse with some foot-companies to encounter him about Wisemberg, that by this stay he might save the rest of his Army; with which he rose so tumultuously, that the garrison sallying forth, slew 5 or 600 of his men in the trenches and rearward. They likewise who were sent against Count MANSFELD were overthrown, and most of them slain or taken prisoners. The Archduke LEOPOLD fled over the Rhine: many of his soldiers were slain in the flight: six companies of horse retired into a wood; where, after 3 day's hunger, they yielded themselves to Colonel OBERNTRAUDE, and served the King. Some companies ●…ed into Lichtenaw which they fortified, bringing with them six pieces of ordinance from before Haguenaw: but they were in great fear of the marquis of Durlach; who although he had received an overthrow, and lost his baggage and cannon, yet he drew together again his dispersed regiments, and swore the companies he had cashiered before, to the king of Bohemia; so as he had again an Army in field of 6000 foot & 1500 horse. After the relief of Haguenaw, and the overthrow of the Archduke LEOPOLD'S Army, Mansfeld seizeth on Darmstat. Count MANSFELD retired with his Army to Germensheim, Frankendale and Manheim; where putting the soldiers in hope that he would bring them to good pastures, and leave all to their spoil, so as they would abstain from firing and murder; upon the two and twentith of May he with the King of Bohemia went with 16000 horse and foot to Darmstat, a Town belonging unto LODOWICK, Lantzgrave of Hesse; and having environed the Town by night, early in the morning they summoned it to yield. The Inhabitants, being amazed at this sudden access, opened their gates. The King's and MANSFELD'S guards being within the walls, the one went to the Court, and the Kings to the Castle: the rest of the soldiers, gaping for prey, spoiled the Town, Villages and the whole Country, driving away their cattles, some to Hannow, and some to Frankfort; where the Burghers were suffered to buy them on this condition, that they should restore them to their owners, paying the same price. The misery and lamentation of the Inhabitants was great, the soldiers sparing no man. Having continued 7 days in DARMSTATS Country; MANSFELD, hearing that TILLY, who had been supplied with 6000 men from the Duke of Bavaria, came to encounter him with an Army of 20000 strong, he thought it not fit to make any longer stay there, but retired the same way they came, carrying the Lantzgrave LODOWICK with them, who had sought to escape: but being known, he was brought back again, and conducted to Manheim. This Prince had been always a professed enemy to the King of Bohemia, and was the chief instrument to make the accord between the Princes of the Union and marquis SPINOLA. He had always given passage and assistance to the Spanish forces, and dissuaded the marquis of Durlach and other Princes from taking Arms under a colour of desire of peace, and had persuaded the Inhabitants of Heidelberg from their obedience and duty to their lawful Prince: for the which reasons, the King took him ptisoner, and carried him to Manheim, suffering his country (which was very rich and plentiful) to be spoiled by the poor and hungry Soldiers; who were well relieved and the needy garrisons supplied with store of Beeus, and sheep, and other necessaries. CHRISTIAN Duke of Brunswick, making preparation to march towards the Palatinate, the bruit thereof was dispersed over the whole country; which strooke such a terror into the poor inhabitants, as they carried whatsoever they had, good and precious, into Franckfort: To 1622 stop whose course; the Baron of Anhalt, marching speedily through the Country of Waldec and A great fear of Brunswicks coming down. Hesse, came to Asch●…ffenbourg; where he joined with the Bavarian and Spanish forces: who spoilt both friend and foe. BRUNSWICK, leaving Westphalia on the 6 of May, marched to the River of Vis●…rgis, over which Colonel KNIPHUS had built a bridge; where he passed with 82 Cornets of Horse, and 15000 foot, leading captives with him some jesuites, and a certain Precedent. He was followed by the Bishop of Cullens, the Duke of Newbourgs, and the Spanish forces: but having no means to overtake him, for that all the bridges were broken down; they returned, and in their way recovered Susat, Alten, and other places in Westphalia. Approaching near unto the Elector of Saxonies' country, the Duke came with good troops of soldiers to Langesalt upon the Frontiers, to prevent all danger, and to preserve his subjects from oppression. The Duke of Brunswick, having received victuals, passed quietly by the jurisdiction of Coburg towards the Abbey of Fuldam; where he exacted from the Chapter 40000 dollars. The Elector of Saxony, having freed his Frontiers from fear, entered into Lipsick in great Pomp, with his royal Standard before him, bringing with him Captain FISCHER prisoner, for that he had exceeded his Commission contrary to the Edict, and had spoiled certain villages about Eysfeld, belonging to the Elector of Mentz. This Captain had many good friends which did intercede for him, especially FREDERICK a Duke of Saxony, who loved him much; yet he could not so palliate the offence, but 3 of his chief officers were hanged. His Majesty of great Britain, having (as I said before) resolved to sand the Lord CHICHESTER, Baron of Belface, into the Palatinate, to the Elector Palatine his son in Law, to dispose The L. Chichester arrives at Manheim. him to embrace this treaty of Peace now in hand at Brussels, and to remove all lets & obstacles that might hinder it, or a suspension of Arms, which his Majesty so much desired: about the end of May he arrived safely at Manheim; whereat the king of Bohemia was much satisfied, & the poor soldiers greatly rejoiced, hoping that the presence of such a person should supply all their wants; where, after great welcome and entertainment, the king and his General MANSFELD, returned to the Army; which, about the end of May, marched to Achenburg, a town of the Bishop of Mentz lying above Franckfort, to meet with BRUNSWICK who as they heard was marching into Franconia: But ere he could get to the river of Main, which of force they must pass, TILLY having a very strong Army (being newly fortified with 6000 men from the Duke of Bavaria, and supplied with the Infanta's horse-troops from GONZALES) had got before him; so as he must of necessity fight or retire: for, BRUNSWICK was not yet come to the river, neither had any notice of the Kings being so near. Finally, it was not held convenient to fight upon such disadvantages: for, the Country was very poor, and not able to feed them; and the enemy was strong and very well provided, which might endanger their Army: wherefore it was thought fit to retire; which was done in so good order, that the King himself was much commended. Notwithstanding all their diligence, yet the enemy followed them so fast, that he overtook them; and their horse made such way through and about the woods, that they were forced to skirmish, the King going from place to place to make head against the enemy. This continued about two days, the 30 and 31 of May. During these encounters of the horse, the foot retired to Manheim, having lost not above 100 on either side: the horse skirmisht still; wherein the King demeaned himself so bravely, as he drew on others by his example to noble performances; where many Gentlemen were much praised for their valour: among which Colonel OBERTRAUNT (Commander of the Palatines horse) and Sir JOHN MANWOOD of Kent (a Captain of a Troop of MANSFELD'S horse) were specially noted. The report was, there were not above 200 slain, besides the wounded and prisoners; so as TILLY had little cause to boast of this attempt, where they lost so few men, and no baggage, in a retreat of 30 or 40 miles, albeit the enemy made great matters of it; giving out, that MANSFELD lost above 2000, as both GOTARDUS and LONDORPIUS writ; and that this encounter was at their retreat from Darmstat: but it seems, ignorance or passion abused them. In the beginning of May, the Emperor had caused his Letters to be set up in the 3 Towns of Prague, commanding all men to acknowledge honour and respect to the Prince of Lichtenstein, as The Emperor's general pardon. his Lieutenant and Vicegerent in the kingdom of Bohemia, and that they should faithfully obey him, as if his Majesty were there in person; and on the other side, the Prince should Minister justice to all men indifferently, and take them into his protection. On the next day a general pardon was proclaimed throughout all Prague; but with this condition expressed, that no mention should be hereafter made of any former offences or transgressions; neither should death be inflicted upon any man; yet such as during that time of Rebellion had assisted the directors 1622 of Bohemia and the Count Palatine, or at the lest had been partakers in the Bohemian combustions, should within 3 weeks bring in their names to certain Counsellors appointed for that business, and attend their resolution; and then (matters being duly considered) should pay a fine: yet such were expressly excluded out of the pardon, who had been particularly condemned before, and whose names had been affixed upon the place of justice. The Emperor thi●… month made preparation for his journey to the States of Hungary, having resolved to leave a garrison of 18 companies in Viena. The citizens which dwelled in the high market The Emperor prepares to go●… into Hungary. place, refusing to receive this garrison into their houses, and thereby showing their small devotion to the Emperor, the soldiers entered the lodgings which were appointed for them, by force, with the consent and approbation of the Magistrate. Hereupon the Provincial States of Austria came speedily to Vienna; and, amongst other things, most humbly besought his Majesty that they might hereafter live in Peace under the shelter of the Eagles' wings: whereupon there was a new treaty propounded for the levying of money; but by reason of his journey into Hungary, it was deferred. On the 18 of May, he began his journey with 2 regiments of foot, and 12 cornets of horse, having sent some Noblemen and Counsellors of Hungary before, to confer with the States, with this express resolution; that if the Hungarians would not be forgetful of the Oath they had taken, he would then show them all grace and favour: if otherwise, then for the love of justice, he would show them the Sword wherewith God had girt him. About the 11 of May, certain Commissioners which had been sent to Prince BETHLIN returned to Vienna; who advertized his Majesty that BETHLIN shown himself not only a good and devout Imperialist; but also faithfully persuaded his Majesty not to disarm himself of those warlike preparations, jest the Turkish Emperor should take an advantage of this treaty of Peace, and invade the one or other party: whereunto the Emperor's Commissioners replied; That although his Majesty had greater and more difficult war, yet he was resolved to conclude a firm and constant Peace with all his enemies; the which he had often sought of many, but in vain: Which declaration did so please BETHLIN, as he concluded▪ that now was the wished time that all his Majesty's subjects and rebels, for love of their country, should join with the sacred Roman Empire, and thereby break and ruin all the Turkish forces. The Emperor parting from Vienna, the 18 of May after the new style, on the 26 he came to Edinburgh with his Empress and children, having a guard of 5000 horse & foot; where he was received & brought into the town The Emperor enters into Od●… bourg: and his propositions to the States of Hungary. by the Hungarians: two days after, he made his propositions in Latin unto the States. 1. His Imperial Majesty did persuade them to forget all hostility, and to resolve on a general Peace, for the love of their country; to which end he came to them in person. 2. That the Crown might be presently brought back again to Presbourg, & there safely kept; to which end his Majesty would appoint certain Commissioners. 3. That a Peace should be maintained with the Turk and other neighbour Princes; which his Majesty would endeavour to see effected, and that such as should break the league might be duly punished. 4. That a law might be made against such as should treat with the Turk or any other Enemy to the prejudice of the kingdom. 5. If any hostile invasion should be made, than the States should take care for defence. 6. That EMERICUS LIPTAGUS, STEPHANUS DOTRIUS, and JAMIS RIMAIUS, should give an account of their Embassy to the Turkish Emperor, to the intent the Peace might be the better kept. 7. All goods taken away during the time of the Rebellion, should be presently restored to their owners. 8. That the Germans (necessity so requiring) should be lodged again upon the Frontiers, according to the provincial constitutions; the which hereafter should be observed with more strict discipline. 9 That they should consider by what means, the Dominions, which had been delivered to BETHLIN Prince of Transiluania, should be reduced to the Crown of Hungary. 10. That their late Letters of confederacy with their Provincial orders, should be delivered unto his Imperial Majesty. 11. That the houses should be numbered, and that every one should be bound to pay six Hungarian florins, until the next Assembly of the States. 12. That Trees and Timber should be fetched out of the nearest Woods, for the re-edifying and repairing of the decayed Forts. 13. That Corn should be sent unto the Frontier Forts, during these turbulent times. 14. That the Articles formerly made should be renewed and duly observed against those which did ill entreat Soldiers. 15. That whereas there was a general forgetfulness of all that was passed; the States; to show their love unto their lawful King of Hungary, should make a Law against such as should attempt any thing to the prejudice of the Country. 16. That a Law should be made for the restitution of such places as were fit for the keeping of powder 1622 for his Majesty's necessity. 17. And whereas, during the Peace, Vaccia had been delivered; therefore the States should have a care of the safety of the Commonwealth, jest by this avulsion; the constitutions of the Provinces might be endangered. 18. That the fortification near to Canisia might be provided for; to which end, his Majesty promised to treat with the other Provinces. 19 That the passage of the River of javerin might be cleansed, and the new Mills demolished, which otherwise would be a hindrance unto the defence of the Fort. 20. That such Officers might be appointed for the administering of justice as should remain in a certain place. During this assembly, BETHLIN Prince of Transiluania sent his Deputies, who presented unto the Emperor a goodly horse, with other rich presents; he himself then remaining at Cassovia, for that his wife CAROLA was newly dead: Some wtite, that during the consultation touching the Emperor's propositions, among other things it was debated, that the jesuites should be no more admitted into Hungary, at lest enjoy no Lands: And secondly that they would not only have a general pardon, but a particular for the Embassy they had sent to Constantinople; and in the mean time the Emperor appointed a Commissioner to fetch the Crown from Trentschin. Let us now return again to the Palatinate, and observe what success BRUNSWICK Brunswick approacheth the Palatinate. hath in his march thitherwards. It seeming by all circumstances that his Army approached near unto the limits of the City of Franckfort, there was great store of treasure brought from the neighbour villages and towns, the which might serve the owners to good purpose, many of them being fled to the City. On the fourth of june his Army drew near to Vrsell, a Town belonging to the Archbishop of Mentz; the Governor whereof (who was busy about the fortification of the Town) holding his greatest safety to be in flight, abandoned it, to the spoil of the Soldiers: After which, Colonel KNIPHUS marched with one thousand five hundred shot, four troops of horse, two pieces of Ordinance, and some Petards to Hoest, a town seated upon the Main, a mile from Franckfort; where he meant to make a bridge to join with MANDSFELDS' forces. Having invested the Town by night, in the morning the Garrison fell to Arms, shooting continually at them, so as the Colonel was hurt in the left arm; wherewith, being nothing amazed, he summoned them to yield: but seeing them resolute, having lost above a hundred men, he sent presently to the Duke of Brunswick for more forces; the which the Townsmen seeing approach, they grew amazed and fled presently to the water-gate, where they all (with their wives and children, and the best of their substance) past the Main; some going to Mentz, some to Franckfort: whereupon they entered the Town and Castle. The next day the Army came thither: In the mean time TILLY and CORDOVA, lying at Ashaffenbourg with an Army of thirty thousand men at the lest, they sent two hundred foot, and two troops of horse, by night, to relieve Hoest, but they were met withal and defeated by BRVNSWICK'S Troops. On the seventh of june they passed the Main towards Franckfort: The Duke of Brunswick, hearing of the Enemies march, sent to Count MANDSFELD, to let him understand in what posture he stood; resolving that he would continued so still, until he might march unto him: for whose passage or his own retreat (if he were forced) he prepared a bridge over the Main. Count MANDSFELD received these news as he was marching with a design to break the bridge at Oppenheim; or (that failing) to make some other diversion, thereby to draw GONZALES homewards; commanding threescore Cornets of horse to march presently towards the Duke, meaning himself to follow after the rest of his Army: but he was stayed by contrary news of his overthrow as you shall hear. On Whitsonday, the soldiers having burned many villages thereabouts, the Bavarians marched with 15 Regiments of foot, 140 Cornets of horse and 18 pieces of Ordinance: In Brunswick defeated by the Bavarians at Hoest the mean time, the Duke of Brunswick encamped himself, and sent some of his carriages over the bridge. The enemy approaching his Camp, the fight began presently, and continued six hours: the Bavarians had 18 pieces of Ordinance fitly placed, which did much annoyed his horse: BRUNSWICK had but three, whereof one was broken in the beginning, and another was made unserviceable by the enemy's Cannon; so as they could not make the fight good, notwithstanding that his footmen fought valiantly. The Duke, by the advice of his commanders, retired himself: whereupon, the whole Army fell into confusion, and fled presently towards the bridge: where, by reason of the narrowness thereof, many were turned into the river, and drowned. The Bavarians durst not pursue them which fled, fearing some stratagem. 1622 The Duke of Brunswick waded through the river with five troops of horse: they lost most of their baggage, and many of the soldiers in their flight threw away their Arms: which was a very great loss. The number of the dead was uncertain, for that many both of horse and foot were drowned in the passage of the river: But the loss had been fare greater, if the Bavarians had had any horse to pursue them on the other side of the river. They had no great cause to brag of this victory, there being three strong Armies joined against one, and having six times as much Ordinance. The Duke came to Mainheme; and, gathering together his scattered troops after this loss, mustered 5000 horse and 8000 foot. TILLY, retiring after this defeat towards Frankfart, caused a bridge to be built by Steinheym, to passhiss army over the river of Maine: which being finished, they divided their Armies. TILLY went to Schrise, a fort which he had taken upon the river of Neccar: and Don CORDOVA encamped at Ladenbuurg; where making a bridge, Heidelberg was in a manner blocked up; without any hostile attempt. Whilst the Emperor continued at Edinburgh (during the assembly of the States of Hungary) An A●…bassadour from the King of Denmark to the Emperor. there arrived an Ambassador from the King of Denmark, to intercede again for the restitution of the Elector Palatine to his hereditary Countries and dignities; entreating his Majesty, that (for his fatherly affection to the Commonwealth and his innocent subjects) he would change his mind (preferring clemency before rigour) and suffer the Elector Palatine to be reconciled unto him. That he had often showed himself ready, both to him and the States of the Empire, to renounce the crown of Bohemia both for himself and his heirs; and to yield all due obedience unto his Imperial Majesty; so as he might enjoy his hereditary possessions with the Electoral dignity, and recover that which had been taken from him. But if his Majesty thought that his offences were such as they could not so easily be pardoned, and that he had cause sufficient to prosecute the execution of the proscription; yet he could not but let him understand, that in these extremities whereas the public safety was in da●…ger, it was not needful to proceed according to the rigour of the law; but, remember that worthy saying of an Ancient, It is not necessary I should do all things according to mine own will. Wherhfore he could not but entreat his Majesty again (seeing that the Elector Palatine was ready upon the former conditions to make his renunciation, submission, and satisfaction) that he would in the end vanquish himself, and forget his conceived displeasure against him, for the good of the Commonwealth; whereby he should free many thousands from death and despair; he should make an end of war and the devastation of countries; settle peace and the public quiet, and restore the Commonweal to life; being now in the very agony of death; and as it were breathing out her soul: And, to conclude, he should so bind all his Noblemen and subjects, yea and his very enemies unto him, as they would not only be ready to employ their lives and fortunes in all causes of necessity, but would also pour forth their vows and prayers for his health and safety. The Emperor, in his answer to this Danish Ambassador, made an ample relation of all the The Emperor's answer unto the Danish Ambassador. proceed of the Bohemians, and of the combustions which had happened there since the year 1618., as he had formerly done to others: That, notwithstanding the great victory which he had got at Prague, he had not changed his mind, which was always inclined to peace: That he had appointed diverse assemblies of the Electors and Princes; meaning to assist there in person for the settling of a general peace: the which had been disappointed by Count MANDSFELD; who, levying new forces in the upper Palatinate, had entered into the confines of Bohemia, meaning to infested it again, if he had not opposed the Duke of Bavaria against him: That both he and CHRISTIAN Duke of Brunswick had committed many outrages in Alsatia and Westphalia: That the Elector Palatine could not excuse himself of these proceed; which were no signs of repentance, but of obstinate malice: yet he had sent the Earl of Swartsenberg to the King of great Britain, to acquaint him with the conditions whereby a suspension of Arms might be obtained; the which he had referred to the Infanta of Spain remaining at Brnssels. Yea, he had been content, that the Electors and Princes should meet touching this business: Yet, in the mean time, before he could receive their conclusions, FREDERICK Elector Palatine, neglecting the Treaty (which his father in law had so often desired) came again into the Empire, and joined with MANDSFELD and others, to the end they might invade the Territories of the Electors and Princes which had been faithful unto him. Whereby the King of Denmark might well perceive, with what patience he had endured these affronts: finally, when he should receive advice from his Ambassador at Brussels what was fit to be done touching this desired treaty, he would so resolve, that the King should find that his interposition 1622 was not in vain. The Ambassador, seeming not well satisfied with the Emperor's answer, upon a second audience The Ambassadors reply to the Emperor. gave him to understand, that his Master would not make any question to the troubles of Bohemia, nor the punishing of such as were the motives: but seeing that his Imperial Majesty had now recovered this his Kingdom with the incorporated Provinces, part by force, part by treaty, his King did aim at nothing more than to see an end of this war and misery, that peace and tranquillity might be restored with due obedience to his Majesty, all offences forgotten, and perfect love and trust confirmed among the States; that there was nothing wanting in the Elector Palatine, who was ready to make his renunciation and an honest satisfaction, desiring nothing but his own hereditary Countries and Electoral dignity, as he enjoined them before the troubles; that it was apparent to all the world, that the Duke of Bavaria alone laboured to expel him by force from his hereditary right, contrary to the treaty of Vlm. If the Palatin according to the law of nature had used any defence, or sought means to preserve his subjects lives, and those poor possessions which yet remained, from cruel subversion, such as that of Neccargemond (where they used barbarous cruelty against innocent women and children) he was not to be blamed; neither was it to be reputed a new crime of obstinacy and rebellion against his Majesty, if in his defence there had been some wrong done (as soldiers can hardly contain themselves within their bounds) to them of Strasbourg, it was that whereof the King of Denmark complained, that the sparks of this fire did flee into the neighbour Provinces; and if it were not speedily quenched, all Germany would be on flame, and in a manner reduced to ashes. He did not doubt but those Provinces, which had suffered some loss, had given counsel and assistance against the Palatine; that SPINOLA, General for the King of Spain, had been a great cause thereof, who had done great wrongs to MAURICE Lantzgrave of Hesse, to the Countess of Hannow, to an innocent pupil, the Count Palatine LODOWICK the Electors brother, and to divers Imperial Towns; that he would not be troublesome to his Majesty with a commemoration of those calamities, but would only entreat him not to blame the Palatin if he had sought to protect his subjects, nor to think he had done any thing contrary to the promise of the King of great Britanne; being ready to accommodate himself to any friendly Treaty, so as he might not be forced to submit himself to the Duke of Bavaria and the Catholic League, to the ruin of his Country, and blemish of his dignity. Wherhfore the King of Denmark did hope, that the Emperor would give way to so many intercessions; that he would forget what had passed in the troubles of Bohemia; that he would not tax the Palatine with any new crime, nor spoil him of his Country and Electoral dignity: whereby the Protestant's minds might be much distempered, if, seeing all other men pardoned which had been partakers in those troubles, and that BETHLIN (who had marched in the same steps with the Palatine, if not worse) had been admitted to a friendly composition without any intercession, and divers Principalities and Earldoms granted to him during his life; but to the Palatine all favour was denied, and a cruel revenge exercised against him: this might easily breed jealousy in the Protestant's, as if there were some other matter intended to their prejudice by his oppression; and the rather, for that it was commonly spoken, that the Electoral dignity was conferred upon the Duke of Bavaria, which might be the cause of new combustions; that his Majesty should not give credit to such turbulent men who regarded only their own private profit, nor think that by the defeat at Wimpfen the Palatines forces were so weakened, as he should not be able to find means to defend himself; that MANSFELD could not be drawn to leave his Master by the rigour of Proscriptions, but had made head against the forces of the Bavarians with a good Army, and had beaten them at Visl●…ck; that no enemy whatsoever was to be contemned; that if all hope of reconciliation were taken away, and (the title of rebels continued) they were brought to despair, his Majesty might well conceive what calamities were to be feared, seeing that the war (increasing since the Treaty of Vlmes) seemed to threaten all estates. Wherhfore he besought the Emperor, that seeing the Palatine shown himself willing to renounce the Kingdom of Bohemia and the incorporated Provinces, he would show him grace at the request of the King his Master and the Elector of Saxony, who did likewise intercede for him: whereby there might be hope of his restoring to his former dignity and inheritance; that the King would willingly sand an Ambassador to this Treaty, with instructions whereby it should plainly appear, that whatsoever he had done was out of a sincere love to settle peace, and to maintain the dignity of his Imperial majesty. Touching CHRISTIAN Duke of Brunswick▪ the king his Master had understood by vulgar relations, that he had made an irruption into Westphalia, and had taken diverse places, but 1622 he had not hard of his Tyranny. That what he had done was out of his mere love and pity to the Palatine, his wife and children, being so near allied unto him in blood, and dispossessed of all their States: wherefore, he entreated the Emperor not to take any severe counsels against this Duke; but rather to use lenity and mildness in respect of his youth and other circumstances, whereby he might draw him to better counsels, and make trial of his fidelity and valour, either against the sworn enemy of Christendom, or in some other good occasion. The Emperor hereunto made this answer; That whatsoever had been attempted The Emperor's answer to the Ambassador. by force in the Palatinate, was done by his commandment, and by the virtue of his Commission. That the Army which was then in the Palatinate was to be accounted the Emperors: so as whatsoever was attempted against it by the Palatine or his commanders, was to be held done against his person. That he persisted constant in his first resolution, touching a treaty of peace: wherein he hoped all long disputations should be avoided, according unto the desire of the King of Denmark, promising withal that he would have a respect unto his 〈◊〉. During this Embassy, The Elector of Saxony wrote Letters unto the Emperor, whereby The Elector of Saxony interceedes for the Palatine. he gave him to understand, that he had been requested by the King of Denmark, to be a suitor unto his Majesty, for the reconciliation of FREDERICK Elector Palatine, who seemed ready to renounce the Kingdom of Bohemia for him and his heirs; to make his submission and give satisfaction. Having therefore found by diverse Letters and Embassies sent unto him, that his Majesty was wholly inclined to settle a wished peace, and had referred the whole business to the Infanta of Spain, lying at Brussels, whereby all Acts of hostility might cease, or at lest a cessation of Arms be concluded, that they might proceed in their treaty, and the faithful States be freed from further danger; and seeing the King of Denmark's love and affection to his Imperial Majesty, and the public peace; he thought it his duty to employ his best endeavour for the pacifying of all troubles and combustions in the Empire, neither could he forbear to assist this his commendable design by his Letters. That he held it very necessary and high time that a peace were settled in the Empire; which could by no means be effected, unless the Spring of all troubles were stopped and the fire quenched. Wherhfore he entreated his Majesty not to suffer this intercession of the King of Denmark to be without fruit, but that he would vanquish himself; and as the Palatine seemed ready to make a renuntiation and submission, so in like manner he would suffer him to be reconciled unto him: whereby he should preserve the love and affection of the King of Danmark, make an end of all those miseries, settle a peace in the Empire, and purchase immortal thanks and glory with all the States of the Empire and posterity. About this time, those of Glats surprised the Town of Wunselburg: in the which, were five companies of foot belonging to the Prince of Lichtenstein, whereof they slew the greatest part; some few flying to Brun. In like manner, they of Clingenberg, being besieged by the Imperialists, made a salie and slew many of their soldiers. About the same time 5000 Cossacks came and offered their service to the Emperor; they sat down within two miles of Glats, bringing great spoils with them: of which, they of Glats took a great part from them; CHARLES Bishop of Nisse, the Emperor's brother, sending them word he had no need of their service: yet they continued their course, and marched towards the Duke of Bavaria, spoiling the Town of Glatta in Bohemia as they passed. The united States hearing that the Countries of juliers and Mounts (which are a part of Demands made by the united States to the countries of julitrs and Mounts▪ the circle of Westphalia, and subject to the Empire) had given great assistance to the Spaniards, they sent an Ambassador to Dusseldorf with these demands following: That they should pay them one hundred thousand dollars within three weeks, or expect the like that had been done in Brabant; That they should make yearly payment unto the States of half their profits. That they should receive no Spanish garrisons into their towns as they had done the last winter. That they understood, they had maintained the king of Spain's forces without any charge to him; the which if they should do again this winter, they would burn all their Towns and villages: And lastly that they should give them as great a quantity of oats as they had done to SPINOLA. TILLY having taken the Castle of Ladebourg without any great toil, upon the 21. of june Heidelberg besieged by Tilly. he marched toward Heidelberg: and finding that the Town and Castle might be annoyed from a near place which they call the holy Hill; he presently seized upon it, and soon after took a fortification, which for some considerations had been abandoned, and in a manner cast down by them of Heidelberg; from whence they began to shoot against the Town: and coming 1622 down the Hill, they began to fortify against the bridge which went over the Neccar, and to take in if they could, and withal to disturb the besieged if they should attempt to recover the Fort upon the Hill; but they were forced to desist from their attempt, by their continual shooting from the Castle. There were diverse sallies and Military exploits for some days together, with loss to either side; they within having a Captain with thirty seven footmen and two horsemen slain, besides such as were wounded. The Bavarian lost some hundreds of his soldiers with one Captain, there being above 100 of them carried prisoners into the Town. In the mean time two of MANSFELDS' Captains, being shut into the Town, and having no means to return unto their Army, had drawn together a troop of 300 foot, and eighty horse of the Mansfeldians and others, who lying sick there had recovered their healths; these men salied forth daily, and never returned without some prey. TILLY, finding he should do little good beyond the River of Neccar, on the 28 of june raised his camp, and returned to Lawdebourg with his Army: where passing the River, he marched to the other side of the Town; and put his Army in battle, showing himself ready to fight, but to no effect: only he made the Town Guards sometime retire, as they did his, his soldiers spending the time in gathering up the corn, and spoiling and burning the neighbour Villages. In the meantime, LODOWICK of Darmstat Lantsgrave of Hesse was released from his Lodowick of Hassia sent house to his Country. imprisonment before the coming of two Ambassadors from the Elector of Saxony, and from MAURICE, Lantsgrave of Hesse: the conditions of his dismission were, That he should labour to procure the peace of Germany; That he should do his best endeavour for the restitution of the Palatinate, and other jurisdictions belonging unto the Elector FREDERICK: That he should attempt nothing in hostile manner against the elector or his subjects during these troubles; and that he should not seek any revenge for that which had been formerly done. Having accepted and allowed of these conditions (so as they might not prejudice the hereditary contracts which he had with other Electors and Princes) he presently returned to Darmstat the first of july. At the same time the marquis of Durlach gave over Arms and resigned his troops to the Baron of Helmstat. Count MANDSFELD and the Duke of Brunswick, having joined their forces together, Count Mansfeld and Brunswick go into Alsatia. left the Palatinate (being wholly wasted and not able to feed their Armies) and marching into Alsatia, they passed by Strausbourg, and in the way took divers Towns belonging to the Bishop's jurisdiction, whereof they spoilt and burnt some and ransomed others, from whom they exacted great sums of money besides other supplies of corn, wine and other victuals for the relief of their Army. The Lord CHICHESTER Baron of Belface, being sent by his Majesty of great Brittany (as you formerly heard) to his son in law the Elector Palatine, to dispose him to retire out of the Palatinate, and to lay down Arms in regard of the present treaty of peace; being also pressed by Letters from the King of Denmark, who had much laboured his reconciliation with the Emperor, and had consulted with some States of the Empire; he thought good to advice him to desist from Arms and dismiss his forces, setting down certain conditions, whereby they hoped this difficult business might be compounded. The Elector (by the advice and counsel of the King his father in law, and the persuasions of the King of Denmark) not only raised the siege from ELSAS ZABARIN, but also freed the Army from their oath; as may appear by this attestation which was made in the Camp, the 13 of july: He could not but confess (said he) That his worthy General and Lieutenant general, The Elector ●…reeth the Army from their oath. the Earl of Mansfeld, with his Kinsman CHRISTIAN Duke of Brunswick, with all their Colonels, Captains and Officers, together with the whole Army of horse and foot, had hitherto faithfully discharged their duties: but, being now destitute of all means to entertain them any longer, so as they should not be able hereafter to continued in their fidelities and duty, He would not therefore blame them for that they had required an honest dismission; but did willingly grant it, and declared them freed from their oath, and that they might now freely take what course they in their discretion should think fittest for their good and safety. GOTHARDUS writes, that Count MANDSFELD (having received this attestation Count Mansfeld offers his service to the Emperor. from the Elector) wrote unto TILLY, sending him a copy thereof, letting him understand that both he, the Duke of Brunswick, and the whole Army were discharged from the Elector: so as being now their own men & at liberty, moved out of love and affection unto the Emperor they were ready to serve him, if they might be sure of the remainder of their pay: or if his Majesty had no need of his service, the proscription being taken away and a pardon granted for his former offences, he would speedily departed out of the limits of the Empire: yet I dare 1622 not warrant the truth hereof. The Assembly of the Provincial States in Hungary continued still: in the which, they shown themselves very willing to give the Emperor content; and among others, they concluded these Articles following. That all persons aswell Ecclesiastical as Secular, should be restored to their goods, which had been taken away during the time of the rebellion. That aid should be given unto his Imperial Majesty against his enemies. That the Germans should be received into garrison, for the defence of the frontier towns▪ and that the Empress should be crowned Queen of Hungary; to which end the Emperor's Commissioners should be presently sent to fetch the Crown to Edinbourg, whereby the Assembly might be concluded▪ In the mean time, Clingenberg, with the Town and Castle, was yielded to the Emperor's devotion, upon certain conditions: which done, the Garrison departed with their baggage, and other troops entered for the Emperor: and at the same time the Earl of Holoch was reconciled to the Emperor; and the Electoral Diet, appointed at Ratisbone or Rainsbourg, was deferred until the first of October. The States of Hungary, to show their devotion to the Emperor, resolved to have his Empress The Empress crowned Queen of Hungary. crowned Queen of Hungary upon the 26 of july; for the which, there was great preparation made. The Hungarian Crown had been carried by BETHLIN GABOR from Presbourg to Trentschin (as you have formerly heard) the which was now brought back with a troop of 1000 Germans and Hungarians horse and foot: it was carried with great solemnity in a Caroche, having many Noblemen both of the Emperor's Court and Hungarians going before and after it, with trumpets in front. Being come to the house where the Crown was to be kept, presently the Archbishop of javerin, the Lord Palatine TURSO, with many other Noblemen Hungarians, received it with great honour, from certain Haydukes, and carried it into the house. Before they came unto the said place, the citizens stood on the one side in Arms, and the Haydukes (being Armed after their manner) on the other. The next day the Crown was brought forth into the Court and publicly showed, being found whole and untouched. On the day appointed for this ceremony, the Emperor went with great pomp unto the Franciscan Church: before him marched the Gentlemen and Noblemen of the Court, with some Knights of the Golden fleece: then followed four Bishops in their Episcopal habits, and six other in their ordinary attire: then came there five Heralds: and then followed the Emperor with his Kingly Diadem, on his head; the Earl of Solmes carrying the regal Ball, BRUNO Earl of Mansfeld the sceptre, and the Baron of Locenstin the sword; Next to the Emperor followed STANESLAUS TURSO, the Palatine of Hungary, who carried the Hungarian Diadem, SETSCHIUS the regal Ball, and ESTERHASIUS the sceptre: and, last of, all came the Empress with her train and the Emperor's guard. Coming into the Church, the Archbishop of javerin was appointed to perform the ceremony: who, after the ending of Mass, anointed her upon the right Arm, between the elbow and the hand, and likewise upon the face: which done, she was conducted by the Earl of Ditrichstein and the Countess of Porcia, into the Vestry; where she was attired with rich robes: and then coming forth, the foresaid Noblemen went before her with the Crown, Sceptre and Ball. Coming to the Altar, and falling upon her knees, the Archbishop anointed her again. Than came there another Bishop and set her own Crown upon her head, and so departed: after which, the Archbishop returned; and taking the sceptre, he put it into her right hand, the regal Ball into her left; and the Crown of Hungary he set upon her right shoulder: which as it seems is their manner when they crown a Queen: the which, after some small pause, was taken off and set upon the Altar. The ceremony being ended, the Queen taking her own crown, and carrying the sceptre & Ball in her hands, went to her appointed seat: after which they returned with great joy & pomp in the same manner they came, the Palatine often showing the Hungarian Crown to the people. Count MANSFELD, and the D of Brunswick, having retired their forces out of the Palatinate, and being discharged from the Elector Palatine king of Bohemia's service, as you have heard; TILLY and CARDOVA remaining still there with great forces, having no enemy able to make head against them, they had a fair opportunity to attempt any thing they pleased, General VERE having work enough, to man, fortify, and munition the Towns of Heidelberg Manheim and Frankendale with some few others which remained yet untaken, and were commanded by him under our King's Majesty's protection. He therefore neglected not any thing that might either hinder the enemy in his designs, or avail himself in his defence; and therefore commanded the Governor of Gemersheim to seize on all the boats he could upon the river Rhi●…e, and burn 1622 them, jest the enemy should make use of them for bridges or some other design: and those Troops which the marquis of Durlach had cashiered when he retired himself, the General entertained. The Elector Palatine, King of Bohemia, having discharged his Army (as we have formerly Mansfelds' proceeding after his discharge. related) retired himself to Sedan to the Duke of Bovillon, his uncle. Count MANSFELD and the Duke of Brunswick in the mean time left Alsatia and the Territories of Strasbourg, sending to the Duke of Lorraine to demand passage through his Country: the which was granted either for love or fear; yet it struck a great terror into the poor inhabitants, who fled with their goods into the walled Towns, fearing the insolency of disordered soldiers, which can never be kept in discipline where there wants pay: and therefore their Commanders are often forced to give way to their spoils and violences. This Army passing through Lorraine and the Bishopric of Metts, they entered upon the edge of Champagne in France, sitting down by Mouson a small Town belonging to the French King upon the river of Mouse, having put all the Countries round about in alarm, and caused them to stand upon their guard; whom we will at this time leave for a while. The marquis of Durlach, soon after his giving over Arms, had a great disaster fallen upon him: for, certain Troops of Croatians and Cossacks, coming from the Bavarian, entered his Durlach his country spoiled. Country, spoiled where they came, and put all to fire and sword. They not only wasted and consumed the corn in their Barns, but also that which stood upon the ground, the husbandmen being fled, and not daring appear to reap it: they also did beaten out the heads of their wine-vessels, pouring it on the ground; after which insolences they made an incursion toward the duke of Virtembeag's Country: where, as many as they took of the countrypeople, they barbarously mangled and slew, not sparing the very infants. The Hungarians having had many treaties in the provincial Assembly, there were these heads following offered to the Emperor by the Noblemen to be confirmed: that there should be free exercise of religion under both kinds, by what name soever it should be called, and that the Palatine of Hungary should have authority to punish the Bishops if they should attempt any thing to the contrary; secondly, that the Emperor should have power to put Germane in garrison into the frontier Towns and Forts, giving order for their sufficient pay, and where they should receive it, jest they should be enforced to fall to spoil, and thereby waste the Country; if otherwise, they would then place Hnngarians upon the Frontiers, yet under the Emperor's command: thirdly, that the coin should be reduced to the ancient value; whereby the Hungarians might traffic more commodiously with the Turks, and the subjects should not be so oppressed by the Magistrates: fourthly, that all grievances (whereof they had often complained) might be taken away and redressed. To these four heads the Emperor made answer, first, that they should have free exercise of religion, were it Caluenian, Lutheran, or any other: but he had no power over the clergy in spiritual matters; that they should try if they could obtain that power from the Pope, to whom would he writ touching that business: secondly, that he could not excuse the drawing away of the Germane from the Frontiers by the Princes and States of the Empire, who supplied the charges for the defence of the Frontiers against the incursions of the Turk: yet it would be dangerous, that they being drawn away would be forsaken if the Turk should make any sudden irruption; but they should have two Noblemen, Hungarians, resident in his Court and of his Council, who should have a care that the contributions of the Empire should not be employed to any other use than the defence of the Frontiers of Hungary: thirdly, that touching the reduction of monies to their old values, his revenues had been so miserably wasted in the charges of the Court, that they were not able to entertain the soldiers; but there should be a care taken for the restitution and reforming thereof, as soon as the troubles of the Empire were pacified: fourthly, touching the grievances of the Empire (whereof they complained) they had not been taken away, compounded nor redressed by any former King; yet if his Imperial Majesty should find, that they were such as concerned that Kingdom only, and no other Provinces, he would be pleased that twelve of the Nobility of Hungary should be chosen; who, conferring with the Palatine, all grievances (according to the constitutions of the Kingdom) should be examined by them, abrogated and compounded; promising, that he would not contradict their answers, but allow of their resolutions. After MANSFELD'S departure out of the limits of the Empire; the Bavarians being now Masters in a manner of the whole Palatinate, and having no enemy to cross their designs, 1622 took Frisseisheim, Winsnig, Newstad and some other places, without any great opposition. The Bishop Hagenau and Spire taken by Leopold. of Spire in like manner recovered some Towns belonging to his jurisdiction: and the Archduke LEOPOLD, being advertised of his departure, came with his Army out of the upper Alsatia, and recovered Hagenaw; from whence he went to Spire: where the Bishop entering on the 9 of August on horseback with two companies of foot & one of horse, within few hours after he arrived with great troops; to whom the Magistrates of the City presented wine as they had done to TILLY. After which, the Senate, submitting themselves to the devotion of the Emperor, did p●… in a new garrison and discharged the old, causing the citizens to bring all their 〈◊〉 into the Court. Presently after, they went to besiege Germesheim: which they battered with their cannon, and the Besieged in the beginning defended themselves valiantly; yet, finding no hope of any relief, they offered to treat: but in the mean time, the Croatians, on the 14 of August, getting over the walls, made a cruel slaughter of men, women and children; mea●…g The cruelty of the Croatians. to leave none living if the Archduke LEOPOLD had not restrained their fury by a severe Edict. And, not long after, Worms, which had supplied the soldiers of the Bavarian and Spanish Armies with great store of victuals, was also surprised by the Archduke LEOPOLD, to the great loss of the Citizens; where the old garrison was discharged and a new brought in. All things tending to ruin and desolation in the Palatinate, about the same time an Edict was made in Bohemia, and proclaimed by CHARLES, Duke of Silesia, concerning the goods An edict touching the goods 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which were ●…bed in Bohemia. of such as had been proscribed and banished; That whereas, in the year 1620, commandment had been made in the Emperor's name, to all the subjects of Bohemia, of what estate or dignity soever, that were any way indebted to those Rebels and turbulent persons, by whose fault the kingdom had received an incomparable loss, and was brought in a manner to utter ruin, or that had in their possession any gold, plate, or other movables, by way of trust, borrowing, or other title, or did know were in the hands of any other, should presently without any delay deliverin their names and discover them: and whereas many offending against this express Edict of his Imperial Majesty (not carrying themselves like faithful subjects, but rather fra●…dulently consenting with those pernicious Rebels and enemies) had not been conformable nor satisfied the contents thereof, but neglected the payment of those debts, according to the Tenor of that and other Edicts; he had therefore good and sufficient cause to proceed to the execution of all their goods movable or immoveable: yet, to the end no man should have cause to complain of wrong, he would out of mere favour and grace forbear the execution thereof; giving a strict command in the Emperor's name, to all the Subjects of Bohemia, that if they had discovered any debts or goods belonging to those Rebels, and had not brought them into the Treasury, or had dissembled them, and not discovered them to himself or some others who had that business in charge; that now, within one month after the publication of the said Edict, they should bring, or cause to be brought, the said debts or goods committed to their charge, into the Emperor's Exchequer: If any one, neglecting this favour, should continued obstinate, or presume in any sort to alienate the goods of these Rebels thus condemned, or hereafter to be condemned, he should presently be censured to pay a Fine, thrice as much as the value. On the fifteenth of August, the Emperor with his Empress returned from the States of The Emperor's judgement touching the Marquisate of Ba●…. Hungary, to Vienna, with great content: where, soon after, a cause depending betwixt the eldest son of EDWARD marquis of Baden, against the marquis of Durlach and Baden, was heard before his Majesty; whereas the said son of EDWARD, demanded to have the upper Marquisate granted unto him in Fee. This cause had been long in question, and the parties were now commanded to appear in Court: where the Emperor sitting in his Imperial Throne, the Vice Chancellor of Vlmes made a speech, showing that his Majesty was ready to discharge his duty, and to administer justice to all men; especially to widows and Pupils. And whereas the cause had been long debated before three Emperors, and the Tutors of the dispossessed Pupils of the marquis of Baden had been humble suitors to have the cause decided (diverse Kings, Electors, and Princes, having been also intercessors unto his Majesty in that behalf) he would no longer defer it; and the rather, for that the Defendant sought many delays, and would have more time spent to inform his Majesty's ●…etter. He had therefore caused all the Acts to be viewed by his Council: which done, the sentence, which was to be pronounced by the Secretary, was concluded by all their 1622 consents. His speech being ended, the Imperial Secretary read the sentence publicly; which contained, That the marquis of Durlach the defendant should not only yield and restore the upper Marquisat, with all the first-fruits received & to receive, to the heir of EDWARD, but also pay him all the charges of the suit; A heavy sentence for this poor Prince after the ruin of his Country and so great losses: but, I doubt not but his willingness to assist the Elector Palatine in his just defence of the Palatinate, did make the Emperor so willing to proceed unto judgement, whereby he hath now in a manner ruined another Protestant Prince. Let us now return to Count MANSFELD, who had encamped some weeks near unto Mouson. Mansfelds' course going into the low countries The world expecting what course he would take, every man spoke of him according to his fancy. Some said he was a soldier offortune; that he had more ambition in him then Religion: That he would serve him that should offer him the fairest conditions, and that he had offered himself to the State of Venice, to the Duke of Savoy, to the Duke of Bovillon, and them of the Religion in France, to the French King and to the united States. It was generally given out, that he should serve the French King upon very noble conditions; with which supposition, he sought to satisfy his discontented Soldiers who were ready to mutiny, telling them that he expected a messenger from the King; whereof there was some likelihood, having treated with some of his Ministers. This did somewhat pacify his Soldiers; yet there were many which would not enter into the kings pay. And to make the Inhabitants of Mouson the more confident, he put his Ordinance into their Town, desiring them to assist him with some victuals for his Army, for that he was to follow the King. Whereupon the Townsmen, giving credit to his words, sent him out presently Corn to refresh his Troops; but in the mean time he contracted secretly with the States of Holland, and entered into their pay. The Earl being come to Mouson, the Infanta of Spain (doubting that he would come down to assist the united States) called home Don GONZALES de Cordova, with all his Army (being fourteen thousand horse and foot well Armed) who marched with great speed through Luxeubourg and the country of Liege upon the River of Mensae, to stop MANSFELD in his passage: and as LONDO●…PIUS writes, the Baron of Anhalt was sent after him with another Army into Lorraine to prevent his return into Germany. The Earl, having received resolution from the States, soon after demanded his Ordinance from the Townsmen of Mouson, pretending that he would march directly to the King. And to the end they should the more credit him, he delivered money to certain Captains, for the levying of Soldiers within their Town: after which he began to march, discovering his intent to all his Army, showing them his Letters-patents which he had received from the States, and withal telling them that they must resolve to fight more than once. Seeing himself out of danger, his and the Duke's Army past Auesnes; and on the twenty seventh of August attempted Mauberg: but, being fortified with a good garrison, they only burned the suburbs, and so past the River of Sambre with their whole Army. There he and the Duke of Brunswick burned most of their Carts, mounting their footmen on the horses, getting also many other in the Country; whereby he might advance with the more speed in the march. They were held to have 14000 men in their Army, horse and foot: but it is confidently reported, his horsemen were very ill Armed, having for the most part no Arms at all but their Swords and Pistols. They were now in an Enemy's country, where there was nothing to relieve them but what the Trees would afford; all the Boors being in Arms watching some opportunity to set upon them, if Don CORDOVA should put them to rout. The Earl coming to jamblours which lieth between Haynault and Namures, his Soldiers being weary and tired with long marches and want of victuals, he caused them to rest and refresh themselves. Don CORDOVA was encamped, near unto Fleury, in a strait whereas Count MANSFE●…LD and the Duke of Brunswick must of necessity pass, having a very good Army of Soldiers with an infinite number of Boores. Some writ that MANSFELD, coming near unto CORDOVAES' Camp, he sent a Trumpet unto him, to know whether he would give him passage or fight: who answering that he had charge to stop his passage and to fight, The Earl presently prepared to charge (knowing there was danger in delays) the which his men performed so resolutely, as they put CORDOVAES' men to rout and surprised his Ordinance from the Boors, the which they kept for the space of two hours, but afterwards they recovered it again; Whereupon the fight grew very cruel: the Duke of Brunswick (behaving himself most valiantly) was shot in the left Arm near unto the wrist; yet, notwithstanding, he would not leave 1622 the field, but continued still fight; so as with the loss of blood, and heat, his wound so inflamed, as afterwards he was enforced to have this arm cut off above the Elbow. To conclude, after a long fight, Count MANDSFELD having slain many, especially of the Boors; Don CORDOVA was forced to sound a retreat: whereupon Count MANSFELD and the Duke of Brunswick, being Masters of the field, marched directly towards Breda, having taken much of the Enemy's baggage and some of his Ordinance. What men were lost in this battle is not certain: but at their coming to Breda they mustered, as it is written, 10000 men; besides many sick and weary, which came daily unto them. I cannot relate the particular circumstances of this battle, being so diversely reported by such as have written thereof, nor what their particular losses were; neither doth it concern this History, being out of the limits of the Empire: But thus much I dare boldly affirm, that it was one of the most resolute (if not desperate) exploits that hath been performed in our Age, to see a weak Army (the horsemen having no Arms but their Swords and Pistols) tired with long marches in an enemy's country, where they had nothing to friend but the Heavens which covered them; to encounter a powerful Army, fortified with the best men, from the neighbour garrisons, and seconded with at lest 20000 Boors Armed; to charge them in their own strength, to force through them, to make them retire after great loss, and then (being masters of the field) to march almost 30 or 40 miles through the enemy's country, there being 10 or 12 strong Towns with great garrisons in their way; who no doubt would have cut them in pieces if they had been routed. The Prince of Orrange (being advertised of their march) sent them bread and other provision to refresh their hungry Soldiers before their coming to Breda. At brussels they proclaimed a Triumph before the victory, and made bonfires with a confident assurance they were quite overthrown, for that certain Ensigns of the Duke of Brunswick's and Count MANSFELD'S were brought thither; but afterwards their mirth was turned to heaviness, when they had intelligence of the truth, how that Don CORDOVA had been forced to retire with great loss; that they were Masters of the field, and had burnt the corn and country as they passed, and were safely arrived at Breda, where they were received with great joy by the Prince of Orrange, the united States and the whole Army. Towards the end of july, Count MANSFELD and the Duke of Brunswick being retired Heidelberg 〈◊〉, & taken by Tilly. out of the Palatinate with their forces, and no man left there able to make head against the Enemy; The Baron of TILLY, General for the Emperor, returned again to Heidelberg with an Army of 15000 men, and laid a strait siege to the Town and Castle. Presently after his sitting down, he seized upon a Fort, which had been built by JOHN Earl of Nassaw; but first abandoned by the besieged, lying too fare off to be well kept. From this Fort which lay behind the Castle, he sought to annoyed the Town: and with the rest of his Army, he block up Manheim and Frankendale to keep all relief from them. Having fortified his Trenches, and planted certain Ordinance, he played upon the Town, but did it no great harm; persuading himself that they would soon yield, being given to understand that they wanted Salt and all kind of victual but Bread and Wine. With this persuasion he spent above two Months before the Town, and never took any of their outworks or place of any importance, but summoned them often, and persuaded them to yield obedience to the Emperor: but finding that his persuasions prevailed nothing, and that his long stay there had not yet driven them to any extremity of hunger; he resolved to attempt some thing by force. The Town was commanded by a Dutchman, whose name was MERVIN, under whom were good Troops of Soldiers of diverse Nations besides the Inhabitants. The Castle was under the charge of Sir GARRET HARBERT with 2 Companies of English, his own and Sir JOHN WENT WORTHS, being not above two hundred strong, whereof there were not above one hundred and forty English, the rest were of other Nations. On the fift and sixt days of September, General TILLY played with his Ordinance upon their outworks, resolving to give a general assault. Those outworks without Spire Port were defended by the Dutch, and might well have been kept against any daring Enemy whatsoever, if they had had any courage or valour in them: But presently after their approach, and before they came to the foot of their Rampart; a Dutch Captain whose name was GREY, and had the command of the first outwork, most cowardly abandoned it, and in this amazement all the rest of the troup cast away their Arms and fled towards the town, or yielded themselves to the enemy; where we will leave them a while and turn towards the Castle, where the enemy had sent to assault an outwork called the Pheasant garden by 2000 men; which Sir GARRET HARBERT defended 1622 valiantly with one hundred of his men: They came often to the scalado, and were valiantly repulsed by the defendants, where as the Governor broke three pikes, having his page attending him with 6 more: but to the loss of this brave Captain, and as we may conjecture to the loss of the place, he was shot in the head, having no head-piece, and was the first man which was slain upon the work: His Lieutenant was also shot in the shoulder and retired, yet the soldiers defended it valiantly, the space of two hours after, until that the enemy had left shooting. The Duteh being fled from the defence of the outworks and comn into the Suburbs, the Governor shut the Town gates against them, so that many of them were either slain or taken prisoners. The enemy coming to Spire Port commanded Petards to be brought to force it: but in the mean time certain Crabats (which are adventuring Boot-halers of Croatia like unto the Cossaques and live upon spoil) got by the river to the water Port, and entered; where they began to fire the houses and to spoil. During the which, TILLY forced the Port▪ and in this confusion the Governor, Captains, with many soldiers, Burghers, and women fled to the Castle; and in the mean time, the insolent soldiers fell to slaughter and spoil in the Town. Notwithstanding all this disaster, the English still maintained their work until that the governor had persuaded them to retire: they also fearing that the enemy might come upon their backs from the Town; yet they shown no amazement in their retreat; for they drew away their ordinance and munition, and brought off the bodies of such as had been slain being but 13 in all. TILLY being Master of the Town, and having abandoned it to the spoil of the soldier, he summoned the Castle to yield: where the Governor MERVIN, having propounded large conditions for himself and his troops, in the end it was concluded, 1. That he should yield up to General TILLY, the Castle, with the Cannon, munition and all other instruments of war, to the behoof of his Imperial Majesty, with all other goods, jewels, writings The yielding up of the Castle of Heidelberg or any o●… thing belonging to the Count Palatine and the Princess his wife; only that excepted which the General out of his grace should suffer to pass. 2. That the Governor, Colonels, Captains, and soldiers with all other belonging to them, might departed with their drums beating and full Arms, and with all their baggage, so that it were their own and not belonging to the Castle or Town. 3. That they should have a safe conduct given them to Franckfort or any other place whither they would go, except Manheim and frankendal. 4. That they should have carriages allowed them by the General. 5. That all low Dutch, French, English and other strangers which were prisoners, should be set at liberty without any ransom: As also on the other side, all prisoners should be restored unto the General upon the same terms. 6. All sick and wounded soldiers should be put into some convenient place, and there maintained with necessary relief, where having recovered their health, they should have such passports given them as they should desire: That none should be molested in body or goods for debt or any other occasion. This was the Capitulation concluded upon the 9 of September: and the next day he gave them a safe conduct; entreating all the Electors, Princes and States of the Empire, of what dignity or quality soever, to give free passage unto Mounsieur MERVIN sometimes Covernor of Heidelberg, with his companies and baggage, through all their Principalities and Segniories, giving them all assistance for the advancement of their jouney. The next day MERVIN went out of Heydelberg with seven hundred men of all nations; but the capitulation was ill observed: for as they marched through the street and over the bridge, the enemy's soldiers standing in guard on either side, stripped all they could lay hand on to their very shirts: which bred a great tumult in the Town. Whereof General TILLY being advertised, he came forth of of his lodging to stay the soldier's fury, and conducted them three or four miles out of town with a troop of 200 horse, fearing the soldiers should have followed them to have cut their throats. I cannot forget one inhuman act of General TILLY'S, who would not suffer the body of that brave and valiant Knight Sir GARRET HARBERT to be buried like a Christian in the Town Church, but they were forced to lay him in the green Court in the Castle; there being nothing in the Town to embalm his body, which they meant to have brought into England, his worth deserving a moment of better note. The Governor with the soldiers, being (as some affirm that were present) 700 men, came safely to Franckfort, whereas my Lord CHICHESTER then remained attending directions from his Majesty, either to go to the Diet appointed at Reinsberg, or to return home into England: by whose means the English received money to conduct them into the Low Countries 1622 or home, by the hands of Master BOU●…LEMACK, who was appointed Paymaster in those parts to the English and other soldiers that were entertained in his Majesty's name for the defence of the Palatinate. Thus the chief place of residence for the Elector Palatine was by the base cowardice of the Dutch lost, and with it one of the goodliest Libraries in the world; a jewel which cannot well be valued, for the many rare Manuscripts which had been there gathered together by his predecessors. The Duke of Bavaria did highly esteem this prize, and committed the guard thereof to his jesuits. The soldiers being go, the Inhabitants were miserable spoiled by the enemy; who stripped both men & women, so as they neither had clotheses to cover them, nor meat to relieve them, but what they got from Heilbrim or Franckfort: and yet their cruelty was such as they forced the poor inhabitants to ransom themselves, and to pay the soldiers which were left there in garrison. The loss of this Town did add much to the king of Bohemia's other afflictions: He was The King of Bohemia goes from Sedan to the Hague. then at Sedan under the protection of the Duke of Bovillon, his Uncle; desiring much to be at the Hague with that Noble and generous Princess his wife: but the difficulty was to pass. To go through the Low Countries was not possible; all was subject to the enemy: and to pass disguised through France as he had formerly done, there was little hope, he was too well known; but he was soon freed of these apprehensions: for the French king, either by the intercession of some others, or out of his own princely and generous disposition commiserating the distressed state of this Prince (whose house had always been firmly allied to the Crown of France, and had assisted it in the greatest extremity of their affairs) sent him a safe conduct to pass freely through his kingdom to what Port he pleased, commanding all his subjects to give him that assistance and respect which was fit for the greatness of his person. Whereupon he took leave of the Duke of Bovillon, who gave him a convoy of 100 horse to conduct him to Calais: where the Governor received him with much honour, and the people observed him with much reverence and respect. There he embarked in some of the States Ships, and so came safely to the Hague, where he was joyfully received by the Queen his wife and the whole Court. Let us turn head a little towards Bohemia and the incorporated provinces, whereas the Emperor was now absolutely obeyed, Glatz only excepted; which had been long besieged: yet Executions in Bohemia and Moravia. the subjects were in no great security. For they were both questioned for their lives and states, and were in danger to loose the free exercise of religion, the which had been promised them at the reduction of those provinces. The Emperor sent his Commissioners both into Bohemia & Moravia, to call diverse Lords and men of account in question, touching the late combustions. 1. All those were to be questioned which where present when some of the Council were cast out of the windows in Prague. 2. Those which had consented to the League against the Emperor and the house of Austria. 3, Those which had been at the Emperor's rejection, and such as had been present at the Count Palatines election to the Crown of Bohemia. And lastly all such as had marched in Arms against Viena. In Moravia many Noblemen and others of note, absenting themselves, were proclaimed Traitors, their names fixed on the common gallows, degraded of their honours, and their Lands & goods forfeited, which were presently seized on to the Emperor's use; nor did they spare the dead: for the Emperor's Commissioners began to examine the causes of the deceased rebels (as they termed them) meaning to brand them with infamy after their deaths; and reduce their heirs to misery, by the confiscation of their estates, for that is always the conclusion; being a great means to raise money to pay the Cossaques and other soldiers. It was also given out, that the Commissioners in Bohemia would proceed criminally against all those that had borne Arms under the Prince of Anhalt, Count HOLLOCH, Count MANDSFELD, or any other, his Majesty's enemies: which Article had so large an extent, and would comprehend so many of all degrees, that if they should proceed with rigour against them, the Emperor should be fain to bring in new Colonies to repeople those Provinces; but it seems they took a milder course: for, divers Lords and Knights with other Citizens, being condemned at Brin in Moravia to loose their heads, their corporal punishments were turned into imprisonment; some for their lives, some for years: but there was no grace for their goods; they were still forfeited. And thus have they proceeded touching the examination of some Lords and others, whom they termed rebels, in Bohemia and Moravia. Touching matters of religion, it seemed the Emperor had an intent to root out the Protestant's in Bohemia and the incoaporated Provinces: for, the Prince or Lantzgrave of Lichtenstein, Lieutenant 1622 of Bohemia for the Emperor, had commission from him to shut up the two Dutch Protestant The protestant Churches shut up in Prague. Churches in Prague, and to press the City and Country to reformation in religion; the which was put in execution: so as they were likely to loose the comfort of the Gospel by the preaching of their Ministers, and the grounds of religion which the youth learned by the instruction of their Teachers: for, both the Ministers and Preachers were commanded to be presently gone; which did much afflict the Protestant's: and the Colleges where their youth was instructed, were shut up. There was also commandment given by public proclamation to all bookseller's and Stationer's, to bring-in a catalogue of all their Lutheran & Caluinian books to the Secretary of State, within fourteen days, upon great penalties. The Duke of Saxony, having notice given him of this alteration in Bohemia touching the shutting up of the Protestant Churches, was much discontented, both in regard of his own particular, being of that religion, and might in time be subject to the like calamity with the rest of the protestant Princes of Germany; as also holding his honour to be blemished, for that, at the reduction of those Countries to the Emperor's obedience, he had promised them by warrant from the Emperor, that the Churches should not be molested, nor they deprived of the free exercise of their religion, having also taken them into his protection; and therefore the Duke objected these proceed to the Emperor's Ambassador as a wrong done to him: and being still importuned by the petitions of the Preachers which had been driven out of their Countries, he wrote to the Prince of Lichtenstein to this effect; that forasmuch as he could not but take notice by sundry advertisements from Bohemia and the incorporated Provinces, as also by the complaints of divers Preachers lately banished out of those Countries, of the restraint of The Duke of Saxony writes to the Prince of Lichtenstein. the public profession of the reformed religion, and of the shutting up their Churches, and the putting down of their schools: yet for that men in misery do commonly seek to move pity by the report of their estates, and for that he had been always better conceited of his Majesty's word, who had promised him, that if those Countries could be reduced to obedience by his forces, he should by his Majesty's direction pass his word to the subjects of those Provinces, that those of the reformed religion should still enjoy their freedom of conscience: Wherhfore, relying upon the Emperor's word, he would not rashly give credit to those informations till he might hear the certainty both of the authority of his commission, and in what manner it had been executed: wherefore he could do no less in favour of the cause, and for the honour of his own word (whereon the inhabitants of those Provinces had much relied) than to entreat him earnestly to advertise him of the truth of the business; the which if he found conformable to the Petitioners complaints, he could not but hold his own honour engaged to take care for a timely remedy, and withal employ his credit and power with his Imperial Majesty for the staying of all future proceed. Some think, these alterations in Bohemia stayed the Duke of Saxony's journey to the Diet at Regensbourg; who, continuing his discontents, gave the Emperor to understand by his Letters, that he was much grieved for the shutting up of the 2 protestant Churches at Prague, the which did not belong to the Bohemians, but to the Electors and Princes of Germany, professing the gospel; who had built and maintained them at their own charges, and procured them great privileges and immunities: wherefore his Majesty had not to do with the Protestant's of Bohemia, but with the Electors and Princes of the Empire, which should not suffer them of their own religion (contrary to his Imperial promise and the privileges of the Empire) to be persecuted and oppressed. This may breed some new combustion and trouble, unless it shall please the Emperor to restore those Churches to their former estate and condition. The siege of Glatz continued still: which being resolutely attempted by the Imperialists, it was as obstinately defended by the besieged. The young Earl of Thurne, making many sallies upon the Enemy, cloyed some of their Cannons and returned with good spoils and much honour: The continuance of the siege of Glats. but in September there was an accident which did much impair the state of the town; for they setting fire of their suburbs, to the end the Imperialists should not lodge in them, some sparks of it fell by chance into their powder; whereby part of the Town, and much of their provision was burnt; and like wise a part of the wall, with two pieces of Ordinance falling down, through the violence of the fire, the Imperialists advanced to a scallado, but they were valiantly repulsed by the Garrison. About the midst of October, the Imperialists assaulted the Town with great fury: and they within, suffering them to approach to their very walls, they having discharged their Ordinance, they presently set open their Ports and salied forth with one thousand horse and foot; 1622 where they slew six hundred of the Enemy, and then retired with no great loss. During these factions of war before Glatz, there was a parley between the young Earl of Thurne, Governor of the Town; the Earl of Torquato, General of the Emperor's Army; and the Prince of Lichtenstein, Governor of Bohemia; where there were many propositions made unto the young Earl with promises of pardon and great rewards, both for himself and his Soldiers, in the Emperor's name, if he would yield up the Town. The young Earl of Thurn made them this answer: That if they could procure the King of Bohemia to free him from his double Oath (one as he was his subject, and the other as his Soldier) that then he would not only yield up the town and castle, but would also forsake the quarrel and lay down Arms: But, seeing they could not dispense him of his Oath, that both he and his company were resolved to make it good against the Imperialists; and although they might haply, with great loss and charge, take the Town, yet they had a Castle to retreat into, the which they would defend to the last man; and so the treaty broke off, every man returning to his quarter: Presently after which, they made a great salie, which was very bloody and many were slain on either side; among the which, there were thirteen Captains of the Imperialists. They so annoyed the Camp with their Ordinance, as the Emperor commanded all his forces in Bohemia to march towards Glatz to reinforce the siege, and they sent for powder, bullets and munition from all parts. The siege had continued almost two years, and had put the Emperor to wonderful great charges, the which could hardly be supplied; and therefore they used a policy to make the besieged pay for their own ruin: for, by a public proclamation in Silesia, they enjoined all men upon pain of death, which aught any money, or had any goods in their hands belonging to them of Glatz, to bring it presently into the Town-house at Preslawe: Whereupon, much money and goods was brought thither; which extremity hath been often, and is still, used against the Nobility and Gentry of those Countries which had been executed; yea, even against such as were dead before they had been called in question. This Proclamation did nothing amaze them of Glatz, who held their Arms to be their greatest wealth, the which could not be violently taken from them, without the loss of their lives; and then their cares were passed, and their scores paid: But, to avoid tediousness, I will omit the daily skirmishes which were before that Town, and come to the yielding of it. After a long and obstinate siege resolutely defended by the young Earl of Thurne, they were driven to some extremities, by reason of some casualties by fire, in the which their salt, powder, and meal was consumed, and their water cut off by the Imperialists: which daunted the Soldiers much, and made them mutiny; so as the Governor (although he were one thousand five hundred strong) was glad to come to a parley, and to yield up the Town upon honourable terms on the twenty sixt day of October. The Articles were, First, that they should have free The yielding up of Glatz. exercise of the reformed Religion, and their Church remain as it was, until the Emperor shall otherwise dispose: And if any Protestant were desirous to leave the Town, they should have free liberty to cell their goods within six months, and go where they pleased. Secondly, that the Governor, Captains, Commanders and Soldiers, both of Horse and Foot, should freely and safely departed with bag and baggage, Drums beating, Colours flying, and their full Arms; conditionally, that all the companies should be cast and dismissed about Swainitz, and there leave their Commanders; and their Cornets and Ensigns to be torn from their staffs, and all sworn not to bear Arms against the Emperor for six months following. Thirdly, that the Governor, Commanders▪ Officers and Soldiers, should have a general pardon for all offences and rebellions committed against the Emperor, and suffered to departed where they pleased. Fourthly, that all Commanders, Officers and Soldiers, which had served his Majesty, and now born Arms against him in this quarrel, should have Passports given them to pass freely through the Dominions of the Empire, into their own Countries, or whither they pleased. Fiftly, the sick and hurt should remain still in the Town of Glatz, and there have all due attendance and provision from the Citizens, for their cure and recovery; after which they shall have free leave to departed, and passports given them to go where they pleased. Sixtly, that the Earl of Thurne should leave two Captains with the Imperialists as Hostages until he had dismissed his Troops about Swainitz, according to the capitulation. These Articles, being very honourable for the Earl of Thurne and the besieged, were very duly observed by the Imperialists, who gave them a good convoy to Swainitz, which is five 1622 Germane miles from Glatz. It was thought that they were very rich when they left the Town, having a hundred wagons heavy laden with baggage, beside lighter carriages: of which there were fifty belonging to the young Earl of Thurne, which were conducted to his wife in the marquis of Brandenburg's Country by 500 light horse of his own, and a convoy of 2000 Imperialists. Thus at last the Emperor hath reduced all Bohemia with the incorporated Provinces to his obedience; and his brother, the Archduke CHALES Bishop of Nuis or Nisse, liking well the air of the Country and the strength of the place, hath gotten the government of the country of Glatz, from the Emperor. Heidelberg being lost, General TILLY marched presently with his Army to Manheim, where General VERE attended him; it being the place of most importance and best fortified Manheim besieged. in all the Palatinate, standing near the point of a land where the Neccar which passeth by Heidelberg falleth into the Rind, so as it commands both the Rivers, and receives the Toll of all boats which pass. The Enemy being set down on the one side of the Town; General VERE, considering that the guard thereof and of the outworks was very great, and that he was not sufficiently provided with men, having but seven companies of English, and nine of Dutch (all which were very weak in numbers, and many sick) he sent to Franckendale, to have Captain BURROWS to sand him three companies more of English and as many Dutch: which he performed accordingly. The Enemy, as soon as the opportunity of the swelling Rivers would give him leave, entrenched his Camp, and planted several batteries. During his approaches, General VERE made diverse brave Sallies, especially one which was general; in all which he slew many of the Enemy with little loss of his own: yet considering that in continuance he should waste his men, he having not in all full two thousand of all Nations, sick and whole, which would hardly be able to man his outworks, which were very great; and that after the loss of Manheim, Frankendale could not subsist; He sent a Commissary again to Captain BURROWS, wishing him to abandon the Town and repair unto him with all his Troops: which the inhabitants understanding, began to mutiny, fell to Arms, and slew to the Ports; giving the Governor to understand, that as he had defended them valiantly the last year, so they would now live and die with him, and not leave him unless he would pass by force over their bellies, desiring rather to be slain by him then by the Enemy: Whereupon the Governor advertised the General in what state he stood; who returned him an answer presently, that he should do as he thought good, referring it to his discretion: whereupon he stayed in Frankendale. General VERE, having no hope of any more supplies of men, was forced to abandon his outworks, suffering the Enemy to approach near to the Walls. After some days, the Town being not defensible, he set it on fire, and retired with those few troops he had into the Castle, from whence he so annoyed the Enemy, as he could hardly lodge within the Town. TILLY often summoned him to yield upon honourable conditions; but he found an Enemy who preferred his honour before his life, and would give care to no parley, as long as he had any means to keep it: Wherhfore TILLY being loath to assault a Fort defended by such resolute men, resolved to get it by Mine or Sappe. His Pioners being come to the very brim of the Moat, having with other Trenches drained away the Water, which at first was some hindrance unto them; he then resolved to give an assault; for the which he had prepared great store of bavins to fill up the Dike: yet considering that to force this Castle would cost him much blood, and although they could not keep the place long, yet he should hardly get it without great loss: He held it the safest course to summon them again, and to get it by composition. General VERE, on the otherside, finding that he had neither men sufficient to man it long, and that he had not powder for three day's service; considering withal, that although they should loose themselves they could not keep the Fort long, and knowing withal that dead men could do their Prince and Country no service; he resolved to make a virtue of necessity, Manheim yielded to Tilly. and not to loose so many brave men with obstinacy, whom he might bring off with honour: Whereupon, after summons made by the Enemy's Drum, General VERE accepted of a parley; in which, after much debating, there were six Articles concluded betwixt Mounsieur TILLY, General for the Emperor and the Duke of Bavaria on the one side; and Sir HORATIO VERE, General of his Majesty's forces of great Britanne in the Palatinate, on the other: The Articles were, that the Governor, Captains, Officers and Soldiers, should have leave to departed freely with bag and baggage, drums beating, colours fleeing, matches light, and 1622 bullets in their mouth es: secondly, that they might take with them two falconets or small field-pieces, with munition and instruments belonging to the same: to the which, Monsieur TILLY (after some contestation) yielded, to do honour to Sir HORATIO VERE, because he was a General; thirdly, that they might carry away with them thirty pipes of wine, with two hundred sacks of meal, and provant for three days only; the which was to go with them by land, and the rest to be transported by water: fourthly, that they should have a convoy of one thousand horse to Frankfort, and there to stay fourteen days till the English Ambassador or his Commissary might come to convey them downwards: fiftly, that all goods and movables, which had been brought into the Castle for safety, should be free, and the owners have liberty to transport themselves and their goods whither they pleased: sixthly, all Ministers and Churchmen should have free liberty either to stay in Manheim, and exercise their function, or departed safely whither they pleased. Upon these honourable conditions the Castle of Manheim was delivered up to the enemy on the five and twentith of October, stilo veteri. And so General VERE retired out of Manheim with ten companies of English, and twelve of Dutch under the command of Colonel WALDMANHUSE. He marched to Frankfort with a good convoy of one thousand horse. The General with his Captains was lodged in the City; and his Troops, in the villages thereabouts. After their departure from Franfort, the Dutch left them, and would go no further, notwithstanding they had promised to march with them into the Lowe-countries: and after some stay, the General with the English, being five or six hundred men, were conducted by a Commissary of the enemies, through the Lantzgrave of Hesse his Country; where they passed down a river to Breme, there to be embarked for England. After the surrendering of Manheim, General TILLY marched with his Army to Frankendale (it being the only place now remaining in the Palatinate for the Elector) with an intent, by Frankendale besieged. the taking of this place, to make himself absolute Master of the whole Palatinate: but he found the same Governor Captain BURROWS, who had so valiantly defended it the year before against Don GONZALES de Cordova; and the same resolution, having vowed to loose his life rather than any jot of that honour which he had gotten at the former siege: neither was he idle during the siege of Heidelberg and Manheim, but furnished and fortified it by all the means he could, having drowned the land about it on the weaker part of the Town; so as the enemy could neither make trenches on that side to lodge his men in, nor approach his cannon to plant his batteries: yet it seemed still he was resolved to force it, drawing soldiers from all places thither with the hope of spoil, having promised them the sack of that Town: but he was deceived of his present expectation; because the approaches were so difficult by reason of the drowned land, and the ways so slippery and deep with the continual rain, that he forbore to attempt any thing by force, and employed his best eloquence to persuade the Inhabitants to yield. He assured them, that they should not be molested in their religion, nor oppressed with any great garrison; that the commerce should be open and free, and that the Emperor would keep no garrisons in the Palatinate, but in some important places. To these good words General TILLY added some threats, that if they continued obstinate, they must expect nothing but the rigour of war, and the ruins which are incident to Towns besieged; whereas by their voluntary yielding they should purchase the Emperor's favour, preserve themselves, their wives and children, and have fair Quarter kept with them, and be protected by his Imperial Majesty with the rest of the Palatinate. All this could not move the resolute Inhabitants; who had vowed to take the fortune of the war, and to defend the Town with the Governor and soldiers: and therefore they gave no answer to his propositions. The General, after all his practices to draw them to a composition, finding little means to advance any thing by force in regard of the unseasonableness of the weather, and the continual rain which made the ways exceeding deep, he resolved to retire his camp for a time, marching towards Hannow and the Lantzgrave of Hesse his Country, with an intent to winter his Troops thereabouts, leaving some companies of horse about Frankendale, to keep them from excursions and from all relief. Thus this poor Town, the only remainder of all the Palatinate, hath some time of rest and breathing, till that the season of the year will give the enemy leave to return; who is well assured, that they have no means to be relieved, being environed by their enemy's garrisons which lie in the Towns round about them; and that time will waste their provisions, and necessity force the stowrest courages to yield. TILLY retiring his Army, the governor of the Town salied forth, and slew divers of the enemy's Rearward, and brought in good 1622 spoil. After which, he made incursions with two companies of horse, as fare as Worms & Spire, bringing-in what the poor wasted Country could afford. But, all this will not serve to maintain the Town, for any long time. The Prince of Orange, with the united States had (as you have heard) in the year 1620 built a fort in the river of Rhine betwixt Cullen and Bona, which was agreat eyesore unto them, and did keep the passage of the river, and the neighbour Provinces in awe: whereupon this Summer, the Duke of Newburg one of the pretendents to the inheritance of the Duchies of Cleve, juliers and Berck, sent some forces under a commander of his to besiege it, being assisted by the Archduchesse Infanta, who sent the Prince of Chain with men, cannon and munition. These forces built forts upon either side of the river and planted their batteries, having received some cannon from juliers or Gulich: they also maintained two ships of war in the Rhine, whereby all boats which came up or down with any merchandise were forced to discharge and carry it over land by cart, jest the besieged should receive any relief. They have spent a long time at this siege without any great military exploits: only they have not spared their powder and shot, but yet made no great breach which might encourage them to offer an assault; for the which they have made great preparation of Rhine boats, Punts, and such like, as if they intended to force it; but the garrison seemed resolute: Yet since, in the end of December, the garrison being grown very weak, they have been forced to yield. Count MANDSFELD, after his retreat out of the Palatinate, entered into the States pay for three months: those being ended, and the siege of Berghen raised, he marched up with Count Mandsfelds' proceeding returning again into the Empire. his and the Duke of Brunswicks forces towards Westphalia, and the Archbishop of Cullens country, which is within the limits of the Empire; and there took some Towns and Castles, spoiling and ransoming the Country to revenge the wrong which the Archbishop of Cullen had done unto the Elector Palatine in sending the Baron of Anhalt his General with forces thither: from thence he went into East Freezland and the County of Emden, the Earl whereof had maintained a Regiment of foot with the Spaniard against the united States. Being in those parts he blocked up Lingen a fare off (which Town had been taken by SPINOLA before the truce, and did belong by inheritance to the Prince of Orange) and he forced the said Earl to abandon his Country and to leave his poor subjects to the fury of insolent soldiers; so as the Bishopric of Munster and the Territory of Emden were in a manner ruined and left waste. SPINOLA sent Count HENRY VANDENBERO, the Baron of Anhalt, with some other commanders, with forces to follow him into those parts: but MANSFELD, having seized upon Neppel, Reeven, and some other Towns about Lingen, kept all victual from them, whereby the soldiers are in some distress: He fortifies himself daily with new troops which are levied in those Countries for the Duke of Brunswick, and builds sconces upon the passages by the which the enemy might come unto him: so as there is no appearance of any great exploits to be done by those Armies, this winter (the way in those parts being so deep as an Army can hardly make any fair march) but that they will pass this winter & feed their troops upon the poor man's purse until the Spring draw them again into action. The Emperor had long since appointed a Diet at Regensburg, for the settling of a firm peace in the Empire, to reform abuses, and to redress all greevances whereof there had been many complaints unto his Majesty, and they still referred for their answer, to the Diet; the which had been often adiourned and put off upon some important considerations: but now it was fully resolved, the Emperor having summoned all the Electors, Princes, and States of the Empire, to appear there in November, and to that end both his Majesty and all the Princes sent their officers thither to provide their lodgings. But before the Emperors parting from Viena towards Regensberg, there arrived two Ambassadors, one from the King of Persia; the other from the Ottoman Emperor. The Persian desired confirmation of the League which Ambassadors from the Persian & the Turk. his father had formerly had with the Emperor, and to entreat him to employ his forces against the Turk, who seemed to threaten his country this year with a powerful invasion. The Turk sent a Bassa with a stately Embassy and great Presents (an unusual thing in them who are accustomed to receive from all Princes which sand unto them, and not to give to any) but it seemed his new State was not so well settled as he would trust the Christians, during his expedition against Persia; entreating the Emperor to continued the truce, or to confirm peace, fearing lest something might be attempted against him upon the frontiers of Hungary during his absence: to whom the Emperor gave no present answer, but told him that he might return if he pleased, and leave a Chaux behind him to receive his answer after the ending of 1622 the Diet. In the beginning of November, the Emperor and the Empress parted from Vienna towards Regensbourg, with a great train of Ladies and Noblemen. He made his entry on the five and twentith of November in great state; the particularities whereof I omit. There was yet a small appearance of Princes: for, there were only comn three ecclesiastical Electors, with the Bishops of Saltzbourg and Virtzbourg. The Dukes of Bavaria and Newbourg were expected daily; but the Protestant Princes made some stay, and it was doubtful of their coming: namely, the Duke of Saxony, the marquis of Brandenbourg, the Dukes of Brunswick, Virtemberg and Pomerania, the Lantzgrave of Hesse, the marquis of Durlach of the house of Baden, with many others of their religion. The Emperor desired much to have the Duke of Saxony present at the Diet, and had pressed him much by his Letters: but his coming was doubtful; being, as they writ, discontented for the breach which had been made touching religion, with the Bohemians and the incorporated Provinces; wherein he said his honour was engaged. Some, which presume to know the Secrets of Princes Cabinets, have given out, that one of the chief reasons for the calling of this Diet, is, To settle the Electorship of the Palatinate upon the Duke of Bavaria, with the consent of the whole State of Germany; the which the Emperor hath much desired, the Duke ambitiously affected, and the Pope with all his Clergy instantly pressed: but, as I have heard of no propositions, so I will not divine of their conclusions; only I will pray to God so to direct their counsels, that they may prefer the public peace and tranquillity of Germany before their private interests, and not cast oil into the fire of their divisions, which may draw a great part of the Christian world into troubles and combustions. THus, with the end of the year and the loss of the Palatinate (one poor Town excepted) I end this work: wherein we have seen a great Prince, the first secular Elector of Germany, spoiled and dispossessed of his hereditary estate, and forced to abandon his Country and subjects to the fury and oppression of an insulting enemy. But God I hope (who is the God of battles) will in his due time dissolve these pinching frosts of affliction by his almighty power, and restore him, with the virtuous Princess his wife, to their former estate; and make those Princely Imps (sprung from so Royal a Stem) flourish like olive-branches, to the great joy and comfort of all which honour and respect them: for the which I will daily pour forth my vows and prayers to almighty God; and let all good men say Amen. A brief Discourse of the civil wars 1622 in the Valtolin. I Had not meant to writ of the civil broils in the Valtolin and the Grisons Country; holding it impertinent to this History which treats only of the Emperor's lives, and of those things which have passed in their dominions: but, finding that the house of Austria doth make a challenge to some of those Commonalties, and have by their Arms brought the Grisons Country in a manner into subjection & servitude, and possessed themselves of the passage of the Valtolin; I have thought it fit for the Readers better satisfaction to make a summary relation of these combustions, and to show the motives and the events: for the true understanding whereof, I must rip it up from the first beginning, which was in the year 1603. The Valtolin is a Valley which depends upon the Cantons of the Grisons; the which extends itself in length some thirty French leagues from the Lake of Como in Italy to the County of Tirol which is in Germany. It is watered by the river of Ada, and is shut up on either side by inaccessible mountains. In the Grisons Country their government is democratical. The General assembly of the Commonalty hath all sovereign power. Many Boroughs and Villages make a Communality; and many Commonalties, a Canton or League: and of three Cantons the Common-weal of the Grisons consisteth. This Assembly hath absolute power by plurality of voices to make and abolish laws, to treat of alliances with Princes and foreign States, to dispose of war and peace, and of all things belonging to Sovereignty. But, to come to the first beginning of these factions, you must understand, that in the year 1602, HENRY the Fourth, the French King, had renewed the ancient alliance of France with the Swissers and Grisons, upon the same articles and conditions as had been concluded with other Kings his Predecessors; against the advice of some, who had propounded to make a new league with the Venetians, which might concern the passage of the Alpss: but the Grisons which embraced the alliance of France would not yield to it. In the year 1603 there was a new league concluded at Coire or Chur betwixt the Grisons and the Venetians, notwithstanding the opposition of the French Ambassador. Of 26 Commonalties A new league between the Venetians and Grisons. of the Grisons, two parts of them are Protestant's Caluenists, contrary to the Romanists. The Protestant's, which favoured this league, gave the common people to understand, first, that the most Christian King was well pleased with it, being a matter of State, and the only means to frustrate the Spaniard of all alliance with the Grisons: secondly, touching religion, that they should not doubt but by means of this league which allowed them liberty of conscience in Venice without exercise, the Gospel would take root in Venice, and from thence disperse itself throughout all Italy; and, thirdly, the yearly pension and the Arms they should receive from the Venetians, with the particular pensions for their captains: for, the Grisons do naturally love money. The Earl of Fuentes, who was at that time Governer of Milan, grew jealous of this league between the Venetians and the Grisons, and could by no means endure it, by reason of the importance of the passage of soldiers which they allowed the Venetians through the Alpss: whereupon, he forbade all commerce with the Grisons, and presently built the Fort of Fuentes at the The Fort of Fuentes built, and 〈◊〉 G●…isons forb●…dden come merce with Milan. entry of the passage of the Valtolin. The Grisons, who could not live without the commerce of Milan and Lombardy by reason of the barrenness of their Country, fell into faction. Some prime men and Captains, with the p●…otestant Commons, would have gone to Arms: and the Bishop of Coire and many of his partisans (favouring the Spaniards) practised in such sort, that Deputies were sent to Milan, to treat upon the old alliances between the Milanois and the Grisons, to the end that the Fort of Fuentes might be razed: where, they concluded upon certain 1604 Articles, which were rejected in the Assembly of the Grisons; who in the mean time wavered between the doubtful events of war and the discommodities of peace. The Deputies or Ambassadors, who were sent to Milan, were much taxed by all the Grisons, to have received Presents and chains of gold from the Earl of Fuentes: with the which he sought to fetter their liberty; they having accorded, first, that the Spaniard might levy soldiers 1622 in the Grisons Country when he pleased; secondly, that the passage should be open for him The Bishop of Coir treats an alliance with Milan. at all times to transport his Armies through their Country, and that they should not suffer any other soldiers to pass through their Territories without the advice of the Governor of Milan, to the end that he should consider whether that passage might any way prejudice the Duchy of Milan; Articles which they held hurtful to their ancient alliance with France, and to make their new league with Venice unprofitable. The Grisons having rejected these Articles in an Assembly at Illant, the Earl of Fuentes presently caused his Fort to be immured, and the Grisons descent into Italy to be stopped: whereupon, the Grisons resolved to choose the hazard of Arms, to maintain their liberty. Having demanded succours of men and money from the Ambassadors of France and Venice, they both took time to advertise their Masters. The like they did to the Swissers being then assembled at Bade; letting them understand, that the Earl of Fuentes had taken from them the commerce which was betwixt them and the Duchy of Milan; requiring their counsel and aid, for that the injury was common to them: but they returned ill satisfied, for that the Ambassador of Spain had prevailed much in that Assembly. In the year 1605, the French Ambassador, receiving the King his Master's pleasure, gave the Grisons to understand, that his Majesty did advice them to end their differences by an accord, especially that they should not come to Arms: and although the business did nothing concern himself, yet he would willingly employ himself in regard of their alliance, to the end that the oppression they received from the Fort of Fuentes might be taken away. On the other side, the Ambassador of Venice told them, that the proposition to make a Fort upon the Frontier of the Valtolin, to the end they might keep a passage open, and free from the Grisons Territories unto those of the Venetians, was good; and that the signory of Venice would defray the cost and charges of the building of a new Fort, and would entertain a garrison of one hundred and fifty men. After this, the Grisons grew divided into three factions. The Bishop of Chur or Coire, with many Romanists, supported the Spaniard; who cast much of his Indian dust among them, and 1606 blinded the eyes of their understandings. The Protestant's and others favoured the Venetians: and the ancient friends to France blamed both these factions, and the league made with the Venetians, as the only cause of the confusion which took root in all the members of their Commonwealth. These men knew well, that the counsel the King gave them, Not to come to Arms, was for the good of their Commonwealth; and that, if they opposed a Fort to that of Fuentes, it would provoke the Spaniard to war. The motions and alterations between the Pope and the Venetians (which ended in the year one thousand, six hundred and seven) much augmented these divisions; the Venetians seeking to draw succours from the Grisons, and the partisans of Spain labouring to hinder it. Than the corruption which the Spanish gold had bred in the Catholic Commonalties, was overswaied by the Captains, who had received twice as much money from the Venetians to make Levies of soldiers in the Grisons Country: and such as drew pensions from France, desiring to settle an order in the Grisons liberty, in the which the basest amongst the multitude would take knowledge of the State, and discourse thereof in taverns and stoves (which is not the right course to manage the affairs of a Common-weal, for that there Secrets were as soon vented as propounded) caused a secret Council to be erected of fifteen Deputies chosen out of all the Commonalties, with a certain limited power: but this was presently crossed by the two other factions, who required to have this Council dissolved. There was a combustion at Coire this year in May; whither the Commonalties which supported the Venetians came with their Ensigns displayed, and required to have that which had been promised by the Venetian League, effected: but presently there coming a greater number of other Commonalties, by the Spaniards practice, they demanded the contrary; as may appear by these following Articles. 1. That hereafter no stranger should be suffered to pass soldiers through the Alps. 2. That they should inquire who was the Author of the putting a garrison into the Valtoline, and who should pay it. 3. That the Commonalties had not granted unto the Venetians any passage for strange soldiers. 4. That the said Commonalties had not made any alliance with the Dolphin of France, nor promised to give passage to the French King's friends. 5. That the secret Council newly erected should be wholly abrogated. 6. That they should renew the ancient Alliances with Milan. 7. That the French Captains which were in the Valtolin, should be discharged. 8. That hereafter no man should receive any 1622 pension from a foreign Prince: and that those which were received by private persons should be distributed amongst the commonalties. 9 That Churchmen and Ministers should not meddle with the civil government, nor should be admitted to the assemblies of the commonalties. 10. That the soldiers levied by the Venetians might not go out of the Country. 11. That the Criminal chamber should proceed against such as should be found traitors to their country. 12. That the Deputies of assemblies should hereafter bring the advice of the commonalties in writing and signed by them. Finally, the combustion was so great, that the Spanish faction seized on the Castle of Coire. The subtlety of the Spanish Agents was well observed in these Articles; who seeking to deprive the Ambassador of France of all liberty to give his accustomed pensions openly to private Grisons, would thereby divert them from the amity of France, whilst he practised all he could by gifts to bandy against them which supported the Venetians, who had also (as was written) dispersed among their partisans above 80 thousand crowns, to maintain that they had a free passage through the Alps. In the end of the year, the judges of the Criminal chamber (who were taxed to be pensioners to the Spaniard) were changed, upon complaint of their great covetousness and injustice: but they which succeeded them in their places exceeded them in arrogancy, corruption, and cruelty, which they practised against all those which they found partisans to Spain, as Traitors to their liberty. The French Ambassador, who had discovered the intention of the Spanish faction, demanded Audience in a general Assembly of the commonalties; where he let them see by the reading Complaint of the French Ambassador against the Partisans of Spain's. of the alliance which they had with France, the Imposture of those which had published, That the king his Majesty had no free passage either for himself or for his friends through the Alps: and that the Dolphin of France was not comprehendended in the said Alliance. After the reading whereof and an exhortation made to continued constant in the League, with a promise of bounty, the whole assembly with one voice lifting their hands to heaven, cried out God save the king, God preserve France and the Dolphin. Which done, the French Ambassador demanded of them a declaration of their confirmation of the Alliance, desiring to sand it unto the king: the which they all jointly promised, and afterwards every communality signed. The Venetian Ambassador, to have the like declaration upon their new treaty of Alliance, made offer by his partisans to give 3000 crowns to the three Grison Cantons: but his proceeding and offer was rejected; and the Garrison of 150 Grisons which was in the Valtolin paid by the king, Bad intelligence between the Ambassadors of France and Venice. was discharged: which seemed to be the subject of some bad intelligence, which happened afterwards between the Ambassadors of France and Venice, resident in those parts, the particularities whereof I must for brevity's sake omit. In the year 1608 and 1609, the Grisons State was under the power of their Criminal chamber, whereas the Bishop of Coir was condemned to a pecuniary Fine; and if he would not sign certain Articles which should be imparted to him, he should be banished. Thus the Protestant's held the chief places in the government: and the Valtolin Catholics were much discontented to be under the yoke and government of Podestate Grisons of a contrary religion; so as it seemed by some actions, that the Earl of Fuentes would willingly have given them aid to have taken Arms. In the year 1610, the French King having been traitorously murdered, the Magistrate of Coir repaired to his Ambassador; where, after many signs of great sorrow for so lamentable a death, he protested in the name of all the Grisons, to continued constant in the Alliance which they had with the Crown of France: and the same year, the Earl of Fuentes, Governer of Milan, died also. About this time the Venetians pursued a continuation of their Alliance for ten yers with the Grisons: but they were let understand, that they had sufficiently made trial of the good & harm which this Alliance had brought them; so as they desired no more: for there were many Articles observed in that treaty which were directly contrary to the Alliace of France, the which I omit being very long. In the year one thousand and eleven, VELASCO Constable of Castille, being newly made Governor of Milan, he sought to continued the designs of the deceased Earl of Fuentes, not by Arms but by Treaty. He promised at first to raise the fort of Fuentes: But the Ambassador of France gave the Magistrate of Coire to understand, that it was but a cunning practice, thinking thereby to revive the Treaty of Milan. Hereupon the Agents for Spain, laid aspersions upon the said Ambassador (to make him odious to the Catholics) 1622 in a sergeant Letter written in the German tongue, and directed to the Bishop of Coire; by the which they gave him to understand, That the reason why the Protestant Practices of the Spanish and Venetian factions▪ Ministers of the Grisons were so affected to the French King and his Ambassador, was for that they had seen in the Register of their accounts, that he gave unto them yearly many thousands of crowns by way of pension. And on the other side, the said Ambassador having laboured by the King's commandment, that the alliance with the Venetians should not be continued, their partisans called him jesuit, and they gave it out that he had given money to PLANTA and others of the Spanish faction to break the Alliance with Venice. In the year 1613, the Grisons having again concluded that the Alliance with Venice should not be continued, the next year they commanded their Ambassador to departed the Country. After this in the year 1616 and 1617. the Spanish faction got the mastery, and began to dispose absolutely of the government of the State; so as by their practices, there was a Treaty appointed at Coire, this year on the 9 of March to revive the ancient Alliance with Milan, for the King of Spain. There came ALFONSO CASAT his Ambassador, in the name of Don PEDRO de Toledo Governor of the Duchy of Milan, where there were certain Articles concluded. Firstly, They promised that betwixt his A new treaty of Alliance between the Milanois and the Grisons. Majesty as Duke of Milan with the subjects of the said Duchy, and the three Cantons, with their subjects of the Country of the Valtolin, Worms, and the County of Chyavene shall be true, sincere and perpetual friendship: so as they shall not attempt aught to the prejudice one of another▪ nor suffer any practice to be made openly or secretly in their provinces, nor consent to any passage, nor give counsel or aid directly or indirectly, but should oppose themselves with all their force & power. And if the one party should know or discover any secret practices, attempts or counsels to the prejudice of the other, the said party should be bound to reveal it presently, and seek to divert it with all fidelity. Secondly, And for that his excellency understood that the three Cantons desired much that the fort of Fuentes which had been built in the year 1603 upon the frontiers of the Valtolin might be demolished, to the end they might thereby be assured to be restored to his Majesty's good grace and favour, his excellency promised to treat with his Majesty with all sincere affection in favour of the said three Cantons; and that after the Articles of this present capitulation shall be accepted, sealed, and sworn by his Majesty and the said three Cantons, that with out all delay, the demolition of the said forts shall take effect; And that his Majesty shall not suffer them to be built up again, so long as the three Cantons shall for their parts faithfully observe the contents of the said Capitulation, and that hereafter no such cause of jealousy be given unto his Majesty as was in the year 1603. And for as much as the three Cantons knew well that the distrust which ministered occasion for the building of the aforesaid fort of Fuentes, did proceed from the Alliance and passage which they had granted unto the Signiory of Venice: they promised by this present capitulation for them and The Grisons promise' not to renew their alliance with the Veneeiansns▪ their successors not to renew it hereafter, nor to suffer the said Alliance and passage in any sort, so long as this present capitulation shall be in force. Thirdly, That both parties shall have free commerce and traffic from one country to another, as well for themselves as their subjects, without any exception of persons: with this reservation, that touching matters of religion Liberty of Commerce. they should give no scandal, nor carry with them any forbidden books. And touching the role of cattles and other commerce which they should bring into the Duchy of Milan, or transport from thence, the three Cantons should enjoy all the privileges the which are granted unto the Swissers, allies unto his Majesty. Fourthly, If it happened his Majesty should have need of any troops of soldiers of this nation for the defence of the Duchy of Milan, it shall Levies o●… Orisons allowed the Spaniard. be lawful for him to make a leavy in the Territories of the three Cantons, not exceeding the number of 3000 soldiers Voluntaries: and the election of the Colonel and Captains shall be made by his Majesty's Ambassador, who shall agreed with them for their Arms & pay: And in case his Majesty would for the preservation of his countries & Signories 'cause some troops of strange soldiers to pass through the Grisons country into the Duchy of Milan, it shall be allowed to his Majesty & his commanders: so as every troop exceed not the number of 200 persons Passage of soldiers allowed them. and a day's journey one from another: Every troop also shall have his captain or conductor to keep them in good discipline, and with them a Commissary of the Cantons at the kings charge to prevent all inconueniencies: & to the end also that the soldiers may pay for their victuals & passages and carry themselves honestly, they shall not carry any other Arms but their swords and daggers, and the horsemen their Pistols: And in case it shall be sufficiently proved, 1622 that the soldiers have committed any harm and spoil in the Grisons country and their subjects, Aide promised to the Grisons. his Majesty shall be bound to make restitution. 5. If it shall happen that the three Cantons shall be hostilely invaded by any Prince, Potentate, or free State; his Majesty shall be bound when soever they require him, to assist the Cantons at his own charge with 2000 foot and 200 horse, so long as the war shall continued: and if the three cantons shall have need of greater assistance, his Majesty shall sand it without delay. But, if the three Cantons shall think it more commodious to have money then men; his Majesty in that case as long as the war shall continued, shall effectually pay unto them 10000 crowns a month; and withal shall lend them 6 field pieces with their due munition, upon condition that they shall be restored when the war is ended. 6. His Majesty as Duke of Milan, out of his royal bounty and in testimony of his love and affection unto the three Cantons, doth promise to pay to every Canton yearly, at the Feast of Saint JOHN BAPTIST, the sum of 3000 florins, every one being 15 Batzes of the money of Coire; the first payment to begin on the said first Feast day, after the accord shall be sworn. Seventhly, That this present capitulation shall no way prejudice the ancient League and alliance which the three Cantons have with the Crown of France, the which shall remain in full force and vigour. And lastly, that this capitulation shall be perpetual and hereditary. This accord bred a great combustion among the Grisons (whereof two third parts are Protestant The Grisons proceed in the year 1618. Caluinists) and was the chief and only cause which made them to proceed criminally against many Catholic persons and of quality: that is to say, against the Bishop of Coyre, the Archpriest of S●…ndrio, RODULPH, and POMPEIUS PLANTA brethren, JOHN BAPTISTA Prevost, with an infinite number of others. And, for the justification of their proceed, they published a Protestation to the world, giving all men to understand, that certain privare persons had sought to usurp the government of their State, and to appropriate unto themselves those Sovereignties & powers which did properly belong to all the Commonalties in general: the which they attempted by their great wealth and power, by corruption and presents, and by the alliances of their kindred: And this was not done at one instant; but, sometimes in one Communality, and sometimes in another, as occasion was offered, to reduce them under their particular power. Which subtle practices had succeeded so well, as not only the free Allies with their subjects, but also if Princes and foreign States desired to obtain any thing from their State, they were forced to receive it from these private persons, who practised all kinds of treason, infidelities, falsehood, deceits, tyrannies and violences; whereby they brought their Estate into great contempt with all Princes and foreign Potentates; who, by their Treachery and rashness, have been promised those things which they could not effect. These lamentable courses being observed by some men of judgement, yea and by the common people (desiring to prevent the danger by some lawful means) they complained in the last Assembly held at Davos in the year 1617., before the three Cantons, being their superiors, of these intolerable proceed: and there, after an ample declaration of the miseries reigning in the State, had seriously insisted for a necessary reformation, by the most convenient means. Which business, in regard of the great importance and for other urgent causes, was sent by the Magistrate before the reverend judges and all the Commonalties, being the supreme power of their estate: whose intention they followed. And whereas after, in a Synod held in April in the year 1618., it had been resolved that a writing of the said tenor should be published to all Counsellors and Commonalties of every parish, with instant prayers and exhortations to provide by all lawful means without any commotion, for the restoring of the liberty of their country, freeing themselves from the fraudulent Treaties of some of their subjects with Princes and foreign estates, to the end they might not be brought into just contempt; but rather to carry themselves in such sort towards them, as their Ancestors had done; and so, their fidelity and integrity should be esteemed: All which notwithstanding, those Authors of sedition had sought to abuse the common people, and to maintain their violent command by their ordinary practices. Whereupon the reformed Preachers in all the parishes had earnestly insisted for a necessary reformation of the whole State; and required, that some good men might be chosen out of the Commons (which were no way tied or engaged to any Princes or foreign States) to whom they might reveal certain treacheries of some tyrannous commanders, who were no longer to be suffered, and whose rejection might be the restoring of the estate. But the people being out of hope, that in so small a number of Deputies they should ever obtain any good success; 1622 and finding in like manner that these tyrants could not be vanquished but by multitudes: not for any fear of their forces, but only for plurality of voices, and to prevent all kind of corruptions and false persuasions; In the end of june the year 1618., the five Commonalties of Engaden The Grisons assemble, requiring a reformation of the state. and Valthasna the lower, together with those of Musterthall, assembled themselves, having sent Letters and Embassies to the other Commonalties of the three Cantons, requiring them to do the like and by virtue of the Union to assist them as being most oppressed, for that their power and authority was taken from them, and usurped by some private persons; their laws falsified, their statutes changed, and their goods and means wrested from them, under pretext of public authority; to the end these new laws might be abolished, and the ancient liberty of their ancestors restored, that also the treasures of Princes and foreign States might no more be wasted by private persons without the privity and consent of the whole State, and that they might not be so treacherously deceived by the vain promises of such men. At their earnest entreaties, there came to their succours in the beginning good numbers of men from some other Commonalties; who willingly agreed for the restoring of the common estate, and the election of indifferent judges to punish criminal offenders. Rodulphus Planta prepared to resist the Grisons. In the mean time, the chief Author of these alterations, and Attempter upon the sovereign authority, called RODOLPHUS PLANTA, having as it seemed a guilty conscience, retired himself to his Castle of Vildenbourg in Zernets; the which he fortified and furnished with victuals and all things necessary, having drawn unto him six hundred men to defend it, and seized upon the passages, broken the bridges, and committed all acts of hostility against the neighbours and Allies. But, seeing the Troops of the Commonalties approach, he fled into tirol with some of his most confident friends. During these proceed, the other Commonalties of the three Cantons sent an Embassy to Engaden, offering to assist them to repair the common estate, to restore the laws, and to settle justice, so as they would 'cause their Troops and Ensigns to retire; to the end that, all violences ceasing, justice might be administered indifferently to all men. But, answer being made unto them, that the power of the seditious delinquents and of their adherents was so great, that without the aid and assistance of many men, their enterprise would be in vain; therefore they pressed the other Commonalties to assist them with such Troops as they themselves should think good upon so just a business: which thing was granted. Assemblies at Coir & Thusis. Upon this resolution, every Communality of the whole State assembled, some with their ensigns, some without, at Coire, and from thence to Thusis in the upper Rhetia; where, with a general consent, for the restoring of their estate and policy, they renewed certain ancient laws, and made some new, touching the late transgressions: whereunto also their Allies which were absent, consented, with some little moderation. The tenor whereof consisted in these Articles: New articles made as Thusis. first, that the free exercise of both religions, reform and Catholic, should be allowed in all their lands and jurisdictions, and every man maintained and defended by the generality in his profession; secondly, that in all their Territories, every league, Communality, justice, and particular persons, noble or ignoble, should be maintained and protected in their privileges, customs, dignities, goods and ancient possessions; and that in all differences they should be bound to submit themselves to the decision of a neutral judgement: thirdly, that their subjects should be governed in equity, and be no more exposed to tyrants, as happily some had been: fourthly, that the treasure of the common estate should be better governed, and that they should not suffer the common revenues to be any more wasted and consumed by private persons: fiftly, that no particular man should presume to treat with any Prince and foreign Estate without express commandment, upon pain of death; but, those alliances which should be orderly made, and by a common consent, they meant to maintain with all loyalty towards all estates their neighbours, showing them faithful and good neighbourhood, with other circumstances, &c. In this Assembly there was appointed a criminal chamber to proceed against certain perfidious Erection of a criminal Court as Thusis. persons; whereof some were prisoners, and others fled. To the which Court of justice every Canton deputed two and twenty judges, nine Examiner's, two Treasurers, one Secretary, and two Ushers: and finding, that by the authority of the reformed Preachers and Ministers, the people had hitherto been maintained in better order, it was also thought good, that nine of them should be admitted in this business, but not at definitive sentences: all these were bound to swear to discover all such as had done any thing against law and equity: That they should not respect rewards, friendship, hatred, factions or any other thing which might draw 1622 them from the rule of justice; but rather attend the honour of God, the free and prosperous estate of their country, and sacred justice. Among the prisoners (whose processes they were to make) the chief was JOHN BAPTISTA Prevost called ZAMBER, lying at Vespran, in the upper Pregell: who (by the confession of certain The criminal process of Prevost. persons executed some years before, the deposition of witnesses, and by Letters written with his own hand) was convicted that he and his consorts had given aid and counsel to build the fort of Fuentes upon the frontiers of the Grisons country: To have received presents in money from Milan; and to have been gratified with the free transportation of Corn and Wine, paying little for the custom; and to have taken rewards to mediate the treaties made in former time with the State of Milan; and, on the other side, to have received money and a great pension from the Ambassador of a foreign Prince, to dissuade the Grison Commonalties from that alliance▪ the which being testified by the witness of men of reputation, in the end he confessed it with all the circumstances; and moreover said that RODULPHUS PLANTA, wi●…h some others which were dead, had resolved the design of the said Fort of Fuentes at Davos, in the year 1603, during the Assembly of the league there, to the end that they might thereby force the people to their devotion, and treat a league with Milan at their pleasure, the which PLANTA had much affected. For which crimes he was condemned (as a Traitor to his country to be quartered; his goods to be confiscate to the benefit of the Cantons, yet without prejudice to his wife's portion and his creditors: His house to be razed, and two pillars set up in the place for a perpetual infamy; but at the intercession of his friends and kinsfolk, he being 74 years old, and having 9 children, they shown him some favour by losing only his head; and the demolishing of his house, was referred to the disposition of the Cantons. NICHOLAS RUSCA, Archpreest of Sond●…rs, being a prisoner, was accused of the like crimes, both by the deposition of witnesses, and the confession of some which had been executed, The process of Nicholas Rusca. and also by Letters which were found about him: All which he constantly denying, or seeking to avoid by subtle devices, he was condemned to the rack; the which he endured the first day, being without any weight: but, being tied unto it again after the same manner, he grew so weak as they were forced to unbind him, so as he presently after died, not without suspicion of poison by some manifest signs appearing in his body. They proceeded in like manner, by way of contumacy, against such as had absented themselves. JOHN Bishop of Coir was accused The process of the Bishop of Coire. for that 11 years before he had been banished by the judgement of certain indifferent judges, consisting of both Religions, chosen out of the 3 Cantons, for many perfidious actions, and obstinate disobedience against his country; That he had taken and given money to cross the Swissers their trusty Allies▪ That he had put his Bishopric into the protection of their enemies: And, finding himself guilty, he laboured to have the title of Legate in Germany; That afterwards he had favoured their perfidious inhabitants, who had usurped the Sate-government, and had returned into his Bishopric at Coire, whither he was conducted by RODULPH PLANTA the chief Author of the treason; and continuing in his old train, he had assisted at all consultations which had been made against the liberty of the country. For these and diverse other crimes objected against him, and verified by his own Letters, and the deposition of witnesses; they confirmed his banishment for ever, and confiscated his goods, without prejudice to the Bishopric; They degraded him of his Episcopal dignity, commanding the Chapter to choose another, forbidding all men to lodge him in their Territories; and if he were taken, to be executed by the Sword. This criminal Court proceeded in like manner against diverse others which absented themselves; but especially against the 2 brethren RODULPH & POMPEY PLANTA, who had been The process of Rodulphn●… Planta, by contumacy. the ringleaders of all these alterations. RODULPH, who had been Captain general of all the Valtolin, judge criminal of Zernetz & of the neighbour Comunalties, and Captain of a company of Grisons for the French kings service; was accused of many heinous crimes, whereon I must of force insist somewhat the longer; for that he was the chief actor and procurer of all these combustions. The Archduke of Austria of Inspruck, hath certain rights and privileges to be criminal judge in the lower Engaden on S. GEORGE'S day, with the approbation and consent of the Commons: some years before, the said PLANTA had been chosen to that charge for the Archduke, wherein he had continued & never demanded any renewing or confirmation, contrary to all custom, having audaciously usurped this authority, as if he had obtained it by purchase or inheritance, bringing in criminal judges at his pleasure to be at his devotion. By which means he drew to himself the Sovereignty of all that jurisdiction, without any opposition; that he had reinstalled the Bishop of Coire (who for his treason towards his Country had been banished by 1622 a general Sentence) into his Bishopric & Castle before he had obtained pardon; that by this means he might have him at his devotion, for that the Bishop hath power to created certain Magistrates, and especially those which have the government of the revenues of the Church. Having good intelligence with the Ambassadors of France, not only they to whom they gave pensions were most commonly forced to attain to them by the intercession of PLANTA; but also by his practices he had obtained from the said Ambassadors great sums of money, new pensions and increase of the old for his adherents; that he usually entertained spies in their Countries and jurisdictions, who revealed to him whatsoever was said or done against his person, persecuting such as any way opposed him. Moreover, to increase his authority, he had changed the statutes and laws in his jurisdiction, raised the amercements and fines, and for 35 years together had disposed of all things at his own pleasure. By these and such like practices he had grown so powerful▪ that for many years he had the direction of the most important affairs, and through great corruptions and presents had at his pleasure swayed their Commonalties and free Countries, disposed (with his adherents) of many offices, presumed to make and break leagues, and to stir up seditions against good men. His jurisdiction was miserably tyrannised by him, the privileges of the Commonalties broken; depriving them of the free election of their Magistrates, and entertaining them with vain hopes, that so all might depend on his favour. When the estate of the reformed Clergy opposed itself, in the year 1617., against the dangerous league practised between the state of Milan and the three Cantons; murmuring openly against it, he persecuted them, and threatened to deprive them of their ministeries, imprisoning them, and to use them worse. His practices against his Country were such, that he thought to deprive them of their liberties by fraudulent and prejudicial articles of confederacy with the duchy of Milan▪ After he had obtained and procured by corruption the renunciation of the league between Venice and the Grisons, he devised new Articles: which was called the league of Zutze; by which some Commonalties, lying upon the passage, bound themselves not to suffer any one to pass through their Territories, to hinder all succours from the Venetians. But when, in the year 1617., the league and passage was solicited for the Duchy of Milan, he was one of the first to yield to a perpetual passage for the Spaniard against the former accord; that he had forced the Venetian Ambassador to departed their Countries, had levied Troops, and had made certain barbarous Articles, the which they would force the Inhabitants to observe; esspecially, that no Minister of the reformed religion should presume to reveal his intention to the Commons, nor give his voice in any matter concerning the Country: which was allowed to the poorest man of their free state; and that they had erected a chamber of justice, whose principal direct●…r had treated with all affairs by the direction of the said RODULPH PLANTA and his brother, as had been discovered by the judges themselves; that they had bound themselves by a particular oath to the Bishop of Coir against the sworn customs of the country; that they had tyrannised over the Ministers of the reformed religion, commanding them strictly not to meddle with the affairs of Spain, imprisoning some, and threatening them with death. But in this year 1618., when as some Commonalties did rise to prevent this mischief, he presently forced the Magistrates of his jurisdiction to bind themselves to him by oath, and demanded succours from others, to the end he might raise a civil and intestine war, and the common people kill one another; whereby he might make himself Sovereign of the Country. When he saw his enterprises were frustrate, and that he might be called in question for his actions, he absented himself, and did not appear. Wherhfore, seeing he had drawn unto him the greatest treasures of the liberty of their Country; that is, To make and disannul laws, to treat and break leagues, to created and depose Magistrates, to dispose of war and peace, and in this authority to use all kind of treachery, force, tyranny and treason, he was condemned to perpetual banishment: and whosoever should bring him alive, to have one thousand crowns; and he that should bring his head, five hundred. Being taken alive, his body was to be broken upon the wheel, and quartered; his goods confiscate to the Commonalties without prejudice to the just pretensions of his wife and creditors; his house to be razed, and Pillars of infamy to be there erected. The Communality which did relieve or lodge him, should pay 1000 crowns for a Fine: and if any private person did entertain him, he should loose his honour, and be condemned in the like Fine; and if he had not means to satisfy it, his body should suffer for it. Whosoever should presume to treat of his liberty, writ Letters, converse with him, or receive Letters from him, should forfeit body and goods: The like sentence was given against his brother and diverse others; whom they charged to have been pensioners to Spain, to make him absolute 1620 Master of their passages, and to have taken money from the State of Venice; with promise to second their demand touching the opening of passage for Soldiers, and that in case no other did contradict it, they would be silent. By these means they had gathered together the Treasure of the said Potentates, sometimes deceiving the one, sometimes the other; and thereby had brought the Country into contempt. The Catholics of the Valtolin complained much of the proceed of the Grisons, pretending that they were not their Subjects, but their Allies, and that it was a mere usurpation; The Apology of the Valtolins. producing certain Articles concluded between the Bishop of Coire, and the three Cantons on the one side, and the inhabitants of the Valtolin on the other, in the year one thousand five hundred thirteen. First, that the inhabitants of the Valtolin and the Communality of Till, should for ever yield due obedience to the Bishop of Coire and the three Cantons in honest and lawful things. Secondly, that the Inhabitants of the Valtolin and Communality of Till, should be faithful Confederates and Allies to the Bishop of Coire and the three Cantons. That in all Assemblies, when it should be fit to call them, they should have place with them, and a deliberative voice touching all matters concerning the public good of the said Commonalties: and when as they should be called to any Diet, every Commonalty of Till, should be bound to sand a Deputy. Thirdly, that the Inhabitants of the Valtolin and the Communality of Till, should enjoy their ancient customs and privileges, so as they were conformable to justice. Fourthly, that the said Bishop of Coire and the three Cantons, should be bound to give aid and counsel to the Valtolins and Communality of Till, in favour of his Imperial Majesty and the Duchy of Milan, as necessity should require: And the said Valtolins should be freed from all taxes and impositions, as well as the subjects of the three Cantons. Fiftly, that the Valtolin and Communality of Till, should yearly pay unto the Bishop of Coire and the three Cantons, a thousand Florins in ready money; to be levied indifferently upon the lands and goods of such as dwelled in the said valley. This they made the ground of their alteration; and in the year one thousand six hundred twenty, fell to acts of hostility, as you shall hear. They said that God had in the end given them means to free themselves by their own Arms, from those miseries: That the Ministers of the reformed Religion had, in their pernicious Sermons and Write, gotten great credit with the simple people, disguised the truth, blamed innocency, supported crimes, and entertained divisions and discord: That they had sought to suppress the profession of the Romish Religion in the Valtoline: and touching the Government of the State, That the greatest offices had been set to sale, without respect of merit or virtue: That touching matters of civil justice, the poor lost their right, they were condemned with all injustice, they took away their goods violently, at the pleasure of the judges; who sold justice, for money, to pay their A faction of the Romanists in the Valtoline. purchases: These, and infinite other things, put the Romanists of the Valtoline out of hope ever to receive any better usage from their pretended Lords the Grisons. Besides, that which they had learned of the Assembly of Thusis, made them apprehended many bad designs against them and their families, and drew some of the Catholic Commonalties to meditate of the means, how to free themselves from so cruel a servitude; and therefore they gave the Magistrates of the Grisons notice of the barbarous proceed of the criminal justice of Thusis, and the cruel sentences given against some of them: But finding no reformation, by means of the Heretical Ministers (as they termed them) the Romanists, hoping for no better usage, resolved either to perish suddenly, or to free themselves from the subjection of so barbarous a Government. Whereupon the Romanists of the Valtolin and the valleys depending of the Grisons, conspired together: their pretext was, that seeing themselves banished and deprived of their goods, and their houses razed and demolished; having often assembled and conferred in secret, touching so many miseries and calamities, and finding no hope of better usage; aswell in regard of those which governed, as of the great hatred of the family of the Salici Grisons, their deadly Enemies; who, sought to usurp the Government of the State, the which they could not easily do unless they should banish the honestest men of the Country which crossed their designs: The chief of this faction in the Valtoline (whose names were ROBUSTEL a Knight, Captain JOHN GVICHARDI, ASZO and CHARLES BESTA brethren, JOHN MARIA PARAVICIN, FRANCIS VENOST; and in the bottom of the valleys, RODOLPHUS PLANTA, the Podesta Giover, JOHN MOSINE, with diverse other banished men) plotted secretly to free themselves from so many tyrannous subjections (as they pretended) and to purge their Country from heresy, by the cutting of the Protestant's throats. ROBUSTEL 1620 acquainted his friends and kinsfolk with this design, and invited PARAVICIN (a banished man, who was retired to Como) to approach unto the Frontiers with what men he could, to the end they might put it in execution on Sunday the 26 of july: but fearing to be discovered if he should delay his design any longer (for that his Messenger, whom he had sent to Como, had been taken) he went only with a hundred soldiers to Bormio, where he slew the Podesta, with all his family, and hung him up: The like they did to as many Caluinists as they found there, except the women and children: The like his confederates did in other places, They kill the Protestant's 〈◊〉 the Valtoline. burning and spoiling all their houses and goods; so as some Authors writ, they slew above 400 persons. After this furious murdering of the poor Protestant's, some of them marched with their Troops towards the valley of Malingo, and assured themselves of that passage, having broken the bridges, and made Barracadoes to stop the Grisons entry that way to Sondres, the chief Town of the Valtolin Another Troup went towards Barben and other places, and slew all they found of the contrary Religion. PARAVICIN came from Como with such forces as he could draw together, and seized upon the mouth of the River of Ada, to stop all succours which might come to the Protestant's by water. Finally, they made themselves Masters of the whole Valtolin, being fortified daily with new Troops which came to secure them, whom they put in Garrison in the most important places joining to the Grisons and Venetians, where they broke all the bridges and built some small forts. These things, thus executed, ROBUSTEL was, in an assembly of the commonalties in the Valtoline, chosen Governor of the whole valley; under whose protection they submitted themselves, promising to expose their lives for the Catholic faith, and the liberty of their Country: this acknowledgement being made, he presently disposed of all the Magistrates and Officers for the administration of justice. The pitiful cries of the poor Protestant's passing the Mountains, the Cantons sent three thousand men to suppress the fury of these Rebels: amongst the which there were many Hollanders which had formerly served the Venetians in the Gulf; but, they were soon forced to retire without any great exploit, doubting the arrival of some other forces. At the same time The Valtolins crave rotection & aid from the king of Spain the Governor ROBUSTEL sent Ambassadors to Milan, to entreat the Duke of Feria, the Governor, to receive the Valtolins under the protection of the King of Spain, and to assist and defend them; who willingly embraced this occasion, and supplied them with forces, whereby he hoped in time to get an entry for his Master in that valley: so as the Catholics power increased daily, having drawn together, about the midst of August, an Army of six or seven thousand foot, and seven hundred horse: And to countenance them the more, the Duke of Ferda, Governor of Milan, had sent twenty two Ensigns of Spaniards and one thousand horse unto the Frontiers of the Valtolin, under the command of the General of the horse of Milan, enjoining him to have a care that no soldier should go out of the limits of Milan, unless that some succours should come unto the Grisons from Foreign Princes: inferring thereby, that if it were lawful for the Venetians to secure the Caluinists against the Romanists, it should be as lawful for the King of Spain and his Ministers to protect and defend the Catholic Valtolines: And if that should happen, he commanded him to enter both with his horse and foot. The Grisons did what they could to make head against their enemies, and had drawn at lest 5000 men into the valley, being masters of Sonders and many other places: but they, hearing that ROBUSTELL approached with his Army of eight thousand men, retired speedily by the valley of Malengo, and past the Mountains: By whose flight, the Valtolin wholly remained in the power of the Catholics, who assured themselves of all the passages. During these exploits in the Valtolin, PLANTA, GIOVAR, and MOLINA used the like cruelties against the Caluinists in the valley of Munstel, PLANTA desiring to make himself Governor of that valley, and GIOVAR of that of Misuleine. This is all which hath passed in the enterprise of the Catholic Valtolins, from the 26 of july in the year 1620, till the midst of August; who being assisted by the Spaniard, forced the Grisons succours (consisting of five thousand men) The Spaniard▪ possess the 〈◊〉 to repass the Mountains. The loss of the Valtolin, thus surprised by banished men by the help of the King of Spain, concerned the Swissers aswell as the Grisons, and might also threaten their liberties; and the Romanists knowing they were not able to subsist of themselves against the reformed Protestant's, the King of Spain gave charge to his Governor of Milan to defend them against all hostile violence: Whereupon the said Governor raised some forces which he sent to them. After diverse mili●…ary exploits, the Spaniards not only subdued the whole Valtolin, but also fortified themselves ●…n such sort in the Mountains and their valleys, as no man 1622 could safely pass. Wherhfore, to prevent this mischief (for that it concerned all Switzerland, if the Spaniard should ge●… a free passage by the Valtolin into Germany) they appointed a general assembly at Bade: Bu●…, for that the Archduke LEOPOLD had formerly taken some places there which had belonged to the jurisdiction of Austria, and forced the Inhabitants to do him homage before the ancient rights had been settled in the former State, and to that end had levie●… great forces in Alsatia, therefore the assembly at Bade proceeded very slowly. The Grisons being duly informed of the Spaniards attempts, who (under a colour to restore such as had been banished, and to plant the Catholic Religion) sought to make themselves Masters The Grisons make an Edict touching liberty of religion. of their Country, they appointed an assembly at Lucern, calling the Protestant's thither; with whose consents they made this decree: That whereas it was apparent to all the world, what tumults had been in their Country, and what seditions had been raised by turbulent persons to oppress their liberties; for the preventing of these miseries and dangers, they had decreed by oath, carefully to defend their liberties with the hazard of their lives and fortunes; to leave religion free to every man; to maintain peace and to live lovingly and quietly together; so as no other Religion should be admitted but the Catholic Romish and the reformed, the exercise whereof should be free unto them. That all vows and oaths taken or made against the liberty of religion in these two points (That is to say, the hearing of the word of God, and the Sacraments of Baptism and the Lords Supper) should be abrogated & held void, neither should any man be bound to stand unto them. If any one in contempt of either religion should forbear to come to church, to hear Sermons, or to receive the Communion, the Church where he dwells shall have power to punish him. And to the end that both these religions may be truly and really exercised, it shall be lawful for every man and Church to cherish and advance his religion, to bestow costs and to give stipends by himself or by others for the maintenance thereof: To erect Schools and Seminaries, and to institute ministers and Doctors in Churches and Schools, without any distinction or difference betwixt Monks and jesuits and Doctors of the reformed Religion, so as neither party offend the other: That honest men and of integrity be chosen, and that they forbear to tax or slander one another: That Ecclesiastical persons of what Religion soever shall treat only of spiritual things, and not meddle, with political affairs, upon pain of being removed from their charges, and the loss of life & goods, being lawful for every Magistrate to punish them in whose jurisdiction they shall be found; and if he shall not do his duty, the whole Communality may question them: or if they shall neglect it, every pri●…ate man may punish them and enjoy their goods, unless they shall first fly to the Bishopric of Coire or to the house of Tisiden, where they shall have Sanctuary: All judgements given at Thufis, Ciseret, and Davos, and all decrees made there in the years 1618. 1619. and 1620, with all conclusions made to the prejudice of the French King, shall be abrogated, and every one shall have liberty to prosecute those which have any way unjustly wronged them in these judgements: That the Authors of sedition by reason of the Venetians practices should be punished: That the hereditary confederations and Leagues made with the house of Austria, the French King, and other States and provinces, should remain firm; That the French Ambassador (so as the King would stand to his promise) should be restored to his place: That hereafter there should be no seditions raised, upon pain of the loss of life & goods for such as should be the Authors; and any States, which should attempt the like, should be excluded out of the League, subdued at their common charge, and reduced into servitude. That no City nor private man should pretend any thing against the judges of the confederates, nor commence any Action against them, without the knowledge and consent of the Senators of most of the confederates, upon the like penalties: That all secret practices should be removed, and justice equally administered to all men; and offices distributed without respect of persons: That all care sholud be taken for recovery of the Valtolin, Worms and other places, and reducing them to the League craving aid from the French, the Milanese & others; and that no man should attempt aught against this transaction & decree, uponpaine of infamy & the loss of life & goods. This year 1621. the French King began to labour for the restitution of the Valtolin, sending Mounsieur BA●…SOMPIERE his Ambassador to the Swissers, to prevent the danger Articles propounded to the Grisons touching the Valtolin. whereunto the Realm of France was subject, if the Spaniard should enjoy that Country and stop up the passage. The Governor of Milan, to disturb this Treaty, propounded certain Articles to the confederate Grisons: That there should be a perpetual peace between them and the Milanois; that the Valtolin should be left to the Grisons, with all privileges and immunities; but upon the conditions, that there should no religion be used there but the Romish; 1622 that the ecclesiastical jurisdiction should belong to the Bishop COMO; that they should use the decrees of the Council of Trent and the new Calendar; that the Protestant's, who had been driven away for religion, should enjoy their goods, and return twice in the year if they pleased, but might not stay above two months at a time, neither might they seek any occasion to devil there with their wives and children; that they should give no offence unto the Catholics; that such as should break the ecclesiastical constitutions, should be punished by the Spaniards, and that they should suffer the Valtolins and Grisons to enjoy their laws and customs; that the Spaniards should hold the Fort at Riva for five years: which being ended, it with the Fort of Pusin should be razed; that they should have garrisons in the Valtolin for eight years; that the ordinance should be taken out of the Castle of Sonders, and that the keys of Tirano and Morbegno should be kept by the confederates; that the Spaniards should have only a defensive passage through the Grisons Country, going unarmed, and through the Valtolin armed; that the garrisons should forbear to meddle with any civil or criminal actions; that Rebels should be pardoned for their rebellion; the King of Spain on the other side should pay yearly unto the Grisons 1500 ducats; that, desiring to have any Levies from the Grisons, they should not be bound to sand above four and twenty companies, and not less than twelve; that the Spaniards should defend the confederate Grisons against all foreign invasion; that the restitution of the Valtolin should be made only to the chief of the Grisons, and to such as should embrace these Articles: the rest that should not within one month allow of that treaty, nor have another, should be held for open enemies. This Treaty did not satisfy the Grisons: for, they of Engaden, going up to the white hill with some troops, desired to know of the Inhabitants whether they would take their parts, renounce The Romanists defeated in the Valtolin. the Spanish capitulation, and defend religion, giving them four and twenty hours to resolve: who yielding to their desires, they presently joined their forces together, and charged the Roman confederates at the passage of a bridge; where they slew many, and put the rest to flight: who, retiring towards Hantz, were pursued by the Engadins; but, finding themselves too weak, they slew their own horses and fled, cloying too pieces of ordinance, leaving their arms and all their victuals and baggage behind them, notwithstanding that 2000 Spanish foot and 300 horse came to relieve them; who, seeing the flight of their companions, and being much troubled with snow, returned to Milan. There were many other military exploits performed with good success by the Grisons, whereof I cannot insist, jest I should be too tedious. The Spaniards had attempted Cleve in vain, being repulsed by the valour of the Besieged. The Romanists craved more aid from the Governor of Milan against their enemies; who sent them a supply of 1000 foot and 300 horse, with good store of money and warlike preparations, until they should be further assisted with 6000 Germane & 4000 Neapolitans, with 400000 crowns which was promised from Spain. The war continuing still in the Valtolin, and no party willing to yield to the other and to lay down Arms, in the end there was an Assembly appointed at Coire to end the controversy; whither A Treaty at Coire. the French King sent his Ambassador, who propounded these following Articles to the Cantons: first, that all soldiers should be dismissed out of the Valtolin; secondly, that there should be pardon for all offences; thirdly, there should be free exercise of religion in all the Valtolin, and the Territories of Cleves and Vormes; fourthly, that the league with the Swissers and the Lords of Saint Gal. should be inviolably observed; fiftly, that Ambassadors should meet at Lucerne for France, Spain, and the Duchy of Cleves, to confirm this hereditary league under their hands and seals. Moreover, the confederate Cantons were required, that having forgotten all which was past, they should suffer those which were fled, to return into their possessions: but they, fearing some new treason, made answer, they would take some further deliberation; and when they of Zurich were admonished to call back their soldiers, they promised to do it willingly when the Archduke LEOPOLD had withdrawn his forces from the Frontiers, and the King of Spain restored the Valtolin. But all these Treaties could not settle a good peace, the Spaniard and the Austrian being loath to leave what they had gotten. They fortified some Frontiers, made new Forts, and repaired Sonein and Bormeo; so as the restitution was deferred. On the other side, the New combustions in Switzerland. Swissers fortified themselves strongly against the attempts & hostile invasions of the Spaniards, in building new Forts, raising Soldiers, and preparing cannon: and although the Spaniard had attempted to surprise a Fortneer unto Clavae by treachery, yet the Swissers repulsed them with loss. 1621. This year in October, the Governor of Milan, having seized upon the county of Cleve, he left the Earl of Serbellone there for Governor, sending his Walloons and Neapolitans towards Chiavenne; who not only took the place, but seized upon the whole valley. Soon after the Neopolitans passing into the valley of Borchyane, they slew all they met without mercy: and although that 〈◊〉 Captain of the Grisons attended the enemy with some troops, with an intent to fight; yet finding himself too weak, he yielded with all his Soldiers to the victor: and for that the women in the lower Engaden had prepared to defend themselves with stones, spits, and other like womanish weapons, and had cruelly slain above 80 Austrains; therefore the other Soldiers fell upon them, and put very many of them to the Sword. To end all these miseries, the Grisons sent a Commissioner to the Governor of Milan, to move him to a treaty of Peace, and a suspension of Arms. A little before, the Archduke LEOPOLD of Austria, without any effusion of blood had The Arch- D. Leopolds success in the Grisons Country. subdued Prettigau, Meinfelt, both the Engadens, Musterthall, Coire, and all the inhabitants of the 3 Cantons; all which (although in former times they had been held invincible) craving the victor's pardon, yielded themselves; their Captains, commanders, with their Protestant Ministers and some of their Troops, flying into Switzerland, and Germany: After which he placed Garrisons in all parts of the Country. Soon after in the beginning of the year 1622, the Grison State growing desperate, and their country in a manner wholly possessed by the Spaniard and A pacification with the Grisons the Archduke LEOPOLD, they were glad to sue for Peace; the which, after some difficulty, was confirmed with these Articles: 1. That the Romish Religion should remain firm and immutable. 2. That Cleve should be restored, and only the Romish Religion allowed. 3. That the places in Engaden and Prettigaw, should remain to the provincial Prince; the which heretofore did belong to the house of Austria. 4. That the king of Spain and the house of Austria should have a perpetual passage. 5. That there should be 30000 Florins of yearly pension paid unto the Grisons. 6. That it should be lawful for the Spaniard to levy 3000 Grisons when he pleased. 7. That hereafter the Valtoli●… should be a Commonweal, and the king of Spain have the title of Protector, allowing no other Religion but the Catholic Roman. 8. That all Leagues should be made void. All these treaties gave no contentment to the poor Grisons, which grew jealous of their liberty and Religion: for they were given to understand that the Articles of Milan had made The Grisons rise against the Spaniards and Austrians. them subject to the yoke of Spain, and divided them from the other confederates; that their Country had lost her liberties, was reduced into servitude, and spoiled of her wealth; and which was most of all to be lamented, they were deprived of the food of their souls: whereupon the poor people grew desperate, resolving rather to die then to suffer that bondage. Wherhfore, on the fourteenth day of April they (being formerly disarmed) went into the Wood, under colour of gathering green boughs, where they armed themselves with Bats and Staffs, and set upon the Spaniards and the Archduke LEOPOLD'S Soldiers with great fury, nothing regarding their shot; so as they slew 500 of them in several places. BALD●…RON had a Garrison of a hundred in the Town of Schirsens, of which they slew fifty with their Clubs; the rest, flying into a steeple, were smothered and burnt: The rest of the Soldiers in many places retired themselves from the fury of these Clubs, unto castle, Mynfelt, Coire, and other places. They that came to Castle, being besieged by the Prettigavers, took an Oath to go out of the Province, and never to bear Arms against the three Cantons; but, coming to Guttenberg, they forgot their Oath, and were again entertained by RITNA●…ER. After this these Commons went to Mynfelt, where they fortified themselves after their tumultuous manner. In the mean time Ambassadors came from the Swissers unto RITNAVER, entreating him to abstain from Arms, and give ear to some honest composition, wherein they would do all good offices. But he, neglecting their requests, made haste to Steiga to fight with the Confederates, setting a village on fire, thinking they would run to quench it; but the Prettigavers, regarding not the fire, marched against RITNAVER; whose Soldiers seeing them, cried out, Comeye Cow-suckers (for so they called them in contempt) We will this day give you a new God: To whom they answered, We are well pleased with that only GOD which created us, redeemed us by CHRIST, and hath preserved us till this time in the unity of Faith, by the power of his holy Spirit. For his glory we fight; and then, like mad men, they set upon them and slew four hundred, forcing 1622 above two hundred of them into the River of Rhyne, RITNAVER himself hardly escaping. After which, they cut off a Mill near unto Maynfelt, forcing the town Garrison to retire with loss. In the mean time there came about one thousand Neapolitan Soldiers to Coire; who making an irruption into the valley of Schanfice, carried away their Cattles, burned the Town of Mallader, and raged most cruelly over those poor wretches which were unarmed and unacquainted with War: Which the Confederates hearing, they fortified themselves at Sizera, against the Spaniards; and above Seiet about nine hundred Grisons charging them, they forced them to abandon their Camp and retire to Coire, having slain many of them and taken two pieces of Ordinance with great store of Arms and much Cattles: After which exploit Maynfelt taken by the confederate Grisons. they returned safely unto their Campe. Soon after they seized upon diues important passages, and pressed Maynfelt with such violence and eagerness, that the Town and Castle were forced to yield, upon composition that they might departed with their Arms and baggage, on the twenty third of May. After this they took a strong passage, which was held by six hundred Spaniards: the Garrison whereof was so terrified with their Clubs, as they compounded to departed with their Arms and baggage. This done they went to Coire, where they seized upon a Fort before the Coir taken by the Grisons. Town, which was very commodious for them; from whence they so annoyed the Townsmen, that no body durst walk in the streets, having easy means to burn the Town, for that they had cut away their Conduits: The Spanish Garrison, being driven to great Straitss, compounded to departed on the sixt day of june, upon these conditions; That they should the next day go away with their Ensigns, Arms and baggage; That four Captains, who were prisoners with the Colonel RVYN●…L, should be dismissed and let go, putting in caution to the Bishop and Chapter, that none of the Confederates should be wronged in their going away; leaving three Captains for Hostages. The Confederates, on the other side, should defend the liberties of the Bishop and Chapter, and protect them from all Injury; That the Soldiers should have meat and drink for their money in their going away, and release two Captains whom they had taken prisoners. These conditions being accepted, Colonel BALDERON went along with the Italians towards Cleve, and the Germans (which were in number nine hundred and fifty) marched another way, having all of them taken a solemn Oath, never to carry Arms either against these Confederates, or against the Protestant Cities. After this happy success, the Confederates, having given thanks to God, wrote Letters unto The confederat●… Letters to all free States. all the States, Commonweals, and free Cities of Germany, to whom the recovery of their liberty, and safety of the Church was pleasing. The tenor of their Letters was this, that whereas they been unjustly oppressed by the Austrian and Spanish soldiers, contrary to their liberties and privileges enjoyed for many Ages, lost all their passages, and with them the exercise of religion, and forced with threats to embrace another; they could do no less than, despairing of all relief, seek to recover by the sword their lost liberty both of body and conscience; that God had favoured their endeavours with good success, who no doubt would still assist them if they did crave it with humble hearts. And whereas those mountain places had been disarmed and deprived of all munition for the war by those barbarous soldiers, so as they were not able of themselves to bear the charges of the war, they were enforced humbly to entreat all Commonwealths and Cities which loved liberty and religion, to assist them with some money in this commendable design; hoping, that they would take this their petition in good part, and consider carefully how much their preservation concerned all reformed Commonwealths, and to have these passages free and without danger; the which, the house of Austria had much affected, and now (hating the liberty of Germany) had brought in a manner under their power; that with the assistance of God they had recovered some of the chief, and doubted not (if so they might have any help) to recover the rest: for the which they would be thankful to their Benefactors, and pray to God to increase the spirit of wisdom, courage, and Christian charity in all Commonwealths and free States, and protect them from all their enemies. After the taking and fortifying of Coire, the Grisons, reviving their former union, put som●… prime men to death, without any form of justice; for that they had set their hands to the treaty of Milan: and they wrote Letters to the Swissers of Lucerne, and the other four Catholic 1622 Cantons, entreating them to retire their forces which they had upon the Frontiers: The Abbot of Disertine promised to join with them, to lay open the passage, and likewise to assist them with 20000 Florins towards the war. The poor Grisons seemed now to be in good hope to recover their lost liberty, and the passages which had been usurped by their Enemies: but they were ill assisted by the French, The Arch duke pre●…ailes again in the Valtolin. Lorraine, and German, whom these passages did much import; so as they, being destitute of help, the Enemy increased his forces: for the Archduke LEOPOLD had good means by the retreat of Count MANSFELD, to prosecute the wars in the Valtoline; whither he sent new supplies, and Colonel BALDERON had drawn the forces of Milan also into the Valtolin, towards Chiavenna; with whom the Earl of Sultz joining, they spoilt the Country of Prettigaw, and put all to the Sword. There was an Assembly appointed at Lindaw; where the Archduke LEOPOLD would yield to no peace without the restitution of Coire and other places. After which, that City with the upper and lower Engaden, the Commonalties of Davos, Prettigaw, and the Lordship of Maynfelt, were taken by force; and many Grisons with their assistants, sent from the Swissers, slain at Saint MARTIN'S bridge near the lower Engaden, where BALDERON forced his passage. The Archduke was now Master of the field; whereupon the Grisons sent unto him to treat for their lives though they had lost their liberties: and therefore they were forced to accept of such miserable conditions as it pleased him to propound unto them; which were, That one of the Cantons should be divided from the other two, and after that day belong unto the house of Austria, as hereditary subjects. Secondly, that the house of Austria should not suffer the Inhabitants Articles agreed upon at the Diet of Lindaw. to use any other than Catholic Religion. Thirdly, that all Leagues and Alliances should be made void except those which they made with France; which Article included only the subjects of the house of Austria: but the two other Cantons should have leave to keep their old leagues. Fourthly, the Garrisons of Spain shall be continued for six years in Coire, Mainfelt, and upon the Frontiers, as necessity shall require; but no new fortification to be made in those parts; except in Prettigaw, and those places which did belong to LEOPOLD. Fiftly, all Rebels to have a general pardon. Sixtly, that free passage should be granted to soldiers through their country according to the Capitulation made at Milan, Anno 1617.; and that all passages should be presently opened, in regard of commerce. The Grisons murmurred much against these Articles; pretending that the first made them subject to a family, being free States: and that in the Capitulation of Milan in the year 1617., they treated as free States; wherein there was no mention made of any subjection to the house of Austria, and that Spain was to give three Objections to the Articles. thousand florins yearly during the League. The second, they said, restrained their Consciences. Against the third, they objected that it divided them amongst themselves, and would breed a civil war and make them subject to any potent Prince that should come to assist either party. The fourth they held very dangerous, pretending that by allowing of Garrisons, they should be still kept in fetters, having found by the fort of Fuentes what ruins the building of Forts had brought them unto: Moreover it had been concluded at the treaty of Milan in the year 1617., that the Fort of Fuentes should be razed, and no more built again. They also feared that six years being expired, the Spaniard would be as loathe to leave the Country as at that present; and although their pardon was promised; yet no man of resolution would sue for it: for that whosoever fought for his country, would be ashamed to confess himself a Rebel to the vanquisher; whose subject he doth not yet acknowledge himself. And unto the sixt they affirmed, that to give a strange soldier free passage through their country, were to letin an Enemy; and so to be subject to the insolency of soldiers, how kind and loving soever the Prince which sends them be unto them. Thus the poor Grisons were overmastered at this Diet at Lindaw, and forced to submit to the house of Austria, and to acknowledge part of their country to be the inheritance of that family; so as Archduke LEOPOLD resolved to put a Governor into the country under him. Upon the ratification of these Articles, there was a surcease of Arms, and the Spanish and Imperial forces were to departed the Country, all but such as should be l●…t in Garrison. But it seemed neither party was contented with this Capitulation: for neither did the soldiers retire as they should have done; but continued still in the Country, and committed great insolences, contrary to the agreement at Lindaw: Neither were the Grisons in show well pleased, finding little ease by this accord, being also pressed by the Confederate Swissers, and by the French kings Ambassadors, to demand better conditions: 1622 touching the which they had a conference at Coire, where the French Ambassadors told them, that if they accepted those Articles, and subjected themselves to the house of Austria, the King their Master would hold them for Enemies; seeing that whereas he had entered into League with them as free States, they now acknowledged themselves subjects to that house. Wherhfore to free themselves from the fear of this bondage, they must be forced to fly for aid unto such Princes as the passage of the Valtolin doth most concern; namely the French King, the Duke of Savoy, the State of Venice, Lorraine, Germany, the Swissers and others, who it is thought will assist them for their own interest: for if they enjoy the Valtolin quietly, the Emperor and Spain shall have easy passage for their Armies to join together and assist one another; there being no obstacle, they having got these Valleys, whereby they will be fearful to all the neighbour Princes of Christendom: But you must attend the events of these Combustions, until the next year. Faults escaped, correct thus; FOlio 571: line 18: they, their. 574: 25: & 54. 579: 55: Pius 5, Pius 2. & 56: who, ho. 582: 52: Pius 5, Pius2. 584: 2: scarely, scarcely. 613: 36: Puolomini, Piccolomini. 640: 14: getting, going. 641: 11: Florusco, Horulco. 642: 3: Osorio, Osorio. 642: 14: Moiados, Baiados. and line 25: Granades, Granadins. 644141: yet, it. 645: 6: Bonguet, Bonivet 645: 40: change charge. 646: 24: in, into. 651: CITIZEN: Lavidriano, Landriano. 652: 46: being in, being received: and line 47: godly, goodly. 660, 57: soldiers, Souldan's▪ 679: 53: battle, batteries. 751: 21: doubted, doubled. 766: 11: Emperor, Cardinal. 767: 33: direct, divert. 771: 3: employ, undertake: and line 7: Bavaria, Bohemia. 772: 41: contributions, combustions. 773: 19: which, with: and 19: all your, you all. 779: 52: Mastric, Cambray. 782: 14: reserve, preserve. 785: 4: Captain, the Captain. 7●…6: 9: your, their. 802: 8: as, so as. 806: 33: go by, go to the. 107: 10: Philip third, Philip the third. 809: 32: object, objected: and line 33: his, this. 812: 6: 12000, 1200: and line 34: Princes, Provinces. 813: 35: with, which. 814: 35: house, horse. 817: 23: Palatine, of Saxony. 826: 12: cup, cap. 828: CITIZEN: to yield, not to yield. 834: 46: the rest, with the rest. 842: 42: the march, his march. 850: 11: Chain, Chimei. and 35: Neppel, ●…eppel. 165, 38, they been, they had been.